- Must visit
M Leuven
University museum with science, culture, and philosophy exhibitions in a striking historic complex. Ideal for understanding Leuven's academic identity.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Maastricht to Leuven
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€16
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€16
Fastest journey on Sep 19
1 h 12 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
1 h 12 m
Trains on Sep 19
19
Distance
69 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Maastricht to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Maastricht to Leuven will cost around €16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €16.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Maastricht to Leuven without transferring at least once.
18918+
532+
30819:16 AM1h43Maastricht station10:59 AMHeverlee€161One-way2 transfers- 18914+5318:16 AM1h12Maastricht station9:28 AMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
- 18922+53310:16 AM1h12Maastricht station11:28 AMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
- 18926+534+308311:16 AM1h43Maastricht station12:59 PMHeverlee€161One-way2 transfers
- 18926+53411:16 AM1h12Maastricht station12:28 PMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
- 18914+5318:16 AM1h12Maastricht station9:28 AMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
- 18922+53310:16 AM1h12Maastricht station11:28 AMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
- 18926+53411:16 AM1h12Maastricht station12:28 PMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
- 18918+5329:16 AM1h12Maastricht station10:28 AMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
- 18938+5372:16 PM1h12Maastricht station3:28 PMLeuven station€161One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Maastricht to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Maastricht to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €9 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €9, while a train costs an average of €19.
Distance: 42 miles (69 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€19 Average price | €9 Average price Cheapest | €17 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 1m Average total duration 1h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Maastricht to Leuven is a bus with an average price of €9.
This is compared to other travel options from Maastricht to Leuven:
A bus is €10 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Maastricht to Leuven costing on average €19.
The fastest way to travel from Maastricht to Leuven is by train with an average journey time of 1h 15m.
Other travel options to Leuven take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Maastricht and Leuven including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Maastricht to Leuven among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €19 compared to roughly €17 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-2.46. The journey takes 1h 15m versus 1h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Maastricht to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Maastricht to Leuven trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18906+529 | 6:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h16 | 7:32 AM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 18906+529+3078 | 6:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h43 | 7:59 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 18910+530 | 7:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h16 | 8:32 AM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 18910+530+3079 | 7:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h43 | 8:59 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 18914+531 | 8:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h16 | 9:32 AM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 18914+531+3080 | 8:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h43 | 9:59 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 18918+532 | 9:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h16 | 10:32 AM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 18918+532+3081 | 9:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h43 | 10:59 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 18922+533 | 10:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h16 | 11:32 AM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 18922+533+3082 | 10:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h43 | 11:59 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 18926+534 | 11:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h16 | 12:32 PM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 18926+534+3083 | 11:16 AM Maastricht station | 1h43 | 12:59 PM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 527 · 5727+18978 | 12:16 AM Maastricht station | 6h07 | 6:23 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Maastricht to Leuven by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
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Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Journey information
Overview: Train from Maastricht to Leuven
Netherlands
Belgium
Trains from Maastricht to Leuven run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €14 but you can travel from only €5 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (69 km) distance in 1h 3m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €5
Distance 42 miles (69 km) |
Average train duration 1h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price €14 |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 1h 3m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €5
Train companies: Regional-Express, Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel from Maastricht to Leuven trainsRegional-Express, Intercity, NS International | IC Brussel trains will get you between Maastricht and Leuven from €5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Intercity Duration
1h 17m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€16
Intercity frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
NS International | IC Brussel
About
NS International, a subsidiary of the Dutch state-owned railway Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), operates international intercity and high-speed connections to various European cities, including Brussels. The "IC Brussel" refers to their Intercity service connecting the Netherlands and Belgium. These trains offer a direct and comfortable way to travel between major cities like Amsterdam and Brussels. As of late 2024, NS International, in collaboration with the Belgian railway company SNCB, is introducing new Intercity New Generation (ICNG) trains on the Brussels-Amsterdam route. These new trains are faster, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h, and offer amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and power sockets. They aim to significantly reduce travel times and increase the frequency of services between the two countries.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average NS International | IC Brussel Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest NS International | IC Brussel Price
€42
NS International | IC Brussel frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per person
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at carriage ends
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car available with hot and cold meals, drinks. First class receives at-seat service
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in first class, optional for second class at additional cost
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance for boarding/alighting available with advance notice
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Large dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Regional-Express
About
Regional-Express (RE, or REX in Austria) is a type of regional train service found in Germany, Luxembourg, and Austria. It functions as a semi-fast train, making fewer stops than a Regionalbahn or S-Bahn but more than an Intercity or Intercity Express. RE services typically reach top speeds of 160 km/h, with some reaching 200 km/h on high-speed lines. While initially operated by DB Regio, many lines are now run by various private operators. These trains often use double-deck cars with electric or diesel locomotives.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional-Express Duration
1h 3m
Cheapest Regional-Express Price
€14
Regional-Express frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one larger piece included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type
Refund
Full refund for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs need ticket and muzzle
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Leuven
Things to do in Leuven
Discover the best of Leuven — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leuven trip today.
- Recommended
Damien Experience
Museum and former home of Father Damien, presenting his life and global legacy. A meaningful visit in a historic city-center setting.
- Recommended
PARCUM
Museum in Park Abbey exploring religion, art, and heritage through the abbey's story. It adds depth to a visit to the wider site.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
Leuven's central square framed by the town hall and Saint Peter's Church. It is the city's essential starting point for architecture and atmosphere.
- Must visit
Oude Markt
Long square and social hub lined with student life and major events. It captures Leuven's energetic university-city character.
- Must visit
Kruidtuin
Belgium's oldest botanical garden, popular for quiet walks and seasonal plants. A local favorite near the historic core.
Leuvense Fonskes
Crisp pork cubes braised or roasted, a Leuven pub classic often served with salad, fries, and a sharp mustard or beer-based sauce.
- Vegetarian
Abbaye de Leffe Beer
A strong amber-brown abbey beer brewed in Leuven since the 1970s, known for soft fruit notes and a full malty finish.
- Vegetarian
Stella Artois
A pale Belgian lager historically tied to Leuven brewing. It is the city’s most famous everyday beer and a key part of local café culture.
EssenCiel
Refined Michelin-starred restaurant known for creative seasonal tasting menus in an intimate, elegant setting.
De Klimop
Long-standing traditional restaurant famous for grilled meats, Belgian dishes, and an old-school local dining room.
Domus
Classic Leuven brasserie on the Oude Markt serving Belgian staples, beer, and a lively historic square atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are not cheap, but student spots, bakeries, and short local transit keep typical visitor costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food, fries, or bakery meals.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. Cafes usually get small change, not a set tip.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Leuven Station -> Grote Markt, Leuven
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank card payment is available on De Lijn buses and trams via onboard validators. Buying onboard can cost more than buying in the app.
- Leuven city buses are operated by De Lijn. Use the official app for live departures, route planning, and mobile tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Maastricht to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Maastricht to Leuven by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Leuven, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Maastricht to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €14, while the average price is around €19.
The train from Maastricht to Leuven takes 1h 3m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Maastricht to Leuven is 42 miles (69 km).
The first train from Maastricht to Leuven leaves at 12:14 AM.
The last train from Maastricht to Leuven leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Maastricht to Leuven.
There is no direct train service currently available from Maastricht to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Maastricht to Leuven.
The train station in Maastricht that goes to Leuven is Maastricht station, which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Maastricht to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around €5.
The train journey from Maastricht to Leuven offers a moderately scenic experience, passing through picturesque countryside, charming small towns, and lush green landscapes typical of the Meuse-Rhine Euroregion.
Yes, a day trip from Maastricht to Leuven is feasible. The journey takes 1h 3m and covers a distance of 42 miles (69 km). Trains operate 7 times per day, making it convenient for a day trip.
In Leuven, you can visit the University Library and Bell Tower to explore its historic significance and enjoy panoramic city views. The Old Market Square offers vibrant nightlife with numerous cafes and is famously known as the longest bar in the world. Art enthusiasts can discover the M-Museum Leuven, which features both contemporary and historical art exhibitions. For a peaceful retreat, stroll through the Botanical Garden Kruidtuin, the oldest botanical garden in Belgium. Lastly, admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Town Hall, adorned with intricate sculptures.
Two to three days in Leuven is ideal to explore its historic university, visit the M-Museum, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the Oude Markt, and wander through the picturesque streets and parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Maastricht to Leuven.
Since both Maastricht and Leuven are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Leuven include Brussels, Paris, Antwerp, Cologne, Bruges.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Maastricht to Leuven among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leuven, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the train station and city center. Common scams include overcharging at bars or restaurants and unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and use licensed transportation options to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Maastricht to Leuven
Most Maastricht to Leuven trains use the Maastricht to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Maastricht and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Maastricht
Arrival train stations in Leuven
Which Maastricht station do trains to Leuven leave from?
Trains from Maastricht to Leuven leave from Maastricht. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Maastricht city centre at Stationsplein 29, 6221 BT Maastricht, Netherlands.
MaastrichtStationsplein 29, 6221 BT Maastricht, Netherlands+31 30 235 7822
City-centre transport
Getting to Maastricht from Maastricht city centre
Maastricht is 1 km from Maastricht city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus20a, 206, 45, 62, 63 · 4m · €2 · every ~12 min
3, 7 · 6m · €2 · every ~7 min
Maastricht train station facilities and services
Maastricht has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Witloof, Grand Café Maastricht Soiron
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Maastricht. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Maastricht. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Maastricht: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Maastricht: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Maastricht: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Crowne Plaza Maastricht, Hotel Beaumont, Kaboom Hotel.
Which Leuven station do trains from Maastricht arrive at?
Trains from Maastricht to Leuven most often arrive at Leuven. Some services arrive at Heverlee, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Leuven arrival station.
LeuvenMartelarenplein 16, 3000 Leuven, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Leuven from Leuven city centre
Leuven is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 4b, 40, 41, 42, 43, 406, 520, 524, 525, 597, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8 · 8m · €3 · every ~49 min
Leuven train station facilities and services
Leuven has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: De Klimop, Domus
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leuven. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leuven. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leuven: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leuven: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leuven: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel La Royale, Park Inn by Radisson Leuven, Hotel Mille Colonnes.
Heverlee3001 Leuven, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Heverlee from Leuven city centre
Heverlee is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS20, L · 9m · €2 · every ~3 min
Heverlee train station facilities and services
Heverlee has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Heverlee.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Heverlee.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heverlee: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Heverlee: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heverlee.
More options for your journey from Maastricht to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Maastricht
Most popular train connections to Leuven
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