- 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 Mechelen to Leuven
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 24
Cheapest price on Oct 24
€5
Average ticket price on Oct 24
€5
Fastest journey on Oct 24
38 m
Average journey duration on Oct 24
46 m
Trains on Oct 24
6
Distance
23 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Mechelen to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Mechelen to Leuven will cost around €5 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €5.
Fast trains
On Sat, Oct 24, we found 6 trains from Mechelen to Leuven, including 6 direct services.
On Sat, Oct 24 the direct trains cover the 23 km distance in an average of 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 38 m .
On Sat, Oct 24 the slowest trains will take 51 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:36 AM0h44Mechelen8:20 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
7:08 AM0h51Mechelen7:59 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers- 12:42 PM0h38Mechelen1:20 PMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
- 10:08 AM0h51Mechelen10:59 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
- 9:36 AM0h47Mechelen10:23 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
- 12:42 PM0h38Mechelen1:20 PMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
- 7:36 AM0h44Mechelen8:20 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
- 9:36 AM0h47Mechelen10:23 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
- 10:08 AM0h51Mechelen10:59 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
- 7:08 AM0h51Mechelen7:59 AMLeuven€51One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Mechelen to Leuven
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Mechelen to Leuven run on average 22 times per day, taking around 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €5 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 14 miles (23 km) distance in 15m.
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
Distance 14 miles (23 km) |
Average train duration 35m |
Cheapest ticket price €5 |
Trains per day 22 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 15m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Mechelen to Leuven trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Mechelen to Leuven.
Train ticket prices from Mechelen to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €5, while the average price is around €6.
The train from Mechelen to Leuven takes 15m and runs 22 per day.
The first train from Mechelen to Leuven leaves at 12:14 AM.
The distance by train from Mechelen to Leuven is 14 miles (23 km).
The last train from Mechelen to Leuven leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Mechelen to Leuven. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Intercity, Regional.
Live departures
Mechelen to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Mechelen to Leuven trains for today, Friday, October 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7097 | 8:02 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 8:28 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7088 | 8:08 AM Mechelen station | 0h31 | 8:39 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2607 | 8:08 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 8:34 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7088+3079 | 8:08 AM Mechelen station | 0h51 | 8:59 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 1779 · 2778+5730 | 8:13 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1h07 | 9:20 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 2778 | 8:22 AM Mechelen station | 0h31 | 8:53 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2778+5730 | 8:22 AM Mechelen station | 0h58 | 9:20 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 1980+4107+6480 | 8:39 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h50 | 9:29 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 4107 | 8:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 9:14 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4107+6480 | 8:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h41 | 9:29 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 2608 | 9:08 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 9:34 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2608+3080 | 9:08 AM Mechelen station | 0h51 | 9:59 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 1780 · 2779+5731 | 9:13 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1h07 | 10:20 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 2779+5731 | 9:22 AM Mechelen station | 0h58 | 10:20 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 2779 | 9:22 AM Mechelen station | 0h31 | 9:53 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1981+4108+6481 | 9:39 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h50 | 10:29 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 4108 | 9:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 10:14 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4108+6481 | 9:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h41 | 10:29 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 2609+3081 | 10:10 AM Mechelen station | 0h49 | 10:59 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 2609 | 10:10 AM Mechelen station | 0h25 | 10:35 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2780 | 10:22 AM Mechelen station | 0h31 | 10:53 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1982+4109 · 5732 | 10:39 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h44 | 11:23 AM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 4109 | 10:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 11:14 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4109 · 5732 | 10:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h35 | 11:23 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 2610 | 11:08 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 11:34 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2610+3082 | 11:08 AM Mechelen station | 0h51 | 11:59 AM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
| 2781 | 11:22 AM Mechelen station | 0h31 | 11:53 AM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1983+4110 · 5733 | 11:39 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 0h44 | 12:23 PM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 4110 | 11:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h26 | 12:14 PM Leuven station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4110 · 5733 | 11:48 AM Mechelen station | 0h35 | 12:23 PM Heverlee | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Mechelen to Leuven trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional or EuroCity offer trains services from Mechelen to Leuven.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Regional or EuroCity to find the best option for your trip from Mechelen to Leuven.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Mechelen to Leuven.
Train companies: Intercity, Regional, EuroCity from Mechelen to Leuven trainsIntercity, Regional, EuroCity trains will get you between Mechelen 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
15m
Cheapest Intercity Price
€5
Intercity frequency
16 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
EuroCity
About
EuroCity (EC) is an international train category and brand for inter-city trains that cross international borders within Europe. These trains are a collaboration between various European rail companies, including Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), and ÖBB (Austria). EuroCity trains connect major cities across Europe, offering both first and second-class coaches. They are known for meeting specific criteria for comfort, speed, cleanliness, and onboard food service, including air-conditioned cars and dining facilities. EuroCity services aim to provide convenient and comfortable cross-border travel, with stops typically lasting no more than 5 to 15 minutes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average EuroCity Duration
38m
Cheapest EuroCity Price
€5
EuroCity frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro service available on most routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Regional
About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Regional Duration
29m
Cheapest Regional Price
€5
Regional frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Mechelen and Leuven
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Mechelen to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Mechelen to Leuven.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Leuven
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Leuven.
The train journey from Mechelen to Leuven is not typically considered scenic, as it mainly passes through urban and suburban areas.
Popular day trips by train from Leuven include Brussels, Paris, Antwerp, Cologne, Bruges.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Mechelen to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Mechelen 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Mechelen to Leuven.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Mechelen to Leuven
Most Mechelen to Leuven trains use the Mechelen to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Mechelen and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Mechelen
Arrival train stations in Leuven
Which Mechelen station do trains to Leuven leave from?
Trains from Mechelen to Leuven leave from Mechelen. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Mechelen city centre at Stationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 1a · 3m · €3 · every ~12 min
Mechelen train station facilities and services
Mechelen 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 De Graspoort, Il Cardinale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel2800 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen-Nekkerspoel from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1 · 8m · €3 · every ~5 min
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel train station facilities and services
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Muizen2812 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Muizen from Mechelen city centre
Muizen is 3 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS7, L, P · 5m · €1 · every ~4 min
BusBus · 8m
Muizen train station facilities and services
Muizen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Muizen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Muizen: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Muizen: Bike Parking.
Which Leuven station do trains from Mechelen arrive at?
Trains from Mechelen to Leuven most often arrive at Heverlee. Some services arrive at Leuven, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Leuven arrival station.
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.
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.
Train stations for Mechelen to Leuven
Check train stations information for Mechelen and Leuven, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Mechelen that goes to Leuven is Mechelen, which connects to Heverlee.
Most popular train connections from Mechelen
More options for your journey from Mechelen to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Mechelen
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