- Must visit
M Leuven
The city’s main museum of art and history, known for Flemish masters, contemporary exhibitions, and a central location near the old center.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Schiphol to Leuven
Showing times and prices for Jun 19
Cheapest price
$39
Average price
$46
Fastest journey
2 h 23 m
Average duration
4 h 22 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
159 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Schiphol to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Schiphol to Leuven will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Schiphol for Leuven on Fri, Jun 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 159 km distance in an average of 4 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 23 m .
On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 7 h 42 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.
10:11 AM2h23Schiphol12:34 PMLeuven$391One-way0 transfers
8:52 PM7h42Schiphol4:34 AMLeuven$441One-way0 transfers- 6:14 AM3h00Schiphol9:14 AMLeuven$541One-way0 transfers
- 10:11 AM2h23Schiphol12:34 PMLeuven$391One-way0 transfers
- 6:14 AM3h00Schiphol9:14 AMLeuven$541One-way0 transfers
- 8:52 PM7h42Schiphol4:34 AMLeuven$441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Schiphol to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Schiphol to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $255.
Distance: 98 miles (159 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$55 Average price | $487 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $46 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 38m Average total duration 6h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 7m Average total duration 7h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Schiphol to Leuven is a bus with an average price of $43 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Schiphol to Leuven:
A bus is $13 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Schiphol to Leuven costing on average $55 (€45).
A bus is $444 (€364) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Schiphol to Leuven costing on average $487 (€399).
The fastest way to travel from Schiphol to Leuven is by train with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Other travel options to Leuven take longer:
Flight takes on average 6h 38m.
Bus takes on average 7h 37m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Schiphol and Leuven including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Schiphol to Leuven among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 31m sooner (2h 16m by train vs 2h 47m by car). Tickets start at around $55 (€45) compared to roughly $46 (€38) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Schiphol to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Schiphol to Leuven trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:14 AM Schiphol | 3h00 | 9:14 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:11 AM Schiphol | 2h23 | 12:34 PM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:52 PM Schiphol | 7h42 | 4:34 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Schiphol to Leuven by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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.
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
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Jun 22
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Jun 23
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Jun 25
Jun 25
Why should you book Schiphol to Leuven trains with Omio?
Eurostar as well as Eurocity Direct, NS International | IC Brussel, EuroCity and more offer trains services from Schiphol to Leuven.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Schiphol to Leuven.
Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurostar, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurocity Direct, NS International | IC Brussel or EuroCity to find the best option for your trip from Schiphol 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 Eurostar with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Schiphol to Leuven.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Schiphol to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Schiphol to Leuven
Netherlands
Belgium
Trains from Schiphol to Leuven run on average 17 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€27) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (159 km) distance in 1h 39m.
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 $24 (€20)
Distance 98 miles (159 km) |
Average train duration 2h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 (€27) |
Trains per day 17 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 39m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 days |
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 $24 (€20)
Train companies: Eurostar, Eurocity Direct, NS International | IC Brussel, EuroCity from Schiphol to Leuven trainsEurostar, Eurocity Direct, NS International | IC Brussel, EuroCity trains will get you between Schiphol and Leuven from $24 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 7m
Cheapest Price
$108 (€88)
Eurostar frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
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
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
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
EuroCity frequency
16 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
Eurocity Direct
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 14m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€27)
Eurocity Direct frequency
7 a day
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
University Library Tower
A historic university library with exhibitions and access to the tower, combining memorial significance with panoramic views over Leuven.
- Recommended
Parcum
A museum and dialogue center in the Abbey of Park focused on religion, art, and heritage, popular for its setting and thoughtful temporary exhibitions.
- Must visit
Oude Markt
Leuven’s famous central square lined with historic facades, one of the liveliest and most recognizable gathering places in the city.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
The city’s ceremonial heart, framed by the Town Hall and Saint Peter’s Church, and ideal for first-time visitors exploring central Leuven.
- Must visit
Great Beguinage Streets
A peaceful maze of historic lanes and small bridges that offers one of Leuven’s most photogenic and atmospheric walks.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Stella Artois
Leuven’s most famous beer, first brewed in the city and closely tied to its brewing heritage. A classic Belgian pale lager best tried fresh locally.
Witloof Met Hesp En Kaas
A classic Belgian dish of braised endive wrapped in ham and baked with cheese sauce. Very common in Flemish homes and brasseries.
Stoofvlees
Rich Flemish beef stew slowly cooked with dark beer, often served with fries. A comforting regional staple with deep beer-driven flavor.
Zarza
Refined fine-dining restaurant recognized for creative contemporary cuisine, polished service, and an elegant setting for a special meal.
Baracca
Popular upscale Italian restaurant with stylish decor, known for quality ingredients, wood-fired cooking, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Domus
Well-known Leuven brewpub and brasserie serving Belgian classics and house-brewed beer in a lively, traditional setting near the old center.
Euro
Moderate for Belgium: student spots keep lunches affordable, but central hotels and dinner prices are higher.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for fries, sandwiches, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a main and drink.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% for very good service. Small tips for taxis are appreciated, but not expected.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 7.50 EUR
To the city center
Leuven Railway Station, Leuven -> Leuven City Center, Leuven
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can usually pay contactless by card or mobile on De Lijn buses and trams, but buying in advance is often cheaper.
- In Leuven, the railway station is within walking distance of the center, so walking is often the simplest option.
FAQs: Trains from Schiphol to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Schiphol 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 Schiphol to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€27), while the average price is around $55 (€45).
The train from Schiphol to Leuven takes 1h 39m and runs 17 per day.
The distance by train from Schiphol to Leuven is 98 miles (159 km).
The first train from Schiphol to Leuven leaves at 12:14 AM.
The last train from Schiphol to Leuven leaves at 11:36 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Schiphol to Leuven.
There is no direct train service currently available from Schiphol to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Schiphol to Leuven.
The train station in Schiphol that goes to Leuven is Schiphol Airport, which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Schiphol to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€20).
The train journey from Schiphol to Leuven is moderately scenic, offering views of the Dutch and Belgian countryside, including fields, small towns, and occasional waterways.
Yes, a day trip from Schiphol to Leuven is feasible with a travel duration of 1h 39m and a distance of 98 miles (159 km). Trains run 11 times per day.
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 Schiphol to Leuven.
Since both Schiphol 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 Schiphol 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 Schiphol to Leuven
Schiphol
Leuven
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
9Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Access via Martelarenplein
Dining
- De Klimop
- Domus
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- €0.50
Hotel
- Hotel La Royale
- Park Inn by Radisson Leuven
- Hotel Mille Colonnes
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Avis
- Europcar
- Hertz
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platform 1-9 for trains to Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège
Public transit options for Leuven
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Direct connections to Brussels, Antwerp, and Liège
Heverlee
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelBike ParkingBike RentalMost popular train connections from Schiphol
More options for your journey from Schiphol to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Schiphol
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