Stuttgart to Leuven train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE,EC)

Tue, May 12
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Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
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2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Stuttgart to Leuven

Showing times and prices for May 12

Cheapest price

$120

Average price

$141

Fastest journey

4 h 43 m

Average duration

5 h 6 m

Trains per day

10

Distance

397 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Stuttgart to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Stuttgart to Leuven will cost around $141 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $120.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Stuttgart to Leuven without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Deutsche BahnICE 518 · IC 2012 · ICE 12 · IC 541
    1:49 PM5h43
    Stuttgart Hbf
    7:32 PMLeuven station
    $1201One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 518 · IC 2012 · ICE 12 · IC 541
    1:49 PM6h34
    Stuttgart Hbf
    8:23 PMHeverlee
    $1201One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 1947 · ICE 314 · IC 537
    9:49 AM5h43
    Stuttgart Hbf
    3:32 PMLeuven station
    $1381One-way
    3 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 1947 · ICE 314 · IC 537
    9:49 AM6h10
    Stuttgart Hbf
    3:59 PMHeverlee
    $1381One-way
    4 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1645 · ICE 14 · IC 539 · R 3088
    11:36 AM6h23
    Stuttgart Hbf
    5:59 PMHeverlee
    $1381One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Stuttgart to Leuven

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Stuttgart to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $42. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 3m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, and a flight costs an average of $147.

Distance: 246 miles (397 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$154

Average price

$56

Average price

Cheapest

$340

Average price

$102

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 4m

Average total duration

8h 34m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 36m

Average total duration

6h 36m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

5h 50m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

1.2 - 2.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

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 Stuttgart to Leuven is a bus with an average price of $56 (€44).

This is compared to other travel options from Stuttgart to Leuven:

A bus is $98 (€78) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Stuttgart to Leuven costing on average $154 (€123).

A bus is $285 (€227) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Stuttgart to Leuven costing on average $340 (€272).

The fastest way to travel from Stuttgart to Leuven is by train with an average journey time of 4h 3m.

Other travel options to Leuven take longer:

Flight takes on average 6h 36m.

Bus takes on average 8h 34m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Stuttgart and Leuven including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Stuttgart 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 1h 47m sooner (4h 3m by train vs 5h 50m by car). Tickets start at around $154 (€123) compared to roughly $102 (€81) 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

Stuttgart to Leuven train times

The table below shows live departures for Stuttgart to Leuven trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, May 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 692 · ICE 16 · IC 535 · R 3084
On time
8:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf
5h10
1:59 PM Heverlee
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 692 · ICE 16 · IC 535
On time
8:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf
4h43
1:32 PM Leuven station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 1947 · ICE 314 · IC 537
On time
9:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf
5h43
3:32 PM Leuven station
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 612 · IC 1947 · ICE 314 · IC 537
On time
9:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf
6h10
3:59 PM Heverlee
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 314 · IC 537 · R 3086
On time
10:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf
5h10
3:59 PM Heverlee
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 690 · ICE 314 · IC 537
On time
10:49 AM Stuttgart Hbf
4h43
3:32 PM Leuven station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1645 · ICE 14 · IC 539
On time
11:36 AM Stuttgart Hbf
5h56
5:32 PM Leuven station
2 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 1645 · ICE 14 · IC 539 · R 3088
On time
11:36 AM Stuttgart Hbf
6h23
5:59 PM Heverlee
3 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 518 · IC 2012 · ICE 12 · IC 541
On time
1:49 PM Stuttgart Hbf
6h34
8:23 PM Heverlee
4 transfers
Deutsche BahnICE 518 · IC 2012 · ICE 12 · IC 541
On time
1:49 PM Stuttgart Hbf
5h43
7:32 PM Leuven station
3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Stuttgart to Leuven by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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.

Tue
May 12
Wed
May 13
Thu
May 14
Fri
May 15
Sat
May 16
Sun
May 17
Mon
May 18

Why should you book Stuttgart to Leuven trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Stuttgart to Leuven.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Stuttgart to Leuven.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Stuttgart 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 Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Stuttgart to Leuven.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Stuttgart to Leuven.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Stuttgart to Leuven

GermanyGermany
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Stuttgart to Leuven run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€59) but you can travel from only $42 (€33) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:50, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 246 miles (397 km) distance in 4h 41m.

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 $42 (€33)
Distance
246 miles (397 km)
Average train duration
4h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
$73 (€59)
Trains per day
10
Fastest train
4h 41m
First train
12:50 AM
Last train
11:44 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 $42 (€33)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Stuttgart to Leuven trainsDeutsche Bahn, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Stuttgart and Leuven from $36 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 41m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€59)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
24 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 18m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€101)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
6 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 4m
Cheapest Price
$173 (€138)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Stuttgart to Leuven

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Stuttgart 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Stuttgart to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€59), while the average price is around $154 (€123).
The train from Stuttgart to Leuven takes 4h 41m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Stuttgart to Leuven is 246 miles (397 km).
The first train from Stuttgart to Leuven leaves at 12:50 AM.
The last train from Stuttgart to Leuven leaves at 11:44 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Stuttgart to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Stuttgart to Leuven.
The train station in Stuttgart that goes to Leuven is Stuttgart Hbf, which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Stuttgart to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $42 (€33).
The train journey from Stuttgart to Leuven offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills and picturesque villages of the German countryside before transitioning into the charming landscapes of Belgium.
A day trip from Stuttgart to Leuven is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 41m. There are 9 trains per day covering a distance of 246 miles (397 km).
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 Stuttgart to Leuven.
Since both Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart 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 Stuttgart to Leuven

Stuttgart
Leuven
The major train station for departures in Stuttgart is Stuttgart Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Stuttgart Hbf for your trip from Stuttgart to Leuven.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 06:00 - 22:00
  • Sat - Sun: 07:00 - 22:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Luggage lockers are located near the north entrance.
Dining
Dining
  • backWERK
  • Ditsch
  • Kamps Backstube
  • Le Crobag
  • Dunkin' Donuts
  • min min
  • Starbucks
  • Yorma's
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Escalators and elevators. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].
Hotel
Hotel
  • ARCOTEL Camino Stuttgart
  • Mirage City Hotel Stuttgart Zentrum Hbf
  • Hotel Motel One Stuttgart-Mitte
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located on the south side of the station near Platform 1.
Stuttgart StadtmitteWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
Dining
Dining
  • Café le Théatre
  • Maison Banh Mi
  • Bangkok Express
  • Graf Eberhard
Hotel
Hotel
  • Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin
  • Hansa Hotel
  • Novum Hotel Boulevard
  • Motel One Stuttgart-Mitte
Stuttgart FeuerseeWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Dining
Dining
  • Maison Banh Mi
  • Bangkok Express
  • Graf Eberhard
  • Cafe Kaiserbau
Hotel
Hotel
  • Park Inn Stuttgart
  • Hansa Hotel
  • Novum Hotel Boulevard
  • Hotel Xenia

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