- 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 The Hague to Leuven
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$32
Average price
$42
Fastest journey
2 h 25 m
Average duration
2 h 25 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
136 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from The Hague to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from The Hague to Leuven will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave The Hague for Leuven on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 136 km distance in an average of 2 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 2 h 25 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.
8:49 AM2h25The Hague11:14 AMLeuven$321One-way0 transfers- 7:49 AM2h25The Hague10:14 AMLeuven$461One-way0 transfers
- 6:49 AM2h25The Hague9:14 AMLeuven$461One-way0 transfers
- 7:49 AM2h25The Hague10:14 AMLeuven$461One-way0 transfers
- 8:49 AM2h25The Hague11:14 AMLeuven$321One-way0 transfers
- 6:49 AM2h25The Hague9:14 AMLeuven$461One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for The Hague to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from The Hague to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 59m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a train costs an average of $31.
Distance: 84 miles (136 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$42 Average price | $38 Average price Cheapest | $40 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 14m Average total duration 6h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from The Hague to Leuven is a bus with an average price of $38.
This is compared to other travel options from The Hague to Leuven:
A bus is $4 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from The Hague to Leuven costing on average $42.
The fastest way to travel from The Hague to Leuven is by train with an average journey time of 1h 59m.
Other travel options to Leuven take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between The Hague and Leuven including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from The Hague 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 17m sooner (1h 59m by train vs 2h 16m by car). Tickets start at around $42 compared to roughly $40 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
The Hague to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for The Hague to Leuven trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:49 AM The Hague | 2h25 | 9:14 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:49 AM The Hague | 2h25 | 10:14 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:49 AM The Hague | 2h25 | 11:14 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 The Hague to Leuven by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
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Fri
Aug 07
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Sat
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Aug 08
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Aug 11
Aug 11
Journey information
Overview: Train from The Hague to Leuven
Netherlands
Belgium
Trains from The Hague to Leuven run on average 32 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 but you can travel from only $22 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 2h 9m.
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 $22
Distance 84 miles (136 km) |
Average train duration 1h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 |
Trains per day 32 |
Fastest train 2h 9m |
First train 12:11 AM |
Last train 11:54 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 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 $22
Train companies: Intercity, EuroCity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from The Hague to Leuven trainsIntercity, EuroCity, NS International | IC Brussel, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between The Hague and Leuven from $22. 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 Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Price
$39
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
EuroCity frequency
11 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
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 Duration
2h 9m
Cheapest Price
$31
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
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 3m
Cheapest Price
$39
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
12 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
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 The Hague to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from The Hague 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 The Hague to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31, while the average price is around $42.
The train from The Hague to Leuven takes 2h 9m and runs 32 per day.
The distance by train from The Hague to Leuven is 84 miles (136 km).
The first train from The Hague to Leuven leaves at 12:11 AM.
The last train from The Hague to Leuven leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from The Hague to Leuven.
There is no direct train service currently available from The Hague to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from The Hague to Leuven.
The train station in The Hague that goes to Leuven is The Hague Centraal, which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from The Hague to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $22.
The train journey from The Hague to Leuven offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with charming Dutch and Belgian landscapes, including fields, small towns, and occasional waterways, providing a pleasant and moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from The Hague to Leuven is not feasible since the journey takes 2h 9m each way. However, there are 24 train trips per day available. The distance between the two cities is 84 miles (136 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 The Hague to Leuven.
Since both The Hague 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 The Hague 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 The Hague to Leuven
Most The Hague to Leuven trains use the Den Haag Centraal to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare The Hague and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in The Hague
Arrival train stations in Leuven
Which The Hague station do trains to Leuven leave from?
Trains from The Hague to Leuven leave from Den Haag Centraal. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from The Hague city centre at Koningin Julianaplein 10, 2595 AA The Hague, Netherlands.
Den Haag CentraalKoningin Julianaplein 10, 2595 AA The Hague, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155
City-centre transport
Getting to Den Haag Centraal from The Hague city centre
Den Haag Centraal is 1 km from The Hague city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22, 24, 28 · 4m · $1 · every ~23 min
Tram15, 3, 4, 6, 2, 34 · 2m · $1 · every ~56 min
Den Haag Centraal train station facilities and services
Den Haag Centraal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Pavlov, The Penthouse
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Den Haag Centraal. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Den Haag Centraal. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Den Haag Centraal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Den Haag Centraal: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Den Haag Centraal: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Park Centraal Den Haag, Holiday Inn Express The Hague - Parliament, Novotel Den Haag City Centre.
Den Haag HsStationsplein 8, 2515 BV The Hague, Netherlands+31 30 751 5155
City-centre transport
Getting to Den Haag Hs from The Hague city centre
Den Haag Hs is 1 km from The Hague city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus22, N3 · 17m · $2 · every ~7 min
Tram15, 1, 10 · 4m · $1 · every ~22 min
15 · 7m · $1 · every ~9 min
Den Haag Hs train station facilities and services
Den Haag Hs 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 Basaal, The Penthouse Restaurant
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Den Haag Hs. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Den Haag Hs. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Den Haag Hs: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Den Haag Hs: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Den Haag Hs: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Mercure Den Haag Central, The Student Hotel The Hague, Novotel Den Haag City Centre.
Den Haag Moerwijk2532 CP The Hague, Netherlands
City-centre transport
Getting to Den Haag Moerwijk from The Hague city centre
Den Haag Moerwijk is 2 km from The Hague city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSprinter · 7m · $1 · every ~9 min
Bus22, 29 · 29m · $2 · every ~8 min
Tram16 · 14m · $2 · every ~9 min
Den Haag Moerwijk train station facilities and services
Den Haag Moerwijk has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Den Haag Moerwijk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Den Haag Moerwijk.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Den Haag Moerwijk: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Den Haag Moerwijk: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Den Haag Moerwijk.
Which Leuven station do trains from The Hague arrive at?
Trains from The Hague 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 · $4 · 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.
Most popular train connections from The Hague
More options for your journey from The Hague to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and The Hague
Most popular train connections to Leuven
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