- 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 Zaventem to Leuven
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$6
Average price
$6
Fastest journey
33 m
Average duration
33 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
16 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zaventem to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zaventem to Leuven will cost around $6 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $6.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Zaventem for Leuven on Mon, Jun 22, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 16 km distance in an average of 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 33 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 33 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.
8:56 AM0h33Zaventem9:29 AMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers- 3:56 PM0h33Zaventem4:29 PMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers
- 11:26 AM0h33Zaventem11:59 AMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers
- 10:26 AM0h33Zaventem10:59 AMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers
- 9:56 AM0h33Zaventem10:29 AMLeuven$71One-way0 transfers
- 3:56 PM0h33Zaventem4:29 PMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers
- 10:26 AM0h33Zaventem10:59 AMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers
- 11:26 AM0h33Zaventem11:59 AMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers
- 9:56 AM0h33Zaventem10:29 AMLeuven$71One-way0 transfers
- 8:56 AM0h33Zaventem9:29 AMLeuven$61One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Zaventem to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zaventem to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $4. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $4, and a bus costs an average of $4.
Distance: 9 miles (16 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$6 Average price Cheapest | $6 Average price | $4 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
49m Average total duration Fastest 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 3m Average total duration 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.0kg 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 Zaventem to Leuven is a train with an average price of $6 (€5).
This is compared to other travel options from Zaventem to Leuven:
A train is $0.39 (€0.32) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Zaventem to Leuven costing on average $6 (€5).
The fastest way to travel from Zaventem to Leuven is by train with an average journey time of 19m.
Other travel options to Leuven take longer:
Bus takes on average 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Zaventem and Leuven including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zaventem 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 7m sooner (19m by train vs 26m by car). Tickets start at around $6 (€5) compared to roughly $4 (€4) 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.
Direct services run with Regional, Intercity, SNCB.
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
Zaventem to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for Zaventem to Leuven trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:26 AM Zaventem | 0h33 | 8:59 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 9:07 AM Zaventem | 1h16 | 10:23 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:26 AM Zaventem | 0h33 | 10:59 AM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:33 PM Zaventem | 0h47 | 6:20 PM Leuven | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zaventem 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.
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
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Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Sat
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Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Jun 28
Why should you book Zaventem to Leuven trains with Omio?
Regional as well as Intercity or SNCB offer trains services from Zaventem to Leuven.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zaventem to Leuven.
Why book with Omio vs Regional?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Regional, but also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Zaventem 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 Regional with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Zaventem to Leuven.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Intercity or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Zaventem to Leuven.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Zaventem to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zaventem to Leuven
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Zaventem to Leuven run on average 20 times per day, taking around 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 (€3) if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 9 miles (16 km) distance in 30m.
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 9 miles (16 km) |
Average train duration 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 (€3) |
Trains per day 20 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 30m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 28 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
Train companies: Regional, Intercity, SNCB from Zaventem to Leuven trainsRegional, Intercity, SNCB trains will get you between Zaventem and Leuven from $4 (€3). 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
47m
Cheapest Price
$4 (€3)
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
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 Duration
30m
Cheapest Price
$4 (€3)
Regional frequency
13 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
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
SNCB frequency
25 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 Zaventem to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zaventem 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 Zaventem to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4 (€3), while the average price is around $6 (€5).
The train from Zaventem to Leuven takes 30m and runs 20 per day.
The first train from Zaventem to Leuven leaves at 12:02 AM.
The distance by train from Zaventem to Leuven is 9 miles (16 km).
The last train from Zaventem to Leuven leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zaventem to Leuven.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zaventem to Leuven. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Regional, Intercity, SNCB.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zaventem to Leuven.
The train station in Zaventem that goes to Leuven is Brussels National Airport, which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Zaventem to Leuven is by train, with a cost of around $4 (€3).
The train journey from Zaventem to Leuven is relatively short, primarily focusing on urban and suburban landscapes rather than particularly scenic views.
Yes, a day trip from Zaventem to Leuven is feasible, with a travel time of 11 and a distance of 16. There are 19 trains 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 Zaventem to Leuven.
Since both Zaventem 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 Zaventem 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 Zaventem to Leuven
Most Zaventem to Leuven trains use the Brussels Airport-Zaventem to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Zaventem and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Zaventem
Arrival train stations in Leuven
Which Zaventem station do trains to Leuven leave from?
Trains from Zaventem to Leuven leave from Brussels Airport-Zaventem. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zaventem city centre at Brussels National Airport, 1930 Zaventem, Belgium.
Zaventem1930 Zaventem, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Zaventem from Zaventem city centre
BusR26, 82, 530 · 3m · $4 · every ~11 min
Zaventem train station facilities and services
Zaventem 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, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Belair, Black Pearls
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Zaventem. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Zaventem. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Zaventem: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Zaventem: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Zaventem: Ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel, Crowne Plaza Brussels Airport, NH Brussels Airport.
Nossegem1930 Zaventem, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Nossegem from Zaventem city centre
Nossegem is 2 km from Zaventem city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainL, S2 · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Nossegem train station facilities and services
Nossegem has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Nossegem.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Nossegem: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Nossegem: Bike Parking.
Which Leuven station do trains from Zaventem arrive at?
Trains from Zaventem 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.
Wijgmaal3018 Leuven, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Wijgmaal from Leuven city centre
Wijgmaal is 5 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainP, Ic, L · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus4, 4b, N7 · 25m · $4 · every ~5 min
4, 4b, N7 · 28m · $4 · every ~5 min
4, 4b, N7 · 30m · $4 · every ~5 min
Wijgmaal train station facilities and services
Wijgmaal has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Wijgmaal.
Most popular train connections from Zaventem
More options for your journey from Zaventem to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and Zaventem
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