Zurich to Leuven train with Deutsche Bahn (IC,ICE)

Tue, Sep 08
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
SBB
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Leuven

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$96

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$169

Fastest journey on Sep 08

7 h 13 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

7 h 46 m

Trains on Sep 08

3

Distance

481 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Zurich to Leuven will cost around $169 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $96.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 08, we found 3 trains from Zurich to Leuven, including 3 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 08 the direct trains cover the 481 km distance in an average of 7 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 13 m .

On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest trains will take 8 h 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.

  • Deutsche Bahn
    6:59 AM7h33
    Zurich
    2:32 PMLeuven
    $961One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche Bahn
    7:59 AM8h33
    Zurich
    4:32 PMLeuven
    $1991One-way
    0 transfers
  • SNCF
    1:34 PM7h13
    Zurich
    8:47 PMLeuven
    $2131One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Zurich to Leuven

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $71 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 37m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, while a flight costs an average of $567.

Distance: 298 miles (481 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$211

Average price

$567

Average price

$71

Average price

Cheapest

$219

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

7h 40m

Average total duration

7h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 37m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

14h 1m

Average total duration

13h 31m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

1.4 - 2.9kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

KLM

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

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 Zurich to Leuven is a bus with an average price of $71 (€57).

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

A bus is $140 (€113) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Leuven costing on average $211 (€170).

A bus is $496 (€401) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Zurich to Leuven costing on average $567 (€458).

The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Leuven is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 37m.

Other travel options to Leuven take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 10m.

Bus takes on average 13h 31m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Leuven including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich to Leuven among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $211 (€170) compared to roughly $219 (€177) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $8 (€7). The journey takes 7h 10m versus 6h 51m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Zurich to Leuven train times

The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Leuven trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche Bahn6:59 AM Zurich
7h33
2:32 PM Leuven0 transfersDirect
Deutsche Bahn7:59 AM Zurich
8h33
4:32 PM Leuven0 transfersDirect
SNCF1:34 PM Zurich
7h13
8:47 PM Leuven0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Zurich 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
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Zurich to Leuven trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) and more offer trains services from Zurich to Leuven.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zurich 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 SBB, Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) or Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) to find the best option for your trip from Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Leuven.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Zurich to Leuven

SwitzerlandSwitzerland
BelgiumBelgium
Icon of train

Trains from Zurich to Leuven run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $110 (€89) but you can travel from only $48 (€39) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 298 miles (481 km) distance in 6h 14m.

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 $48 (€39)
Distance
298 miles (481 km)
Average train duration
7h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
$110 (€89)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
6h 14m
First train
12:08 AM
Last train
11:36 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $48 (€39)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn from Zurich to Leuven trainsDeutsche Bahn trains will get you between Zurich and Leuven from $48 (€39). 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 Deutsche Bahn Duration
6h 14m
Cheapest Deutsche Bahn Price
$110 (€89)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
4 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

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.

  • Must visit

M Leuven

University museum with science, culture, and philosophy exhibitions in a striking historic complex. Ideal for understanding Leuven's academic identity.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Zurich to Leuven

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $110 (€89), while the average price is around $211 (€170).
The train from Zurich to Leuven takes 6h 14m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Zurich to Leuven leaves at 12:08 AM.
The distance by train from Zurich to Leuven is 298 miles (481 km).
The last train from Zurich to Leuven leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Leuven.
The train station in Zurich that goes to Leuven is Zurich HB, which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Leuven is by bus, with a cost of around $48 (€39).
The train journey from Zurich to Leuven is moderately scenic, offering views of the Swiss Alps, picturesque villages, and the rolling landscapes of Switzerland and Germany before reaching the urban and pastoral scenery of Belgium.
A day trip from Zurich to Leuven is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 14m each way. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 298 miles (481 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 Zurich to Leuven.
Since both Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich to Leuven

Most Zurich to Leuven trains use the Zürich HB to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Heverlee. Use this guide to compare Zurich and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Zurich
Arrival train stations in Leuven

Which Zurich station do trains to Leuven leave from?

Trains from Zurich to Leuven leave from Zürich HB. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Zurich city centre at Bahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland.
Zürich HBBahnhofplatz, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 51 220 11 11WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich HB from Zurich city centre

Zürich HB is 1 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS, 9 · 3m · $4 · every ~3 min
S11, Sn11, S12, S15, S16, Sn1, Sn, S20, S23, S3, S5, Sn5, S6, Sn6, S7, Sn7, S9, Sn9, S · 3m · $1 · every ~43 min
Bus31, 33 · 5m · $2 · every ~16 min
N4, N5, N91 · 5m · $2
Tram11, 15, 4 · 8m · $2 · every ~19 min

Zürich HB train station facilities and services

Zürich HB has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, 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 Au Premier, Brasserie Federal

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Zürich HB. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Zürich HB. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Zürich HB: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Zürich HB: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich HB: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Schweizerhof Zürich, Hotel St. Gotthard, Central Plaza Hotel.

Zürich StadelhofenStadelhoferstrasse 8, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland+41 900 300 300WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich Stadelhofen from Zurich city centre

TramLine 11, Line 15
BusSeveral lines available
S-BahnLines S3, S5, S6, S7, S9, S12, S16

Zürich Stadelhofen train station facilities and services

Zürich Stadelhofen 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: Outback Lodge, Tibits

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Zürich Stadelhofen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich Stadelhofen: Ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotel Opera Zurich, Small Luxury Hotel Ambassador Zurich, Hotel Seehof.

Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof NordHofwiesenstrasse 369, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland+41 848 446 688Accessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord from Zurich city centre

Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord is 5 km from Zurich city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainS8, S2, S24, Ir36, S14, Re48, S19, S, Ir13, Ic1, S21, S15, S9, Sn8, Ir, N1 · 4m · $2 · every ~31 min
9, S · 12m · $5 · every ~3 min
BusE · 13m · $4
N10 · 12m · $4
Tram10, 11, 17, 50, 51, 8 · 12m · $4 · every ~19 min

Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord train station facilities and services

Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Zürich, Oerlikon Bahnhof Nord.

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