- Must visit
Fries Museum
The main museum of Friesland, known for regional history, art, and major temporary exhibitions in the city center.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Zwolle to Leeuwarden
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Zwolle to Leeuwarden among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $50.
Distance: 49 miles (79 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$50 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 28m Average total duration Fastest 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Zwolle to Leeuwarden is a train with an average price of $50 (€40).
The fastest way to travel from Zwolle to Leeuwarden is by train with an average journey time of 58m.
Yes, you can take a train between Zwolle and Leeuwarden.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zwolle to Leeuwarden 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 9m sooner (58m by train vs 1h 7m by car). Tickets start at around $50 (€40) compared to roughly $22 (€18) 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 Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
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.
Compare prices and tickets Zwolle to Leeuwarden by train
Compare 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.
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Why should you book Zwolle to Leeuwarden trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from Zwolle to Leeuwarden.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Zwolle to Leeuwarden.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Zwolle to Leeuwarden.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Zwolle to Leeuwarden
NetherlandsNetherlands
Trains from Zwolle to Leeuwarden run on average 52 times per day, taking around 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€40) if you book in advance.
There are 52 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 49 miles (79 km) distance in 56m.
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 49 miles (79 km) |
Average train duration 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€40) |
Trains per day 52 |
Direct trains 52 |
Fastest train 56m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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: Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Zwolle to Leeuwarden trainsIntercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Zwolle and Leeuwarden from $50 (€40). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a widely recognized brand for express train services that connect cities over longer distances, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "Intercity" originated in the United Kingdom in 1966 with British Rail's electrification of the West Coast Main Line, becoming a brand for their main-line passenger routes. Today, Intercity services vary across Europe, with some countries like Switzerland offering modern, high-standard trains, while in others, they may be older compared to newer high-speed options. Many European countries use "InterCity" as an official brand name for regular, long-distance train services meeting specific speed and comfort criteria. For example, PKP Intercity is a major Polish rail operator connecting cities and tourist resorts within Poland and across Europe. Trenitalia's Intercity trains in Italy offer an affordable and widespread means of rail transport, connecting various cities and towns. These trains typically offer Standard and First Class services, with amenities like power sockets and sometimes catering.
Luggage & cancellation policy
0
Intercity frequency
54 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
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
56m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€40)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Leeuwarden
Things to do in Leeuwarden
Discover the best of Leeuwarden — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leeuwarden trip today.
- Recommended
Keramiekmuseum Princessehof
A respected ceramics museum in a historic palace, with collections ranging from Asian porcelain to modern design.
- Recommended
Natuurmuseum Fryslân
A family-friendly natural history museum with interactive displays about wildlife, landscapes, and nature in Friesland.
- Must visit
Oldehoofsterkerkhof
The square around Oldehove is a key gathering space and one of the best places for classic city views and photos.
- Recommended
Nieuwestad
The city’s best-known shopping and canal street, lively for strolling and a practical base for exploring the center.
- Recommended
Prinsentuin
A popular waterside park with gardens, walking paths, and marina views, especially pleasant in warmer months.
- Vegetarian
Suikerbrood
Frisian sugar bread baked with pearl sugar and cinnamon. A beloved regional specialty often eaten at breakfast or with coffee.
- Vegetarian
Fryske Dmkes
Traditional Frisian cookies made with anise, ginger and sometimes candied peel. They are closely associated with the province and local baking traditions.
- Vegetarian
Oranjekoek
A classic Frisian cake flavored with citrus and topped with a pink glaze. It is especially popular at celebrations and in local bakeries.
Stek Leeuwarden
Stylish casual venue with strong local support, appreciated for brunch, lunch and seasonal dishes in a cozy canal-side atmosphere.
Restaurant Wannee
Well-regarded restaurant in Leeuwarden focused on Dutch and Frisian ingredients with a refined, modern approach and polished atmosphere.
Proefverlof
Popular all-day dining spot set in a former prison complex, known for creative plates, local products and a lively yet relaxed setting.
Euro
Prices are typical for the Netherlands: supermarkets are fair, while restaurants and hotels cost more than in smaller Dutch towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- 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. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxis; small tips for hotel staff are optional.
9292
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 1.95
- Day pass
- EUR 7.00
To the city center
Leeuwarden Station, Leeuwarden -> Leeuwarden City Center, Leeuwarden
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- You can check real-time journeys and fares across buses and trains in Leeuwarden with the 9292 app. OVpay lets you tap in and out with a contactless bank card on Dutch public transport.
- At Leeuwarden Station, the city center is also walkable in about 10 min. For local buses in Fryslân, Arriva is the main operator.
FAQs: Trains from Zwolle to Leeuwarden
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zwolle to Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Zwolle to Leeuwarden can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€40), while the average price is around $50 (€40).
The train from Zwolle to Leeuwarden takes 56m and runs 52 per day.
The distance by train from Zwolle to Leeuwarden is 49 miles (79 km).
The first train from Zwolle to Leeuwarden leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Zwolle to Leeuwarden leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zwolle to Leeuwarden.
Yes, there is a direct train from Zwolle to Leeuwarden. This service operates 52 times per day, provided by Intercity, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zwolle to Leeuwarden.
The cheapest way to get from Zwolle to Leeuwarden is by train, with a cost of around $50 (€40).
The train journey from Zwolle to Leeuwarden is moderately scenic, featuring views of the Dutch countryside, with flat landscapes, farmland, and small villages along the route.
Yes, a day trip from Zwolle to Leeuwarden is feasible. The journey takes 56m and covers 49 miles (79 km). Trains run 53 times per day.
In Leeuwarden, you can visit AquaZoo Friesland to enjoy a variety of aquatic and land animals, explore vibrant local markets for unique Dutch treats and crafts, and take a canal tour for a different perspective of the city. Discover the historic Waagplein, a lively square with cafes and shops, and enjoy a cycling tour through the scenic Frisian countryside. For cultural experiences, visit the Fries Museum, Oldehove tower, and Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics. Blokhuispoort offers a cultural hub with shops and cafes, while De Groene Ster provides a recreational area with lakes and walking trails for outdoor activities.
For a well-rounded experience in Leeuwarden, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days to explore its historic sites, cultural attractions, and vibrant local scene.
Yes, you can take the train from Zwolle to Leeuwarden.
Since both Zwolle and Leeuwarden 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 Leeuwarden include Utrecht, Groningen, Arnhem, Heerenveen, Leer.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Zwolle to Leeuwarden 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.
The currency used in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Travelers generally find it more convenient to use cards, as most places accept debit and credit cards, though having some cash on hand is useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leeuwarden, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unofficial taxi services can occur, so it is advisable to use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Additionally, travelers should watch out for counterfeit tickets or unauthorized sellers when purchasing transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and keeping valuables secure helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
Most popular train connections from Zwolle
More options for your journey from Zwolle to Leeuwarden
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leeuwarden and Zwolle
Most popular train connections to Leeuwarden
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