- Must visit
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
Major museum complex with Old Masters, Magritte works, and Belgian art; one of the city’s essential cultural visits.
Cheapest price
$6
Average price
$6
Fastest journey
15 m
Average duration
15 m
Trains per day
211
Distance
25 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leuven to Brussels is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leuven to Brussels will cost around $6 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $6.
Of the 211 trains that leave Leuven for Brussels on Sat, Jun 20, 211 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 25 km distance in an average of 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 15 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 15 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.
3632
18228
532
18201
3631
532
530
533
531
18228Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leuven to Brussels among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $4. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 30m. 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 bus costs an average of $4, and a train costs an average of $5.
Distance: 15 miles (25 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$8 Average price | $6 Average price Cheapest | $6 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 0m Average total duration Fastest 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 14m Average total duration 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Leuven to Brussels:
A bus is $2 (€1) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leuven to Brussels costing on average $8 (€6).
Other travel options to Brussels take longer:
Bus takes on average 44m.
You'll arrive about 14m sooner (30m by train vs 44m by car). Tickets start at around $8 (€6) compared to roughly $6 (€5) 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, Regional, Renfe, 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.
The table below shows live departures for Leuven to Brussels trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
3627 | 6:21 AM Leuven station | 0h17 | 6:38 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
3627 | 6:21 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 6:49 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
3627 | 6:21 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 6:44 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
528 | 6:36 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 7:03 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
528 | 6:36 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 6:58 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
528 | 6:36 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 6:51 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
1528 | 6:57 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 7:19 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
1528 | 6:57 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 7:24 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
1528 | 6:57 AM Leuven station | 0h16 | 7:13 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
428 | 7:04 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 7:19 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
428 | 7:04 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 7:27 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
428 | 7:04 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 7:32 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
2829 | 7:07 AM Leuven station | 0h35 | 7:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
2829 | 7:07 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 7:35 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
2829 | 7:07 AM Leuven station | 0h40 | 7:47 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
7444 | 7:13 AM Leuven station | 0h21 | 7:34 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
7444 | 7:13 AM Leuven station | 0h26 | 7:39 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
7444 | 7:13 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 7:28 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
3628 | 7:19 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 7:47 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
3628 | 7:19 AM Leuven station | 0h17 | 7:36 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
3628 | 7:19 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 7:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
7400 | 7:28 AM Leuven station | 0h16 | 7:44 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
7400 | 7:28 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 7:56 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
7400 | 7:28 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 7:51 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
529 | 7:36 AM Leuven station | 0h24 | 8:00 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
529 | 7:36 AM Leuven station | 0h29 | 8:05 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
529 | 7:36 AM Leuven station | 0h18 | 7:54 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
7445 | 7:48 AM Leuven station | 0h17 | 8:05 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
7445 | 7:48 AM Leuven station | 0h25 | 8:13 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
7445 | 7:48 AM Leuven station | 0h30 | 8:18 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
1529 | 7:57 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 8:19 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
1529 | 7:57 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 8:24 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
1529 | 7:57 AM Leuven station | 0h16 | 8:13 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
429 | 8:04 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 8:32 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
429 | 8:04 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 8:19 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
429 | 8:04 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 8:27 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
2830 | 8:07 AM Leuven station | 0h40 | 8:47 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
2830 | 8:07 AM Leuven station | 0h35 | 8:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
2830 | 8:07 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 8:35 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
3629 | 8:19 AM Leuven station | 0h17 | 8:36 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
3629 | 8:19 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 8:47 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
3629 | 8:19 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 8:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
7401 | 8:28 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 8:51 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
7401 | 8:28 AM Leuven station | 0h16 | 8:44 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
7401 | 8:28 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 8:56 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
530 | 8:36 AM Leuven station | 0h29 | 9:05 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
530 | 8:36 AM Leuven station | 0h24 | 9:00 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
530 | 8:36 AM Leuven station | 0h18 | 8:54 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
1530 | 8:58 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 9:13 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
1530 | 8:58 AM Leuven station | 0h26 | 9:24 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
1530 | 8:58 AM Leuven station | 0h21 | 9:19 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
430 | 9:06 AM Leuven station | 0h21 | 9:27 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
430 | 9:06 AM Leuven station | 0h26 | 9:32 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
430 | 9:06 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 9:21 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
2831 | 9:07 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 9:35 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
2831 | 9:07 AM Leuven station | 0h40 | 9:47 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
2831 | 9:07 AM Leuven station | 0h35 | 9:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
3630 | 9:21 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 9:49 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
3630 | 9:21 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 9:44 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
3630 | 9:21 AM Leuven station | 0h17 | 9:38 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
531 | 9:36 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 9:58 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
531 | 9:36 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 10:03 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
531 | 9:36 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 9:51 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
1531 | 9:58 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 10:13 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
1531 | 9:58 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 10:20 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
1531 | 9:58 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 10:25 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
431 | 10:06 AM Leuven station | 0h26 | 10:32 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
431 | 10:06 AM Leuven station | 0h21 | 10:27 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
431 | 10:06 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 10:21 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
2832 | 10:07 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 10:35 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
2832 | 10:07 AM Leuven station | 0h40 | 10:47 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
2832 | 10:07 AM Leuven station | 0h35 | 10:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
3631 | 10:21 AM Leuven station | 0h17 | 10:38 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
3631 | 10:21 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 10:49 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
3631 | 10:21 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 10:44 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
532 | 10:36 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 11:03 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
532 | 10:36 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 10:51 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
532 | 10:36 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 10:58 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
1532 | 10:58 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 11:20 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
1532 | 10:58 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 11:25 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
1532 | 10:58 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 11:13 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
432 | 11:06 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 11:21 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
432 | 11:06 AM Leuven station | 0h26 | 11:32 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
432 | 11:06 AM Leuven station | 0h21 | 11:27 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
2833 | 11:07 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 11:35 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
2833 | 11:07 AM Leuven station | 0h35 | 11:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
2833 | 11:07 AM Leuven station | 0h40 | 11:47 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
3632 | 11:21 AM Leuven station | 0h28 | 11:49 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
3632 | 11:21 AM Leuven station | 0h23 | 11:44 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
3632 | 11:21 AM Leuven station | 0h17 | 11:38 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
533 | 11:36 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 12:03 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
533 | 11:36 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 11:58 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
533 | 11:36 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 11:51 AM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
1533 | 11:58 AM Leuven station | 0h22 | 12:20 PM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
1533 | 11:58 AM Leuven station | 0h27 | 12:25 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
1533 | 11:58 AM Leuven station | 0h15 | 12:13 PM Brussels-North | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus 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.
Trains from Leuven to Brussels run on average 40 times per day, taking around 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $5 (€4) but you can travel from only $4 (€3) by bus.
There are 39 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 15 miles (25 km) distance in 23m.
Distance 15 miles (25 km) |
Average train duration 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $5 (€4) |
Trains per day 40 |
Direct trains 39 |
Fastest train 23m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 77 days |
Discover the best of Brussels — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brussels trip today.
Major museum complex with Old Masters, Magritte works, and Belgian art; one of the city’s essential cultural visits.
Dedicated to René Magritte, with the world’s largest collection of his surrealist works in a central historic setting.
Celebrated museum in an Art Nouveau building, known for its global instrument collection and audio-guided displays.
Popular cultural hill and viewpoint linking the upper and lower city, especially photogenic at sunset.
Historic covered arcade of elegant passages, shops, and architecture, often highlighted in social media imagery.
Stylish square known for antiques, refined atmosphere, and easy access to nearby churches and museums.
Brussels classic of mussels steamed with white wine, celery, onions, or cream, served with crisp fries. It is one of the city’s most iconic comfort dishes.
Traditional Belgian beef and onion stew slowly cooked with dark beer, often slightly sweet-sour and served with fries or bread. A staple in Brussels brasseries.
Rustic mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables such as carrots, leeks, or spinach, often served with sausage or meat. The base preparation is a classic local side dish.
One of Brussels’ most famous fine-dining restaurants, celebrated for refined Belgian and French cuisine in an elegant Art Nouveau setting.
Respected restaurant specializing in carefully prepared Belgian cuisine and strong beer pairings, with a cozy, polished brasserie feel.
Well-known old-school restaurant serving generous Belgian specialties such as carbonnade, stoemp, and sausage in a rustic, bustling atmosphere.
Moderate by Western European standards. Food and transport are manageable, but central hotels cost more.
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great restaurant service is appreciated, not required. Round up taxi fares; no tip is expected for bars or cafés.
Official public transport app
Brussels-Midi -> Bruxelles-Central
The train connection between Leuven and Brussels is efficient and convenient, making it easy for travelers to explore both cities. The journey typically takes around 30 minutes, with frequent services provided by Intercity, BSB, and Regional trains. Whether you're heading to the vibrant capital of Belgium or enjoying the charming atmosphere of Leuven, these train options ensure a smooth travel experience.
The train connection from Leuven to Brussels takes approximately 26 minutes. There are 43 direct connections available each day, making it a convenient option for travelers. The departure station is Leuven, and the arrival stations include Etterbeek, Bruxelles-Central, and Brussels-Schuman.
The first daily train from Leuven to Brussels departs at 06:05, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the vibrant capital. The last journey of the day leaves at 21:19, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy a full day in Brussels before returning.
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection between Leuven and Brussels is €9. The average ticket price typically hovers around €9 as well, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these two cities in Belgium.
The Atomium, built for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, is a striking symbol of modern architecture and innovation. Its unique design represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its spheres. As you explore this iconic structure, you'll discover exhibitions that celebrate science and technology while immersing yourself in Belgium's rich cultural heritage.
Manneken Pis is not just a quirky statue; it embodies the irreverent spirit of Brussels and has become a beloved emblem of local humor. This small bronze figure depicts a young boy urinating into a fountain and dates back to the early 17th century, with numerous legends surrounding its origin adding to its charm. Be sure to check out his wardrobe changes throughout the year—this little fellow dons various costumes that reflect different events or celebrations!
Grand Place stands as one of Europe's most stunning squares, showcasing exquisite Gothic architecture that reflects centuries of history dating back to medieval times. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's surrounded by opulent guildhalls and features vibrant flower markets during summer months along with spectacular light shows in winter. As you stroll through this bustling square filled with cafes and shops, take time to appreciate how it serves as both a historical landmark and lively hub for locals and tourists alike!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leuven to Brussels 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 Brussels, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Leuven to Brussels trains use the Leuven to Bruxelles-Central station pair, with some services arriving at Bruxelles-Midi. Use this guide to compare Leuven and Brussels train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Leuven is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options include: De Klimop, Domus
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Leuven. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Leuven. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Leuven: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Leuven: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Leuven: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel La Royale, Park Inn by Radisson Leuven, Hotel Mille Colonnes.
Heverlee is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
Heverlee has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Heverlee.
ATMs are available at Heverlee.
Available at Heverlee: Parking, WC.
Available at Heverlee: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Heverlee.
Bruxelles-Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Starbucks, Brasserie 28 Brewery, Panos, Delitraiteur Eat & Go
Free Wi-Fi available in Starbucks. ATMs are aTM machine is downstairs from the main entrance on the right side.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:15 - 22:00. Information desks are travel Center / information desk is located on the left side from the main entrance.
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on Level 0 near Platforms 1 and 2.
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bruxelles-Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Central: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with limited mobility: elevators and escalators to platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, barrier-free toilets and accessible parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Nearby hotels include Hilton Brussels Grand Palace, Hotel NH Brussels Carrefour de l'Europe, Hôtel The Moon.
Bruxelles-Midi has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Pullman Hotel Bar, Quick Gare du Midi, Subway, EXKi Zuid, Starbucks, Häagen-Dazs, Sbarro, The Coffee Club, The Belgian Chocolate House, PAUL, & many more
Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are available at Bruxelles-Midi.
Ticket office support is available at Bruxelles-Midi. Information desks are located in the main concourse and next to the international platforms.
Luggage storage is baggage storage facility is located across from the Thalys business lounge.
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bruxelles-Midi: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bruxelles-Midi: Station has a wide range of facilities for passengers with reduced mobility: elevators and escalators to all platforms, wheelchair lifts and mobile ramps, disabled toilet and parking spaces. Additional assistance can be contacted via the SNCB Mobility Call Center.
Nearby hotels include Les Lofts De Styliste, Park Inn by Radisson Brussels Midi, Pullman Brussels Centre Midi.
Brussels-Nord is 1 km from Brussels city centre. Public transport options include:
Brussels-Nord 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 options include: Chabrol Brasserie, Winok Café, Félix Wine Bar
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Ticket office support is available at Brussels-Nord. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage storage is available at Brussels-Nord. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Brussels-Nord: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Brussels-Nord: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Brussels-Nord: Elevators, ramps.
Nearby hotels include Hotel Progress, Hilton Brussels City, Hotel Siru.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need