Cologne to Leuven by Train

Q: How far is the train ride from Cologne to Leuven?

The train ride from Cologne to Leuven covers a distance of around 438 miles (705 km). The quickest journeys on this route can take 12 hours and 31 minutes.

Q: Can I take a flight-free trip from Cologne to Leuven?

Yes, you can get from Cologne to Leuven without taking a flight. Check our Journey Planner to see available times and routes - the fastest trains take 12 hours and 31 minutes, with around 20 trains per day.

Q: What is the best way to travel to Leuven from Cologne?

With the fastest journeys taking just 12 hours and 31 minutes, we think the best way to travel between Cologne and Leuven is to take the train! Check out our Journey Planner for times, tickets and prices, or explore the classes and onboard services available on the train.

Q: What time does the first train run from Cologne to Leuven?

The first train from Cologne to Leuven usually leaves at 00:20, but times can vary depending on the day and train operator. Use our Journey Planner to check the schedule on your day of travel.

Q: How late does the train from Cologne to Leuven run?

The last train from Cologne to Leuven usually leaves at 21:40, but times can vary depending on the day and train operator. Use our Journey Planner to check the schedule on your day of travel.

Q: How many trains go from Cologne to Leuven per day?

Trains from Cologne to Leuven run frequently all day, with around 20 trains available every day. Use our Journey Planner to check the full schedule.

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About the train journey from Cologne to Leuven

Want to travel from Cologne to Leuven by train? Start your journey with us.

The train from Cologne to Leuven usually takes 16 hours 3 minutes on average to travel 705 km, although the quickest services can take as little as 12 hours 31 minutes. You can expect to find 20 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren't any direct services running between Cologne and Leuven, you'll need to make 4 changes on your way to Leuven.

To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Cologne to Leuven in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Leuven, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

First train	12:20 am
Last train	9:40 pm
Departure station	Cologne
Arrival station	Leuven
Journey time	From 12h 31m
Distance	438 miles (705 km)
Frequency	20 trains per day
Changes	4 changes

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Cologne to Leuven?

Want to know more about your journey from Cologne to Leuven? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you travel to Leuven from Cologne?

To get to Leuven from Cologne, why not take the train? With 20 trains per day and an average journey time of 16 hours and 3 minutes, taking the train is a great way to travel. See our Journey Planner for up-to-date times and prices.

How long does it take to get from Cologne to Leuven by train?

On average it takes around 16 hours and 3 minutes to travel from Cologne to Leuven by train, although you can get there in 12 hours and 31 minutes on the fastest services. With 20 trains per day running on this route, journey times may vary, so check our Journey Planner for more information.

How fast can trains travel from Cologne to Leuven?

The fastest time a train can travel the 438 miles (705 km) from Cologne to Leuven is 12 hours and 31 minutes.

Are there any direct trains from Cologne to Leuven?

There are no direct trains that run between Cologne and Leuven. You’ll need to make around 4 changes along the way.

How far is the train ride from Cologne to Leuven?

Can I take a flight-free trip from Cologne to Leuven?

What is the best way to travel to Leuven from Cologne?

What time does the first train run from Cologne to Leuven?

How late does the train from Cologne to Leuven run?

How many trains go from Cologne to Leuven per day?

When do tickets from Cologne to Leuven go on sale?

Planning a round trip from Cologne to Leuven?

Departs	Arrives	Duration
5:44 am	6:23 pm	12h 39m, 7 changes
5:44 am	7:32 pm	13h 48m, 6 changes
6:59 am	7:32 pm	12h 33m, 8 changes
7:40 am	8:32 pm	12h 52m, 5 changes
8:40 am	10:04 pm	13h 24m, 4 changes
9:40 am	4:03 am	18h 23m, 7 changes
11:40 am	6:36 am	18h 56m, 7 changes
12:40 pm	6:36 am	17h 56m, 9 changes
12:40 pm	7:23 am	18h 43m, 4 changes
2:40 pm	7:32 am	16h 52m, 4 changes

Search all times and prices for today

How do I find cheap train tickets from Cologne to Leuven?

If you’re planning a trip to Europe soon, our Trainline team of experts have put together some tips to help you find cheap tickets. Booking on the day in Europe is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or travel class.

1. Book in advance

The price of train tickets from Cologne to Leuven starts at ^§ one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Most train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months ahead of time, so if you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find cheaper tickets.

2. Be flexible with your travel times

If you can, consider traveling outside of 'peak hours' (generally between 06:00 - 10:00 and 15:00 - 19:00 on weekdays) as lots of trains companies increase their ticket prices during these commuter times.

3. Buy a rail pass

If you're visiting multiple locations on your trip, buying a rail pass can be cheaper than buying individual tickets. We're official retailers of Eurail Passes that are valid for travel in one country or multiple countries across Europe.

4. Choose a slower or connecting train

On some busier routes, you might have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have some extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare.

5. Look out for train ticket sales and deals

Many train companies in Europe will often run sales and offers on tickets throughout the year, so keep an eye out!

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

^§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

Trains from Cologne to Leuven

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About the train journey from Cologne to Leuven