Trains from Leuven to Mechelen
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Take the train from Leuven to Mechelen in 15 minutes
If you want to travel from Leuven to Mechelen by train, you've come to the right place.
You can expect the journey from Leuven to Mechelen by train to take around 32 minutes. If you want to get there as quickly as possible, it can take as little as 15 minutes on the fastest services. You'll usually find around 63 trains per day running on this route, which spans 22 km. There's no need for any changes along the way, as there are direct trains available to Mechelen. Sit back, relax and let an SNCB train whisk you to Mechelen in no time. As the national rail operator of Belgium, SNCB Intercity and local trains are modern and comfortable.
Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to search for cheap ticket prices and we'll show you how much you can save. Tickets from Leuven to Mechelen start from $7.46 when you book in advance.
If you want to know more about the journey, keep reading for train schedules, tips on finding cheap tickets and FAQs, including first and last train times. Want to go straight to booking? Start a search with us today!
Leuven to Mechelen by train
It takes an average of 32m to travel from Leuven to Mechelen by train, over a distance of around 14 miles (22 km). There are normally 63 trains per day traveling from Leuven to Mechelen and tickets for this journey start from $7.46 when you book in advance.
| First train | 00:00 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:54 | |
| Departure station | Leuven | |
| Arrival station | Mechelen | |
| Journey time | From 15m | |
| Distance | 14 miles (22 km) | |
| Frequency | 63 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From $7.46 | |
| Train and bus operators |
SNCB trains from Leuven to Mechelen
SNCB is the national railway company of Belgium, with services that include national (Intercity) and regional (Local) express trains. All SNCB trains come with both First Class and Second Class carriages. Belgium has one of the densest rail networks in the world. Seat reservations aren’t possible for any of the company's trains.
More information
Cheap train tickets from Leuven to Mechelen
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Leuven to Mechelen by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
FAQs for Leuven to Mechelen
How long does the train from Leuven to Mechelen take?
The average journey time by train between Leuven and Mechelen is 32 minutes, with around 63 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Leuven and Mechelen by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Leuven to Mechelen is 15 minutes.
How much does the train from Leuven to Mechelen cost?
Train tickets from Leuven to Mechelen can start from as little as $7.46 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Is there a direct train from Leuven to Mechelen?
Yes, it is possible to travel from Leuven to Mechelen without having to change trains. There are 61 direct trains from Leuven to Mechelen each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
What time does the first train from Leuven to Mechelen leave?
The first train from Leuven to Mechelen leaves at 00:00. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Leuven to Mechelen leave?
The last train from Leuven to Mechelen leaves at 23:54. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Leuven and Mechelen by train?
Trains travelling from Leuven to Mechelen cover a distance of around 14 miles (22 km) during the journey.