Weekend getaway Leuven

City break Leuven with Eurostar or Intercity Brussels

From as little as € 25 one-way with Intercity Brussels
From € 37 one-way with Eurostar
In 2.19 hour to the heart of Leuven with Eurostar
Travel in comfort and arrive well-rested

Looking for the perfect destination for a city break? With its rich history, vibrant café culture and wonderful sights, Leuven is the ideal choice for a weekend getaway. Whether you travel by Eurostar or Intercity Brussels, this charming Belgian city is easy to reach by train. Discover useful tips for a perfect weekend break in Leuven below.

What can you do in Leuven?

Visit the University Library and Tower

Discover Leuven University Library, an important piece of the city's history. You can not only see the beautiful building, but also enjoy a great view of Leuven from its tower. This library is a symbol of how the city recovered after World War I.

Explore the Old Market

The Old Market is Leuven's vibrant centre. Known as the 'longest bar in Europe', it is surrounded by many cafés and restaurants. It is the ideal place to relax, people-watch and enjoy a nice Belgian beer or a local snack.

Wander through the Kruidtuin (botanical garden)

If you need a moment to relax, head to the Kruidtuin, Belgium's oldest botanical garden. This peaceful, beautiful garden is perfect for a calm stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Feeling zen again? Then walk back to the historic centre within 10 minutes.

Discover the M-Museum

Leuven is a city full of culture. For art lovers, a visit to the M-Museum is a must. This modern museum has an impressive collection of both modern and historical art, with new exhibitions on a regular basis. You also visit the M-Museum for the local music scene. Festivals and events are often organised there.

Blue-bike: rent a bike at low cost

If you have ever used the OV-fiets in the Netherlands, you will know how easy it is to rent a bike when you arrive at a train station. Belgium has its own version of this: the Blue-bike. This is not only an alternative travel option for Belgians, but also offers numerous advantages for Dutch people who regularly visit Belgium. You can also pick up this bike at Leuven station.

Intercity Brussels becomes Eurocity Direct and EuroCity from 15 December

From 15 December 2024, the name and route of Intercity Brussels will change. The fast train to Brussels will soon be called Eurocity Direct. In addition to the Intercity, there will also be an extra train to Belgium, EuroCity. Until that date, you can continue to travel on the current trains.
More information about the new trains between the Netherlands and Belgium

To Leuven by train

Going to Leuven for a day or weekend? Then travel in comfort by train. You can travel with Intercity Brussels or Eurostar.

Intercity Brussels becomes Eurocity Direct and EuroCity from 15 December

Travel with Intercity Brussels

Going with Intercity Brussels? Then you will travel to Mechelen. There, you catch an intercity to Leuven. Travel time from Amsterdam Centraal is 2.49 hours and prices start at € 25 for a one-way trip per adult. You can book your tickets for Intercity Brussels180 days in advance. Up to 3 days before your departure, you can book the extra low-price Early Bird rate. Availability of these bargain tickets is limited.

Travel with Eurostar

If you take Eurostar, you must first travel from Amsterdam to Antwerp where you catch an intercity to Leuven. Travel time is then 2.19 hours. Prices start at € 37 for a one-way ticket per adult. The sooner you book, the lower the price. You are guaranteed a seat with this ticket. And for all tickets: book from your nearest station. You will get the best price.

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