How to Get from Brussels Airport to Leuven: A Complete Guide

Located just 23 kilometers from Brussels Airport, Leuven is easily accessible by various transportation methods. This guide covers all available options to help you choose the most suitable way to reach this historic university city.

Private Transfer Services from Brussels Airport to Leuven

Pre-booked private transfers offer comfort and convenience.

• Door-to-door service: Unlike public transportation, private transfers take you directly from the airport to your specific destination in Leuven, eliminating the need for transfers or additional travel once you reach the city.
• Flexibility: Services can be booked for any time, day or night, accommodating early morning or late-night flights that may not align well with public transportation schedules.
• Comfort and privacy: Enjoy a peaceful journey in a well-maintained, air-conditioned vehicle without the crowds often found on public transport.
• Luggage assistance: Drivers help with your bags, making the journey smoother, especially for those with heavy or numerous pieces of luggage.
• Fixed pricing: Our Brussels Airport taxi price is fixed and agreed upon in advance, avoiding surprises or concerns about running meters.
• Personalized experience: Drivers often provide local insights and can offer recommendations about Leuven.
• Time-efficient: With no stops or transfers, private transfers typically offer the quickest journey time, usually around 45-50 minutes from airport to destination.
• Group cost-effectiveness: For families or small groups, the per-person cost of a minibus can be comparable to or even cheaper than individual public transport tickets.
• Meet and greet service: brusselsexpress.be private transfer offers a meet and greet option, where the driver waits for you in the arrival hall, assisting with a smooth transition from your flight to your transfer. This service is free of charge.
• 24/7 booking available: our service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• Professional drivers: our drivers must meet high expectations, they are absolute professionals with many years experience.

Brussels Airport to Leuven by train

The fastest and most convenient option is the direct train service from Brussels Airport-Zaventem railway station to Leuven.

• Journey time: 13-15 minutes
• Frequency: 2-4 trains per hour
• Cost: €9.50 (includes "Diabolo" airport supplement)
• Operating hours: First train at 05:30, last train at 00:30
• Platform: Located at Level -1 of Brussels Airport

How to Purchase Tickets:
- Ticket machines at the airport station
- SNCB/NMBS mobile app
- Online at belgiantrain.be
- Station ticket counter

Pro tip: Buy your ticket before boarding to avoid additional on-train surcharges.

Brussels Airport to Leuven by Airport Bus Service

De Lijn operates regular bus services between Brussels Airport and Leuven.

• Line: 652
• Journey time: 30-40 minutes
• Frequency: Every 30 minutes during peak hours
• Cost: €3 (single journey)
• Bus stop location: Level 0 of Brussels Airport

Ticket Options:
- Purchase from driver (cash or card)
- De Lijn mobile app
- Ticket machines at the airport
- Pre-loaded MOBIB card

Brussels Airport to Leuven by Taxi

For door-to-door convenience, licensed taxis are readily available.

• Journey time: 20-25 minutes
• Average cost: €50-60
• Taxi stand: Located at Level 0
• Available 24/7
• Credit cards accepted

Note: Always use official airport taxis to ensure regulated pricing.

Practical Tips

During Peak Hours (7:00-9:00 and 16:00-18:00):
- Allow extra travel time, especially if you travel from Leuven to Brussels Airport to catch your flight
- Train services may be crowded
- Consider booking private transfer in advance (at least 24 hours)

Late Night Arrival:
- Last train departs around 00:30
- Night buses available on limited schedule
- Taxi/private transfer recommended after midnight

With Heavy Luggage:
- Trains have dedicated luggage spaces
- Elevators available at both stations
- Private transfer might be more comfortable

For Groups:
- Group train tickets available (10+ people)
- Shared taxi/transfer services more economical
- Pre-booking recommended

Seasonal Considerations

Summer (July-August):
- More frequent train services
- Higher taxi rates during peak tourist season
- Air-conditioned transport recommended

Winter (November-February):
- Possible weather-related delays
- Heated waiting areas available
- Evening services may be reduced

Accessibility Information

For Passengers with Reduced Mobility:
- Special assistance available at both stations
- Wheelchair-accessible trains and buses
- Priority boarding available
- Pre-booking assistance recommended

Cost Comparison

Single Traveler:
- Train: €9.50
- Bus: €3
- Taxi: €45-60
- Private transfer: from €55
- Ride-sharing: €35-45

Small Group (4 people):
- Train: €38 (4 × €9.50)
- Bus: €12 (4 × €3)
- Taxi: €45-60 (same price)
- Private transfer: from €55 (same price)

Conclusion

For most travelers, the direct train service offers the best combination of speed, convenience, and value. However, each option has its advantages:
- Train: Fast and reliable
- Bus: Most economical
- Taxi: Door-to-door convenience
- Private transfer: Comfort, certainty, personalized experience
- Ride-sharing: Flexible and modern

Choose your transport method based on your arrival time, budget, group size, and luggage situation. Book in advance when possible, especially during peak tourist seasons or for late-night arrivals.