Trains from Zurich to Leuvenfrom $ 54.63

Exploring new cities and cultures by train is a fascinating way to embark on a journey of discovery. If you're looking to take a trip from Zurich to Leuven, you are in for a treat. This train ride from Switzerland to Belgium will take you through beautiful towns, iconic cities, and a wealth of cultural diversity.

The quickest journey possible by train from Zurich to Leuven takes about 5 hours with one change. The total distance is around 533 km, providing plenty of sightseeing opportunities along the way. Since the train connects the two cities directly, you will not have to worry about inconvenient connections.

Along the way, you will pass through the iconic cities of Basel and Brussels. Basel is home to art galleries, such as the Kunstmuseum Basel, and the local Basel Cathedral. Brussels is the capital of Belgium, and this vibrant city beckons with attractions such as the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the Manneken Pis statue.

In addition to the larger cities, you will also pass through several smaller towns and villages. These include Huerth-Knapp, Aachen, Liege, and Namur. These towns are the perfect places to capture the essence of Belgian culture and experience local customs and cuisine.

The journey starts in Zurich, with its iconic Lindenhof hill, and finishes in Leuven. In Leuven, visitors can marvel at the ornate 15th century Town Hall and the magnificent Cathedral of St. Peter. Be sure to sample some of the city's renowned beer during your stay!

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey from Zurich to Leuven. The journey is an exciting one, full of diverse cities, iconic attractions, and picturesque landscapes. Whether you're looking for a weekend away, or an epic exploration of Europe, this train ride is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Zurich, the beautiful capital city of Switzerland, is a paradise for anyone looking to explore a stunning mix of historical and architectural sites. From its sparkling lakes and its scenic hills to its cobbled streets and old bridges, Zurich offers a wide range of attractions for tourists of all tastes and budgets. Here are seven of the most popular must-visit sites in Zurich. 

The Old Town (Altstadt): Dating back to the 12th century, this medieval old city offers a wealth of colorful old houses, winding lanes, bustling squares, and picturesque gothic churches. Take an afternoon to explore this area and marvel in its beauty. Its narrow streets are full of shops, galleries, and restaurants, providing the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Grossmünster: Located in the heart of Zurich, Grossmünster is an iconic Romanesque-style church dating back to the 11th century. With its impressive twin towers, it is considered the symbol of the city. Entrance is free, and it is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm.

Uetliberg: With its striking summit of 871m, Uetliberg offers one of the most breathtaking views of Zurich. The mountain can be accessed by train or cable car, and it is a popular spot for picnicking and enjoying the views of the city. There are several trails of different difficulty levels, making Uetliberg the perfect place for an outdoor adventure.

Fraumünster: Located next to the Grossmünster, Fraumünster is a beautiful gothic church dating from the 14th century. Visitors can admire its intricate stained glass windows, designed by renowned painter, Augusto Giacometti. Its entrance is free, and it is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Zurich Zoo: The Zurich Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is home to over 400 species of animals, from exotic birds to playful monkeys. It is open daily from 9am to 6pm, and admission fees start at CHF13 for adults and CHF7 for children.

Lindenhof: Located within the Old Town, the Lindenhof offers some of the best views of the city and its stunning lake. It is a great spot for admiring the sunset, and it is also a popular place for jogging and relaxing. Entrance is free, and it is open daily from 8am to 8pm.

Rathaus (Town Hall): Built in 1694, the Rathaus is an impressive baroque building located in the main square of the city. It is a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture. Entrance is free, and it is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.

When visiting Zurich, don’t forget to try some of its delicious local specialties such as Rosti, fondue, or apple-pie. With its beautiful scenery and rich cultural and historical attractions, Zurich is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.

Welcome to Leuven! One of the oldest cities in Belgium, Leuven is brimming with historical and architectural sites to explore. From grand old cathedrals to centuries-old university campuses, there’s plenty to see in this charming city. Here are some highlights: 

The Town Hall: Dating back to 1448, the iconic Town Hall of Leuven is one of the city’s most important landmarks. Its striking Flemish Gothic architecture and unique Baroque bell tower make it a sight to behold, while its inner courtyard and ornate furnishings make it a great spot to explore. Located at Grote Markt 9, the Town Hall is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with an entrance fee of €5. Insider tip: check out the amazing views of the city atop the bell tower!
 

St. Peter's Church: This 13th century Gothic church is one of Leuven's oldest and most beautiful landmarks. Its stained glass windows, impressive architecture, and intricately decorated ceiling are sure to take your breath away. Located in the heart of the city at the Grote Markt, St. Peter's is open daily from 9am to 6pm. Entrance is free.

The Leuven University Library: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the world's largest historic university library, with a collection of over 1 million books. Admire the stunning 16th century architecture of the library, as well as its beautiful main reading room, with its wooden walls and stained glass windows. Located at Ladeuze Vleugel, the library is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 7pm and from Saturday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Entrance is free.

M - Museum: This modern museum has plenty to offer, with its collection of contemporary art, archaeological finds, and historical artifacts. Located in the center of the city at Vesten, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm, with an entrance fee of €10.

St. James' Church: The intricately decorated interior of this magnificent medieval church make it a must-see in Leuven. Located at Sint-Jacobsstraat 37, the church is open on weekdays from 9am to 5pm, with an entrance fee of €2.

Brabanthal Leuven: This popular event space is the perfect spot for a night out. Located in the heart of town at Brabanstrop, it is open daily from 10am to 11pm, with no entrance fee.

The Leuven Market: The perfect spot to pick up some unique gifts or souvenirs, the Leuven Market has it all. Here you will find an array of fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, cheese, meats, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Located at Sint-Pietersplein, the market is open on weekdays and Saturdays from 8am to 6pm, and on Sundays from 9am to 6pm.

Leuven is truly a sight to behold and there is no shortage of things to explore. From grand old cathedrals and university libraries to bustling markets and vibrant entertainment venues, there’s something for everyone in Leuven. So, don’t miss out and start planning your trip today!