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Taking the train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden in 4 hours 12 minutes
Thinking about taking the train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden? We’ve got you covered.
It usually takes around 5 hours 10 minutes to travel the 162 miles (261 km) from Maastricht to Leeuwarden by train, although you can get there in as little as 4 hours 12 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 38 trains per day running on this route. You’ll need to make 1 change along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line. You'll be hopping on a Nederlanse Spoorwegen (NS) service on your way to Leeuwarden. As the main rail operator in the Netherlands, all trains are modern with comfortable seating.
Train tickets from Maastricht to Leeuwarden are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.
Keen to book your train tickets to Leeuwarden? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.
Maastricht to Leeuwarden by train
| First train | 05:29 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:59 | |
| Departure station | Maastricht | |
| Arrival station | Leeuwarden | |
| Journey time | From 4h 12m | |
| Distance | 162 miles (261 km) | |
| Frequency | 38 trains per day | |
| Changes | 1 change | |
| Train and bus operators |
NS trains from Maastricht to Leeuwarden
NS is the main railway operator in the Netherlands. It connects the four corners of the country with regional, medium-distance and high-speed trains. It's also possible for you to travel at night thanks to multi-line night trains, including Schiphol and Eindhoven airports. All trains are equipped with two comfort classes – First Class and Second Class.
More information
NS classes from Maastricht to Leeuwarden
Compare the different travel classes offered by NS when travelling from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
Second Class
NS Second Class is perfect for you if you're looking for free WiFi and generous luggage allowance at an affordable price.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- Power sockets
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Quiet area
First Class
Upgrade to NS First Class and enjoy more onboard amenities, including adjustable seats and more legroom.
- Free WiFi
- Luggage storage
- Reading light
- Power sockets
- Adjustable seats/footrests
- More legroom
- Quiet area
Onboard services on NS
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Maastricht to Leeuwarden.
There are no luggage weight limits on NS trains, so long as you can carry your bags by yourself.
There is no onboard catering on NS trains.
The majority of NS Intercity trains have free WiFi on board. If your train has WiFi available, connect to the network 'Wifi in the train' to get online.
Children under 4 travel free on NS trains. Children between 4 and 11 years old can get a 'Railrunner' ticket, which costs €2.50 a day, for unlimited travel.
Outside peak hours (from 9am to 4:30pm, and after 6pm), at the weekend, on bank holidays and during the summer months, you can take your bike on board NS trains. Bikes must be placed in the designated storage spaces, which you can find by looking for a bike symbol on the side of the carriage. Foldable bikes can be transported like normal luggage.
Small pets are allowed on board, provided that they travel on your lap or in a suitable travel carrier. Guide dogs are also allowed on board but must be recognisable as guide dogs for the blind or another type of assistance dog. Larger dogs can travel on NS trains, so long as they wear a muzzle and are kept on a lead - you must also buy a dog train ticket.
If you need help getting on or off the train, you can reserve NS Travel Assistance. This service is available 7 days a week. You need to specify the help you need on your online NS account and reserve assistance on the NS website, on the NS app or by phoning (+31) 30 235 78 22.
Cheap train tickets from Maastricht to Leeuwarden
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 Maastricht to Leeuwarden 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.
Journey details
Want to know more about your journey from Maastricht to Leeuwarden? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden take?
The average journey time by train between Maastricht and Leeuwarden is 5 hours and 10 minutes, with around 38 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 Maastricht and Leeuwarden by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden is 4 hours and 12 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden?
No, there are no direct train services from Maastricht to Leeuwarden. Travelling from Maastricht to Leeuwarden by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden leave?
The first train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden leaves at 05:29. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden leave?
The last train from Maastricht to Leeuwarden leaves at 23:59. 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 Maastricht and Leeuwarden by train?
Trains travelling from Maastricht to Leeuwarden cover a distance of around 162 miles (261 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Leeuwarden to Maastricht.