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About the train journey from Utrecht to Mechelen
Want to travel from Utrecht to Mechelen by train? Start your journey with us.
The train from Utrecht to Mechelen usually takes 2 hours 21 minutes on average to travel 79 miles (126 km), although the quickest services can take as little as 1 hour 58 minutes. You can expect to find 46 trains per day running on this popular route. As there aren’t any direct services running between Utrecht and Mechelen, you’ll need to make 1 change on your way to Mechelen. This route is operated by Nederlanse Spoorwegen (NS), the Dutch national train operator. During your journey, you're likely to be travelling on one of their Sprinter, Express or Intercity trains.
To help you get the best train deals, we'll highlight the cheapest train ticket prices from Utrecht to Mechelen in our Journey Planner. Just remember, the sooner you book your tickets, the more you'll save!
Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Mechelen, including FAQs, timetables with first and last train times and tips on booking cheap train tickets. If you’re ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.
NS trains from Utrecht to Mechelen
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.
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NS classes from Utrecht to Mechelen
Compare the different travel classes offered by NS when travelling from Utrecht to Mechelen.
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 Utrecht to Mechelen.
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 Utrecht 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 Utrecht 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.
Journey details
Want to know more about your journey from Utrecht to Mechelen? 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 Utrecht to Mechelen take?
The average journey time by train between Utrecht and Mechelen is 2 hours and 21 minutes, with around 46 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 Utrecht and Mechelen by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Utrecht to Mechelen is 1 hour and 58 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Utrecht to Mechelen?
No, there are no direct train services from Utrecht to Mechelen. Travelling from Utrecht to Mechelen by train will require a minimum of 1 change.
What time does the first train from Utrecht to Mechelen leave?
The first train from Utrecht to Mechelen leaves at 00:18. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Utrecht to Mechelen leave?
The last train from Utrecht to Mechelen leaves at 23:39. 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 Utrecht and Mechelen by train?
Trains travelling from Utrecht to Mechelen cover a distance of around 79 miles (126 km) during the journey.