how longs it generally take?
depends

for 1-30
my mage - 1 hour
my paladin - 3 hours or so
but i have exceptional gear
i upgrade my attacking item (whtehr it be a charm or weapon) every 5 levels for 1-30 and it really helps alot
also try doing more catacombs , this is an easy way to hain levels, well helping others to gain levels