Belgium
General train travel information for BELGIUM. Rail travel tours, accommodation, sightseeing.
Brief History
In 1835, the first railway line opened in Belgium, marking the beginning of an impressive history of passenger rail transport. The country actively developed its rail network, constructing grand railway stations, introducing electric trains, and providing reliable connections across the country and beyond. Today, Belgium takes pride in its high-speed trains, such as Thalys, and continues to offer passengers reliable, efficient, and environmentally-friendly travel options, making rail transport a primary mode of transportation in the country.
General Information and Statistics
The state-owned SNCB operates the majority of passenger rail service in the country. The Belgian National Railways (SNCB) carried 253.4 million passengers in 2022
There are 3602 kilometres of railway lines in Belgiun (2020). There are more than 3,800 trains a day passing through 550 stations and stopping points servicing 750,000 passenger journeys per day.
Approximately 3,024km (or almost 85%) of the 3,592km of rail lines in the Belgian network are electrified (2004).
What connections to other countries there are
There are frequent train services to all neighbouring countries including the Great Britain, Luxembourg, France, Netherlands, France, Austria, and Germany.
Are trains fast in Belgium in general? How much time to cross the country?
The country has a well-developed rail network that offers reliable and fast train services. Belgium is also known for its high-speed trains, such as the Thalys and the Eurostar, which connect major cities both within Belgium and to other European destinations. These high-speed trains can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph) and provide quick and convenient transportation options for both domestic and international travel. Additionally, Belgium's regular intercity and regional trains are known for their punctuality and comfort, making train travel a popular choice for both commuters and tourists The journey from Welkenraedt to Ieper takes 3:20 hours and from Antwerp to Arlon 3:42 hours.
What railway companies are available?
• The state-owned SNCB handles the majority of passenger rail traffic in the country.
• The Thalys lines connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
• The French-British company Eurostar trains are available to travel from Belgium via the Eurotunnel to the United Kingdom and back. Eurostar trains arrive from central Brussels to central London in about two hours.
• The German company Deutsche Bahn (DB) operates rail routes between Belgium and Germany. From Brussels, trains depart regularly for Berlin, Munich, and Cologne.
What train types are available in Belgium
If you're traveling on a Belgium train, you'll be on either an inter-city or a local service. Inter-city trains only stop at major train stations in big cities, whereas local trains make lots of stops at smaller towns on the route. There are also S-trains, which are suburban trains. They leave big cities and stop at smaller train stations in the surrounding areas. Peak and 'EXTRA' trains are added at busy commuter times or on popular travel day, such as Fridays and during the summer holidays. Finally, international or 'INT' trains are regular trains that travel to foreign countries, and they may be partly operated by other providers such as Eurostar or Thalys.
Are there high-speed-trains available?
In Belgium you can travel on high-speed trains. Thalys and Eurostar are the two main types of high-speed trains operating in Belgium.
Thalys: Thalys is the operator of high-speed trains connecting Belgium to France, the Netherlands, Germany, and other destinations. It offers fast and frequent service between major cities such as Brussels, Paris, Amsterdam, Cologne, and others. Thalys trains are known for their modern amenities, comfortable seats, and fast travel times.
Eurostar: The Eurostar is a high-speed train that connects Brussels to London and other cities in Great Britain. It passes through a tunnel under the English Channel, providing a direct connection between Belgium and Great Britain. Eurostar trains offer a seamless and convenient option for international travel between Belgium and Great Britain.
Thalys and Eurostar trains are designed for high-speed travel, with top speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph). They provide efficient and comfortable transport for both domestic and international travel, making it convenient to travel between major European cities from Belgium.
Most important train stations / hubs
The main hub stations in Belgium are Bruxelles Midi/Brussel Zuid, Brussel Centraal, Brussel Noord, Antwerpen Centraal, Gent Sint-Pieters and Luik Guillemins. At these train stations, it's possible to connect to trains to Belgium's main cities and many international destinations.
Websites to buy train tickets for Belgium?
https://www.belgiantrain.be/en, https://www.omio.com
Mobile apps to buy train tickets in Belgium?
SNCB has an application. (SNCB/NMBS: Timetable & tickets)
Possible to buy a ticket at a Belgium railway station?
Yes, you can easily buy a ticket at the ticket office of any train station. The same purchase is available through the official website, mobile application, and vending machine. You can also buy a ticket on. If you purchase your rail ticket online, print the pdf document or show it on your smartphone screen.
Can I buy my ticket by phone?
The SNCB contact center offers the possibility to buy tickets and provides information about international trains. There is a call fee (€ 0.30/min). It is possible to pay by Visa, Mastercard and American Express cards.
Return the ticket
In some cases, you may be able to change your ticket or get a refund.
Tickets purchased online or via the SNCB app
Tickets purchased online via the website or via the SNCB app are not exchangeable nor refundable.
Tickets purchased at the station (ticket desk or vending machine)
For the reimbursement of unused tickets (like the 10 journey card or the card with 10 class upgrades), contact customer service or the ticket office. The refund is possible:
• up to the day before the ticket's first date of validity (for tickets purchased in advance)
• within 30 minutes of purchase (for tickets purchased on the same day)
Even purchased at the station, your ticket is not refundable in the following cases:
• if you bought it by means of a compensation voucher, exchange voucher or eco cheque (so called “green cheque”)
• in case of theft or loss
• if you temporarily lost it and found it again during your journey.
Train ticket prices
All national rail tickets are calculated based on a fixed price depending on the distance travelled.
You don't need to purchase your tickets in advance as seat reservations are not available. Calculate the price of your ticket and buy it online, using the ticket machines (in French, Dutch, German or English) in the station or using the SNCB app. You can buy tickets for most journeys within Belgium for as little as EUR 18 - even on major routes such as Brussels to Bruges.
Cheapest train to the closest nearby country?
From Belgium it is possible to get to neighboring countries quite cheaply. For example, from Brussels to Lille from EUR 18. And from Brussels to Rotterdam from EUR 19.
Where to find timetables
Find train schedules on https://www.belgiantrain.be/en, https://www.b-europe.com/
Buying tickets in advance or right before the train
You do not need to buy tickets in advance for trains within Belgium, as there is no seat reservation. Your ticket is valid for one trip (or return trip, if designated as such), at any time of day indicated on your train ticket, and in 2nd or 1st class, depending on your choice.
Tickets for international trains should be purchased in advance as they get much more expensive as the departure date approaches. For example, a Thalys high-speed train from Brussels to Amsterdam can be as cheap as €26 when purchased three months in advance but you’ll pay closer to €54 if you buy it the day of travel.
Types of tickets
If you are taking a round-trip train trip in Belgium between 7 p.m. on Fridays and midnight on Sundays, you can purchase weekend tickets that give you a 50% discount.
However, if you will be in Belgium for an extended period of time and want to explore the country by train, which is highly recommended, this rail pass may be your best bet.
For only 96 euros (€ 93 in the app), it provides 10 train rides to anywhere in Belgium in 2nd class, and for an additional 50 euros you can travel 1st class (€ 146 (€143 in the app)).
By comparison, the InterRail Benelux 5-day pass, which also covers the Netherlands and Luxembourg, costs €179.
Interrail/Eurail Passes in Belgium
The Eurail and Interrail Pass is available for Belgium.
The best option is to buy your Eurail or Interrail Pass on the official website.
Saver price
Local train tickets (IC and L): If you are traveling a short distance within one province or between nearby cities, local train tickets may be the most economical option.
Promotional tickets: SNCB/NMBS regularly offers special promotions and discounts on tickets. They may include promotional fares for certain destinations or travel times. Follow promotions and special offers on the official website
Group tickets: If you're traveling in a group, group tickets can be a bargain. SNCB/NMBS offers special group fares where the price per passenger is reduced as the number of people in the group increases.
Is it cheaper to buy round-trip?
Buy single tickets, not return tickets. This will give you more flexibility if you need to change your travel plans. It is not cheaper to buy return tickets.
Flexible tickets
Flexible tickets are available. You can use the "Flex Season Ticket" for trips 2-3 days a week on the same route.
Rules of boarding
You generally do not need an ID card to enter the train operated by the National Railway Company of Belgium (SNCB/NMBS). Passengers are not typically required to present an ID card when boarding a train or during ticket checks.
However, it is important to note that carrying a valid identification document, such as a passport or ID card, is always recommended when traveling, especially for international journeys or if you are using special fare tickets that require identification. It is advisable to carry your identification with you to comply with any potential security or ticketing requirements.
Additionally, keep in mind that random ticket checks may be conducted by train staff, and they may request to see your ticket or travel pass. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you have a valid ticket or pass for your journey and be prepared to present it if requested.
Discounts for group travel
If you travel together with 15 or more people, you can use rail transport in Belgium at reduced fares and under favorable conditions.
• 60% discount (based on the standard ticket fare)
• entitled to reserved seats
• the group travels together in 2nd class
• 1€/way for children under 12 on the day of travel You can book the group excursion on time
It is preferable to book the group excursion as early as possible, no later than 7 calendar days before the departure date.
If you need to organize an international train trip for a group of 10 people or more (including school trips)
You can book a group trip by sending a request form on the official website (https://www.b-europe.com/EN/Contact/Group-Travel)
You can call +32 (0)70 79 79 (€0.30/minute) - Group option.
Opening hours Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00.
An administration fee will be charged when booking group trips:
€3 per passenger for groups of 10 to 40 participants
€120 per reservation for groups of 41 to 100 participants
€175 per booking for groups of 101 participants and more.
Age groups and discounts
Children under 12 years of age:
Each adult ticket (ages 12 and older) entitles up to 4 accompanying children under age 12 to free travel in both 1st class and 2nd class.
You will need to provide the conductors with proof of the children's ages,
You do not need to book these "free" children's tickets;
The adult ticket will also be valid for children.
Children age 12 and older must ride at adult fares.
Senior Citizens Tickets
A senior citizen ticket can be used by persons aged 65 and over on any Belgian train departing after 09:00 Monday through Friday and at any time on weekends or national holidays.
It can be used for a single or return trip anywhere in Belgium on the day of purchase at the station ticket office.
It costs only €7.80 for 2nd class travel and €16.60 for 1st class, so you don't have to go far to save money.
Age limitations for minors
Children under the age of 12 can ride unaccompanied on trains in Belgium. For such children, a "Children's Ticket" is purchased half the cost of an adult ticket.
Handicapped passengers
SNCB helps those who need it at all Belgium rail stations, but the service needs to be booked 24 hours in advance. The service helps blind or partially sighted passengers navigate through the station and can help any passengers in a wheelchair or with a mobility aid get on and off their train.
Seat reservations in Belgium trains
Reservations for trains in Belgium are only possible with the purchase of a "Group Ticket", for groups of at least 15 people.
Comfort classes on the trains
Standard Class (2nd Class): This is the standard and most common class available on SNCB trains. It provides comfortable seating, adequate legroom, and access to basic onboard facilities, such as power outlets, Wi-Fi (where available), and restrooms.
Comfort 1 (1st Class): Comfort 1, also known as 1st Class, provides a higher level of comfort and additional amenities compared to Standard Class. Passengers traveling in Comfort 1 can enjoy spacious seating, more legroom, priority boarding, complimentary newspapers, and access to quiet zones. The 1st Class carriages offer a quieter and more relaxed environment for those seeking a premium travel experience.
Premium (Business Class): On some high-speed international trains, such as the Thalys and Eurostar, a Premium or Business Class option is available. This class offers an enhanced level of luxury and comfort, including spacious seating, premium amenities, priority services, complimentary meals, and access to exclusive lounges at select stations. Premium Class is designed for passengers seeking the highest level of comfort and services during their journey.
Food and drink in Belgium trains / train restaurant
There is no dining car on trains inside Belgium. But you can take a snack and water with you. The main thing is to clean up your garbage.
Night trains in Belgium
Night trains in Belgium are overseen by such foreign companies as Austria's ÖBB Nightjet and France's Intercités de Nuit. You can also take the European Sleeper "good night" train that connects Brussels, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Zagreb, Bucharest, and Budapest can be reached by EuroNight trains from Munich, Zurich, and Vienna.
Important train routes in Belgium
Bruges - Brussels / 0:54 hours / from 17,90 EUR / every 15-20 minutes
Bruges - Antwerp / 1:25 hours / from 18,90 EUR / every 30 minutes
Brussels - Charleroi / 0:51 hours / from 12,90 EUR / every 30 minutes
Bruges - Blankenberge / 0:11 hours / from 5,90 EUR / every hour
Brussels - Namur / 1:11 hours / from 12,90 EUR / every 30 minutes
Brussels - Ostend / 1:13 hours / from 20,90 EUR / every hour
Charleroi - Liège / 1:26 hours / from 17,90 EUR / every hour
Antwerp - Ghent / 0:56 hours / from 12,90 EUR / every 30 minutes
International train routes
A large number of international trains from various European countries arrive in the Belgian capital every day, including France, the Netherlands, Germany and Great Britain. There are direct train connections between Brussels and Luxembourg, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, London, Paris, Cologne, and Frankfurt. The shortest train ride from the French capital is just under two hours, and from Luxembourg about three hours. There are trains from Berlin, Munich, and Zurich with connections to Brussels.
Tourist / scenic routes in Belgium
You can visit the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, for this you will need to travel from Brussels to the city of Ghent, and then take a local train or bus, which will take you directly to the castle.
Or the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges. From Brussels you go to Bruges, take a bus or walk to the Basilica
Luggage information
You can bring a maximum of three pieces of luggage on each train, but they must not exceed a combined weight of 30kg.
Bicycle on the train
You can take your bike with you by buying a special ticket for 4 euros
Folding bicycles (fold before boarding), unicycles, scooters are free to bring.
Ski or snowboard on the train
Sports equipment (e.g. skis) can be brought with you free of charge.
Luggage lockers on the stations in Belgium
Left luggage lockers are available at all the large stations throughout the country
Lost and Found Items
If you lost an item on a domestic train, you need to fill out a loss report form
https://www.belgiantrain.be/en/support/customer-service/lost-item
Pets on the trains
Free for a small pet in a basket, cage or box, which is no larger than the dimensions on the picture (30x55x30cm)
Free for a dog for the blind or an assistance dog
€ 3 for an animal on a lead with a Pet Supplement
A muzzle is not mandatory but is recommended for dogs, the conductor may insist that you put a muzzle on your dog.
your pet may not sit on the seats or tables
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