Belgium by Train

Find out about travelling on Belgium's rail transport network including domestic and international trains, and local trams and metro services...

Rail transport in Belgium is managed by SNCB/NMBS (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Belges/Nationale Maatschappij der Belgische Spoorwegen), which runs both national and international services. The train network has several high speed lines which provide fast connections to Lille, Paris, London, the Netherlands and Germany. The SNCB/NMBS website, which is available in English, includes a route planner, timetables and ticket booking services. The company offers a variety of railcards to reduce the cost of travelling for students, young people and frequent travellers.

  • SNCB/NMBS Information
    Tel    : 02 528 28 28
    Open    : 07:00–21:30 daily
  • For timetables and to book online: Click here

International train services

SNCB/NMBS is involved in operating a number of fast international train services:

  1. Thalys connects Brussels Midi station with Paris, the Netherlands and Germany. There are extra seasonal services; to the ski resorts of the French Alps in winter and to the south of France in summer. The company offers a number of different fares to suit the needs of all travellers. To find out more about Thalys or book tickets: Click here
  2. Eurostar runs high speed international train links between Brussels Midi station and stations in France and the United Kingdom. For more information on routes, timetables and tickets: Click here
  3. The TGV connects Brussels with cities throughout France. Connections are possible to the rest of France and beyond. Tickets can be purchased online.
  4. The InterCity Express (ICE) is a high speed service between Brussels or Liège and Frankfurt, Frankfurt Airport, Cologne and Aachen. For more information or to book tickets: Click here
  5. Fyra is a high speed train service linking Brussels and Amsterdam. For more information: Click here

Fares, railcards and discounts

  • To calculate the fare for a journey: Click here
  • The SNCB fares page provides information on all special tickets, passes and discounts available for different categories of passenger. There is also a wide range of multi-trip cards and passes for frequent travellers.
  • For comprehensive information about the different railcards available, how to apply and what to do in case of a lost railcard: Click here

Tickets and reservations

Domestic tickets are sold at railway stations. International tickets may be bought via the Internet, telephone, at railway stations and at certain travel agents.

All high-speed and sleeper trains must be booked in advance for cheap fares, either online or using a travel agency.

Note: Rail tickets are inspected on board. Fines are levied for travelling without a ticket.

Pets on trains

Some pets can be taken on trains in Belgium. Cats and small dogs can often travel free or for a small charge, if kept in a cage or basket. Dogs should be muzzled and on a lead; they travel to reduced price. Guide dogs and other assistance dogs can travel free of charge.

  • For more information on rules on different train services: Click here

Bikes on trains

Bikes can be taken on Belgian trains, although the number of spaces available depends on the type of train. It is advisable to travel at off-peak times. Different rules apply to different train services.

Services for disabled passengers

The SNCB/NMBS provides services on trains and at stations to help passengers with reduced mobility.

  • For comprehensive information on these services: Click here

Expectant mothers

In the last four months of pregnancy, expectant mothers can travel in first class on a second-class ticket. A medical certificate stating the due date may be required for this.

Tram and Metro Services

In addition to these train services, some of Belgium's cities have tram or metro services: