Unforgettable Day Trips from Brussels by train

The way we transport ourselves from one destination to another can be impressive enough to completely transform a vacation, as you will see if you try any of the day trips from Brussels by train that we have prepared for you. Beforehand, we anticipate you that we are sure you will love them. 

Wondering what's the reason they're so great? It's simple. The Belgian railway system is one of the best in the world. This is due not only to its efficiency, but also to how comfortable it can be. Thanks to this feature, it is ideal to take advantage of it to travel from one destination to another, even if you are not exactly a fan of trains. 

We guarantee that the experience it offers is unique enough to make it worth giving it a chance and discovering that not everything has to be limited to visiting places like Atomium Brussels. So, join us on this adventure!

What is the Belgian railway system like? What you need to know for weekend trips from Brussels by train

The Belgian railway system is a testament to efficiency and tradition, being the oldest railway network in continental Europe, with its roots dating back to 1835. 

The system is managed by Infrabel, while the Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Belge (SNCB) operates as the main national railway company. The network is known for its density, being one of the most extensive and heavily used in the world. 

One of its highlights is the six-rail railway tunnel on the Brussels North-South line, which is still the busiest railway tunnel on the planet, with some 1,200 trains per day - a more than impressive figure! 

In addition to this, the British involvement in the construction of the system in the 19th century is reflected in the peculiarity that trains run on the left track, in contrast to road traffic running on the right. On the other hand, the policy of affordable train travel in Belgium has been a successful strategy to mitigate traffic congestion in the country. In this sense, you will feel in transit paradise at every corner. 

Thus, opting for weekend trips from Brussels by train is not only an excellent idea for tourists, but also something that could be considered a tradition for Belgian citizens. Therefore, we can safely say that this is an experience you won't want to miss. 

Ticketing options of the Belgian railway system

The first thing we should mention is that the Belgian Railway Network offers a wide variety of ticket options to suit the needs and preferences of travelers. As we know that it is important for you to know them, we clarify that some of the most prominent options are: 

Weekend ticket 

The weekend ticket, as its name suggests, is ideal for those visiting Belgium during the weekend, as it offers significant savings of almost 50% compared to a single ticket. It is valid from 19:00 on Friday until Sunday, so this flexible ticket can also extend its validity on some public holidays. Keep this in mind if you need to travel on special days. 

Rail Pass 

A popular option for those over 26, the Rail Pass allows 10 trips and offers the possibility for several people to travel on one pass, adding one journey per line per person. Priced at €87 for 10 second-class trips, it offers flexibility and savings. 

Go Pass 1 

This train ticket is aimed at people under 26 years of age and consists of a 10-trip ticket at an approximate cost of 50€, making it a convenient option for young travelers. 

Kids tickets 

For those traveling with children, special tickets are available at a cost of around €5.20, half the fare of a single ticket, being compulsory if more than 4 children per adult are traveling.

Senior Ticket 

This last option is aimed at travelers over 65 years of age, who can enjoy multiple discounts when using this ticket.

How are the train trips from Brussels to other cities? Important facts for day trips from Brussels by train

Traveling by train from Brussels to other Belgian cities is an efficient and comfortable experience. To help you understand why we say so, below are descriptions of travel experiences from Brussels to some of the most popular destinations: 

Brussels to Bruges 

The train journey from Brussels to Bruges takes approximately 1 hour, offering passengers a comfortable and fast crossing. 

With tickets varying in price depending on the class and type of ticket chosen, travelers can opt for a single ticket in second class for around €14. For those traveling in a group, the Rail Pass is a convenient option, allowing 10 trips for a price of €87 for second class, an extremely competitive and affordable price. 

Brussels to Ghent 

With a travel time of around 40 minutes, the train from Brussels to Ghent offers an efficient connection between these two Belgian cities. Tickets, which vary according to class and choice of ticket, allow passengers to purchase a single ticket in second class for approximately €8. 

It should be noted that the Rail Pass option is also available, offering travelers 10 trips for €87 in second class, so we recommend taking it into account. 

Brussels to Antwerp 

The train ride from Brussels to Antwerp takes about 45 minutes, offering a fast and convenient connection. Tickets, with options for different classes, allow travelers to purchase a single ticket in second class for around €6. The Rail Pass is also a viable option, priced at €87 for 10 second-class trips. 

Brussels to Leuven 

For those wishing to explore charming Leuven from Brussels, the train is a fast and affordable option. With a travel time of just 16 minutes, ticket prices vary depending on the class and type of ticket selected. 

If you're traveling second class individually, a single ticket can cost around €5. For those traveling with friends or family, the Rail Pass option offers 10 trips at a price of €87, providing flexibility and significant savings you won't want to miss out on. 

Brussels to Mechelen 

The train ride from Brussels to Mechelen, which takes approximately 20 minutes, offers an efficient way to explore this city rich in history. 

As in all other cases, ticket prices vary according to the class and type of ticket chosen. For example, for a single trip in second class, the cost can be around €6. Those who opt for the Rail Pass, valid for 10 trips, can enjoy the flexibility of traveling with company at a total price of €87. 

Brussels to Namur 

Namur, the capital of Wallonia, is only 52 minutes by train from Brussels, offering a quiet ride with scenic views. Here too, ticket prices vary according to class and ticket type. 

For a single trip in second class, the ticket can cost around 7€. Although it sounds redundant, in this case also those who want the 10-trip option can consider the Rail Pass, priced at €87, allowing several travelers to enjoy this scenic journey. 

Brussels to Liège 

Liège, with its fusion of history and modernity, is about 1 hour and 10 minutes by train from Brussels. In this case, for a single trip in second class, the cost can be around 9€. 

The ever-reliable Rail Pass option, with 10 trips and the ability to add travel companions, is priced at €87, offering a carefree cultural experience that may be ideal for many users. 

Brussels to Waterloo 

We can't talk about day trips from Brussels without talking about the train ride from Brussels to Waterloo, which takes about 30 minutes and provides quick access to the historic battlefield.

Ticket prices vary according to the class and type of ticket. For a single trip in second class, the ticket can cost around 4€, being one of the cheapest of its kind. 

Those who opt for the Rail Pass, with 10 trips and the option to add companions, will enjoy this historic experience at a total price of €87. 

Brussels to Lille 

Traveling by train from Brussels to Lille is an enchanting experience that will immerse you in the rich history and vibrant culture of these two European cities. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering you a comfortable and fast trip through picturesque landscapes that can be perfect for a weekend, so we recommend it among the weekend trips from Brussels. 

Ticket prices vary depending on the class and type of ticket you choose. For those who prefer the comfort of second class, a single ticket costs approximately 16€. This route is not only efficient, but also gives you the opportunity to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your seat. 

If you want to make the most of your rail travel, consider booking early to benefit from more affordable fares. In addition, the Rail Pass is an attractive option for those over the age of 26 who plan to make multiple trips. 

With the Rail Pass, you can make up to 10 trips, and the interesting thing is that you can share this experience with friends or family, as it allows you to add one companion per line and person. The price of the Rail Pass is 87€ for 10 trips in second class, which makes it a convenient and economical option. 

Brussels to Luxembourg 

The train ride from Brussels to Luxembourg is an opportunity to enjoy a scenic journey that will take you through serene and enchanting landscapes. The journey time is approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the trip. Ticket prices vary according to the class and type of ticket you choose. 

For those who opt for second class, the cost of a single ticket is around 26€, offering you a comfortable experience at a reasonable price. 

When planning your trip to Luxembourg, consider the convenience of the Rail Pass, especially if you intend to make multiple trips. This option allows you to take 10 trips and share the experience with friends or family, adding one companion per line per person. The price of the Rail Pass is the standard 87 euros for 10 second-class trips, making it an efficient and cost-effective choice for those wishing to explore Luxembourg and the surrounding area. 

Brussels to Maastricht 

Regarding what it is like to travel by train from Brussels to Maastricht, we can summarize the experience in that it is to get into the beauty of the Netherlands and explore a city with a unique charm, so you won't want to miss the opportunity to do so. 

Going into more detail about what this entails, we have to add that the trip lasts approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes and will take you through picturesque countryside and enchanting landscapes. On the other hand, prices vary according to the class and type of ticket you choose. For those who prefer the comfort of second class, a single ticket costs approximately 21 euros, offering you an affordable option to discover Maastricht. 

Also, to optimize your travel experience, consider the convenience of the Rail Pass, especially if you plan to make multiple trips, which remains the same standard price as always. If your journey is rather short, then a standard ticket is more suitable. 

Brussels to Amsterdam 

Finally, we must say that train travel from Brussels to Amsterdam is a scenic journey that will take you between two iconic destinations in Europe. 

This trip lasts approximately 2 hours and 32 minutes. We know you're thinking that it's a bit long, but that's precisely what makes it so special. No other trip will allow you to enjoy the hypnotic experience of a train ride so calmly. That's why it's even our favorite route. 

For those who opt for the second class when purchasing their ticket, the cost of the ticket is around 23€, providing you with a comfortable and affordable option to explore Amsterdam.

We hope this has cleared up any possible doubts you might have about day trips from Brussels. Come visit Brussels and travel from there to the whole territory or even other countries from the comfort of a train.