Generally, when visitors plan to travel around Belgium, Brussels and Bruges are the first places that come to mind... but there's so much more to this wonderful nation that's just waiting to be discovered.
With its compact size and tight public transport networks, going from one place to the next is never an issue and is usually pretty affordable.
Whether you're a train enthusiast, a cycling aficionado or crave the comfort of a car, this guide will equip you with all the essentials for getting around Belgium.
Belgium was the second country to adopt the train after the UK, so it's no wonder its rail system is particularly extensive.
Linking major cities and medium-sized towns together, the network is managed by the national public company, SNCB/NMBS. The trains are reliable (though sometimes late), frequent, efficient, and comfortable.
The train network is heavily centralized around Brussels, the country's capital. With the longest train journey from Brussels being just 2 hours and 45 minutes (to the quaint Luxembourg provincial capital of Arlon), it's an ideal base for exploring the rest of Belgium.
Traveling with a bike or a large pet? They are welcome for a small additional fee. Just make sure you spot the carriage where you can store your bike and prepare your trip with BikeOnTrains.
Buying your train ticket or pass is a breeze in Belgium. First of all, prices are fixed and no advance booking is necessary.
If you feel spontaneous and decide to travel at the last minute, just buy your ticket at the station’s counter, via automated machines, the SNCB/NMBS website or its app (you will need a credit card or a Paypal account). If you’re under 26 years old, a youth ticket to anywhere in Belgium is a flat fee of €7.50 one way.
If you're visiting multiple cities during your stay, SNCB/NMBS offers a transferable 10-trip pass called "Multi." The Standard version costs €102, with a discounted price of €99 if purchased on the Belgian Railways app.
For travelers under 26, the "Multi Youth" pass amounts to €62 and €60 on the app. It is also valid for group travel.
Last but not least, on weekends or public holidays, tickets are 50% off – you should also watch out for seasonal promotions on the Belgian Railways website.
Three cities in Belgium have a network of metro/underground trams: Brussels, Antwerp, and Charleroi. Each of them is managed by the regional public transport companies, respectively STIB/MIVB, De Lijn, and TEC.
These three companies also operate bus and tram lines in Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia, providing a perfect complement to the train for reaching neighborhoods far away from the train station or towns without train service.
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