Belgium by Train: The Perfect Slow Travel Itinerary

With short distances, frequent departures, and a well-connected rail network, Belgium is perfect for slow travel. Whether you have a few days or a full week, travelling Belgium by train lets you experience multiple cities without the stress of driving or parking.

Starting in Brussels

Brussels is the logical starting point for most train itineraries, as it is well connected to international arrivals by air and high-speed rail. Before heading out, spend some time exploring the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the city’s comic strip murals.

Brussels has three major train stations — Brussels-Central, Brussels-Midi (South), and Brussels-Nord (North) — and trains to other cities run frequently from all of them.

Photo by Polly

Ghent A Creative Medieval City

Just 30 minutes from Brussels, Ghent is one of Belgium’s most vibrant destinations. Its car-free center is a delight to explore, with canals, medieval towers, and street art murals adding to the mix.

Take a boat tour along the Graslei and Korenlei, visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral to see the Van Eyck brothers’ Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, and climb the Belfry for a panoramic view. Ghent is also known for its lively restaurant scene, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner before heading back to the station.

For active travelers, Ghent is a popular starting point for Belgium bike tours, with scenic routes leading into the Flemish countryside and past picturesque windmills.

Bruges The Fairytale City

From Ghent, it’s only another 25-minute ride to Bruges, famous for its perfectly preserved medieval old town. Stroll along cobblestone streets, admire the Markt square, and climb the Belfry tower for sweeping views of the city.

Bruges is also a paradise for foodies — sample Belgian chocolate from artisanal shops, sip a local Brugse Zot beer at the brewery, and try a hearty serving of stoofvlees (beef stew) with fries.

Because Bruges can be busy during the day, staying until evening allows you to see the city illuminated and far quieter once the day-trippers have left.

Photo by Libby Penner

Antwerp A Creative Port City

Back on the train, head north to Antwerp, Belgium’s fashion and diamond capital. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady to see Rubens’ baroque masterpieces, explore the hip neighborhood of Zurenborg for Art Nouveau architecture, and enjoy a drink at a riverside bar.

Antwerp Central Station is often called one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, so be sure to leave time just to admire its grand hall.

Leuven Beer and University Town

Just 20 minutes from Brussels, Leuven is a perfect day trip for beer lovers and history buffs. The university city has a youthful vibe, beautiful Gothic architecture, and an abundance of beer cafés.

Visit the Oude Markt, known as the “longest bar in the world” for its row of cafés, and consider a tour of the Stella Artois brewery to learn about Belgium’s most famous beer.

Rail Passes and Practical Tips

Belgium offers affordable rail passes that make train travel easy. The Standard Multi pass allows ten single journeys to be used by one or several travelers, while the Youth Multi is perfect for those under 26. Trains are generally punctual, comfortable, and equipped with plenty of space for luggage.

Since distances are short, you can comfortably see multiple cities in one day if you plan well — for example, Brussels to Ghent in the morning, then Bruges in the afternoon.

Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate that many stations have bike rental options nearby. Some Belgium cycling tours even start right from train-accessible cities, allowing you to combine scenic rides with train hops between destinations.

A Sustainable Way to See Belgium

Choosing the train is not only convenient, but also environmentally friendly. It reduces your carbon footprint and allows you to focus on the journey rather than navigating traffic. Sitting by the window and watching the countryside pass is a relaxing way to travel, and it gives you a chance to see more of Belgium’s landscapes than you would on the highway.

A Perfect Itinerary for Slow Travel

Belgium by train is ideal for those who want to explore at a slower pace, savouring each city’s unique atmosphere. From Brussels’ cosmopolitan energy to Bruges’ fairytale charm, Antwerp’s creativity to Leuven’s beer culture, the rail network ties together a tapestry of experiences.

Whether you are visiting for a weekend or a week, hopping from city to city by train lets you experience Belgium’s diversity without rushing — a journey that feels effortless, connected, and full of discovery.