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Getting from Brussels to Paris by train

On 1st October 2023, Thalys became Eurostar. Thalys' red trains will stay the same, including the classes and services available on board, but every Thalys train now displays the Eurostar name and logo. 

➡️ Head to our dedicated Eurostar page for more information.

The average train time from Brussels to Paris is 1 hour and 23 minutes. There are about 22 Eurostar trains running from Brussels in Belgium to Paris in France every day, with the first train departing at 06:43 am and the last train at 09:16 pm from Brussels-Midi station.

Forget uncomfortable plane journeys and stressful car rides, Eurostar high-speed trains can whisk you directly from the center of Brussels to the center of Paris in less than an hour and a half. Travel in Eurostar's First Class on your way to swapping waffle houses in Belgium for patisseries in France, with wider comfortable seats and a complimentary meal along the way. 

Once you arrive at Paris Gare du Nord station, it’s just a 15-minute stroll to the banks of Canal Saint-Martin – the perfect place for people watching as barges navigate the locks. Whether you’re venturing to Paris to take in iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower or watch the sunset over the city from Montmartre and Sacre Coeur, Eurostar trains will get you there smoothly. Don't miss a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame and the Louvre too. Or perhaps you fancy yourself as a runner? You're in luck: Paris' marathon is one of the 5 best marathons in Europe according to our guide.​

If you're headed to Paris during the holidays, we've got the answers to your festive questions in our article all about Christmas trains from Brussels to Paris.

If you're looking for somewhere to stay, why not check out where Paris sits in our list of Europe's most iconic hotels? Some hotels may also offer a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower - check out our guide to the best hotels in Paris with views of the Eiffel Tower learn more!

Keen to learn more? Start your search for train tickets from Paris to Brussels in our Journey Planner at the top of the page, or keep reading for more information on:

Brussels to Paris by train

It takes an average of 1h 25m to travel from Brussels to Paris by train, over a distance of around 164 miles (264 km). There are normally 22 trains per day traveling from Brussels to Paris and tickets for this journey start from $32.94 when you book in advance.

First train

6:13 am

Last train

9:16 pm

Departure station

Brussels

Arrival station

Paris

Journey time

From 1h 22m

Distance

164 miles (264 km)

Frequency

22 trains per day

Changes

Direct trains available

Price

From $32.94

Train and bus operators

BlaBlaCar Bus, SNCF, Flixbus, SNCB, Eurostar

Brussels to Paris train times

Check out the next trains departing from Brussels to Paris for Tuesday Aug 6th 2024. For the full train timetable/schedule, or to search for a later time or date, click here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
8:16 am 9:38 am 1h 22m, direct
9:13 am 10:35 am 1h 22m, direct
9:43 am 11:06 am 1h 23m, direct
10:13 am 11:35 am 1h 22m, direct
11:42 am 1:05 pm 1h 23m, direct
12:21 pm 1:43 pm 1h 22m, direct
1:43 pm 3:05 pm 1h 22m, direct
2:16 pm 3:38 pm 1h 22m, direct
3:13 pm 4:35 pm 1h 22m, direct
4:13 pm 5:35 pm 1h 22m, direct

SNCF, SNCB and Eurostar trains from Brussels to Paris

You can travel from Brussels to Paris on SNCF, SNCB and Eurostar trains. When you search for times and tickets, we might also show you some other options with multiple connections or operators if they’re available.

PhotoCtruongngoc, under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

SNCF is the national train operator of France. It operates all domestic trains and routes across France, as well as international services to Spain and Germany. There are three different types of domestic trains that operate under the SNCF banner – TGV (high-speed, full-service trains that connect the major cities in France), Intercités (usually a more frequent stopping service, but with all the amenities), and TER (regional train services with basic onboard facilities).

PhotoMPW57, under licence CC BY-SA 3.0

SNCB is the national railway company of Belgium, with services that include national (Intercity) and regional (Local) express trains. All SNCB trains come with both First Class and Second Class carriages. Belgium has one of the densest rail networks in the world. Seat reservations aren’t possible for any of the company's trains.

PhotoSmiley.toerist, under licence CC BY-SA 4.0

Eurostar is the exclusive high-speed train service that links London to Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and the rest of Europe at speeds of up to 186 mph (300 km/h). All Eurostar trains have modern, comfortable facilities, plenty of room for baggage, and onboard food and beverage car. There are three comfort classes on offer – Standard, Standard Premier (equivalent to Premium Economy, with light refreshments served), and Business Premier (equivalent to First or Business Class, with flexible travel options, priority boarding, lounge access and delicious food and drink included). On October 1, 2023, Eurostar and Thalys joined forces and are now united under the Eurostar name. Eurostar now runs trains on more routes between France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. These trains, with their distinctive red color scheme, have three classes: Standard, Comfort and Premium (equivalent to First Class, with lounge access included).

Eurostar and SNCB classes from Brussels to Paris

Compare the different travel classes offered by Eurostar and SNCB when traveling from Brussels to Paris.

Onboard services on Eurostar and SNCB

Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Brussels to Paris.

LuggageLuggageBaggage

Although there's no weight limit for your baggage on Eurostar trains, you must be able to carry your bags safely by yourself.

Each bag must be clearly labeled and must be no longer than 33.4 inches (for trains to and from the United Kingdom) or no larger than 29.5 x 20.8 x 11.8 inches (for trains in Europe).

RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

Are you traveling to or from the United Kingdom? In Eurostar Standard Class, choose from a wide selection of drinks and snacks at the Eurostar Café, the onboard bar car in the middle of the train. Cards and cash (Euros or pounds) are accepted. If you're traveling in Standard Premier, a light meal and a drink will be served at your seat. Travel in Business Premier and you'll be treated to a gourmet meal, as well as a continuous drinks service throughout your journey.

For all other Eurostar trains (red trains, formerly Thalys), head to the bar car and choose from a wide range of hot and cold drinks as well as savory and sweet snacks.
In Premium class, you'll get a free meal served directly to your seat.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

Eurostar doesn't have an onboard entertainment portal. However, there is free WiFi available, as well as UK and EU power outlets at your seat so you can charge your devices while traveling.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children
  • Kids of all ages need their passport to travel with Eurostar.
  • Children under 4 can travel free on Eurostar trains, as long as they're sitting on an accompanying adult's lap. Alternatively, you can book them their own seat with a child ticket.
  • If you're alone with kids, you can pre-book assistance so that a member of Eurostar staff can help you during your journey.
  • Kids under 12 must travel with someone over 16, while those aged 12-15 can travel alone if they have an unaccompanied minor form (excluding direct trains to/from the Netherlands).
  • 16 to 17-year-olds can travel alone if they meet all legal requirements.
  • You'll find changing tables on all Eurostar trains, as well as family-oriented seating (4 seats facing one another) where available.
ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

Generally, Eurostar trains running to and from the United Kingdom can't transport fully assembled bikes - though on certain trains between London and Brussels, you may be able to book a bike space by contacting Eurostar. You can, however, take a foldable bike on board Eurostar trains to and from the UK provided that it's no more than 33.4 inches long and it fits in a protective bag that covers the whole bicycle. Folded bikes are treated as standard baggage.

For all other Eurostar trains in Europe, a limited number of non-foldable bikes can be brought on board, provided that the wheels are taken off and the whole bicycle is stored in a suitable cover (max. size 53.1 x 33.4 x 11.8 inches). Foldable bicycles are also permitted and count towards standard baggage limits.

PetPetPets

The rules around traveling with your pets depend on whether you're traveling across the Channel or not, so check before you travel:

Eurostar trains to and from the United Kingdom:

  • Pets are not permitted on board.
  • Guide dogs and assistance dogs can travel, but they must be accompanied by their owner. You must also reserve a ticket for your assistance dog at least 48 hours before travel, by filling out Eurostar's contact form.

Trains in the rest of Europe:

  • Small dogs and other pets weighing less than 13 lbs (6 kg) can travel for free. They must travel in a cage or carrier (max. dimensions 17.7 x 11.8 x 9.8 inches).
  • If your dog is larger than this, you must buy them a dog ticket (generally the price is fixed at €30, around $32), and the dog must travel on your lap or on the ground, on a lead and with a muzzle.
  • Guide dogs and assistance dogs, whatever their size, travel for free.
WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

If you need help getting on or off the train, you should contact Eurostar directly before your trip. To use Eurostar's special assistance program, fill in this contact form at least 48 hours before your journey so that the team can help you.

If you're traveling on trains to/from the United Kingdom:

  • Arrive at least one hour before your train's scheduled departure time, then head to the Eurostar Assist desk or ask a member of staff.
  • If you have a wheelchair, you must reserve a wheelchair space in either Standard Premier or Business Premier - you'll only pay for a Standard Class ticket. Someone can travel with you at a discounted rate.

If you're traveling on red trains in the rest of Europe:

  • Wheelchairs can be transported as long as they're no bigger than 27.5 inches long and 47.2 inches high. The wheelchair's turning circle must be no larger than 59 inches in diameter. The combined weight of the wheelchair, passenger and any baggage must not exceed 661 lbs (300 kg).
  • Please note that combustion engine-powered wheelchairs are not permitted on board. However, electric wheelchairs are allowed.
InfoInfoOther

Specific restrictions for trains to/from the United Kingdom:

Liquids:

  • There's no restriction on liquids. However, there are restrictions on alcohol: you can take 4 bottles/cans of beer or 1 bottle of wine per person to enjoy on the journey; large bottles of spirits are not permitted. If you're traveling with large quantities of alcohol, you should contact a courier service.

 

Sports equipment:

  • You can travel with a golf bag as long as it's no larger than 47.2 x 13.7 x 13.7 inches.
  • You can bring tents or other shelters if they're stored in bags or cases less than 33.4 inches long.
  • Camping gas or butane bottles are not permitted on board.
  • Camping utensils or tools such as pocket knives and Swiss army knives are permitted provided the blades are less than 3 inches long. Folding knives where the blade locks into place are prohibited.
  • You can bring bats, snooker or pool cues and darts on board if they're stored in a protective case.
LuggageLuggageBaggage

When traveling with SNCB, each passenger can take 3 items of baggage on board, as long as the total weight does not exceed 30kg (66.1 pounds). Once you’ve found your seat, you can stow your baggage in the space provided above and below your seat. You can take the following baggage on board for free:

  • Briefcases, rucksacks and suitcases
  • Wheelchairs (manual or automatic)
  • Pushchairs and prams
  • Folding bikes, unicycles, scooters
  • Sports equipment (e.g. skis)
RestaurantRestaurantFood and drink

Currently, SNCB does not offer a food and drink service. Although, you may bring food and drink with you to enjoy on the train.

WiFiWiFiEntertainment

SNCB offer free WiFi in their main stations, including Brussels Central, Bruges, Antwerp Central and more. Currently, SNCB do not offer WiFi onboard their trains.

ChildPassengerChildPassengerTravel with children

As long as they are traveling with a person aged 12 or above with a valid ticket, children under 12 can travel for free without a ticket. However, please note that this only applies to a maximum of 4 children per passenger with a valid ticket. If you have any additional children traveling with you, they will need a half-price Kids Ticket.

ModeOfTransportBikeModeOfTransportBikeBikes

Hoping to travel with your bike? You’ll need to add a Bike Supplement to your ticket. However, if you’re traveling with a folding bike, you don’t need to worry about paying. Bike Supplements are paid on top of your rail fare and cost €4 for a single journey.

When boarding, speak to the train conductor and they will tell you if there are spaces available and where you can put your bicycle. SNCB advise you not to travel with a bike at Peak times, because bicycle spaces may not be available.

PetPetPets

Guide and assistance dogs

Travel is free for guide and assistance dogs. You won’t need to add a Pet Supplement to your ticket.

Pets

Pets are welcome to travel on SNCB trains if they are on a lead or in a small basket, cage or box. For animals on a lead, a Pet Supplement costs €3 for a single trip. If your pet is in a small basket, cage or box that is smaller than 30 x 55 x 30 cm (11.8 x 21.6 x 11.8 inches), you do not need to pay for a Pet Supplement. Finally, your pet is not allowed to sit on the seats or tables.

WheelchairWheelchairSpecial Assistance

Passengers with reduced mobility should directly contact SNCB to make use of their free assistance service. You can take your wheelchair on board the train for free, regardless of whether or not you use the SNCB's free assistance service. If you are blind or partially sighted, you can take the train for free in 2nd class.

Cheap train tickets from Brussels to Paris

The price of train tickets from Brussels to Paris starts at $32.94 one-way for a Standard Class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Brussels to Paris by booking early.§

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting train

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Look out for special deals

Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.

For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.

§Some train companies may not offer any Advance ticket types or cheaper deals for early bookings. On rare occasions, train companies may choose to release special offers closer to the date on last-minute or late-release tickets. This is dependent on the individual train operating company you travel with.

Traveling from Brussels airport to the city center

Flying into Brussels and not sure how to get from the airport to the city center? Read on for more information on how to get to the heart of the city from Brussels Airport.

Brussels has one main airport – Brussels-Zaventem Airport – which is located around 7 miles northeast of Brussels’ city center. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to reach the city center.

Trains from Brussels airport

If you want to get from Brussels Airport to central Brussels in a fast and inexpensive way, you should take the train! On average, the train from Brussels Airport to Brussels-Midi station takes around 20 minutes on the quickest SNCB services. Generally, the train from Brussels Airport to Brussels-Midi runs every 10 minutes between 5am and midnight, 7 days a week. The airport train station is located directly below the terminal.

Buses from Brussels airport

Although not the fastest option, taking the bus from the airport to the city center is the cheapest option. From Brussels Airport, you can take the Airport Line (Line 12) from Level 0, below the arrivals hall (Level 2). You’ll get to the European district, which is a stone's throw from the shops in the upper town, in about 30 minutes.

How to get to Brussels-Midi station

Trains to Paris depart from Brussels-Midi station. Not sure how to get there? We’ve got you covered.

Brussels-Midi station, also known as Gare du Midi in French and Zuidstation in Dutch, is located in the southern part of Brussels, which is why it is referred to as ‘Midi’ (meaning ‘south’ in French).

To get to Brussels-Midi station from the city center, you can use different modes of transport:

  • Train: If you’re near Brussels Central or Brussels North station, the easiest and most direct way is to take an SNCB train to Brussels-Midi. The journey is short, and trains are frequent.
  • Metro: You can also take Brussels’ Metro. Lines 2 and 6 both stop at Brussels-Midi – just look for the station marked as ‘Gare du Midi/Zuidstation’.
  • Tram: The tram system in Brussels is extensive, and several tram lines serve Brussels-Midi. Check the local tram map to find the line that's most convenient for your starting point in the city center.
  • Bus: If you’re looking for a cheaper option to get to Brussels-Midi station, you can take one of the many bus services that connect the city center to Brussels-Midi.
  • Walking: If you're staying in the central area of Brussels and don't have too much baggage, you can also consider walking to Brussels-Midi. It's about a 20–30-minute walk from the Grand Place area. Just follow the sign for ‘Gare du Midi/Zuidstation’.
  • Biking: Brussels has a bike-sharing system, so you could also consider renting a bike and cycling to Brussels-Midi if you're comfortable with urban biking.

What’s on offer at Brussels-Midi station?

As soon as you’ve arrived at Brussels-Midi station, you can take advantage of the different facilities available:

  • Shops and boutiques: Brussels-Midi has a variety of shops and boutiques where you can purchase items like clothing, books, electronics, and gifts. You'll also find convenience stores and kiosks for travel essentials.
  • Restaurants and cafés: There are several dining options within the station, including cafés, fast-food outlets, and restaurants. You can enjoy a meal or grab a quick snack while waiting for your train.
  • Currency exchange: Currency exchange services are available for travelers who need to convert money.
  • Waiting areas: There are designated waiting areas with seating for passengers, making your wait for your train more comfortable.
  • Information desk: An information desk is usually available where staff can assist travelers with questions, directions, and other inquiries.
  • Baggage storage: Baggage lockers or storage facilities are often available for passengers who need to store their bags while waiting for a train or exploring the city.
  • Accessibility: The station is equipped with facilities and services to assist passengers with reduced mobility.

Arriving at Paris Gare du Nord station from Brussels

Your Eurostar train from Brussels will arrive right in the heart of the French capital at Paris Gare du Nord station.

Not far from the platform, you’ll find Métro and RER trains to whisk you to Paris’ top museums and galleries. From the quaint cobbled streets and independent boutiques along Canal St Martin to the hip new foodie hangouts across the 10th arrondissement, this is an area packed with Parisian flavor you don’t want to miss!

Using public transport in Paris

Taking the Métro in Paris

Paris Métro is the quickest, easiest, and cheapest way to travel around the city. If you’re planning to travel around Paris and France, we recommend you buy a T+ ticket – it allows connections between the Métro and RER trains in central Paris and will take you to all the main stations in Paris where you can catch a connecting TGV high-speed train to other French cities.

Did you know? Children under 4 can travel for free on the Métro, RER, bus, and tramway services, provided they sit on your lap and don’t occupy a seat. Kids under 10 get 50% off the ticket price.

Taking the bus in Paris

In total, around 60 bus lines run through Paris. Each week, buses operate between Monday and Saturday from 07:00 am to 8:30 pm. You can buy your bus ticket from Métro stations, or the driver as long as you use cash.

Taking a taxi in Paris

If you want to get a taxi, you can find a line of taxis parked near Eurostar arrivals at Paris Gare du Nord station. Just head to the concourse at the front of the train, then take the exit on the right where you'll see the line of taxis.

Explore Europe by train with a Eurail Pass

After visiting Paris, why not continue exploring Europe by train? With a Eurail Pass, you can travel across 33 European countries as much as you want on participating European train networks for a set amount of travel days.

You can use a Eurail Pass if you’re not a European citizen or resident. If you're a European citizen or a non-European who is an official legal resident of a European country, you can use an Interrail Pass instead.

 

Traveling to the airport from central Paris

Is Paris the last stop on your European tour? If you’re flying back home to the States and want to know how to get from central Paris to the airport, keep reading for more details.

There are three major airports in Paris:

  • Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
  • Orly Airport (ORY)
  • Beauvais Tillé Airport (BVA)

Each airport offers a bus and taxi service, but only Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports have their own dedicated train stations (the nearest train station to Beauvais Tillé is nearby Beauvais station). Find out more about transfers to the main airports in Paris.

FAQs for Brussels to Paris

Want to know more about your journey from Brussels to Paris? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How long does the train from Brussels to Paris take?

The average journey time by train between Brussels and Paris is 1 hour and 25 minutes, with around 22 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Brussels and Paris by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Brussels to Paris is 1 hour and 22 minutes.

How much does the train from Brussels to Paris cost?

Train tickets from Brussels to Paris can start from as little as $32.94 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.

Is there a direct train from Brussels to Paris?

Yes, it is possible to travel from Brussels to Paris without having to change trains. There are 21 direct trains from Brussels to Paris each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.

What time does the first train from Brussels to Paris leave?

The first train from Brussels to Paris leaves at 06:13. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Brussels to Paris leave?

The last train from Brussels to Paris leaves at 21:16. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Brussels and Paris by train?

Trains travelling from Brussels to Paris cover a distance of around 164 miles (264 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Paris to Brussels.

Tips and tricks from our Trainline team

We love helping our customers find inspiration for their next train journey. Discover some travel stories written based on our employees' experiences.

A great train journey from Brussels to Paris

Note: This review was written before Thalys became Eurostar in October 2023. See our Eurostar page for more information.

Departing from Brussels-Midi station

Brussels-Midi station, commonly known as Gare du Midi, has been connecting the capital to Paris since at least 1952, a period during which the station underwent numerous transformations. This station is served by different train operators, including TGV trains to France and Germany, InterCity (IC) trains bound for Luxembourg and Amsterdam, as well as local trains commonly referred to as RER.

Although it’s usually recommended to arrive at the station at least 20 minutes before departure, I decided to get there 30 minutes in advance for peace of mind.

Thalys check-in  

Upon arriving at the upper level of Gare du Nord, I immediately joined the line reserved for people with a European ePassport, as the wait is usually shorter; if you have an ID card, you’ll need to go to the manual control counter.

I scanned the barcode of my e-ticket on my phone to get through the ticket gates, then went through security checks. All this can be done in around 10 minutes if you’re not leaving around rush hour. If you’re going through security at a busier time, it can take around 30 minutes, so be sure to plan this time in when arriving at the station.

With an ePassport, the border controls are done via Parafe locks (Rapid border crossing). You must put your passport open to the photo page on the reader at the gate, wait while reading, go through the first doors, place your feet on the landmarks by looking at the camera in front of you, and the second doors of the passport gate will open.

On the Thalys train

My seat was spacious and comfortable and had a retractable table, a magazine rack, and an individual power outlet. Each car has baggage racks at either end, as well as space above the seats for storing smaller bags.

If you want to grab a bite to eat or order a coffee, venture into the restaurant car, which offers a wide selection of drinks and sweet and savory snacks.

Arriving at Paris Gare du Nord

Paris Gare du Nord station is served by different train operators like Thalys, TGV, TER and RER, as well as metro and buses. As is often the case in train stations today, toilets are available at the station but you’ll need to pay a small fee to use them.

From the station, you can easily reach the metro or walk to the city center in about 20 minutes.

Why choose a train from Brussels to Paris?

It’s not always the case that flying is the best way to travel in Europe. I chose to travel by train from Brussels to Paris because:

  1. It saves time – airports are usually located outside of cities, so when you take travel time to the airport, waiting time in the terminal and the delays flights often face into consideration, the total time can be a lot longer.
  2. There’s more baggage allowance – on the train you can take much more baggage than you would when flying, including taking liquids on board.
  3. It's more eco-friendly – traveling between Brussels and Paris by train generates less carbon dioxide than traveling by plane.
  4. It’s easier to stretch your legs and move around – trains offer a lot more space to walk around than planes, especially when there’s an onboard restaurant car!

Sophie, a former Trainline employee, chose to share their experience of the journey between Brussels and Paris.


* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.

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