easiest way to travel from london to brussels

London to Brussels Train: Traveling on the Eurostar (+ Brussels Day Trip)

Is there a high-speed train from London to Brussels?

Many people wonder if it’s possible to take a train from London to Brussels and the answer is yes – you can take a direct high-speed train from London to Brussels that’s operated by Eurostar. The Eurostar is the most convenient and fastest way to travel between London UK and Brussels, Belgium. 

It uses the Channel Tunnel (also known as the Chunnel) to connect the UK to mainland Europe, with London St Pancras International as the departure station in London and Brussels Midi/Zuid as the arrival station in Brussels.

The high-speed Eurostar passenger train provides a direct rail link between London and popular European destinations like Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and more.

Planning your trip? Use my favorite resources!

🏨 Accommodation: I recommend Booking.com ✈️ Flights: for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner 🚗 Rental Car: I recommend Discover Cars 🛡️ Travel Insurance: for the best deals I rely on SafetyWing

Did you know: Plans for a tunnel beneath the English Channel were first proposed way back in 1802! However construction didn’t begin until 1988.  After five years of digging beneath the sea, the tunnel was finally completed in 1993., linking England to France for the first time. Since 1994, the Eurostar has been carrying millions of passengers through the Chunnel.

As an avid train enthusiast and Europe travel expert with over 15 years of experience riding European railways, I’m excited to share my insider knowledge to help you navigate the best London to Brussels train route.

London to Brussels Train: How to get the Eurostar

The must-read guide of everything you need to know about the London to Brussels train route, London to Brussels train price, best things to do in Brussels for a day, and more , by a frequent Eurostar user.

Is it Worth Getting the Eurostar London to Brussels Train Link?

Taking the Eurostar train is absolutely worth it for traveling between London and Brussels. Here are some of the biggest benefits of taking the Eurostar for this route:

✅ Speed:  At just under 2 hours travel time, the Eurostar London-Brussels service is faster than flying when you consider the travel time to get to airports, go through security, etc. The train travels at up to 186mph reaching speeds not possible by air.

✅ Convenience:  The Eurostar departs from central London at St Pancras International station and arrives in central Brussels at Brussels Midi/Zuid station. This avoids inconvenient trips out to airports.

✅ Comfort:  Eurostar trains are modern with spacious seats and tables. There is an onboard cafe, toilets and free WiFi. The smooth ride makes it easy to relax or work onboard.

✅ Environmentally Friendly:  Traveling by train has a much lower carbon footprint than flying. It’s a greener way to travel between the UK and Europe.

✅ Price:  Eurostar ticket prices can be very reasonable if booked in advance. Deals like return fares are often available making it very affordable.

✅ Scenery:  The route takes you through gorgeous countryside scenery at times like the Kent countryside before entering the Channel Tunnel. It’s a more interesting journey than flying.

So yes – the Eurostar is without a doubt the best way to travel between London and Brussels for the above reasons. The speed and convenience combined with the comfort and environmental benefits make it well worth booking your trip by high-speed rail.

London To Brussels on the Eurostar Train: Best Time to Go

A trip to Brussels can be enjoyed at anytime of the year, however the best time to visit Brussels from London is during the spring and summer months when the weather is warmer.

London To Brussels by Train: When Is It The Best Time To Book Tickets For Eurostar?

The Eurostar trains run very frequently between London and Brussels, up to 16 times a day in both directions. However, it doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive. Here are some tips for getting the best Eurostar tickets at the lowest prices:

✪ Book early  – Fares are available up to 4 months before travel, and the earliest bookers get the best deals. As availability decreases, prices go up. Booking your tickets 1-2 months in advance is ideal.

✪ Be flexible on times  – Look at fares for early morning or late evening trains. These tend to be the cheapest tickets. Traveling at peak commuter times usually means higher fares.

✪ Book returns together  – Eurostar often offers cheaper return fares versus one-way tickets. Make sure to compare prices.

✪ Use promo codes  – Sign up on Eurostar’s website for access to member promo codes that can mean big discounts.

✪ Consider sales  – Occasional sales like summer sale offer discounted fares on specific travel dates.

✪ Avoid school holidays  – Prices are highest during peak family travel times like school holidays. Traveling in shoulder seasons = cheaper fares.

Does the Eurostar go direct from London to Brussels?

Yep, Eurostar operates direct high-speed rail services between London and Brussels multiple times daily in both directions. There are no changes required.

The London to Brussels Eurostar has the following direct route:

• Departs London St Pancras International station
• Travels towards Ebbsfleet and Ashford in Kent
• Enters the Channel Tunnel at Folkestone for the roughly 30 minute crossing
• Exits the Channel Tunnel at Calais in France
• Stops at Lille Europe station in France
• Arrives at Brussels Midi/Zuid station

Destinations beyond Brussels like Amsterdam and Cologne can be reached by changing trains in Brussels. But the London-Brussels trip itself is direct .

London to Brussels train time: How long does it take on the Eurostar?

The Eurostar train journey from London to Brussels takes just 1 hour and 53 minutes, making it a quick and easy trip between these European capitals.

Here is a breakdown of the London to Brussels Eurostar trip:

➤ Total distance between London and Brussels: 303 miles (489 km) ➤ London St Pancras departure to Ebbsfleet: 22 minutes ➤ Channel Tunnel crossing: 30 minutes ➤ Lille to Brussels: 57 minutes ➤ Total trip time end-to-end: 1 hour 53 minutes

The time saving versus flying is considerable when you add in airport transit times, airport security lines, baggage claim, etc. Even though the Eurostar travels partially underground through the Chunnel, it maintains very high speeds up to 186 mph.

This makes it only slightly longer than flying. However, being able to depart and arrive from right in the heart of the cities of London and Brussels on the Eurostar makes it much quicker and more convenient overall.

The Eurostar also provides a very smooth and comfortable journey in spacious cabins with ample legroom. There’s no worrying about delays, canceled flights or turbulence either.

London to Brussels train tickets: How much do they cost?

The Eurostar London to Brussels train cost can vary in price quite a bit depending on when you book, when you travel, and how flexible your itinerary is. Here are some sample fares:

• Standard one-way  – €69-€189
• Standard round-trip  – €78-€218
• Business Premier one-way  – €199-€274

Booking early usually tends to provide the best rates. Business Premier fares include premium amenities and flexibility but are significantly higher.

The cheapest fares for London to Brussels start around €69 each way if booked months in advance at an off-peak travel time. Expect to pay €100-€150 on average if booking 1-2 months out. Last-minute bookings will cost you upwards of €160.

👉 Book your Eurostar tickets in advance here.

Upgrading to Business Premier provides a higher level of comfort and service including:

☑️ Dedicated Business Premier coach ☑️ Spacious leather seats with power outlets ☑️ Meal served at your seat ☑️ Premium bar access ☑️ Fast Eurostar lounge access

But it does come at a significant premium. Regular Eurostar seats still provide a high level of comfort for most travelers and are very affordable if booked wisely.

London to Brussels train timetable

Eurostar operates frequent direct train services between London St Pancras and Brussels Midi/Zuid stations. The trains run several times per hour during peak times, and at least hourly even during off-peak.

Here is an overview of the standard London to Brussels Eurostar timetable:

➤ Weekday trains: 16 trains per day London-Brussels ➤ Weekend trains: 10 trains per day London-Brussels ➤ Early trains: First train leaves around 6:30am weekdays/7:30am weekends ➤ Late trains: Last train leaves around 9:30pm daily ➤ Peak frequency: Up to 4 trains per hour during peak commuter times ➤ Off-peak frequency: At least 1 train per hour including weekends

Some key departure times from London throughout the day:

➤ 07:01, 08:01, 09:01, 10:01, 11:01, 12:01, 16:01, 17:01, 18:01, 19:01

The Brussels to London schedule has similar frequencies and mirrors these times. The actual schedule can vary so always check Eurostar.com for the latest times.

👉 Based on my extensive personal experience taking the Eurostar multiple times, I recommend booking at least 2-3 months in advance for the lowest fares.

👉 Read more: Guide to Traveling from London to Cardiff

Brussels Day Trip: Top Things To Do

People often ask: is Brussels a good day trip from London? And the answer is always yes.

Brussels makes an excellent day trip destination from London or other nearby European cities. As Belgium’s capital and the seat of the European Union, it offers a great mix of history, culture, architecture and cuisine to experience within a compact city center that’s very walkable.

Best Things To See and Do in Brussels

With limited time on a Brussels day trip, focus on these highlights:

✪ Grand Place  – Brussels’ exquisite main square surrounded by medieval guildhalls and townhouses. Don’t miss visiting the Town Hall.

✪ Manneken Pis Statue  – This cheeky little bronze statue of a boy urinating is a quintessential Brussels landmark.

✪ Royal Palace  – Belgium’s royal palace has exhibits showcasing art, antiques and history. Watch the changing of the guard outside.

✪ Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert  – Historic glassed-in shopping arcade with cafes perfect for a Belgian beer or chocolate break.

✪ Parlimentarium  – Interactive museum explaining the workings of the EU that’s perfect for first-time visitors.

Eating Flemish Food  – Belgian specialities like waffles, frites, moules-frites, chocolate and beer are must-trys.

1 Day Brussels Itinerary

Follow this sample itinerary guide to make the most of your day in Brussels whilst taking in all the highlights:

☑️ 8:00am: Arrive at Brussels Midi Station ☑️ 8:30am: Walk to Grand Place and explore the square ☑️ 10:00am: Snap photos at Manneken Pis ☑️ 11:00am: Stroll through Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

☑️ 12:30pm: Have moules-frites for lunch near Grand Place ☑️ 1:30pm: Visit the Parlimentarium museum ☑️ 3:00pm: See the Atomium and Mini-Europe model village

☑️ 5pm: Ride an elevator up the Arc du Cinquantenaire ☑️ 7pm: Try Belgian waffles, chocolate and beer before returning to station

This will allow you to see Brussels’ medieval heart, taste local cuisine, learn about the EU, and take in city landmarks and architecture on a full one day visit.

Fancy a tour of the city? Use the widget below to choose from one of the most popular Brussels day tours:

With frequent trains running all day long between London and Brussels, you can easily maximize a full day of sightseeing before returning to London in the evening.

Aside from the super-fast travel time there and back, other top reasons why Brussels makes a worthy day trip from London include:

• Small city center  – Brussels’ compact size means it’s walkable and you can see a lot.
• Historical sights  – From medieval Grand Place to Art Nouveau, Brussels is full of history.
• Cuisine  – Belgian food like waffles, frites, beer and chocolate are big draws.
• Affordability  – Good deals abound for sightseeing, eating and shopping.
• Day trip friendly  – Most key Brussels sights are doable in a full day.

Traveling early, sightseeing efficiently and departing in the evening means you can realistically see the highlights of Brussels even with a quick train trip. It makes for an easy, fun and affordable day excursion from London.

Where to stay in London and Brussels (near the Eurostar train stations)

Perhaps you’d like to spend more time in Brussels (or London) or want to explore some more of Europe. In this case, it makes sense to stay near the central train stations in each city.

With countless nights spent in hotels across London and Brussels, I’ve curated this list of accommodation options conveniently located near the train stations based on my years of on-the-ground testing:

London near St Pancras International Station:

• The Hoxton Holborn – Stylish modern hotel a 10 min walk from station
• Great Northern Hotel – Grand Victorian hotel at King’s Cross adjoining station
• Kings Cross Inn – Affordable hotel 5 mins by Tube from the station
• The Gyle Hotel – Boutique hotel just a 2 min walk from the station

Brussels near Midi/Zuid Station:

• Hotel Le Plaza – Elegant 4* hotel connected directly to station
• 2GO4 Quality Hostel – Well-reviewed budget hostel 5 mins walk from station
• Hotel Mercure Brussels Centre Midi – 4* hotel just across the street from station
• Hotel NH Brussels EU Berlaymont – Modern hotel 10 mins walk from Brussels Midi

St Pancras and Brussels Midi are both centrally located so it’s perfect for sightseeing in both cities too.

London to Brussels Train FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about traveling between London and Brussels:

Is there direct train from London to Brussels?

Yes, the Eurostar operates direct high-speed rail services between London and Brussels multiple times per day. The journey takes just under 2 hours.

How much does it cost to take the train from London to Brussels?

Eurostar fares from London to Brussels generally range from €59 to €189 each way depending on time of booking and travel. Return trips are cheaper than one-ways.

How long is the Eurostar train from London to Brussels?

The Eurostar London to Brussels journey takes only 1 hour and 53 minutes nonstop. The train reaches speeds up to 186 mph.

What is the cheapest way to get from London to Brussels?

Booking Eurostar train tickets early, being flexible on dates/times, and looking for promotions are the best ways to find cheap fares. Prices start around €59 each way.

How often does the Eurostar run from London to Brussels?

There are up to 16 daily Eurostar trains in each direction between London and Brussels during the week, and 10 daily trains on weekends.

Do you need passport for Eurostar?

Yes, you need a valid passport to travel between London and Brussels on the Eurostar since it crosses the UK/Europe border.

Can I use my Eurostar ticket to get to Bruges?

No, Eurostar tickets only cover the London-Brussels trip. You would need a separate Belgian train ticket to continue to Bruges from Brussels.

Conclusion: Is The Eurostar London to Brussels Train Worth it?

With frequent direct trains taking you from central London to central Brussels within a couple of hours, the Eurostar is the premier way to experience quick, easy travel between two European capitals in comfort with amenities like onboard wifi, meals, and spacious seats with plenty of legroom.

While Eurostar fares might be a bit higher than budget airlines if not booked early, the time savings, comfort and convenience are well worth a slight premium. And deals like return fares or traveling in the shoulder season can mean very affordable tickets.

After a decade of riding European trains to provide experience-based advice, I’m confident the Eurostar is the best way to travel between London and Brussels for speed, convenience, and comfort.

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Billy Read is the owner and author of BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, a travel blog that helps travelers discover unique destinations and travel experiences on a budget. With more than 10 years of global travel filled with accidents, Billy aims to help readers avoid making the same mistakes as he did, and make the most of their epic trips.

London to Brussels Day Trip: Everything You Should Know (2024)

If you’re thinking about doing a day trip from London to Brussels, you have come to the right place!

There might be a sea dividing both cities, but they’re just a 2-hour train ride apart, so it’s perfectly possible to visit Brussels from London for a day.

You will find everything you need to know if this is something that you would like to do in this guide. This includes the best way to get from London to Brussels, if a day trip is worth it, what to do in Brussels in one day and some insider tips.

So, let’s dive right into it!

Is a Day Trip from London to Brussels Worth It?

First things first – is Brussels worth visiting as a day trip from London?

The truth is that it depends. While it is possible to see the highlights of Brussels in one day , it can be expensive to travel between London and Brussels, so it depends on what you’re willing to pay. Standard, round-way tickets cost around €88.

On the brighter side, travelling between these cities doesn’t take long, which brings me to my next point.

How to Get from London to Brussels

If you plan on a day trip, the best way to travel between London and Brussels is by train. The journey only takes two hours with the Eurostar .

The earliest train leaves from London St. Pancras International Station around 6 am and the latest train back leaves the Brussels Midi Station a little before 9 pm.

The Eurostar will take you to the Brussels Midi Station. From here, you can take a train to the Brussels Central Station, where you will find some of Brussels’ most famous landmarks . This is just a 5-minute journey and there are plenty of trains.

Do note that there’s a time difference between both cities and that it’s one hour later in Brussels.

Make sure to book your train tickets in advance. This is necessary for this journey and tickets will be cheaper if you book them in time.

Places to See During a Day Trip from London to Brussels

It’s good to know that all of the places mentioned in this list are within walking distance of one another, so you won’t waste too much time travelling between places.

1. Grand Place

The Grand Place (or Grote Markt in Dutch) is not only one of the most beautiful places to see in Belgium , it’s also one of Europe’s most magnificent squares!

This place is full of beautiful architecture including guild halls, the city hall and the Maison du Roi, which is home to the Brussels City Museum.

2. Manneken Pis, Jeanneke Pis and Het Zinneke

While Manneken Pis is the most famous one, there are more peeing statues in Brussels. Both Jeanneke Pis, a little peeing girl and Het Zinneke, a peeing dog, were created as a reference to Manneken Pis.

You might ask yourself why Brussels houses so many peeing statues, though, and there’s more than one story explaining this.

According to one of the legends, a little boy once saved Brussels from being burnt down by extinguishing the fire with his tinkle. The boy then became a local here and the statue of Manneken Pis was built to honour him.

Today, this statue is one of the most famous landmarks in Belgium .

3.  Galleries Royales Saint-Hubert

Opened in 1847, the Galleries Royalaes Saint-Hubert or Koninklijke Sint-Hubertusgalerijen in Dutch are one of the oldest shopping arcades in Europe.

This arcade was designed by Belgian architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar and it replaced a cluster of ill-lit alleyways.

Today, you will find three shopping streets within this gallery. They’re full of luxurious shops selling anything from clothes and accessories to books and Belgian chocolates .

4. Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula

The Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudulu , often simply called the Brussels Cathedral, is the main Catholic church in Belgium. This is where royal weddings, state funerals and other official ceremonies are hosted.

It’s interesting to note that the cathedral’s construction began in the 11th century but it took a whopping 300 years to complete it.

5. Sainte Catherine neighbourhood

The lively Sainte Catherine area is home to the Sainte Catherine’s Church and la Toure Noire, which are the remnants of Brussels’ 13th-century city walls.

Back in the day, the port of Brussels extended into this area and between 1884 and 1955, a famous fish market was held here.

You will still find plenty of fish and shellfish restaurants in this neighbourhood today, so if this is something you like, this is a great place to eat something.

6. Comic book murals

One of the things Belgium is famous for is the comic book culture and many famous comic books originated in this country. Tintin, Spirou, the Smurfs, Lucky Luck and Marsupilami are just a few examples.

When you’re in Brussels, you might stumble upon gigantic comic book walls as these are scattered all over the city. It’s definitely worth checking out a few of them when you’re here and it’s good to know that some are located in the centre, close to the other places mentioned on this list.

Check out this useful map of the comic book walls in Brussels to see where they are.

7. Delirium Café

If you’re a beer lover, you will love Delirium Café. It’s located in the same alley as Jeaneke Pis (#2 on this list) and it holds the Guinness World Record for offering the largest number of beers for tasting in the entire world.

It’s no secret that Belgium is famous for its beer, so you will find a large number of Belgian beers here too.

Tip: If you’re a beer lover, a fun thing to do is to go on one of Brussels’ beer tours . These will allow you to taste a variety of Belgian beers while learning about the beer-making process.

If you have more time, it’s good to know that there are plenty of interesting museums in Brussels . My favourite one is the Musée Magritte Museum , which is dedicated to the Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte.

You will also find comic book museums, art museums and many topic-specific museums like the Museum of Musical Instruments , the Military Museum , the Horta Museum , etc.

Where to Stay in London

London is a big city with plenty of places to stay. You will find my top recommendations that are close to the St. Pancras International Station below.

• No Mad London (⭐ 9.1/10): If you would like to stay in one of London’s best hotels, this is the one for you. It’s just a 7-minute walk from the St. Pancras Station and it’s the perfect place to indulge yourself in luxury.
• Klimpton Fitzroy London (⭐ 8.8/10): This luxurious hotel is just a 15-minute walk from the train station and it’s one of the best places to stay in the city. Klimpton Fitzroy London offers elegant, spacious rooms and it has plenty of amenities.
• The Z Hotel Holborn (⭐ 8.1/10): The Z Hotel Holborn is a mid-range hotel that’s 1,9 km (1.2 mi) from the train station. The rooms are nice and comfortable and the location is excellent.

>> Read: 29 Souvenirs From London That Don’t Suck

London to Brussels Day Trip: Final Thoughts

I hope that you have found exactly what you were looking for in this post and that it helped you find out how to travel from London to Brussels for a day.

Check out my post about how to spend 1 day in Brussels next to make the most out of your trip.

Related posts:

• Paris to Brussels Day Trip: Everything You Should Know
• Paris to Bruges Day Trip: 3 Ways to Travel + What to Do
• Day Trip from Amsterdam to Brussels: Everything You Should Know
• Day Trip from Amsterdam to Bruges: What You Should Know

Belgium Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Belgium on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🚃 Use Omnio to book public transportation in Belgium. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars   to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa  to visit Belgium

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Find train tickets from London to Brussels

Good to know, top tips for finding london to brussels train tickets.

• 25% of our users found round-trip train tickets from London to Brussels for $208 or less.
• You will generally catch the best train deals if you travel in the morning.

FAQs when traveling from London to Brussels by train

How long is a train journey to brussels from london.

The train journey from London to Brussels takes 1h 59m on average and covers a distance of 198 miles.

What train companies travel from London to Brussels?

There are different train companies operating between London and Brussels. Train and Eurostar are the most booked train companies.

Book train tickets from London to Brussels (round-trip)

Search by stops, search by train company, book train tickets from london to brussels (one-way), popular train routes from london.

• Trains from London to Paris from $145
• Trains from London to Amsterdam from $67
• Trains from London to Manchester from $80
• Trains from London to Liverpool from $72
• Trains from London to Rotterdam from $159

How to go from London to Brussels

There are loads of fun and fast ways to go from London to Brussels. Some will let you munch on fish and chips beneath the Gothic tops of Big Ben at midday only to be stepping onto the eye-watering Grand Place with a chocolate-topped waffle in hand before 4pm. Others mean taking to the skies for nippy flights over to Belgium’s capital. Others are about slow travel, with ferry and train connections that prioritise the journey, not the destination.

Whichever works for you, this guide has all the information needed to book tickets and get going on the 190-mile route towards the home of beer and double-fried frites.

London to Brussels by train

Time – 2 hours Price – From $54 Comfort – 5/5

The London to Brussels railway line promises a fast but adventurous way to cross from the Big Smoke to the biggest city in Belgium. It will take just a minute over two hours on the speedy Eurostar, which manages to peak over 185 miles per hour on some sections of track. Yep – no sticking your head out of the window on these ones, folks!

Your journey will begin right in the beating heart of Central London, in the colossal international train station at St Pancras. Try to arrive there at least an hour before your departure, because you’ll need 30 minutes to complete the international check-in procedure. The first leg of the line is straight southwards to the White Cliffs of Dover, which you sadly won’t get to see before rolling into the Channel Tunnel for the crossing to France. Then, you’ll whiz east, flanked by rolling wheat fields and gallery woods for a little over an hour, through Lille and across the border straight into Brussels Midi.

The Eurostar zooms over northern Europe to make the trip to Brussels as short as two hours.

Remember that your arrival station isn’t quite the heart of the Belgian capital. However, it’s normal for Eurostar tickets to include free onward rail travel to the main Brussels Central station (taking just five minutes), which is within walking distance of the tourist-favourite Grand Place. In terms of comfort, you can expect some seriously slick train interiors along the way, with wide-berth, open-plan seats and big tables, not to mention two dining and drink cars.

And the price? Well…it can be hard to tell. Passengers who book really early might score tickets for just $54 one way. Those bargains don’t stick around long, however, with fares creeping up considerably when you book on the day. For transit in Business or Premier classes, tickets start at $137, which adds in legroom and comfier seats.

London to Brussels by train and boat

Time – 17 hours+ Price – $130+ Comfort – 4/5

Sometimes it’s more about the journey itself, which is precisely why you might want to consider taking the long way round to Brussels. On this route, that means swapping the Channel Tunnel crossing for the vintage ferries that run between Essex and the Low Countries. You can match that connection up with trains to the coast from London, and trains through the Netherlands and eastern Belgium on the other side.

There’s an element of adventure in a trip that takes you on classic cross-North Sea ferries to the Netherlands before heading towards Brussels.

A word of warning: This isn’t the fastest way to go by any stretch. In fact, the whole trip is likely to take at least 17 hours. But it’s hardly a drag, because a big contingent of that will be spent on Stena Line’s luxurious overnight boat going from Harwich to Hoek van Holland. That offers double rooms with mattress beds and TVs to all passengers, so you’ll arrive in Europe fresh and raring to go.

Train wise, you can afford to catch any connection to Harwich International quite late from London. After the boat, you’ll have to hop the local transit metro to Schiedam station, where the trains depart for Brussels. With a few connections in involved, pre-purchasing tickets for each leg of this trip via 12Go.co is a wise way to go. In terms of price, you’re probably looking at around $130 for everything, including that comfy private cabin on the ferry.

London to Brussels by plane

Time – 1.25 hours Price – $55+ Comfort – 4/5

There are at least two premium airlines offering a link from London to Brussels in the skies: UK flag-carrier BA, and Belgium’s-own Brussels Airlines. Both leave from the sprawling London Heathrow terminals on the south-west side of the city, arriving into the main Brussels Airport around 1.25-1.3 hours later. Of course, total journey times will be a little more than that, what with an hour’s wait in departures, bag checks, and transfers (use the speedy Heathrow Express if you can!) to factor into the mix.

Base fares usually start at about the $55 mark. That’s for advance-bought seats, so you’ll need to get searching something like 60-90 days prior to your travel date to be in with a chance of getting the best bargains. BA and Brussels Airlines now also charge extra fees for luggage. They are typically about 40 EUR ($43) each way, although you could choose a different class to include frills like in-flight meals and increased legroom with baggage as standard.

London to Brussels by bus

Time – 7-15 hours+ Price – $16+ Comfort – 3/5

Yep, there are coaches from London all the way to Brussels. They’re up there with the cheapest options for travelers looking to do the trip on a shoestring budget. Fares can be as low as $16 for the complete ride. That includes baggage (usually around one large and one small per person) and a guaranteed seat onboard. Sadly, it doesn’t include a speedy crossing to the land of beer and chocolate – even the fastest take upwards of seven hours.

We’d certainly recommend checking out the various options on 12Go.co before you book. There can be huge time differences between the services on offer. For example, popular Flixbus tout some bargain tickets, but have routes that include stops in Paris-Charles De Gaulle, meaning it will be at least 15 hours before you roll into Brussels. BlaBlaBus, on the other hand, are faster, with a straight-line link across the Low Countries once the coach is off the ferry.

On the whole, coaches are comfy and well-appointed. They have reclining seats and ample legroom, which is great news if you wanted to smash this trip overnight (BlaBlaBus has a departure from Victoria Coach Station at 10pm that arrives in Brussels at 6.15am). There’s also usually an onboard toilet, WiFi link, and good air conditioning.

Before you can drop the English ales and start on the Belgian Trappist beers, or swap sightings of Westminster Cathedral for the EU Parliament, you’ll need to book your ticket to Brussels from London. Thankfully, there are lots of options on that count, ranging from planes to high-speed trains.

London to Brussels FAQ

The coaches that go out of London Victoria for Brussels are probably the cheapest way to travel. However, you’ll need to weigh the lower cost against a journey time that’s at least seven hours one way. If you do decide to throw in with the buses, be sure to book in advance using 12Go.co to find the best deals of all.

The train is actually the speediest route to the chocolatiers and beer houses of Belgium’s capital. Now a super-fast Eurostar line, you can use it to go from city to city in just two hours. Prices vary a lot, so try to get in there early with a booking on 12Go.co .

That’s up to you, but most travelers enjoy the experience of the Eurostar the most. For starters, it’s a mere two hours from A to B. It’s comfy, clean and loaded with food carts so you can really settle in and enjoy the ride. Oh, and it’s relatively affordable, especially if you manage to score advance tickets using 12Go.co .

Yep. The Eurostar is what the vast majority of passengers go for. It uses the Channel Tunnel to get over to northern France before whizzing through Lille and on to Brussels in just two hours. There’s also a train-ferry-train link. That takes a whole night but can be something of an adventure by itself.

The price for the main train on the Eurostar line from London to Brussels will start at about $54 per person. That’s roughly comparable to the cost of a flight, especially when you factor in fees for extra baggage. You’ll need to be wary that fares on the train can more than double if you leave it late to buy, which is why we always say to get onto 12Go.co and book as far in advance as you can.

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brussels .info

Travel from london to brussels.

There are several ways to travel from London to Brussels: Eurostar train, flights or bus / car. Please note the United Kingdom is not a part of the Schengen Visa agreement, all travellers need to go through customs before they depart the UK via London or other cities. Ensure you have all necessary visas to enter Belgium before your departure.

Flights London to Brussels There are many airlines that operate direct flights from London to Brussels Airport. There are low cost airlines and business executive airlines that have daily or weekly flights from different international airports in London.

Train London to Brussels It takes just 2 hours to travel from London to Brussels by train. The Eurostar has direct trains from London to Brussels on a daily basis across the English Channel. www.eurostar.com

By bus (coach) or car Coaches depart from Victoria Coach Station, London and arrive in Brussels-Nord. An average trip takes about 9 hours and 15 minutes. UK company National Express operates the route and fares can be as cheap as £9 if booked in advance. Both day and overnight trips are available. www.nationalexpress.com

The driving distance between London and Brussels is about 371 kilometres (about 4 to 4.5 hours). To cross the English Channel you can drive through the Eurotunnel from Folkstone to Calais or ferry from Dover to Calais. From Calais, there are two major highways A18 and A10 that stretch from coast of the North Sea to Brussels. In the UK, cars are on the left-hand side of the road, but in continental Europe, cars are on the right-hand side. www.eurotunnel.com

Ferries From London travel to ferry ports at Dover, Ramsgate or Hull (by train, bus or car) and take a ferry reach the coasts of the North Sea. Routes available: Dover-Calais, Dover-Bruges, Hull-Bruges, Hull-Rotterdam or Ramsgate-Ostend. Note that from Calais, France, there are no direct trains to Brussels. There is more information at Brussels by Ferry .

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Brussels city breaks

Make your Brussels vacation one to remember with our city trip guide. Discover tips on things to do and see and where to stay and eat.

Brussels holidays and city breaks

Things to do in brussels.

Shopping in Ixelles insider’s guide

Independent shops and quirky boutiques thrive in lively Ixelles; here’s where to head.

Brussels’ best beer terraces

Where better to sip a cool beer on a hot day and watch the world go by?

Christmas market in Brussels

A great market for a family break or weekend shopping trip at 1hr 53mins from London.

Brussels landmarks and attractions

Start at the Grand-Place : at the very heart of the historic city center, this attractive baroque square is within walking distance of most Brussels landmarks worth a visit. The nearby Royal Galleries   of Saint Hubert house chic shops and cafés, a theatre and top-tiers chocolatiers . From there, stroll up the Jardin du Mont des Arts to the Royal Palace and the city’s compact cluster of museums. Don’t forget to look up: the city’s art nouveau architectural details are integral to its charm. Other Brussels attractions include the Sablon, an attractive square that doubles up as a weekend antiques market, and the Atomium , a futurist steel structure offering wow-worthy views over the city.

Brussels’ top cultural spots

Handily, many of Brussels’ top cultural spots are within walking distance of each other. Just one of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts’ six branches, the Magritte Museum houses 200 of the iconic surrealist artist’s works. Cultural center Bozar hosts gigs, film screenings and performances. The Comics Arts Museum pays tribute to Hergé’s Tintin, as well as other beloved Belgian characters such as the Smurfs and Spirou. Head to the Horta Museum for a glimpse inside Belgian architect Victor Horta’s former home and workshop – a wonderfully preserved art nouveau time capsule.

The Grand-Place (Grote Markt)

The Brussels Grand-Place, rebuilt after a bombardment at the end of the 17th century, has taken its rightful place on the Unesco list of protected sites. Once the seat of Brussels’ power, it now hosts year-round public events. You can tour the flamboyant Brussels Hôtel de Ville and the neo-gothic Maison du Roi, which now houses the City Museum , and gawp at the opulent guild halls surrounding them. Manneken Pis – a comical statue of a little urinating boy – is another must-see icon. If you’re lucky, you might even catch him wearing one of his many ceremonial outfits.

Place Sainte-Catherine

Locals have a soft spot for lively, vibrant Sainte-Catherine, the mainly Flemish neighbourhood where Brussels’ former fish market once stood. This laid-back warren of little streets is packed with casual eating and drinking spots. Perennial favorites include ice cream maestro Gaston , De Markten for its beloved terrace and Noordzee , a fish shop rustling up small plates for punters to devour at stand-up tables. Check out Centrale , a former power station turned art center, now championing contemporary local artists with an intriguing programme of exhibitions, workshops and tours.

Overlooked by an ornate church, the elegant Place du Grand Sablon is perfect for a slow amble. You’ll find a few sweet-toothed hot spots around town (the Royal Galleries and rue de l’Étuve get honorable mentions), but none as delightful as this genteel corner of Brussels. If the names Marcolini, Leonidas, Wittamer and Neuhaus don’t ring a bell, all the better: it’s just the excuse you’ll need to sample their exquisite chocolate creations. Once you’ve run out of steam, grab a terrace table at Chez Richard for shrimp croquettes and other timeless bistro fare.

The best parks in Brussels

Bruxellois head outdoors at the first hint of sunshine, and with good cause: from flower beds to forests, the city has a green space for everyone. Parc du Cinquantenaire is perhaps the grandest of them all. Make a beeline for open-air bar Guinguette Maurice once you’ve worked up a thirst. Tucked away near the museums, Parc d’Egmont has a sculpture garden, orangerie café and fine palace views. For a deep breath of fresh air, head to Bois de la Cambre . This meandering forest trail comes complete with roaming deer, a café only accessible by boat and even a nightclub.

Best places to eat in Brussels

What to eat in Brussels

Though classic Belgian fare – shrimp croquettes, hearty stews and Dame Blanche sundaes – should definitely be on your must-try list, make time for Brussels’ trendier eateries. The city’s cosmopolitan dining scene is up there with the best: expect small plates, carefully sourced produce and biodynamic wines. Le 203 in Saint Gilles is a stellar example of the genre. Menus change every Tuesday with the chef’s seasonal whims. Venues can be small, so it’s worth calling ahead if you have your heart set on one. If not, here’s more foodie inspiration .

Brussels' best mussels

It would be criminal to leave without a taste of moules frites, the city’s signature dish. Where to find the best mussels in Brussels is a matter of heated debate, though the fact remains that bowls of plump mussels and golden fries are hard to beat. Chez Léon is a tourist favorite with good reason. But some might find the formal stylings in classy Aux Armes de Bruxelles more to their taste. At art nouveau brasserie Le Cirio , order your mollusks with a glass of ‘half and half’, a perfect pairing of white wine and champagne.

The best waffles in Brussels

Is your waffle of choice from Liège (soft, caramelized and craggy-edged) or from Brussels (rectangular, light and fluffy)? When it’s time to pick your fighter, Maison Dandoy handily serves both in its speculoos-scented tearoom. It’s not, of course, the only waffle joint in town: Brussels' favorite snack has many champions. Wildly popular Le Funambule serves theirs with all manner of fruit, cream and chocolate toppings, all the better to Instagram with. Minimalist Galet is innovating with savory waffle sandwiches and healthy smoothies – traditionalists, look away now.

Where to stay in Brussels

With such a compact city, you could hardly go wrong when choosing where to stay in Brussels. Whether you’re looking for boutique hotels or cheap hotels to stay in Brussels , the old town is one of the best neighborhoods in Brussels for tourists. But it’s worth looking further afield. The gastronomic hubs of Ixelles and Saint Gilles are ideal for foodies. Staying near Louise will give fashionistas easy access to designer shops and luxury boutiques. Don’t discount the hotels near Gare du Midi: the vintage shops around the Place du Jeu de Balle flea market are enough to fill an entire weekend break in Brussels. If you're traveling to Brussels with kids, you're in for a treat as this is the home of comic book heroes - stay around Grand Place as you'll be in easy reach of all the museums and fun.

Book a train and hotel package to Brussels

Eurostar Brussels city breaks don’t begin and end with the travel, we also give you the opportunity to select your hotel and book the full trip with us.

Best time to visit Brussels

All year round

Though summer’s open-air hangouts and festivals have many charms, the season isn’t the only one worth a trip to Brussels. The city’s reputation for rainy weather isn’t entirely without merit, but Brussels has wholeheartedly embraced the Scandinavian concept of hygge. Cozy up in autumn and winter with pints of Trappist beers, braised chicons and carbonnade stew, and explore your pick of the best galleries at your own pace. Spring’s brighter and balmier days mean you can make the most of Brussels' café culture. Head like a local to Café Belga’s terrace to bask in the first rays of sunshine. The best time to visit Brussels, in short, is when the urge takes you – whatever the weather.

Frequently asked questions

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Two or three days perfect for a Brussels vacation. This will allow you to explore all the city’s main attractions at a leisurely pace. On a three day trip you could even squeeze in a one day trip to Antwerp or Ghent which is only 40 minutes away by train.

What currency is used in Brussels?

The currency in Brussels is the Euro (€) which is used in a lot of countries across Europe.

How do I get around Brussels?

Brussels city is very easy to get around and the best way to travel is by public transport (STIB). You can take the metro, tram or bus and they run everyday from 06:00 until midnight. You can pay for your trip using a contactless bank card.

Is Brussels safe for tourists?

Brussels is generally considered a safe city for travellers as it is well lit and policed in most areas. However, some neighbourhoods’ can be less safe and it’s not advised to walk alone late at night.

What is the tipping etiquette in Brussels?

You don’t have to tip in Brussels as most bars and restaurants automatically include 10-15% service charge to the bill. But if you think the service was excellent you can leave a few euros on the table after your meal.

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Travel between London and Paris or Brussels: Your options

Molly Feltner

Molly has also written for National Geographic Traveler Magazine and Fodor's Gold Guides . Her photography has been published in The Boston Globe Magazine .

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If you’re traveling between London and Paris or Brussels, there are two reasonably priced transportation options available: a low-cost, intra-European airline such as Ryanair or EasyJet, or the high-speed Eurostar train. Deciding which service to use for your trip depends on how much money and time you’re willing to part with. While opting for the cheapest ticket seems like a no-brainer for most student travelers, you might rethink that idea when you learn how much time and hassle you’ll have to go through to save. Here’s what the options look like:

Low-cost air carriers

Heated competition between various budget European airlines has made intra-European flights astonishingly cheap. However, most of these no-frills airlines fly from minor airports located outside city centers, which require a time-consuming bus or train ride to reach. (For instance, EasyJet flies to Paris from London’s Luton Airport, located 32 miles from central London.) You’ll have to factor the cost of this additional transportation into the total price.

Here’s a break-down of the cost and time expenditure involved in an air journey between London and Paris, and London and Brussels:

• For travel between London and Paris, we found midweek flights on EasyJet from London’s Luton airport to Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris for around $33 round-trip, including taxes and fees. Before you fly, you’ll have to get from London’s center to Luton Airport, a trip that entails an hour-and-45-minute bus ride ($14 round-trip). The flight itself is only about an hour and 15 minutes, but you should plan on spending around two hours checking in, going through security, and picking up your bags. From the Charles de Gaulle airport, it’s a 35-minute train ride to the center of Paris ($19 round-trip). All told, your journey will cost $66 round-trip and take about five hours and 35 minutes each way. Purchase fares on the EasyJet website .
• For Ryanair’s route between London’s Stansted airport and Brussels’ Charleroi airport, we found midweek fares for $40 round-trip, including taxes and fees. To get to the airport, it’s a 45-minute ride on the Stansted Express train ($42 round-trip). The flight takes an hour, plus two hours for security, check-in, and baggage claim. From Charleroi airport, it’s a quick bus transfer to the Charleroi train station and then a 45-minute train ride to central Brussels ($25 round-trip). Your travel total comes to $107, and the journey will take about four hours and 40 minutes each way. Purchase fares on the Ryanair website .

Fares were researched on January 5, for flights departing January 22 and returning January 29. Fares for other routes and dates may be different.

Facing stiff competition from the budget airlines, Eurostar recently reduced its youth fares to as little as $90 round-trip ($112 with taxes and fees) for travel between London’s Waterloo station and either Paris’ Gare du Nord or Brussels’ Midi. This fare is good for customers under age 26 traveling Monday through Thursday. A limited number of adult fares are also available at this price. For travel on the weekend, round-trip youth fares including taxes and fees are $172. Though these fares are higher than the airline prices, you will not need to purchase additional bus or train service, as the Eurostar stations are centrally located and connect to each city’s metro system.

As for time and convenience, Eurostar beats the airlines hands down: You’ll speed from the center of London to central Paris in two hours and 35 minutes, or to central Brussels in two hours and 20 minutes. You should arrive at the train station about 40 minutes before departure to check in, but security is minimal and there is no baggage claim since your bags ride with you. Total cost is still only $112 round-trip, with a journey of three hours and 15 minutes to Paris or three hours to Brussels each way.

Purchase fares on the RailEurope website .

How you can save

Overall, flying between London and either Paris or Brussels is the cheapest mode of transportation, but a Eurostar journey requires a much smaller time commitment.

For the journey between London and Paris, the EasyJet flight and connections, costing only $66 round-trip, is half the cost of the Eurostar trip, and worth the longer journey if you have the time to spare. If you only have a few days in the city you’re visiting, or hate the hassle of flying, the pricier, but much faster Eurostar ride may be a better choice.

For travel between London and Brussels, the cost of the air trip ($107 round-trip) and the Eurostar trip ($112 round-trip) is about the same. Since you’ll save an hour and 40 minutes by taking the train rather than flying, Eurostar appears to be the most logical choice for your journey.

Keep in mind that this pricing applies to midweek, round-trip travel. If you’re traveling one-way, or on the weekend, the price may be different. What’s important is that you plan ahead and price out the different options as we did, so that you find the mode of transportation that best fits your budget and time frame.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Brussels proposes return to pre-Brexit mobility for UK and EU young people

Commission to seek approval from leaders to start talks with UK on visa-free exchanges for 18- to 30-year-olds

The European Commission has proposed opening negotiations with the UK to allow mobility enjoyed before Brexit to millions of 18- to 30-year-olds in a major concession.

It said it would now seek approval from individual EU leaders to start the talks, which could partly eliminate one of the most controversial elements of Brexit , a block on the right to live in one another’s countries, albeit for a limited period and with conditions.

Referring to the post-Brexit trading agreement on Northern Ireland, the commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, said: “Since we have the Windsor agreement in place, the relationship has been much more constructive.

“There are certainly topics where we can have closer collaboration … and the topic of youth mobility is in both our interests because the more we have youth mobility being on both sides of the channel, the more we increase the probability we will be on good terms because the next generation knows each other very well.”

Under the envisaged agreement, EU and UK citizens aged between 18 and 30 would be able to stay for up to four years in the destination country, the European Commission said in a detailed statement.

If agreed, a youth mobility scheme visa would be issued in those countries that participate, with possible conditions including a requirement for health insurance and proof of sufficient subsistence funds, a feature of other mobility schemes around the world.

“The objective would be to facilitate youth exchanges, making it easier for young EU citizens to travel, work and live in the UK, with reciprocity for young UK nationals in a member state,” the commission said .

The decision by the commission, which has in the past been vehemently opposed to making any concessions to the UK sought since Brexit, is seen as a breakthrough in UK-EU relations.

The proposal to open negotiation must first be agreed by EU leaders. Sources say the first opportunity could arise in May at a meeting of general affairs ministers.

If approved, it would mean millions of young people could come to the UK to fill the gap left by Brexit in the hospitality sector, and also in universities. It would mean seasonal work, from restaurant work to jobs in ski resorts, would be available again to British young people in EU countries.

It may also make it easier for UK and EU universities to recruit researchers, particularly those involved in the Horizon science research programme. Under the scheme it is also envisaged that the university student home-fee system would be restored in both directions, ending the crippling overseas fees which sometimes amounted to more than £40,000 a year.

The Swedish minister for European affairs, Jessika Roswall, told the Guardian: “Sweden has pushed for this and we feel this is very important for the youth and students in the EU and the UK, they are the winners.”

In its announcement, thecommission said it had acted after the UK had made approaches to individual EU countries, known to include France, to open a youth mobility scheme.

UK ministers have argued that it would not be a backtracking on one of the key elements of Brexit, the end of free movement for British citizens. They argued that France already had such an agreement with Canada, and Australia had a similar deal with the UK, and that it would be an important way to foster cultural exchange for future generations.

“Mobility would not be purpose-bound, ie beneficiaries should be able to undertake different activities during that period, such as studying, training, working or travelling, neither would mobility be subject to a quota system,” said the commission.

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Kate Nicholls, the chief executive of UKHospitality, said: “We have been calling for these schemes to be expanded and I’m pleased to see the EU Commission coming to the table with a plan to open negotiations. I hope the EU Council agrees with the proposal and that talks between the UK and EU can begin as soon as possible.”

The commission’s statement raises a possibility that it could pave the way for university places in one another’s countries if member states and the UK saw fit. And agreement “would also provide for equal treatment (ie, non-discrimination) between EU and UK citizens in respect of higher education tuition fees”, the statement said.

The commission stressed that a youth mobility scheme would not be reinstating free movement as it would come with conditions including a limited stay in one another’s countries.

“The envisaged agreement would provide for limited-in-time mobility, subject to the fulfilment of conditions to be checked before the mobility can take place. The conditions should also be met during the stay. It is not about conferring to young UK nationals the benefits of the fundamental freedom of movement enjoyed by EU citizens,” it said.

It added that Brexit had particularly “affected the opportunities for young people to experience life on the other side of the channel and to benefit from youth, cultural, educational, research and training exchanges”.

It also said that a bloc-wide deal was preferable to a series of bilaterals as it would ensure equal treatment for every person in the scheme.

Lord Kinnoull, the chair of the House of Lords European affairs committee, which recommended such a mobility programme, welcomed the development, saying if agreement was reached it would be “greatly to the mutual benefit of both parties and to the youth of Europe”.

• European Commission
• European Union
• Young people
• Foreign policy

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