How to Get from Brussels to Ghent: Travel Options Explained

Planning a trip to Belgium and wondering how to navigate between its vibrant capital and its charming medieval sister city? Traveling from Brussels to Ghent is a popular and straightforward journey, offering a range of convenient options to suit every traveler's budget and preference. Let's explore the best ways to reach Ghent from Brussels, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Why Visit Ghent?

Ghent, often hailed as one of Belgium's hidden gems, offers a captivating blend of historical grandeur and contemporary cool. Boasting a stunning medieval historic town centre, picturesque canals, and a vibrant student atmosphere, it's a must-visit destination. From the iconic Gravensteen Castle to the majestic Saint Bavo's Cathedral (home to the Ghent Altarpiece), Ghent provides a rich cultural experience that perfectly complements a visit to Brussels.

Option 1: Train – The Most Popular and Efficient Choice

For most travelers, the train is by far the most recommended way to get from Brussels to Ghent. It's fast, frequent, comfortable, and drops you right in the city.

From Which Brussels Station?

Brussels is served by several major train stations, and you can catch a direct train to Ghent from any of them:

Brussels-Midi (Zuid):This is the largest international station, ideal if you're arriving in Brussels via Eurostar or Thalys.
Brussels-Central:Located right in the heart of the city, near the Grand Place, making it convenient for tourists staying downtown.
Brussels-North:A major commuter hub, useful if your accommodation is in the northern part of the city.

All these stations are well-connected by local trams, metros, and buses, making access easy from almost anywhere in Brussels.

Train Journey Details

The journey by train is remarkably quick, typically taking between 30 to 40 minutes, depending on the specific train and the Brussels departure station. Trains run very frequently, often every 15-20 minutes during peak hours, ensuring you won't have to wait long.

Belgian trains are clean, comfortable, and offer both first and second-class seating. Second class is perfectly adequate for this short journey.

Arriving in Ghent

All trains from Brussels arrive atGhent-Sint-Pieters Station. This station is located a short distance from the historic town centre, but getting to the heart of the city is easy:

Tram:The most convenient option. Tram line 1 (direction 'Evergem Brielken' or 'Wondelgem Industriepark') departs frequently from outside the station and takes you directly to the Grote Markt(Korenmarkt or Gravensteen stops) and other central locations in about 10-15 minutes.
Bus:Several bus lines also connect the station to various parts of the city center.
Walking:If you prefer to walk, the city center is about a 25-30 minute stroll from the station, offering a chance to see some of the city's outer areas.

Tips for Train Travel

Buying Tickets:Tickets can be purchased at the station from ticket machines or the counter. You can also buy them online via the official Belgian railway (SNCB/NMBS) website or app.
Ticket Types:Look out for specific deals like "Weekend Tickets" (valid from Friday evening to Sunday) if your travel aligns, or "Youth Tickets" for travelers under 26. Always check the SNCB website for the latest offers.
Flexibility:Train tickets for domestic travel in Belgium are usually open-ended for the chosen day, meaning you can take any train on your route within the validity period.

Fun Fact:Ghent-Sint-Pieters Station is one of Belgium's busiest train stations, a testament to Ghent's popularity as a destination and its role as a major transport hub in Flanders.

Option 2: Bus – A Budget-Friendly Alternative

While less common than the train for this route, taking a bus can be a more economical option, especially if you book in advance.

Operators and Journey Details

Several bus companies operate routes between Brussels and Ghent, with FlixBus being the most prominent. The journey typically takes longer than by train, ranging from 50 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route.

Brussels Departure Points:Buses usually depart from Brussels-North Station or various designated bus stops around the city.
Ghent Arrival Points:In Ghent, buses often arrive at the Ghent-Sint-Pieters Station area or a specific bus stop near the city center (e.g., Akkerhage).

Considerations for Bus Travel

Cost:Bus tickets are generally cheaper than train tickets, particularly if purchased well in advance.
Comfort:Buses offer varying levels of comfort, often with Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Traffic:Unlike trains, buses are susceptible to road traffic, which can cause delays, especially during peak hours.
Luggage:Check the luggage policy of your chosen bus operator.

Option 3: Car – Flexibility and Scenic Routes

Driving from Brussels to Ghent offers the most flexibility, allowing you to travel at your own pace and potentially explore other attractions along the way. However, it comes with its own set of challenges, particularly regarding parking in Ghent.

Driving Route

The most direct route involves taking the E40 highway west from Brussels. The drive is approximately 60-70 kilometers and usually takes around 45-60 minutes, assuming clear traffic conditions. The route is straightforward and well-signposted.

Parking in Ghent

Ghent has a strict circulation plan and a low-emission zone (LEZ) in its city center to reduce traffic and pollution. This means:

Low-Emission Zone (LEZ):Check if your vehicle meets the emission standards for Ghent. If not, you may need to register your car or purchase a temporary permit online to avoid fines.
Parking:Parking in the historic center is heavily restricted and often expensive. It is highly recommended to use one of Ghent's designated Park & Ride (P+R) facilities on the outskirts of the city. From there, you can easily take a tram or bus into the center. Alternatively, there are underground parking garages (e.g., Parking Gent Zuid, Parking Sint-Michiels) within walking distance of the main sights, but these can be costly.

Rental Car Tips

Rental Agencies:Major car rental companies have offices at Brussels Airport (BRU) and various locations within the city.
International Driving Permit:If you are from outside the EU, check if an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in addition to your national driving license.

Option 4: Ride-Sharing/Taxi – Convenience at a Cost

For ultimate convenience, especially if traveling in a group or with heavy luggage, a taxi or ride-sharing service might be an option, though it will be the most expensive.

Services Available

Ride-Sharing Apps:Services like Uber and Bolt operate in Brussels and can take you to Ghent. The price will vary based on demand, time of day, and traffic.
Taxis:Traditional taxis are readily available at major transport hubs in Brussels. Agree on a price beforehand or ensure the meter is running, as intercity fares can be high.

Considerations

This option is generally best for groups who can split the cost, making it comparable to multiple train tickets. For solo travelers, the cost will likely be prohibitive compared to public transport.

Getting Around Ghent

Once you've arrived in Ghent, whether by train, bus, or car, navigating the city is a delight. The historic town centre is largely pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Trams and buses provide excellent connectivity between the train station and various city attractions. Ghent also has a strong cycling culture, with bike rental options available.

Which Option is Best for You?

For Speed & Convenience:Thetrainis the undisputed champion. It's fast, frequent, reliable, and avoids traffic.
For Budget Travelers:Thebuscan offer significant savings, especially if booked in advance, but factor in longer travel times.
For Flexibility & Group Travel:Acarprovides the freedom to explore beyond Ghent, but be mindful of parking and LEZ restrictions within the city.
For Comfort & Directness (at a premium):Ataxi or ride-shareservice offers door-to-door convenience.

No matter which mode of transport you choose, the journey from Brussels to Ghent is an easy and integral part of experiencing the diverse beauty of Belgium. Prepare to be enchanted by Ghent's canals, architecture, and vibrant atmosphere!