Brussels to Ghent by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €10
Route Overview: Brussels to Ghent
SNCB Intercity trains connect Brussels and Ghent in just 30 minutes, with 3-4 departures per hour. The 56 km journey makes Ghent one of the easiest day trips from the Belgian capital.
Ghent is a vibrant university city with medieval architecture rivalling Bruges, but with a more authentic, less touristy atmosphere. The Gravensteen castle, St Bavo's Cathedral (home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece by Jan van Eyck), and the canal-side Graslei are must-sees.
Tickets are fixed-price at approximately €10 in 2nd class (cheaper on weekends). No reservation needed — buy and board. The city is also on the main Brussels-Bruges line, making it easy to combine both destinations.
How Long Is the Brussels to Ghent Train?
The direct SNCB (Belgian Railways) from Brussels to Ghent takes approximately 30m, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Brussels to Ghent Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €10 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Brussels to Ghent?
Up to 3/day trains operate daily on the Brussels to Ghent route.
Train Operator
SNCB (Belgian Railways)
Direct high-speed service · 30m max
Which Stations Serve the Brussels to Ghent Route?
Bruxelles-Midi / Brussel-Zuid
- Location: Southern Brussels
- Metro, tram, bus connections
- RER Also Eurostar hub. Trains depart from Bruxelles-Central and Bruxelles-Nord too.
Gent-Sint-Pieters
- Location: Southern Ghent, 2 km from city centre
- Tram 1 to city centre (Sint-Baafsplein) in 10 minutes
- RER Main Ghent station for Intercity and international connections
What Classes Are Available on Brussels to Ghent Trains?
2nd Class
- Standard seating
- Power outlets on newer trains
- Valid on any departure
- No reservation needed
1st Class
- Wider seats with more legroom
- Quieter carriages
- Power outlets
- Less crowded
How to Book the Brussels to Ghent Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in 2nd Class class. Price shown is the SNCB standard 2nd class single fare. Weekend fare approximately €7. 1st class approximately €16. Timetables subject to change.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Brussels to Ghent Trains?
Belgium's Best-Kept Secret
Ghent is often called Belgium's best-kept secret — a vibrant university city with medieval architecture rivalling Bruges, but with a more local, less touristy atmosphere. The Gravensteen castle, St Bavo's Cathedral (home to the Ghent Altarpiece), and the canal-side Graslei are highlights.
Station to Centre
Gent-Sint-Pieters station is about 2 km south of the medieval centre. Take tram 1 from outside the station to Sint-Baafsplein (10 minutes) or enjoy a 25-minute walk through the university quarter.
On the Way to Bruges
Ghent is on the Brussels-Bruges rail line. You can easily combine both cities — stop in Ghent for a few hours, then continue to Bruges on the next train (same-day ticket).
Weekend Discount
Weekend fares (Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays) are approximately 30% cheaper than weekday prices. Ideal for leisure day trips.
Frequently Asked Questions: Brussels to Ghent
Intercity trains take approximately 30 minutes. Some stopping services (L trains) take 40-45 minutes with additional intermediate stops.
Standard 2nd class single: approximately €10. Weekend fare: approximately €7. 1st class: approximately €16. Under 12 travel free with an accompanying adult.
3-4 trains per hour combining Intercity and local services. You rarely wait more than 15-20 minutes for the next departure.
Take tram 1 from outside Gent-Sint-Pieters station to Sint-Baafsplein in the historic centre (about 10 minutes). Or walk 25 minutes through the pleasant university quarter.
Yes. Ghent is on the Brussels-Bruges line. Visit Ghent in the morning, then take a 30-minute train to Bruges for the afternoon. Your SNCB ticket allows same-day travel.
Key sights include Gravensteen castle, St Bavo's Cathedral (Ghent Altarpiece by Van Eyck), the medieval Graslei and Korenlei canal-side streets, and the vibrant Patershol restaurant quarter.