Maastricht to Schiphol train with PKP Intercity

Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term \InterCity\" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, \"Intercity\" or \"IC\" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph)."

NS International, a subsidiary of the Dutch state-owned railway Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS), operates international intercity and high-speed connections to various European cities, including Brussels. The \IC Brussel\" refers to their Intercity service connecting the Netherlands and Belgium. These trains offer a direct and comfortable way to travel between major cities like Amsterdam and Brussels. As of late 2024, NS International, in collaboration with the Belgian railway company SNCB, is introducing new Intercity New Generation (ICNG) trains on the Brussels-Amsterdam route. These new trains are faster, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h, and offer amenities like onboard Wi-Fi and power sockets. They aim to significantly reduce travel times and increase the frequency of services between the two countries."

SNCB (Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Belges) is Belgium's national railway company, established in 1926. It is the primary provider of passenger rail services within Belgium and also offers international connections through SNCB International, a member of the Railteam alliance. SNCB operates various train types, including InterCity (IC) trains connecting major Belgian cities and sometimes crossing international borders, Local (L) trains serving smaller towns and all stations along their routes, and S-trains for suburban connections. Additionally, P-trains provide extra services during peak hours. SNCB offers a range of tickets, including Standard Tickets for occasional travel, and various discounts for young people, children, and those with specific reduction cards.