Paris to Bruges train with Eurostar

Paris to Bruges by Train: The Most Convenient Way to the Venice of the North

Introduction

One of the things I love most about train travel is how convenient it is for visiting tourist destinations. You don’t have to deal with traffic or worry about parking. Trains usually take you right into the heart of a city, and that’s especially true for Bruges—one of my favorite cities in Belgium. Getting from Paris to Bruges by train is easy, with just one simple change in Brussels.

Route Overview

The easiest way to reach Bruges is to take the direct Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels South Station (Bruxelles-Midi), which takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. From there, you can catch a regional train operated by SNCB that will get you to Bruges in under an hour.

Transportation Experience

You can book a direct through-ticket between Paris and Bruges—one of the many advantages I found with Omio. There’s no need to buy two separate tickets; it’s just one ticket all the way through. Make sure to allow yourself at least 10 minutes to change trains in Brussels so you don't have to rush. If you happen to miss your connection, don’t worry, as your SNCB ticket remains valid for the next train.

Route Details

Departure & Arrival Stations

Paris Gare du Nord, built in 1866, is one of my favorite stations in Paris. Standing in front of it and admiring its monumental architecture is a real pleasure.

Brussels Midi may be less visually impressive, but it’s the main hub of the Belgian rail system. Almost every train in Belgium passes through this station, so it's very well-connected.

Bruges station is currently undergoing significant renovation (at least the original building is), but it’s located just a short walk—less than 10 minutes—from the historic city center. You’ll be enjoying the canals of Bruges in no time!

Schedule & Frequency

Eurostar trains between Paris and Brussels depart approximately every hour, from 06:22 to 21:24, with the fastest journey taking 1 hour and 22 minutes. SNCB trains from Brussels to Bruges depart roughly every 30 minutes and take about 55 minutes. For example, if you leave Paris at 06:22, you can arrive in Bruges by 08:50.

Onboard Experience & Services

Eurostar offers three travel classes:

• Standard – Comfortable and affordable, equivalent to Second Class.
• Standard Premier – More spacious seating with a light meal included.
• Business Premier – Luxurious service with meals, champagne, and fast-track boarding.

SNCB offers two classes :

• Second Class – Comfortable standard seating.
• First Class – More spacious and comfortable.

I traveled in Standard, and it was great! There’s a small bar in the middle of the train called the Eurostar Café, but the ride is so quick that I personally prefer grabbing a waffle during my layover at Brussels South. (There’s a delicious waffle place right at the bottom of the stairs when you exit the Eurostar area.)

SNCB trains are basic, with no food service onboard, which is why the waffle was so essential for the journey to Bruges!

The scenery isn’t the most breathtaking in Europe, but speeding through the northern French countryside is still a cool experience.

Ticketing Advice & Budget Breakdown

My golden rule is to book early, especially for the Eurostar. I paid €99 for the Paris to Brussels leg and €20 for the ride to Bruges. You don’t need to book SNCB tickets far in advance.

Costs for one passenger:

Top Tips & Personal Recommendations

• Book early to secure the best prices.
• Get a waffle in Brussels.
• Allow yourself at least 10 minutes to change trains in Brussels.
• Don’t take the bus in Bruges unless necessary—the city center is very close to the station.

Conclusion

In my opinion, taking the train is the best—and really the only—way to discover Bruges. It’s fast, convenient, and lets you enjoy the beauty of the city without the stress of driving or parking. Plus, you can enjoy some amazing Belgian beer without having to worry about driving home!