Last updated on February 22, 2014
Brussels Midi train station is the largest station in Brussels and a major international rail hub serving most of Europe. At first glance, the station will appear to be a bit overwhelming because of its size and sheer volume of traffic, but once you know where the main points of interest are and how to navigate your way through, you will be able to enjoy a painless journey through the station. This article does not aim to be a definitive guide to Brussels Midi/Zuid station, but it does aim to put your mind at rest on a few points. Many people arrive at Brussels Midi-Zuid station on one of the high-speed rail links. In particular, Brussels Midi is a connection point for the Eurostar service from London St Pancras and it is the perfect place to begin a scenic tour of Europe. You can spend a pleasant few days in Brussels enjoying the sights before catching another train to Amsterdam, Paris or beyond.
Train Services from Brussels-Midi
- Thalys – High-speed Thalys trains provide a fast and efficient transport link between Brussels and Paris, Cologne and Amsterdam.
- Eurostar – You catch a Eurostar train from London St Pancras and arrive in Brussels within two hours. Trains are regular and fast, and if you want to travel on a budget, cheap return fare tickets can be picked up in advance of travel.
- TGV – TGV trains are an alternative high-speed service to a variety of different European cities, including Brussels.
- ICE – If you plan on travelling to Germany, Austria and/or Switzerland, high-speed ICE trains are likely to be your best bet.
There is very little difference between Thalys, Eurostar, ICE and TGV services, apart from the routes they operate on. You can catch all four from Brussels Midi train station, but before you book tickets, make sure you are clear on the exact route your train will be taking and make sure you jump on the right train!
Local Connections
Once you arrive at Brussels Midi train station it is easy to connect with the local metro, tram or bus services. You can also catch a regional train for onwards travel to other towns and cities within Brussels. All you need to do is buy a ticket from one of the self-service machines in the main station areas.
Station Facilities
There are lots of shops and cafes in the main station area, so if you fancy a snack or a drink while you are waiting for your next train, this is the place to go. Alternatively, depart the station at the Place Victor Horta entrance—there are numerous shops and eateries within a short distance. The station also boasts a pharmacy, post office, hairdresser and bureau de change. Other facilities include:
- Dry cleaners and shoe repairs
- Left luggage lockers
- Tourist information
- Cash machines
- Public telephones
Stay Safe Brussels midi train station is no different to any other busy public transport hub and there are always a small minority of individuals looking to take advantage of others. The best way to avoid any potential problems is to stay vigilant. Keep your valuables in your sight at all times, don’t flaunt them, and be very careful when using cash machines. Try not to look too much like a bewildered tourist as you are much more likely to be targeted by pick-pockets and opportunistic thieves.
By Anna Lua
Brussels is one of Anna Lua’s favourite cities and she has spent numerous weekends there, writing posts for her blog and taking photographs of the beautiful architecture. She likes nothing more than sitting at a pavement café with a glass of wine and a good book.
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