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Trains from Edinburgh to Brussels

from
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
to
Brussels, Belgium

Why Choose Bus from Edinburgh to Brussels

Travelling from Edinburgh to Brussels offers a unique chance to experience a blend of British and continental European cultures. When choosing your mode of transportation, it's essential to consider factors like travel time, comfort, and overall convenience.

💰 Convenient City-Center Connections

pros
  • Edinburgh Waverley and Brussels Zuid/Midi are both centrally located, making the start and end of your journey accessible.
  • You can avoid the hassle of lengthy airport transfers, saving time upon arrival in Brussels.
cons
  • Being in central locations may also mean higher costs for accommodations and dining options nearby.

🛎️ Comfortable Travel and Scenic Views

pros
  • Unlike cramped flights or bus rides, trains offer spacious seating, allowing for better comfort during your journey.
  • The route from Edinburgh to Brussels features scenic views, especially as you travel through the British countryside and parts of northern France.
cons
  • The journey duration of approximately 7 hours 21 minutes can feel long, especially if you prefer faster travel options.

⭐ Reduced Check-In Time

pros
  • Train travel has a more relaxed check-in process compared to flights, often requiring no more than 30 minutes before departure.
  • You can stay within easy reach of your luggage, as you can walk with it throughout your travel.
cons
  • The need for transfers at London St Pancras may require some extra time, especially during peak hours.

highlights:

There's a potential for longer overall travel time due to transfers, especially if connections are tight.

Traveling by train is often more environmentally friendly compared to flying or driving.

Trains provide onboard amenities, including Wi-Fi and food services, enhancing your travel experience.

You avoid baggage fees commonly associated with airlines, making travel more economical.

Train Options from Edinburgh to Brussels

Typecompanydeparture stationarrival stationdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
ConnectingEast Coast TrainsEdinburgh Waverley, EdinburghBrussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi, Brussels08:00, 12:00, 15:0015:49, 19:49, 22:49Three times daily7h 49m
£
250-487
London Kings Cross
ConnectingLNEREdinburgh Waverley, EdinburghBrussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi, Brussels09:00, 13:00, 17:0016:43, 20:43, 23:43Three times daily7h 43m
£
250-487
London Kings Cross
ConnectingLNEREdinburgh Waverley, EdinburghBrussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi, Brussels07:00, 11:00, 15:0014:43, 18:43, 22:43Three times daily7h 43m
£
250-487
London Kings Cross
ConnectingAvanti West CoastEdinburgh Waverley, EdinburghBrussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi, Brussels06:00, 10:00, 14:0014:21, 18:21, 22:21Three times daily8h 21m
£
250-487
London Euston
ConnectingLNEREdinburgh Waverley, EdinburghBrussel-Zuid / Bruxelles-Midi, Brussels08:30, 12:30, 16:3015:14, 19:14, 23:14Three times daily7h 14m
£
250-487
London Kings Cross

Comparison of Train Operators from Edinburgh to Brussels

Comparing train operators servicing the route from Edinburgh to Brussels is crucial for travelers seeking the best options for time, cost, and comfort. With multiple transfers involved and varying prices, amenities, and policies, this comparison will help travelers make informed choices to enhance their journey experience.

CriteriaLNEREurostarEast Coast TrainsAvanti West CoastNS International
Price Range£ 250 - £ 487£ 250 - £ 487£ 250 - £ 487£ 250 - £ 487£ 250 - £ 487
pricing policies
refund policyRefunds are available up to 24 hours before departure with a fee.Non-refundable unless cancellation insurance is purchased.Refunds can be issued up to 30 minutes after departure with a fee.Full refunds up to 1 hour before departure.Refunds available before departure for a small fee.
Ticket ChangesTickets can be changed for a fee of £20. Price differences apply.Changes allowed up to 7 days prior for a fee of £30.Free changes up to 24 hours before whenever possible.Changes can be made at no cost up to the day of travel.Free changes allowed 48 hours prior to travel.
discountsDiscounts available for students, seniors, and group bookings.Family fares and promotional sales available.Discounts for members of loyalty programs and young travelers.Special offers for early bookings and returning customers.Various discounts for children and group travel.
amenitiesFree Wi-Fi, Power sockets, First class lounge access, Onboard catering serviceComfortable seating, Dining car and food service, Lounge access for first class, Onboard entertainment optionsFree Wi-Fi, Coffee and snack bar, Quiet carriages, Onboard power socketsFree Wi-Fi, Best fare finder, Onboard restaurant service, Comfortable reclining seatsSmooth online booking, Food and drink support onboard, Comfortable seating arrangements, Real-time journey updates
baggage allowance
Additional Fees£25 for an additional checked bag.£70 for excess weight or oversized luggage.Fees vary based on weight and size of extra baggage.Extra baggage charged at £30 per item.£35 for any extra bags.
accessibilityFully accessible trains with designated spaces for wheelchairs.Dedicated assistance services and accessible seating available.Accessible features available, including ramps and large print signage.Assistance for those with disabilities and family-friendly services.Complete onboard accessibility support.

While each operator has slightly different pricing, amenities, and policies, LNER and Eurostar stand out for their well-rounded offerings. Eurostar provides a dedicated high-speed service with more extensive amenities, while LNER offers flexibility in ticket changes and refunds. Travelers should consider personal preferences like budget, comfort, and flexibility when choosing an operator for their journey from Edinburgh to Brussels.

Train Stops and Stations from Edinburgh to Brussels

Understanding the train stations along the journey from Edinburgh to Brussels is essential for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Main Train Stations in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Waverley

Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Waverley Station is just a short walk from attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: multiple bus routes and tram lines
  • Taxi and rideshare services availability: taxis readily available outside the station
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles: on-site parking available
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time for international travel
  • Be aware that security checks may take additional time at the station
  • Avoid peak hours: weekdays around 8-9 AM and 5-6 PM
  • Check out nearby amenities such as shops and restaurants on Princes Street if you have time to spare

Main Train Stations in Brussels

Brussels Midi/Zuid

Brussels Midi is centrally located, connecting travelers to Brussels' vibrant city life and is within walking distance to many popular landmarks and hotels.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Ticket counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, restaurants)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: direct access to the Metro and numerous bus lines
  • Taxi and rideshare services availability: taxis available outside the station
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles: paid parking options available nearby
  • Arrive at least 20 minutes before your arrival for ease of transfer if connecting to other trains
  • Be prepared for possible customs checks when arriving from the UK
  • Peak travel times can occur on weekends and during major events, plan accordingly
  • Explore nearby attractions and local eateries if you have a layover in Brussels

En Route Stops

Newcastle

Duration: 5m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas
  • Food options available at kiosks

York

Duration: 10m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas
  • Cafés and vending machines

London St Pancras

Duration: 15m

facilities

  • Restrooms
  • Ticket counters
  • Diverse food options including restaurants and cafés

Familiarizing yourself with the key train stations in Edinburgh and Brussels, as well as the stops along the way, ensures that your journey is seamless. Plan ahead to explore, relax, and arrive at your destination hassle-free.

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Enjoy the Scenic Views

    As you travel from Edinburgh to Brussels, make sure to snag a window seat to enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Scottish countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages along the way.

  • 📍 Explore Key Stopovers

    Consider a brief stop in York, a historic city rich in architecture and culture, famed for its striking Gothic cathedral, York Minster. This adds a delightful layer to your journey.

  • 🚍 Attend Seasonal Festivals

    Check the local calendar for festivals in both Scotland and Belgium. If traveling in late spring, the Edinburgh International Festival or the Brussels Flower Carpet event in August are excellent cultural experiences.

  • 🎭 Stay Connected with Onboard Wi-Fi

    Make use of the complimentary onboard Wi-Fi to share your journey in real-time or plan your arrival in Brussels. It’s a great way to stay connected while traveling.

  • 🏛 Get to Know Local Customs

    Be aware of local customs and languages—Scottish Gaelic in Edinburgh and French, Dutch, and German in Brussels. A little knowledge can enhance interactions and show respect for local cultures.

FAQ

The train journey takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, including possible transfer times at key stations.
Yes, many trains offer onboard dining options where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. It's recommended to check your train's specific amenities before departure.
Scotland is in the GMT/BST time zone, whereas Brussels is in the Central European Time (CET) zone. Brussels is typically 1 hour ahead of Edinburgh.
Yes, most train services allow large luggage, but there may be size and weight limitations. It's best to check with your train provider for specific policies.
Yes, there are first-class options that provide more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and a quieter environment for travel.

Trips from Edinburgh