How to Get to Brussels From Paris [2025–2026 Guide]
Travel from Paris to Brussels in 1 hr 25 mins by Thalys/Eurostar train (€35–€100), 1 hr flight + transfers (3–4 hrs, €70–€150), or 3.5–4 hrs by car (320 km, €50–€90) in 2025–2026.
The fastest way from Paris to Brussels is the Thalys/Eurostar high-speed train (1 hr 25 mins, €35–€100). Driving takes 3.5–4 hrs (€50–€90), while flights take 3–4 hrs including transfers.
🚄 Train: Paris to Brussels
The train is the most popular and efficient way to travel between the two capitals.
- Departure: Paris Gare du Nord
- Arrival: Brussels Midi/Zuid Station
- Duration: ~1 hr 25 mins
- Cost: €35–€100 depending on booking time and class
- Frequency: Up to 20 departures daily
- Comfort: Reserved seating, WiFi, food service
Why take the train?
- Fastest city-center to city-center option
- Multiple daily departures
- Eco-friendly and stress-free
✈️ Flight: Paris to Brussels
Flights exist but are rarely the best choice because of the short distance.
- Flight Duration: ~1 hr
- Airports: Paris CDG or Orly → Brussels Airport (BRU)
- Transfers: 30–60 mins to/from airports
- Total Duration: 3–4 hrs
- Cost: €70–€150 round trip
Why fly?
- Works if connecting internationally
- Frequent services by Air France and Brussels Airlines
- Not recommended for city-to-city travel due to time lost in transfers
🚗 Driving: Paris to Brussels
Driving gives flexibility and lets you stop along the route.
- Distance: ~320 km (200 miles)
- Duration: 3.5–4 hrs via A1/E19 motorway
- Cost: €50–€90 (fuel + tolls)
- Stops: Lille, Valenciennes, or Belgian countryside
Why drive?
- Great for families or groups
- Flexibility to explore towns en route
- Convenient if continuing into Belgium
🚌 Bus: Paris to Brussels
The cheapest option but also the slowest.
- Duration: 4–6 hrs depending on traffic
- Operators: FlixBus, BlaBlaCar Bus
- Cost: €15–€35 one way
- Convenience: Frequent departures from Paris Bercy and other stations
Why bus?
- Most affordable travel option
- Overnight and frequent services
- Comfortable with WiFi and charging ports
🌸 Best Time to Visit Brussels
- Spring (Apr–Jun): Mild weather, blooming gardens
- Summer (Jul–Aug): Warm, lively, peak tourism season
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Famous Christmas markets and festive lights
🗺️ Travel Summary Table
Travel Mode | Duration | Cost Estimate | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Train | 1 hr 25 mins | €35–€100 | Fastest and most convenient |
Flight + Transfer | 3–4 hrs | €70–€150 | Best for international connections |
Car | 3.5–4 hrs (320 km) | €50–€90 | Flexible road trip option |
Bus | 4–6 hrs | €15–€35 | Cheapest but slower option |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the fastest way to get to Brussels from Paris?
The Thalys/Eurostar train takes only 1 hr 25 mins.
Q2: How far is Brussels from Paris by car?
About 320 km (200 miles), or 3.5–4 hrs of driving.
Q3: Are there direct trains from Paris to Brussels?
Yes, Thalys and Eurostar trains run frequently and directly.
Q4: What is the cheapest way to travel from Paris to Brussels?
The bus costs just €15–€35, though it takes 4–6 hrs.
Q5: Is a day trip from Paris to Brussels possible?
Yes, the train makes it easy to visit Brussels in a single day.