Belgians are increasingly turning to train travel for their holidays, signalling a notable shift towards more environmentally friendly transport. Recent findings from a study conducted by Abto, an umbrella organisation of Belgian travel entities, reveal that 7% of respondents are opting for train travel this summer – up from 4% reported in 2019.
In an interview with VRT News, travel expert Britta Baeke attributed this to a growing environmental consciousness among travellers. "It's remarkable that the number of people choosing train travel has doubled in the past five years," she told VRT. "It reflects a conscious shift towards sustainability in our travel preferences."
Despite this heightened environmental awareness, train travel often remains more expensive than flying or driving. Acknowledging this, SNCB is actively promoting train travel as a sustainable alternative. SNCB spokesperson Dimitri Temmerman highlighted a significant increase in international train ticket sales, reporting a 25% rise in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Temmerman emphasised the popularity of trains to key destinations such as Paris, Amsterdam, London, and the south of France, pointing out the extensive network of routes connecting Belgium to 14 European countries
Making the right choice a financial no-brainer
To meet the growing demand, SNCB is expanding its services, introducing new routes and increasing frequencies. Night trains to Vienna and Berlin have been added in recent years with a direct sleeper to Prague now possible.
With Paris remaining a top destination, particularly with the upcoming Olympics, SNCB is rolling out additional services during peak travel periods. Special offers to Paris start from €35.
However, the affordability of trains continues to pose challenges. Part of the problem, Baeke explains, is a lack of competition in the railway sector compared to in aviation. Moreover, government subsidies and tax exemptions in the aviation industry further tip the scales against train operators.
But optimism about the future of rail travel is high, with anticipated improvements to infrastructure and services perhaps swinging the balance.
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Those seeking affordable international trains are advised to book early, with sales opening up to four months ahead. Travellers should know their rights in case of missed connections; they are allowed to rebook tickets free of charge at the station where the transfer occurs, thanks to agreements between railway companies.
Travelling off-peak is also recommended as weekday travel often offers better deals compared to weekends, enabling travellers to explore destinations like London or the south of France at discounted rates.
