How to Get Around Flemish Region

The Flemish Region's five cities are all within easy reach of each other and of Brussels by train, on one of Europe's densest rail networks; Brussels-South (Bruxelles-Midi/Brussel-Zuid) is the country's international rail hub, with Eurostar and TGV services from London, Paris and Lille, ICE from Cologne, and sleeper trains from Vienna and Berlin. From Brussels-South, 3 trains an hour reach Bruges in about an hour; Antwerp, Ghent, Leuven and Mechelen are all similarly close by direct train.

De Lijn, the Flemish Government's public transport operator, runs buses and trams across the region, including Antwerp's tram and pre-metro network and a coastal tram between De Panne and Knokke. Within Bruges and Ghent, historic centres are compact enough to explore on foot; cycling is common and well-supported throughout the region. A car is rarely necessary and can be a liability in the narrow, canal-lined streets of Bruges' old centre.

By train. Brussels-South (Bruxelles-Midi) is Belgium's international rail hub (Eurostar, TGV, ICE, sleeper services); domestic trains connect all five of the region's cities to Brussels and each other, with 3 trains an hour running from Brussels-South to Bruges (about 1 hour).

By bus/tram. De Lijn operates buses and trams across Flanders, including Antwerp's tram and pre-metro network; a single ticket costs €3, a 24-hour day ticket €9 (12 and older), and a 3-day ticket €18.

By air. Brussels Airport, just outside the Flemish Region, has direct hourly train service to Bruges and connections to the region's other cities.

In Bruges. Free peripheral Park & Ride car parks with a free shuttle bus serve the historic centre; paid underground parking is available centrally. A taxi from Brussels Airport to Bruges costs a flat €200.

By bike. Cycling infrastructure is extensive throughout the region and is a genuinely practical way to get around, not just a tourist activity.