Trains from London to Brussels

Exploring Europe by Train: London to Brussels in the Shortest Duration!

Are you looking to explore Europe in the quickest and most efficient way possible? Look no further than the train journey from London to Brussels. This scenic ride is full of historical cities, towns, and iconic sights, all while covering the distance of 320 km (199 mi) in just 2 hours. Passing through the UK and Belgium, the journey is a perfect way to travel from one of Europe's most iconic cities to another. 

From London St-Pancras, travelers pass through Lille-Europe station in France, before arriving at Brussels-Central. This journey will have you come across major cities like Ashford, Dover, and Calais, as well as smaller towns, like Hazebrouck and Mouscron. This all adds up to a truly different experience of Europe in a relatively short space of time. 

When departing from London, one of the most iconic sights is the London Eye – the world’s largest Ferris wheel. Upon arrival in Brussels, travelers are treated to the iconic Grand Place – a UNESCO World Heritage Site which features a stunning Gothic Town Hall, the brilliant Breadhouse, and an array of restaurants and cafés. 

Traveling by train remains one of the most exciting ways to see Europe, and the London to Brussels route is one of the most efficient connections!

London is a city of unparalleled historical and architectural significance. From the iconic clock tower of Big Ben to the grandiose Westminster Abbey, it is a place for sightseeing and exploration. With so much to see and experience, planning an ideal trip to London can be overwhelming. Here is a list of must-visit historical and architectural sites and what to eat that will help create a memorable experience in this captivating city.

Big Ben: This iconic clock tower, located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster, is one of London’s most recognizable symbols. It was built in 1859 and stands at a height of 96 meters. Take a walk around the clock to take in its breathtaking interior and exterior. Opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 11 PM with entry free of charge.

Westminster Abbey: This Gothic landmark is one of the UK's most renowned religious sites, having been the site of countless royal coronations and weddings. Explore the ornate interiors and take in its architectural majesty. Open 7 days a week; 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Entrance fee is £20.

Tower of London: The Tower of London is one of the city’s oldest structures, and a historically important symbol of the monarchy. Its walls have witnessed moments from England’s history, including the imprisonment of famous figures such as Sir Walter Raleigh and Anne Boleyn. Opening hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM; entrance fee is £25.

Shakespeare’s Globe: Step inside this replica of the famous theatre where the famous bard wrote some of his best work. Take a tour of the site and its exhibition. Opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM; entrance fee is £17.

Buckingham Palace: Get a glimpse into the life of the Royal Family by taking a tour of this magnificent palace. Opening hours are from 8:45 AM to 3 PM; entrance fee is £19.

St. Paul's Cathedral: Explore this iconic landmark, erected in 1675 and home to the famous ‘Whispering Gallery’. Opening hours are from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM; entrance fee is £19.

Tate Modern: From the works of legends such as Picasso and Matisse to some of the brightest stars of the art world, this modern art museum is one of the best places to take in the city's vibrant culture.Opening hours are from 10 AM to 6 PM; entrance fee is free.

For true foodies, London is a gastronomic hotspot. As a rule of thumb, nearly everything can be found in the capital, from traditional British favourites such as fish and chips, to exotic international cuisines. For a truly unique experience, search for a food truck or a street pop-up and sample some of the best dishes from local chefs.

Whether you’re visiting alone or with a group, London has something to offer to everyone. From its iconic landmarks and monuments to its vibrant culture and international cuisine, it is a city that is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city full of architectural wonders and gastronomical delights. From cobblestoned streets and ancient monuments to world-renowned chocolate and beer, this city has something for everyone. Let’s take a deeper look into some of the top sites to make sure your trip to Brussels is complete. 

Grand Place: Located in the centre of the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see. Admire the ornate buildings, from the city hall, to the guild houses, and the striking gothic churches, all surrounded by terracotta-hued buildings. Open to the public all year round, entry to Grand Place is free.

Manneken Pis: This famous statue of a little boy urinating is perhaps the most iconic symbol of Brussels. Check out the many costumes the figure wears, which change regularly. Find it just a few minutes’ walk from Grand Place.

Atomium: This iconic landmark made up of steel spheres is the symbol of Brussels. First constructed in 1958, it was renovated in 2006 and is now a museum that delves into the history of Brussels and its people. Open daily from 10am to 6pm, tickets cost €12.

Cinquantenaire: This sprawling urban park, located to the east of the city, features a mixture of art galleries, museums, and monuments, including the Royal Military Museum and Autoworld. Open all year round, admission to most of the attractions here is free.

Royal Palace of Brussels: Catch a glimpse of grandeur from this 19th century building, which serves as the official residence of the Belgian Royal Family. Open to the public from July to September, tours of the palace cost €8.

Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula: This gothic-style cathedral dates back to the 13th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and tombs. Open to the public from April to October, admission is free.

Delirium Café: One of Brussels’ most famous bars, this lively spot offers a huge selection of beers. With a whopping 3,000 varieties to choose from, there’s something here for everyone. Open daily until 4am, it’s the perfect place to end your night out in style.

So there you have it! From iconic monuments to fantastic food and drink, Brussels has something for everyone. Be sure to make the most of your trip and don’t forget to take plenty of pictures!