Belgian holidaymakers are increasingly opting for train travel, as reported by the Association of Flemish Travel Agents (VVR). Travel agencies sold twice as many train journeys for July and

August 2024 compared to the same period last year.

In the first half of 2024, the number of train journeys sold was 25% higher than in the first half of 2023 and 44% higher than in 2022.

"We have observed for several years that holidaymakers are more focused on sustainability and travel experiences. The journey seems to have become at least as important as the holiday destination," said Koen van den Bosch of the VVR, which represents over 600 travel companies in Flanders and Brussels.

Simultaneously, options for train travel have expanded, with more high-speed trains, more city connections, and more night trains.

Travel agents sold 131% more train journeys for July and August than last summer. The share of air holidays has remained stable, as have car holidays. Cruises have also seen a rise in popularity, with a 20% increase compared to last year. Photo by calflier001, Wikimedia commons.