On Thursday morning, Belgian and French rail operators SNCB and SNCF unveiled a new low-cost train service connecting Brussels and Paris. Operated under SNCF's budget brand, Ouigo, the
train completes the journey between the two capitals in three hours, with ticket prices starting at just €10 one way.
“This new service aims to provide an affordable and accessible travel option between the two capitals, complementing the existing rail services and promoting train travel across Europe,” said SNCB spokesperson Tom Guillaume.
Inaugural journey nearly sold out
The first Ouigo train departed Paris-Nord at 8:18 a.m. on Thursday, arriving at Brussels-Midi at 11:21 a.m. It was met with strong demand, with nearly all seats sold out.
Three Daily Departures with Stops in Belgium and France
The service operates three times a day, seven days a week, and includes stops at Mons station in Belgium, as well as Aulnoye-Aymeries and Creil in France. The total travel time is three hours, making it a convenient option for budget-conscious travelers.
Passengers are assigned numbered seats, with ticket prices starting at €10. For children aged 4 to 12, a flat rate of €6 applies, while those under 4 years old travel for free.
Replacing past low-cost options
This new budget service fills the gap left by the Izy trains, which previously connected Brussels and Paris in 2 hours and 30 minutes before being discontinued over two years ago. During the Olympic Games, Eurocity trains had also provided a temporary connection between the two cities, with a stop in Mons.
With this latest offering, SNCB and SNCF aim to make rail travel between Brussels and Paris more affordable and appealing to a wider audience. Photo by Marc Ryckaert, Wikimedia commons.