Antwerp, a historic city in northern Belgium, attracts thousands of tourists with its ancient architecture, exquisite fashion industry and reputation as the world’s diamond capital. Not only does it have a long history and culture, it is also known as one of the world’s largest diamond trading centers, making it a destination that many tourists yearn for.
Fortunately, transportation from Brussels to Antwerp is very convenient and there are many options. You can choose a high-speed train to get from Brussels Central Station to Antwerp at the fastest speed, and the journey takes only 45 minutes. In addition, there are also long-distance buses, carpooling, self-driving and other options to choose from, which are convenient for travelers with different needs. Whether you are a business person in a hurry or a backpacker with a limited budget, you can find the most suitable travel method according to your needs.
1. High-speed train (Intercity)-the fastest and most comfortable option
If you pursue efficiency and don’t mind spending some extra money, choosing to take a high-speed train is undoubtedly the fastest and most convenient way. From Brussels Central Station (Bruxelles-Central), take the Intercity train (Intercity), and you can reach Antwerpen Central Station (Antwerpen-Centraal) in about 45 minutes. These trains usually run every 15 to 30 minutes, especially during peak hours, the frequency is more frequent, so you can leave at any time.
Ticket prices and booking platforms
High-speed train tickets usually cost between 12 and 15 euros, but they vary depending on the time and advance booking. If you travel during peak hours, the ticket price may increase. Therefore, to ensure that you get the most affordable ticket price, it is recommended to book in advance through platforms such as Omio and Trainline. These platforms are available in different languages and will provide detailed ticket price information based on your departure time.
Pros and Cons
The biggest advantage of high-speed trains is that they are fast and comfortable, especially for those tourists who are in a hurry. It is the best choice. The trains are well-equipped, with air conditioning and comfortable seats, and the carriages are clean, suitable for long journeys. However, the biggest disadvantage is that the carriages can be crowded during peak hours, especially if you don’t book a seat in advance, and you may need to stand for a while.
Suitable for people
High-speed trains are best suited for tourists who want to reach their destination quickly. Whether you are a business traveler with a short stay in Antwerp or a city tourist who needs to solve transportation problems quickly, this is an efficient and comfortable choice.
2. Long-distance bus (FlixBus / BlaBlaBus) – an affordable option
For tourists on a limited budget, long-distance buses are a very good choice. FlixBus and BlaBlaBus provide long-distance bus services from Brussels to Antwerp. The journey time is generally 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Bus fares are usually very affordable, with a one-way price as low as 4.99 euros, but usually the fare is roughly between 8 and 12 euros.
Fares and booking platforms
Since long-distance bus fares are very competitive, you can even get a better price if you can book in advance. Omio will aggregate these long-distance bus fares for you to compare.
Advantages and disadvantages
The main advantage of buses is that they are cheap, especially for travelers on a limited budget. On the other hand, the disadvantage of buses is that the journey time is relatively long and will be affected by traffic conditions and may be delayed. In addition, bus stops are sometimes far from the city center, and additional transportation is required to travel between the bus stop and the city attractions.
Suitable for the crowd
Long-distance buses are suitable for tourists with limited budgets and less time constraints. It is also suitable for tourists who do not mind longer travel time or tourists who want to experience the local public transportation system in Belgium.
3. Carsharing or carpooling platform (BlaBlaCar) – flexible choice
For tourists who like flexibility and social elements, carsharing or carpooling platforms are undoubtedly a good choice. From Brussels to Antwerp, carpooling is not only convenient and fast, but also allows you to communicate with locals and experience different ways of traveling. Through platforms such as BlaBlaCar, you can share a car with car owners or other passengers to Antwerp. Generally speaking, the journey time is about 50 minutes to 1 hour, but the specific time will be affected by traffic conditions.
Fares and booking platforms
The fares for carpooling usually vary depending on the settings of the car owner, ranging from about 5 euros to 10 euros. You can easily find and book vehicles through carpooling platforms such as BlaBlaCar. Car owners on the platform will provide information before the trip, including departure location, time, estimated arrival time, and personal evaluation of the car owner.
Pros and Cons
The biggest advantage of car sharing or carpooling is the high flexibility. The car owner will set the departure time by himself, so you don’t have to be restricted by the fixed train or bus schedule. In addition, traveling with other tourists can save some money and have the opportunity to communicate with the car owner or fellow travelers on the way. However, carpooling also has some uncertainties. For example, the car owner may sometimes cancel the trip at the last minute or be late.
Suitable for people
Carpooling is suitable for those who have flexible requirements for travel time, especially those who are sociable and like to communicate with others. In addition, if you want to save money and don’t mind flexible travel arrangements, carpooling is also a good choice.
4. Renting a car and driving yourself-a completely free choice
For those tourists who like to travel independently and freely, renting a car and driving yourself is undoubtedly the most personalized option. It takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour to drive from Brussels to Antwerp, and the journey is relatively smooth. The cost of renting a car is about 35 to 60 euros per day, depending on the type of car and insurance requirements. Additional fuel and tolls also need to be calculated.
Ticket prices and booking platforms
The cost of renting a car varies depending on the rental company, car model, rental period and other factors, and the price range is usually between 35 euros and 60 euros. You can book through international car rental platforms such as Avis, Europcar, Sixt, or use third-party platforms such as Rentalcars and SunnyCars to compare prices and book.
Advantages and disadvantages
The biggest advantage of renting a car is the high degree of freedom. You can choose your favorite route and even stop in other cities or attractions along the way to enjoy the fun of the road. However, renting a car also has some disadvantages, the most important of which is that you need to pay attention to parking, especially in cities such as Brussels and Antwerp, where parking spaces are very tight and most places charge. In addition, self-driving travel requires a valid international driver’s license.
Suitable for people
Renting a car is very suitable for tourists who like to control their itinerary freely and enjoy the fun of self-driving. It is particularly suitable for families, couples or small groups, especially tourists who plan to play along the way.
5. Local commuter bus or subway + intercity train combination – suitable for tourists departing from the suburbs
For tourists living in the suburbs of Brussels, the combination of local buses or subways plus intercity trains is a convenient option. With the Brussels subway or bus, you can easily reach the train station in the city center, and then transfer to the intercity train to Antwerp. The overall time is usually between 1 hour and 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the ticket price is about 15 to 18 euros.
Fare and booking platform
You can buy a pass through MIVB/STIB (Brussels subway system). To ensure a smooth connection, you can check the specific train information and make a reservation through platforms such as Omio or Trainline.
Advantages and disadvantages
This combination is suitable for tourists living in the suburbs of Brussels or near the airport. It is not only convenient, but also relatively cheap. However, this method may require several transfers, which may be slightly inconvenient for tourists with large luggage.
Suitable for people
Suitable for those who live in the suburbs or have just arrived from Brussels Airport and plan to go directly to Antwerp.
There are many ways to travel from Brussels to Antwerp. Travelers can choose the most suitable mode of transportation according to their needs and budget. Whether you choose the fast and comfortable high-speed train, the economical long-distance bus, or the flexible and free carpooling and car rental, each mode has its unique advantages and suitable travel groups. Planning in advance and choosing the most suitable means of transportation will make your trip to Antwerp smoother and more enjoyable.
