The distance from Paris to Brussels is approximately 190 miles (305 kilometers). The journey takes about one and a half to two hours by high-speed train and three and a half hours by car, making it convenient and quick to travel between these two vibrant European capitals.
What is the fastest way to get from Paris to Brussels?
Technically, the fastest way to get from Paris to Brussels is by train or flight, which takes about one and a half to two hours and three hours overall, including travel time to and from the station or airport. However, driving is a close second at three and a half hours, with far fewer moving parts and travel-related stress to endure.
Can you take a taxi from Paris to Brussels?
Hardly anyone chooses to take a taxi from Paris to Brussels because it is expensive. A taxi costs $322 to $429 (โฌ300-โฌ400) to cover a trip between the two cities. This is far more than driving, taking the bus, train, or flight costs.
How much is a train ticket from Paris to Brussels?
A train ticket from Paris to Brussels can cost as little as $32 (โฌ30) or as much as $107 (โฌ100), depending on whether you book a first- or second-class ticket. First-class tickets are more expensive, but you can access better amenities and often more comfortable seating areas.
Is Brussels worth a day trip from Paris?
For most people, Brussels is worth a day trip from Paris because the city offers stunning architecture, a rich history, renowned chocolatiers, gorgeous natural landscapes and parks, and incredibly memorable landmarks. We recommend a trip to the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the Market Square when you visit.
Paris and Brussels are complete contrasts. Paris is known for its legendary landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, romantic ambiance, and vibrant art scene. In contrast, Brussels is known for its chocolate, political institutions and buildings, and historic architecture. It might feel like traveling from Paris to Brussels is going from one extreme to the next, and in a way, this is the case, but that doesn't mean it's a bad thing.
Fans of politics, art, architecture, and delicious craft chocolates will find much to experience in Brussels. The city itself has a Eurocratic influence, but it offers much more with its quirky museums, beautiful plazas, and cultural attractions. Yet, before you experience this for yourself, you'll be driving by car with Daytrip, and there are many stops along the way.
There is Chateau de Chantilly, which has been well preserved to show you exactly how past kings lived, and Chateau de Compiegne, which was once the home of Napoleon, who had it decorated to his tastes. You can also visit Notre Dame de Loretta, a military cemetery that remembers the hundreds of thousands lost during the Great War, and Grand-Hornu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its visionary art.
These stops are but a sampling of what you can do when driving with an English-speaking professional Daytrip driver. With Daytrip, there is much to explore along the route, and your driver is just as excited as you to get to Brussels to begin your adventure.
About Brussels
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and is well known in travel circles for its history, politics, architecture, and chocolatiers. It captivates travelers with its charm and vibrant atmosphere. There is much to see and do, and visitors can expect to be wholly swept away by the city's captivating essence.
This city is located in the heart of Belgium along the River Senne. Its area is estimated to be 63 square miles, and despite its relatively small size, it is well populated. Recent estimates place the population of the Brussels-Capital Region at over 1.2 million people, which is significant considering that Belgium's entire population is just under 12 million residents. Brussels is also considered to be one of the most valuable cities on the European continent since it is home to the European Union and NATO.
Historically, Brussels became a prominent city with significant influence during the Middle Ages. During this era, travelers often stopped in Brussels to trade before continuing to other European powerhouses.
Brussels experienced significant growth under the Burgundians, and thanks to their rule, many of the city's Gothic churches now exist. Brussels underwent astronomical expansion from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.
Brussels became a center of innovation, literature, theater, architecture, and painting during this time. When you visit Brussels, you'll see these elements firsthand and realize why it's a city often visited by those looking for a melting pot of customs, cultures, and traditions framed by beautiful natural landscapes and interesting buildings, parks, and palaces.
From Paris to Brussels: travel tips
Traveling from Paris to Brussels will open many doors to travel destinations you have on your bucket list. However, you need to remember a few travel tips to enjoy these places.
### Make sure you double-check your airport
Few people realize that the two airports bear the name Brussels. There is Brussels South Charleroi and Brussels Airport, the latter being the older and bigger one.
Both airports service Brussels, but the original Brussels Airport is about 20 minutes away from the city center, while the other airport is an hour's drive from Brussels.
Often, low-cost carriers fly from Paris to Brussels South Charleroi Airport. So you need to keep this in mind when booking flights as it's common for travelers to mix up the two airports.
### Be prepared for adverse weather
Many people make the mistake of checking the weather in Brussels and places nearby along the way and basing their clothing choices on the weather report. You shouldn't do this.
The weather in Brussels and nearby cities is fickle, and the city itself is known for rain, from slight drizzles to heavy downpours. So it's best to pack a raincoat and umbrella just in case your travel plans outdoors are not derailed.
### Be careful what you plan on Mondays
If you have a string of things you want to do on Monday when traveling from Paris to Brussels, reconsider. Mondays in Brussels and many places along the way are an off day for many professionals, such as bakers, shop owners, and hairdressers.
The same goes for many restaurants and museums. Some will be open, but many are closed, so if you're most interested in touring museums and the local gastronomy, plan to travel on a different day.
How to get from Paris to Brussels
Since Paris and Brussels are major cities, completing a Paris-to-Brussels transfer is pretty easy. Several transportation options are available, and the one you choose will depend on your preferences. That's why we've shared a few of the popular options below.
### From Paris to Brussels by train
One of the fastest ways to travel from Paris to Brussels is by high-speed train. A high-speed train can travel the distance between the two cities in about an hour and a half to two hours. Eurostar, TGV, and Thalys are the most popular train lines offering these services.
However, the downside of train travel is that it can be expensive. On average, a ticket costs between $32 and $107 (โฌ30-โฌ100), if not more, if you choose to travel first class. Fortunately, there are direct routes, so you shouldn't encounter stops, but you won't be able to stop and sightsee along the way. Passing by beautiful scenery is the closest you'll get to seeing some of the amazing places along the route.
### From Paris to Brussels by private car transfer service
A private car transfer service is another popular option travelers choose when wanting to complete a Paris to Brussels transfer. Although there are several private car transfer services, Daytrip is often considered one of the best.
Daytrip's door-to-door service allows you to access luxury cars, luggage handling, professional English-speaking drivers, and pet-friendly cabins. You also get access to optional sightseeing stops along the way in places like Notre Dame de Lorette, Grand-Hornu, and Waterloo.
Booking with Daytrip is also easy and affordable, with per-seat pricing starting at $87 (โฌ81). The trip is also time-efficient. You can expect to get to Brussels in about three and a half hours. And what's even better is that you can choose when you travel!
### From Paris to Brussels by flight
A flight from Paris to Brussels takes about an hour, but you must remember the travel time to and from the airport. Then there is the time it takes to go through customs, check in, and wait if there are any delays.
The flight lines offering flights between these two cities are KLM, Brussels Airlines, and Air France. As can be expected, the ticket prices for flights can be expensive, with a ticket setting you back between $54 and $215 (โฌ50-โฌ200), if not more, if you book at the last minute.
### From Paris to Brussels by bus
There are several daily bus departures from Paris to Brussels, so travelers like you have flexible choices. However, considering the distance between the two cities, you can encounter transfers, adding travel time to your schedule.
This means the average trip length of about four to five hours can increase by as much as six or seven hours, depending on the route and traffic conditions. This is a long time to stay on a bus, and the low ticket cost of between $16 and $32 (โฌ15-โฌ30) might not be worth it.
However, if you decide bus travel is the best option, you can book with frequent service providers like BlaBlaBus, Flixbus, and Eurolines.
Things to do when you get to Brussels
A Paris to Brussels transfer is exciting, but what is there to do when you get to the city? You would be surprised. Brussels might not have the fame that Paris does, but this doesn't mean it's a city with little to offer travelers. To help you plan your travel itinerary, we have included a few of the best things to do when you get to this city.
### Grand Place
Many travelers believe the Grand Place to be Europe's most beautiful square, and we can't blame them. This square can be found in the heart of the historic part of Brussels, and it is surrounded by guild halls that are close to 40 Gothic-style and Baroque-style, alongside the magnificent Brussels Town Hall. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and when you visit, expect to walk on large cobblestone paving as you explore the architecture.
### Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert
The Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert in Brussels is not an art gallery but rather a shopping complex, and it's a must-visit. This shopping arcade, inaugurated in 1847, is one of Europe's oldest and most beautiful since it features a glass roof and three elegant Florentine-inspired arcades. Each shopping gallery has several upscale restaurants and shops, and millions visit annually.
### Brussels Royal Palace
Europe has many palaces, and you might think that if you've seen one, you've seen them all, but this is far from the truth. The Brussel Royal Palace is fronted by the picturesque Parc de Bruxelles. So not only is this 18th-century palace incredibly opulently beautiful on the inside, but the outside is just as stunning.
Even though it is no longer the official residence of the Belgian royal family, it is a landmark you should visit, especially if you want to get an inkling of what it is like when the royals host their state events here.
### Market Square
If you're looking for the most photogenic location in Brussels, you'll find it at Market Square. This medieval-style square is home to some of Brussels's most famous landmarks, like the Belfort and the Provinciaal Hof. It has numerous stunning building facades and an interesting statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck that you need to see if you're interested in history.
When is the best time to visit Brussels?
No matter when you travel from Bruges to Brussels, you can expect an unforgettable trip. Each season offers unique advantages, with the city hosting thousands of events suitable for all ages throughout the year.
For the best experience, we recommend visiting Brussels in the spring. The weather is mild and truly perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities from early April to late June. Additionally, there are fewer crowds compared to summer, allowing you to explore the cobblestone streets and narrow pathways more comfortably.
Fall, particularly September and October, also features mild temperatures and is an excellent time to visit. During this season, you can enjoy cheaper accommodation rates and less crowded landmarks and attractions, making it an excellent alternative for budget-conscious travelers.
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Chateau de Chantilly
This gorgeous chateau has hosted several kings, and has been preserved exactly as its last owner left it.ย Water and Whimsyย
Chateau de Compiegne
Napoleon had this enormous royal palace redecorated to suit his vision of luxury.ย Imperial Visionย
Notre Dame de Lorette
This moving military cemetery remembers the hundreds of thousands who fell in the Great War, and wars after.ย Remembering the Lostย
Grand-Hornu
This UNESCO World Heritage Site was a visionary industrial city, and now houses a visionary art and design museum.ย Visionary Designย
Strepy Thieu boat lift
This marvel of engineering transports boats, water and all, 73 vertical meters.ย An Elevator for Boatsย
Waterloo
In 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte was finally defeated on this fateful battlefield.ย That Fateful Fightย
