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Want to find out more about taking the train from Brussels to Genk? Look no further.
You'll usually find 19 trains per day running between Brussels and Genk, which usually take 1 hour 40 minutes to complete the 81 km journey. It can take as little as 1 hour 38 minutes on the fastest services though, if you want to get there as quickly as possible. As soon as you board the train, you'll be able to make yourself comfortable and enjoy the journey as there are direct services available. You can travel on this route with SNCB, the main train operator in Belgium, who run modern comfortable Intercity and local trains to Genk.
You can save money on train tickets from Brussels to Genk if you book in advance, as tickets usually start from $24.33. Use our Journey Planner at the top of the page to compare ticket prices and get the cheapest fares.
Want to book your train tickets now? Just start a search with us today. If you want to find out more about the journey, read on for train schedules (including first and last train times), FAQs and tips on how to book cheap train tickets.
First train | 5:11 am | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 9:11 pm | |
Departure station | Brussels | |
Arrival station | Genk | |
Journey time | From 1h 38m | |
Distance | 51 miles (81 km) | |
Frequency | 19 trains per day | |
Changes | Direct trains available | |
Price | From $24.33 | |
Train and bus operators |
SNCB is the national railway company of Belgium, with services that include national (Intercity) and regional (Local) express trains. All SNCB trains come with both First Class and Second Class carriages. Belgium has one of the densest rail networks in the world. Seat reservations aren’t possible for any of the company's trains.
If you're traveling in Second Class, you'll find plenty of baggage storage and power outlets as standard. You can reserve your seat only if you buy a group ticket.
Upgrade to First Class and enjoy more legroom and comfortable seats. You can reserve your seat only if you buy a group ticket.
When traveling with SNCB, each passenger can take 3 items of baggage on board, as long as the total weight does not exceed 30kg (66.1 pounds). Once you’ve found your seat, you can stow your baggage in the space provided above and below your seat. You can take the following baggage on board for free:
Currently, SNCB does not offer a food and drink service. Although, you may bring food and drink with you to enjoy on the train.
SNCB offer free WiFi in their main stations, including Brussels Central, Bruges, Antwerp Central and more. Currently, SNCB do not offer WiFi onboard their trains.
As long as they are traveling with a person aged 12 or above with a valid ticket, children under 12 can travel for free without a ticket. However, please note that this only applies to a maximum of 4 children per passenger with a valid ticket. If you have any additional children traveling with you, they will need a half-price Kids Ticket.
Hoping to travel with your bike? You’ll need to add a Bike Supplement to your ticket. However, if you’re traveling with a folding bike, you don’t need to worry about paying. Bike Supplements are paid on top of your rail fare and cost €4 for a single journey.
When boarding, speak to the train conductor and they will tell you if there are spaces available and where you can put your bicycle. SNCB advise you not to travel with a bike at Peak times, because bicycle spaces may not be available.
Guide and assistance dogs
Travel is free for guide and assistance dogs. You won’t need to add a Pet Supplement to your ticket.
Pets
Pets are welcome to travel on SNCB trains if they are on a lead or in a small basket, cage or box. For animals on a lead, a Pet Supplement costs €3 for a single trip. If your pet is in a small basket, cage or box that is smaller than 30 x 55 x 30 cm (11.8 x 21.6 x 11.8 inches), you do not need to pay for a Pet Supplement. Finally, your pet is not allowed to sit on the seats or tables.
Passengers with reduced mobility should directly contact SNCB to make use of their free assistance service. You can take your wheelchair on board the train for free, regardless of whether or not you use the SNCB's free assistance service. If you are blind or partially sighted, you can take the train for free in 2nd class.
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Brussels to Genk by booking early.§
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.
The average journey time by train between Brussels and Genk is 1 hour and 40 minutes, with around 19 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
The fastest journey time by train from Brussels to Genk is 1 hour and 38 minutes.
Train tickets from Brussels to Genk can start from as little as $24.33 when you book in advance and are usually more expensive when purchased on the day. Prices can also vary depending the time of day, route and class you book.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Brussels to Genk without having to change trains. There are 17 direct trains from Brussels to Genk each day. Though there may be fewer direct services available depending on your exact departure date.
The first train from Brussels to Genk leaves at 05:11. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
The last train from Brussels to Genk leaves at 21:11. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
Trains travelling from Brussels to Genk cover a distance of around 51 miles (81 km) during the journey.
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Genk to Brussels.