General
Rules
Transport
Bike culture
General
Belgium, a small yet culturally rich nation in Western Europe, unfolds as a tapestry of medieval cities, vibrant arts, and culinary delights. Brimming with historical significance, Brussels, the capital, hosts the European Union headquarters and is adorned with grand architecture like the Atomium. Ghent and Bruges enchant with well-preserved medieval structures, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals, offering a glimpse into the country’s past.
Famed for its chocolates, waffles, and a diverse beer culture, Belgium indulges the senses. The Ardennes, a hilly region in the south, invites nature lovers to explore dense forests and charming villages. Belgium’s cycling heritage is ingrained in its culture, with a network of cycling paths connecting cities and countryside. The flat, cyclist-friendly landscapes of Flanders contrast with the rolling hills of Wallonia, providing diverse terrains for biking enthusiasts.
Belgium hosts major cycling events, including the iconic Tour of Flanders, reflecting the nation’s passion for the sport. Whether navigating urban streets adorned with comic book murals or pedaling through bucolic landscapes, Belgium promises a delightful blend of history, art, and culinary excellence.
Transport
General Rules for Bikes on Trains in Belgium
On SNCB trains, bicycles can be carried with the purchase of a supplementary bike ticket. Regular bikes require a Bike Card (Carte Vélo) costing €5 for a single journey or a Day Pass for €8 if multiple journeys are planned on the same day. These tickets allow you to take your bike on any national train throughout Belgium (Belgian Train).
Train Types and Bike Storage
Most trains have specific spaces designated for bicycles. On some older trains, bikes are stored in a separate compartment, while newer models, like the Siemens trainsets, provide a multifunctional area where bikes can be secured against the wall. On certain regional routes, such as from Liège to Luxembourg, specific arrangements may need to be made with the conductor due to limited space.
Special Conditions
If space is not available or if it’s a particularly busy route, you might need to store your bike in less conventional spaces within the train, such as vestibules at the ends of coaches. Always check with the conductor upon boarding to ensure proper storage and compliance with safety regulations.
International Trains
For international travel, such as on Thalys or Eurostar services, different rules apply. Generally, bikes must be packed in a bike bag with the front wheel removed. The dimensions of this bag should typically not exceed 120 x 90 cm. Folding bikes that can be compacted into a small size are treated as regular luggage and can be taken on board without additional fees.
Peak Hours and Restrictions
SNCB advises against taking non-folded bikes on trains during peak hours due to space constraints. If you’re using a folding bike, it can be carried like any other hand luggage without an extra fee.
Buying Tickets and Planning Your Trip
You can purchase bike tickets at station ticket offices, through ticket vending machines, or online. For those planning to incorporate cycling into their travel around Belgium, it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance and check train capacities for bikes, especially if traveling in a group.
For more detailed information on the rules and to purchase a ticket online, you can visit the SNCB official website and the specific page for bike transport rules.
This summary should provide cyclists with the essential information needed to travel smoothly with bikes on Belgian trains, catering to both local commutes and international journeys.
Bike Culture
Belgium’s cycling culture thrives on a well-maintained network of paths, catering to both leisure riders and avid cyclists. The country, steeped in a rich cycling history, embraces the sport with a passion reflected in its infrastructure. Smooth, paved cycle roads wind through picturesque landscapes, providing an idyllic backdrop for exploration.
The cycling experience in Belgium extends beyond cityscapes, with unpaved routes leading through charming rural areas. Renowned for its flat expanses in Flanders and undulating terrains in Wallonia, the diverse landscapes pose both scenic and physical challenges. Belgium’s cycling heritage is immortalized in prestigious races like the Tour of Flanders, attracting cycling enthusiasts from around the globe.
Cyclists are generally treated with respect on Belgian roads, fostering a cycling-friendly atmosphere. However, the challenging cobblestone sections, particularly in iconic races, add an extra layer of difficulty and excitement. Whether navigating historic cities or conquering hilly terrains, Belgium offers a cycling haven where the fusion of tradition, landscape, and road quality creates an immersive and rewarding experience for cyclists of all levels.
