2. Train
There are a few things you should know before taking the train with your bicycle. As Slowby is first starting in Belgium, this information is only valid for Belgian trains.
🚉 Accessibility
In Belgium, the accessibility of a train station can vary from one to another. Practically, this means that not every station will have elevators or ramps to take your bicycle up and down to the perron.
To be sure, make sure to have enough time (at least 15 minutes) before your train arrives.
Type of bicycles
Be careful, cargo bikes are not accepted on trains.
No bookings required
In Belgium, you don't need to book space for your bicycle(s) beforehand. You just need to pay for the bicycle fee (see section below).
Train stations not accessible by bicycle
Brussels-Centraal
Brussels-Congres
Brussels-Kapellekerk
🚲 Getting on & off the train
Type of train
In Belgium, not all trains have a wagon for bicycles yet.
S trains (local trains) usually have a specific wagon for bicycle and no stairs to get on train.
IC trains (longer trains) usually don't have one and have stairs to get on the train.
You can, of course, get on the IC train with your bicycles but you will most probably be standing in the hallway.
Getting on
⏱️ Arrive on time
Make sure to arrive on time at the station (at least 15 minutes before) so that you have time to buy your tickets and get on the perron (there might not be elevators). It's also best to avoid peak travel times to have enough space for your bicycles.
👋 Try to get the attention of the train controlleur
If you catch the eye of the controlleur, wave at them! They are usually nice and will make sure sure you have enough time to get on.
🚉 Position yourself and 3...2...1... onboard the train!
Position yourself in the middle of the perron, be very attentive when the train arrives in the station and try to find the bicycle wagon. Trains don't stop for long so best to hurry.
Extra tip: if you're getting on a IC train with stairs, it might be good to take off one bicycle pannier first so that your bicycle lighter to take off!
Getting off
Get ready in the hallway so you can easily get off.
✨ Train fares
For humans
Week
If your trip costs more than €9,6 one way, your best bet is to get a 10-journey pass from the SNCB/NMBS
For children under 12: free! You can travel with up to 4 children. They need to be travelling with you to have a free ticket. More information here.
Weekend
If you leave on Friday after 19:00 and come back the same weekend, you can get a half price train ticket! It has to be on the same train line though. More information here.
For bicycles
Your bicycle also need a ticket (€4 per way). It's free for folding bicycles.
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