How long do we need to change trains in Brussels (midi) going from Paris to Bruges? and returning through Lille? The RailEurope ticket search only allows 18 minutes going for the change at Brussels and only 8 minutes at Lille (Flanders) on the return trip. We aren't young and have luggage. Is this doable?
Posted by
Colorado Springs
334 posts
I sent a message directly to the Rick Steves travel folks with Rail Pass questions and they were very helpful. Generally you can use the non-reserved part(i.e. Brussels-Bruges segment) on a later train if you miss the one you are scheduled for (sometimes they don't even have a time printed, just a date and destination). This is more problematic coming back through Lille since the second train is the part you have to reserve, but again, you should be able to take an earlier train from Bruges. Check with RS and/or Rail Europe. Also, if you want to reserve with Rail Europe, call them and they maybe they are able to pick specific trains rather than the generic web offerings.