OUIGO, established in 2013, offers train tickets to ride to 60-plus destinations in France and Spain in either high-speed trains (colored bright blue) or classic trains (colored a vibrant pink). The tickets range in price between $10.50 (€10) and $51.50 (€49) in France, and start at $9.45 (€9) in Spain, even when booked at the last minute.
To keep costs down, OUIGO trains only offer no-frills, second-class seats and do not have café/restaurant cars. Travelers also need to pay extra if they want to select a seat, bring more than one piece of luggage, or use an electric outlet during the journey. OUIGO’s rolling stock consists of old SNCF cars that have been refitted, but they remain clean and comfortable, even during long rides.
While OUIGO used to operate only in France and Spain, starting December 19, 2024, it will run three daily trains between Paris Gare du Nord in France, and Brussels Midi in Belgium. As per its ethos, the rail operator will keep the prices low and offer tickets that range between $10.50 (€10) and $62 (€59). An extra piece of luggage is even included in the price.
The route between Paris and Brussels will be operated by a OUIGO classic train, not a high-speed train, and take a little over three hours. The train will only make three intermediary stops in Creil, Aulnoye-Aymeries, and Mons.
OUIGO’s new route will provide a much more affordable option to travelers who, until then had to rely on high-speed rail operator Eurostar (formerly Thalis) to travel directly between the two cities. A ride onboard the Eurostar between Paris and Brussels starts at $35.75 (€34) and can reach $195.60 (€186). 