Practical Backpacker Guide: London to Bruges
How to Travel from London to Bruges?
The most common budget ways to travel from London to Bruges are by bus-ferry/shuttle combination or by train. For train travel, backpackers typically take the Eurostar from London St Pancras International to Brussels Midi, then transfer to a local Belgian train to Bruges. Bus services, such as FlixBus, often connect London with Brussels, sometimes involving a ferry or Eurotunnel shuttle, and require an onward connection to Bruges.
What is the Cheapest Way to Get from London to Bruges?
Typically, a bus service combined with a ferry or Eurotunnel shuttle is the most budget-friendly option. Bus fares from London to Brussels (with an estimated onward connection to Bruges costing an additional €10-€15 for a local train) can range from an estimated €25-€40, depending on booking time and demand. This option often involves a longer travel time of 7-10+ hours. Booking 2-3 weeks in advance typically yields savings of 20-30% on bus tickets.
How Long Does it Take to Travel from London to Bruges?
Travel time varies significantly by mode; trains are generally faster than buses for this route. A train journey via Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels Midi takes approximately 2 hours, followed by a regional train from Brussels Midi to Bruges, which takes around 1 hour. The total train travel time is roughly 3.5-4 hours including transfer time. Bus journeys, including transfers and border crossings, can take 7-10+ hours.
What are General Booking Tips for Budget Travel from London to Bruges?
Booking in advance, being flexible with dates, and considering off-peak travel are key to securing lower prices. It’s advisable to purchase tickets for both trains and buses at least 2-3 weeks ahead to secure better fares. Mid-week travel (Tuesdays-Thursdays) often offers cheaper options than weekends. For trains, Eurostar tickets typically start from an estimated €50-€80 for advance bookings to Brussels, plus an additional estimated €15-€25 for the regional train to Bruges. Don’t forget to use AllInMap to find free amenities and budget-friendly spots in both London and Bruges to save extra cash.
