Your Backpacking Guide: Paris to Aalst
How to Travel from Paris to Aalst?
To travel from Paris to Aalst, Belgium, backpackers typically choose between high-speed train, budget bus, or a rideshare service like BlaBlaCar. Each option offers a different balance of cost, speed, and convenience.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Paris to Aalst?
The cheapest way to travel from Paris to Aalst is often by bus, followed by a local train connection. Budget bus tickets from Paris to Brussels typically range from €15-€35, especially when booked 2-4 weeks in advance. From Brussels-Midi, a regional train to Aalst costs approximately €8-€10. Rideshare services like BlaBlaCar can sometimes offer comparable prices, typically €18-€30, but availability varies.
How long does it take to travel from Paris to Aalst?
The travel time from Paris to Aalst varies significantly by transport method. A high-speed train from Paris (Gare du Nord) to Brussels (Midi) takes around 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, followed by a 30-40 minute regional train from Brussels-Midi to Aalst, totaling approximately 2.5 hours. Budget buses from Paris to Brussels generally take 3.5 to 5 hours, with the subsequent train to Aalst adding another 30-40 minutes, for a total of 4-6 hours. Rideshares typically take around 3-4 hours for the direct journey.
How much does it cost to travel from Paris to Aalst?
Travel costs from Paris to Aalst can vary based on booking time and transport mode.
- Trains: High-speed train tickets from Paris to Brussels can start from €29-€60 when booked in advance, plus an additional €8-€10 for the regional train from Brussels to Aalst, totaling approximately €37-€70+. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead typically secures better rates.
- Buses: Budget bus tickets from Paris to Brussels range from €15-€35. Adding the €8-€10 regional train ticket from Brussels to Aalst, the total cost is roughly €23-€45.
- Rideshare: BlaBlaCar fares usually fall between €18-€30 for a direct trip.
Booking transport 2-4 weeks in advance can typically save 20-30% on train and bus fares. Use platforms like Omio or Trainline to compare options. For free amenities like public toilets or drinking fountains in both Paris and Aalst, consult AllInMap.
