Train Categories in Europe - Belgium (NMBS/SNCB)

Belgium (NMBS/SNCB)

InterCity (IC)

A train connecting Belgium's major cities. These trains stop at the most important stations only, sometimes crossing national borders as well.

InterRegio (IR)

A train connecting Belgium's major cities with smaller cities. These trains generally skip smaller stations. Comparable to German Regional-Express

Piekuurtrein/rush-hour train (P)

Additional scheduled train service that is limited to times at which the demand for a certain route is at its highest. The number of stops varies between trains.

Lokale trein/local train (L)

Local trains usually connect larger cities, but will stop at (nearly) every station along the way. Similar to German Regionalbahn

CityRail (CR)

Suburban train connecting towns and cities around Brussels. Stops at (nearly) every station.

Tourist train (ICT)

Additional scheduled train service that is limited to times at which the demand for a certain touristic destination is at its highest. The number of stops varies between trains.

Extra train

Additional train service, used in case of exceptionally good weather to accommodate more passengers on routes to the coast or in case of special events such as concerts.

Eurocity (EC)

International train meeting certain quality criteria.

International train (INT)

Regular international train.

Fyra

High-speed trains to The Netherlands. (operated by NS)

Thalys (THA)

High-speed trains to Germany, France and The Netherlands. (operated by SNCF, DB, NS and NMBS)

TGV

High-speed trains to France. (Operated by SNCF)

ICE

High-speed trains to Germany. (Operated by DB)

Eurostar (EST)

High-speed trains to France and the UK. (operated by SNCF, NMBS and Eurostar UK Ltd.)