Christmas Market Special Train to Bruges — PFT-TSP

PFT-TSP, the Belgian heritage railway association Patrimoine Ferroviaire et Tourisme – Toerisme en Spoorpatrimonium, runs a festive vintage special train to the Christmas atmosphere of Bruges. The Bruges trip leaves from Namur and calls at Charleroi Central, Mons, Saint-Ghislain and Tournai before reaching Brugge, with a return the same evening.

The operator describes Bruges in December with illuminated historic facades, medieval streets, canals, fir trees and Christmas chalets: markets and gift ideas, lights, a skating rink and winter activities, chocolates and local specialities. Passengers explore the city freely; the operator's pitch is that there is no car, no traffic jam and no parking to deal with.

The operator also promotes its disco bar car SR3 for a drink or a few dance steps. It says the car, originally an I10 coach converted to a bar car, is not used in regular service but often runs on special trips such as festivals; it has a bar, a music system, a lounge area and a dance floor. The operator states that the make-up of the train may change.

A full day out by vintage special train to Bruges, with time in the city for the Christmas markets between the outward and the return trains. The operator promotes a disco bar car on board and an optional aperitif pack that must be booked in advance. The city is explored independently: the ticket covers the return rail journey.

Boards first at Namur, then at Charleroi Central, Mons, Saint-Ghislain and Tournai. Reservation is compulsory. The ticket includes the return rail journey to Bruges. Teenagers and children need proof of age; children up to three years old travel free. Holders of the operator's "En Lignes" season pass receive a discount. Booking fees are added to the ticket price, and an optional aperitif pack can be added. Tickets can be cancelled up to seven days before the trip for a full refund. The operator may change timetables, route, stops, train make-up or equipment for technical, operational or safety reasons; photo stops outside stations may be offered. Questions: reseaunationaal@pfttsp.be.