For a detailed comparison in a handy table, see the bottom of this page. 

EC and ECD trains Netherlands–Brussels
In addition to the cross-border Eurostar high-speed trains, there are two other train types running between the Netherlands and Belgium, without seat reservations and with cheaper tickets than Eurostar.

1. Regular-speed EuroCity (EC): Rotterdam – Antwerp – Brussels, with multiple intermediate stops.
2. High-speed EuroCity Direct (ECD): Amsterdam – Schiphol (airport) – Rotterdam – Antwerp – Brussels, non-stop.

All tickets are available via our train planner. Neither train requires seat reservations, and Interrail passes are valid on both services, which run hourly.

Different ticket types are available: Flex is valid on any connection on the chosen day, Saver is only valid on the specific connection printed on your ticket. In both cases, seat reservations are not possible.

EuroCity trains offer comfortable 2+2 seating in second class and 2+1 seating in first class, with wider seats and a quieter atmosphere. Toilets and power sockets are available, but wifi is not. Catering is not available on board, but there are plenty of options at the stations.

EuroCity Direct operates with very modern trains featuring comfortable 2+2 seats in second class and 2+1 in first class, with wider seats and a quieter atmosphere. Almost every carriage has dedicated luggage spaces. Free wifi, power sockets at every seat, and multiple accessible toilets are available. Catering is not available on board, but stations offer a wide variety of options.