Train only popular for half of the Belgians

Almost half of Belgians, 47%, never take the train, according to the survey ‘Accessibility of transport in Belgium 2024’ by the Federal Public Service Mobility. The same goes for the bus: 44% of Belgians never take the bus.

Although more than eight in 10 respondents regularly use the car every week (82%), only one in 10 also uses public transport often. Consequently, it is not surprising that there were never more traffic jams on Belgian roads and on Flemish motorways in particular last year.

18% use tram or bus weekly

A third of Belgians take the train at least a few days a year, 8% a few days a month, and 1% at least once a week. Over a quarter of respondents say they use the metro, tram, or bus a few days a year, 10% a few days a month, and 18% weekly.

A logical consequence of this mobility use is that last year, from November 2023 to October 2024, the traffic jam heaviness on Flemish motorways was 928 km hours per working day on average. Never has congestion heaviness been so high, although the heavy rainfall this year and the many road works also play a role.

One in five experience problems using public transport

More than one in five Belgians also experience minor or major public transport issues. That figure can go up to 74% for people who need (temporary) help getting around due to a wheelchair or crutches.

For half of those surveyed, traveling with young children (up to 3 years old) or animals is difficult or very difficult. More women than men say they find it difficult to travel with children, groceries, or suitcases.

Also noticeable: 52% of respondents have problems remembering, 45% have issues concentrating, and 36%, or more than one in three, have problems walking (distance).

Research firm iVOX conducted the survey online between 17 July and 1 August this year with a panel of 2,000 respondents representative of the Belgian population.