Upon arrival at Brussels Airport, there are numerous options for getting to the city, depending on your budget and needs. Taxi, private transfer, shared transfer, and public transport are all viable options. In this article, we will review the options so you can choose the most convenient and suitable method.
Official taxi ranks are generally located at the airport terminals, clearly marked. Taxis usually operate on a meter, but it is advisable to ask the driver for an estimated fare before starting your journey. A taxi to the Brussels city center usually takes 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare can be between 25-40 EUR, depending on the distance and time of day.
A private transfer involves traveling in a pre-booked vehicle, where the driver will wait for you at the airport. Meeting points are agreed upon during booking, usually in the baggage claim area or at the terminal exit. It is important to confirm the driver's name and vehicle type upon arrival. The price of a private transfer is usually fixed and includes all costs. A private transfer to the city center takes approximately 20-35 minutes and can cost 40-60 EUR.
A shared transfer is a more cost-effective solution, especially if you are traveling alone or in a small group. Minibuses carry multiple passengers and stop at several locations before reaching your final destination. Therefore, a shared transfer usually takes longer than a taxi or private transfer. A shared transfer to the city center can take 40-60 minutes and cost 15-25 EUR.
Brussels Airport is well connected to the city's public transport network. The train is the fastest way to get to the city, taking only 15-20 minutes to the central station. The metro and bus are also available, but these usually require a longer journey. Public transport is the cheapest solution, but it can be crowded, especially during peak hours.
The duration of the journey to the city can be affected by several factors, including traffic, time of day, and the amount of luggage. Traffic can significantly slow down travel during morning and evening rush hour.
| Mode of Transport | Duration (approx.) | Price (approx. EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 20-40 minutes | 25-40 |
| Private Transfer | 20-35 minutes | 40-60 |
| Shared Transfer | 40-60 minutes | 15-25 |
| Train/Metro | 15-30 minutes | 8-15 |
| Bus | 30-60 minutes | 5-10 |
Durations and prices may vary depending on traffic and season.
Popular destinations from Brussels Airport: Brussels city center, Leuven, Antwerp and Bruges.
Taxi ranks are generally located at the terminal exits, clearly marked.
A taxi to the city center usually takes 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
A private transfer is a pre-booked, fixed-price service, while a taxi operates on a meter.
If you are traveling alone or in a small group and cost-effectiveness is important to you.
The train usually takes 15-20 minutes to reach the central station.
A private transfer usually costs between 40-60 EUR.
The meeting point is agreed upon during booking, usually in the baggage claim area.
Most taxis accept both cash and credit cards.
Distance, time of day, traffic and the type of service chosen can affect the price.
In this case, a private transfer or taxi may be the most convenient solution.
You can get to Leuven by train or taxi from the airport.