Brussels Airport BRU: Departures and guide

Flying from/to Brussels Airport

Plan your journey from/to Brussels Airport by finding out which transport links are available upon arrival—whether its an airport transfer by bus or a local train which gets you to where you need to be. We recommend booking your ticket with Omio.

Travel from Brussels city center to Brussels Airports

Belgium may be small, and famous mostly for its chocolate, but this small coastal nation has also gifted the world some of the most long-lasting art, architecture and beloved beer breweries. Luckily, for a city founded in 979, getting around Brussels is easy. Brussels has an excellent system of public transportation that includes subway lines, trams, buses, trains and waterbuses. There are a few companies managing Brussels public transportation, but they form a seamless route from the city center to the airport. Cars, car rideshare apps and taxis are additionally available, but are no faster than public transportation along this route. Brussels has a rideshare app called Poppy available for download which accommodates travel to and from the airport to Brussels and Antwerp.

What's the best way to get to the Brussels Airport from Brussels city center?

The best way to get to Brussels Airport from Brussels city center is by bus or train. The bus STIB Airport line picks up passengers from the European Quarter, which is near uptown Brussels. The walk from Brussels city center to this station is roughly 30 minutes, but involves some elevation. Trains are a more convenient option for travelers with heavy luggage, or families. There are six trains each hour between the airport and the city center, and the station is located directly under the airport. The train ride comprises two stops, and is with the Intercity Direct. 

How far is it from Brussels city center to Brussels Airport?

Brussels Airport sits just over eight miles (13 kilometers) northeast of Brussels city center. The train ride begins at Brussels Central, the city's main railway station, and takes passengers to the airport's train station right under the airport itself, with a duration of 17 to 20 minutes. The Central train station is just under half a mile (0.8 kilometers) from Brussels city center, and takes 10 minutes to walk. For passengers with heavy luggage or limited mobility, there are numerous buses from the centrally located bus stop of De Brouckere to Brussels Central station, including bus numbers 1, 5, 29, 66, and 71. 

What facilities are there at Brussels Airport?

Passengers have their choice of a range of cafes, bars, restaurants and fast-food at Brussels Airport. Whether you are traveling solo or with friends or family, there is a suitable option available for your needs, and numerous cuisines are on offer for travelers of all backgrounds, including sushi and Asian as well as Belgian and Italian. There are shops for souvenirs and Belgian chocolate, as well as luxury and commercial fashion stores. Unlimited free WiFi and various relaxing lounges are on offer for travelers looking for the ultimate airport experience.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Brussels Airport has dedicated parking spaces for disabled drivers or car passengers. Once at the airport, there are intercoms available for passengers unable to reach the check-in desks themselves. Otherwise, assistance can be arranged at the reception desk for Special Assistance, but the airport must be made aware of such passengers' needs at least 48 hours ahead of time, in order to adequately prepare. Passengers traveling should ideally let the airport know when the flight is booked, and the airport will provide assistance all the way onto the plane. Trains rather than buses are more suitable for travelers with limited mobility, as they involve less walking from the city center to the station. 

How to travel to Brussels Airport like a local

Brussels locals take the train from the city center to the airport, making their journey stress-free with no concerns about traffic or parking costs. The car rideshare app Poppy has been gaining popularity with locals as a way to avoid the inconvenience of airport parking while still being able to travel on their own schedule.  Locals take advantage of the airport's cafe and dining options to socialize with travel companions while waiting for a flight. Locals who are stretched for time but want to snap up great airport deals can do so via the airport's online shopping facilities, which allow for pick-up upon departure or arrival at Brussels Airport.