- Must visit
Musées royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique
Major fine arts museum complex covering Old Masters, modern art, and Belgian highlights in the city center.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$12
Average price
$12
Fastest journey
17 m
Average duration
17 m
Trains per day
36
Distance
11 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.
Fast trains
Of the 36 trains that leave Brussels National Airport for Brussels-Central on Sun, Jun 21, 36 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 11 km distance in an average of 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 17 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 17 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
22319:57 AM0h18Brussels National Airport10:15 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers- 193311:42 AM0h23Brussels National Airport12:05 PMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 37298:30 AM0h17Brussels National Airport8:47 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 223311:57 AM0h18Brussels National Airport12:15 PMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 373110:30 AM0h17Brussels National Airport10:47 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 37298:30 AM0h17Brussels National Airport8:47 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 373110:30 AM0h17Brussels National Airport10:47 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 373211:30 AM0h17Brussels National Airport11:47 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 37309:30 AM0h17Brussels National Airport9:47 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
- 374512:30 AM0h17Brussels National Airport12:47 AMBrussels-Central$121One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $5, and a train costs an average of $12.
Distance: 6 miles (11 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$14 Average price | $8 Average price Cheapest | $3 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
48m Average total duration Fastest 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 57m Average total duration 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central is a bus with an average price of $8 (€7).
This is compared to other travel options from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central costing on average $14 (€12).
The fastest way to travel from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central is by train with an average journey time of 18m.
Other travel options to Brussels-Central take longer:
Bus takes on average 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Brussels National Airport and Brussels-Central including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 5m sooner (18m by train vs 23m by car). Tickets start at around $14 (€12) compared to roughly $3 (€3) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Intercity, EuroCity, SNCB.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central train times
The table below shows live departures for Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2244 | 10:57 PM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 11:15 PM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2346 | 11:13 PM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 11:31 PM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3744 | 11:30 PM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 11:47 PM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1945 | 11:42 PM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 12:05 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
 9272 | 11:54 PM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 12:12 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3745 | 12:30 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 12:47 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1927 | 5:42 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 6:05 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2227 | 5:57 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 6:15 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2329 | 6:13 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 6:31 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3727 | 6:30 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 6:47 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1928 | 6:42 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 7:05 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2228 | 6:57 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 7:15 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2330 | 7:13 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 7:31 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2829 | 7:24 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 7:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3728 | 7:30 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 7:47 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1929 | 7:42 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 8:05 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2229 | 7:57 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 8:15 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2331 | 8:13 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 8:31 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2830 | 8:24 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 8:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3729 | 8:30 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 8:47 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1930 | 8:42 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 9:05 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9212 | 8:54 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 9:12 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2230 | 8:57 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 9:15 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2332 | 9:13 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 9:31 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2831 | 9:24 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 9:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3730 | 9:30 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 9:47 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1931 | 9:42 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 10:05 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9216 | 9:54 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 10:12 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2231 | 9:57 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 10:15 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2333 | 10:13 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 10:31 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2832 | 10:24 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 10:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3731 | 10:30 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 10:47 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1932 | 10:42 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 11:05 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9220 | 10:54 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 11:12 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2232 | 10:57 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 11:15 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2334 | 11:13 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 11:31 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2833 | 11:24 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 11:42 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3732 | 11:30 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h17 | 11:47 AM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1933 | 11:42 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h23 | 12:05 PM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9224 | 11:54 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 12:12 PM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2233 | 11:57 AM Brussels National Airport | 0h18 | 12:15 PM Brussels-Central | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as EuroCity or SNCB offer trains services from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of EuroCity or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Intercity with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central run on average 16 times per day, taking around 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 (€10) but you can travel from only $5 (€4) by bus.
There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:30, the last at 22:42. The fastest train covers the 6 miles (11 km) distance in 17m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $5 (€4)
Distance 6 miles (11 km) |
Average train duration 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€10) |
Trains per day 16 |
Direct trains 16 |
Fastest train 17m |
First train 6:30 AM |
Last train 10:42 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $5 (€4)
Train companies: Intercity, EuroCity, SNCB from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central trainsIntercity, EuroCity, SNCB trains will get you between Brussels National Airport and Brussels-Central from $5 (€4). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
Intercity frequency
15 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
EuroCity
About
EuroCity (EC) is an international train category and brand for inter-city trains that cross international borders within Europe. These trains are a collaboration between various European rail companies, including Deutsche Bahn (Germany), Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), and ÖBB (Austria). EuroCity trains connect major cities across Europe, offering both first and second-class coaches. They are known for meeting specific criteria for comfort, speed, cleanliness, and onboard food service, including air-conditioned cars and dining facilities. EuroCity services aim to provide convenient and comfortable cross-border travel, with stops typically lasting no more than 5 to 15 minutes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
18m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€10)
EuroCity frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage per passenger
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car or bistro service available on most routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended, available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
17m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
SNCB frequency
50 a day
Complete guide to Brussels
Things to do in Brussels
Discover the best of Brussels — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brussels trip today.
- Must visit
Musée Magritte Museum
Leading museum dedicated to René Magritte, with the world’s largest collection of the surrealist artist’s works.
- Must visit
Musical Instruments Museum
Outstanding collection of instruments from around the world, housed in a landmark Art Nouveau building.
- Must visit
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Historic covered shopping arcade with elegant architecture, cafés, and a refined promenade atmosphere.
- Recommended
Mont des Arts Garden
Popular landscaped viewpoint and walking area with one of the best postcard views in central Brussels.
- Recommended
Place du Grand Sablon
Elegant square known for antique shops, heritage surroundings, and a polished local atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Moules-Frites
Mussels steamed with white wine, herbs, or cream and served with fries. It is one of Brussels' most iconic and widely loved traditional meals.
Carbonnade Flamande
A rich Flemish beef and beer stew, slowly cooked until tender. It reflects Belgium's strong beer and brasserie culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A comforting mashed potato dish mixed with seasonal vegetables, often served with sausage or meat. It is a classic Brussels home-style staple.
Comme Chez Soi
One of Brussels' most famous fine dining institutions, known for elegant French-Belgian cuisine and a historic Art Nouveau setting.
Nüetnigenough
Well-regarded Belgian eatery serving refined traditional dishes and strong beer pairings in a cozy central dining room.
Fin de Siècle
Popular old-school Belgian restaurant known for generous portions, carbonnade, stoemp, and a bustling local atmosphere.
Euro
Moderate for Western Europe. Budget eats are reasonable, but hotels and central restaurants cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for fries, kebab, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-45 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- EUR 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Rounding up or leaving EUR 1-5 is appreciated for good service. Taxis are often rounded up; tipping is optional in cafes and bars.
STIB-MIVB
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.60 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.40 EUR
To the city center
Brussels-Central, Brussels -> Grand-Place, Brussels
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted directly on STIB-MIVB buses, trams, and metro through tap-in validation.
- Brussels-Central is already in the center, so many key sights are reachable on foot and a ticket may not be necessary.
FAQs: Trains from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Brussels-Central, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12 (€10), while the average price is around $14 (€12).
The train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central takes 17m and runs 16 per day.
The distance by train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central is 6 miles (11 km).
The first train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central leaves at 6:30 AM.
The last train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central leaves at 10:42 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central.
Yes, there is a direct train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central. This service operates 16 times per day, provided by Intercity, EuroCity, SNCB.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central.
The cheapest way to get from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central is by bus, with a cost of around $5 (€4).
The train journey from Brussels Airport-Zaventem to Bruxelles-Central is not particularly scenic, as it primarily travels through urban and suburban areas with views of the cityscape and infrastructure.
Yes, a day trip from Brussels Airport-Zaventem to Bruxelles-Central is feasible with a travel time of 17m and a distance of 6 miles (11 km). Trains run frequently with 10 trips per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central.
Since both Brussels National Airport and Brussels-Central are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Brussels-Central include Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Cologne, Rotterdam.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular train connections from Brussels National Airport
More options for your journey from Brussels National Airport to Brussels-Central
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brussels-Central and Brussels National Airport
HomeTrainsTrains in BelgiumTrain Times to Brussels-CentralBrussels National Airport to Brussels-Central train
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