Brussels airport transfers from Brussels Airport and Charleroi
Check your airport code before choosing a transfer. Brussels Airport has a railway station beneath the terminal, while Brussels South Charleroi Airport requires a road connection before you reach Brussels. Brussels-Central is convenient for the historic center; Brussels-Midi suits international trains and many Charleroi coach arrivals. Your accommodation's nearest stop matters more than simply reaching the first station.
The airports
- Brussels Airport (BRU)
- north-east of Brussels, roughly 15 to 20 minutes by train to Brussels-Central
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)
- south of Brussels, about an hour by direct coach to Brussels-Midi when traffic allows
Every way from the airport to Brussels
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TrainSNCB train | BRU | roughly 15 to 20 minutes to Brussels-Central | The Lower Town and onward rail connections |
| BusSTIB airport bus | BRU | allow about 30 to 45 minutes toward the European Quarter | Accommodation in the European Quarter |
| TaxiOfficial airport taxi | BRU | about 30 to 45 minutes to central Brussels, traffic permitting | Heavy luggage and a direct journey to your hotel |
| CoachFlibco direct coach | CRL | about an hour to Brussels-Midi, traffic permitting | A direct connection to Brussels-Midi |
| Bus and trainTEC bus and SNCB train | CRL | allow about 90 minutes to two hours, including the connection | Travelers continuing by train beyond Brussels |
| TaxiOfficial taxi or booked transfer | CRL | about an hour to central Brussels, traffic permitting | Groups and arrivals outside useful public transport |
How each one works
Train: SNCB train
Follow the train signs to the station beneath the terminal. Check the departure board for a service calling at Brussels-Central or Brussels-Midi. Buy a ticket at the machine or through SNCB, making sure it includes the required airport supplement.
Bus: STIB airport bus
Follow signs to the airport bus area and check the current STIB airport service and stops. This is useful for the European Quarter, with onward local connections if needed. Check STIB's airport ticket and contactless payment instructions before boarding.
Taxi: Official airport taxi
Use the official taxi rank outside arrivals and give the driver your full accommodation address. Confirm the charging arrangement before departure and ask whether card payment is accepted. Allow extra time during busy road traffic.
Coach: Flibco direct coach
Book through the operator or use its official ticket arrangements, then follow signs to the airport coach departure area. Check the current boarding instructions. From Brussels-Midi, continue by metro, tram or taxi according to your accommodation address.
Bus and train: TEC bus and SNCB train
Take the airport bus connection to Charleroi-Central, then a train toward Brussels. Check the current TEC and SNCB journey details before departure. Use the official combined ticket where available, or buy the required bus and rail tickets separately.
Taxi: Official taxi or booked transfer
Use the official taxi arrangements or reserve a transfer with clear collection instructions. Give your flight details and destination address when booking. Confirm whether the quote is a fixed fare and what happens if your flight is delayed.
Arriving late or leaving early
For late arrivals, check the final train or coach on the operator's official site before flying. Public transport does not run continuously through the night. For very early departures, compare a booked taxi with staying near the airport and allow time for terminal procedures.
Before you land
- Check BRU or CRL on your booking before buying a transfer ticket, as the two airports need different journeys.
- Choose Brussels-Central for the historic center when your train calls there, rather than automatically leaving at Brussels-Midi.
- Keep your airport rail ticket until you have passed all station gates, including those at Brussels Airport.
- Allow extra time for the Charleroi coach if your journey depends on an onward international train.
Questions people ask
Which Brussels airport has a direct train to the center?
Brussels Airport has a station beneath the terminal with trains to central Brussels. Charleroi Airport needs a coach or a bus connection to a railway station.
Is Brussels-Central the same station as Brussels-Midi?
No. Brussels-Central is closer to Grand Place, while Brussels-Midi handles Eurostar and other international trains and is a common arrival point for Charleroi coaches.
Can I use a normal city transport ticket from the airport?
Do not assume it covers the airport journey. Brussels Airport trains require an airport supplement, and airport buses have their own ticket rules.
What should I do if my flight arrives late?
Check the last useful service for your actual arrival time, allowing for baggage collection. If no connection remains, use an official taxi or booked transfer.