Getting to Ghent from Brussels Airport and Charleroi
Ghent arrivals commonly use Brussels Airport or Brussels South Charleroi Airport, and the difference matters when choosing transport. Brussels Airport has a railway station beneath the terminal, while Charleroi has a direct coach option to Ghent. Both public transport routes bring you to Gent-Sint-Pieters, where you still need to reach your accommodation.
The airports
- Brussels Airport (BRU)
- east of Ghent, about 45 to 55 minutes by direct train to Gent-Sint-Pieters, then onward transport
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)
- southeast of Ghent, about 70 minutes by direct coach to Gent-Sint-Pieters, then onward transport
Every way from the airport to Ghent
| How | Airport | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| TrainTrain to Gent-Sint-Pieters | BRU | about 45 to 55 minutes to Gent-Sint-Pieters | Most arrivals traveling during railway operating hours |
| TaxiAirport taxi or booked transfer | BRU | allow about an hour or longer in heavy traffic | Groups, heavy luggage and a direct hotel journey |
| CoachFlibco to Gent-Sint-Pieters | CRL | about 70 minutes to Gent-Sint-Pieters | A direct public transport link from Charleroi |
| TaxiBooked car transfer to Ghent | CRL | allow roughly 90 minutes, depending on traffic | Late arrivals and travelers needing door-to-door travel |
How each one works
Train: Train to Gent-Sint-Pieters
Follow signs to the railway station beneath the terminal. Use the departure planner to select a direct train to Gent-Sint-Pieters and buy a ticket through the official railway app, website or station machines. Check that the airport supplement is included.
Taxi: Airport taxi or booked transfer
Use the signed official taxi rank or arrange a pickup with a licensed transfer company. Give the full accommodation address and ask whether the car can reach its entrance. Confirm the fare or fixed fare before traveling.
Coach: Flibco to Gent-Sint-Pieters
Check the Flibco timetable for your landing time and buy through its official booking service. Follow your ticket's instructions for the airport boarding point. The coach ends at Gent-Sint-Pieters, so plan a separate tram, taxi or walk to your hotel.
Taxi: Booked car transfer to Ghent
Arrange a licensed car transfer with your flight details and accommodation address. Confirm the pickup instructions, luggage allowance and waiting policy before booking. Request the full fare in advance, especially if your arrival falls outside coach operating hours.
Arriving late or leaving early
Check the last usable departure before booking an evening flight, allowing for baggage collection. If your flight lands after public transport finishes, arrange a car transfer or stay near the airport. For an early departure, check the first service and the airline's required arrival time.
Before you land
- Search for Gent-Sint-Pieters when planning airport travel, then add the final journey to your hotel.
- Check De Lijn's current route planner for the tram from the station, since routes and stops can change.
- Allow around 35 minutes to walk from Gent-Sint-Pieters to Korenmarkt, with extra time for luggage.
- Keep your airport name visible when booking, since Brussels Airport and Charleroi require different transfers.
Getting to Ghent from Brussels Airport and Charleroi
Which airport is easier for reaching Ghent?
Brussels Airport offers a railway station beneath the terminal and direct trains to Gent-Sint-Pieters. Charleroi can also work well when its coach timetable matches your flight.
Does the airport train stop in Ghent's old center?
The direct airport train takes you to Gent-Sint-Pieters, south of the old center. Continue by tram or taxi, or allow around 35 minutes to walk.
Should I book the Charleroi coach ahead?
Check availability and book through the operator once your flight plans are firm. Read the ticket conditions to understand what happens if your flight is delayed.
Can a taxi take me directly to my hotel?
Give the driver your full address and ask about access before setting off. Pedestrian streets and vehicle restrictions may mean a short final walk with luggage.