Everything you need to know about getting from Belgium airports to your destination – simple, cheap, and stress-free.
Planning your trip to Belgium and wondering how to get from the airport to your hotel? Don’t worry! This guide covers all your options, from cheap shared shuttles to private transfers. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a large group, we’ll help you find the best way to reach your destination.
Main Belgium Airports
Belgium has several airports, but these are the main ones you’ll likely use:
Brussels Airport (BRU) – The biggest and busiest airport
- Located 12 km from Brussels city center
- Also called Zaventem Airport
- Most international flights arrive here
Brussels South Airport (CRL) – Budget airlines hub
- Also called Charleroi Airport
- Located 60 km from Brussels
- Popular with Ryanair and other budget airlines
Other airports: Antwerp, Liège, and Ostend serve smaller regional flights.
Transportation Options from Brussels Airport
1. Airport Train (Cheapest Option)
Price: €4-9 per person
Time: 15-20 minutes to Brussels Central Station
The train is the cheapest way to get to Brussels city center. Trains run every 15 minutes during the day. You can buy tickets at machines in the airport or online.
Good for: Budget travelers, people with light luggage Not good for: Large groups, lots of luggage
2. Airport Bus
Price: €5-12 per person
Time: 30-45 minutes depending on traffic
Several bus companies run from Brussels Airport to different parts of the city. Buses are comfortable and have space for luggage.
Good for: Budget travelers, people going to specific neighborhoods
Not good for: People in a hurry
3. Taxi
Price: €45-60 for up to 4 people
Time: 20-30 minutes depending on traffic
Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport. The price is fixed, so you don’t have to worry about the meter. You can pay by cash or card.
Good for: Small groups, people with lots of luggage, late-night arrivals
Not good for: Budget travelers, large groups
4. Private Transfer
Price: €50-80 depending on group size
Time: 20-30 minutes
Private transfers are like taxis, but you book them in advance. Your driver will wait for you at the airport with a sign with your name.
Good for: Business travelers, families, people who want comfort
Not good for: Budget travelers
5. Rent a Bus / Charter Bus (Best for Groups)
Price: €200-400 per day (split among group members)
Time: Direct to your destination
If you’re traveling with a large group (15+ people), renting a bus or charter bus is often the most practical and economical option. Charter bus companies in Belgium offer comfortable vehicles with professional drivers.
Good for: Large groups, corporate trips, multi-day tours
Not good for: Solo travelers, small groups
Transportation from Brussels South Airport (Charleroi)
Charleroi Airport is much farther from Brussels, so your options are different:
1. Airport Shuttle Bus
Price: €17-22 per person
Time: 60-75 minutes
Special shuttle buses run directly from Charleroi Airport to Brussels city center. You need to book in advance online for the best prices.
2. Train + Bus Combination
Price: €15-20 per person
Time: 90-120 minutes
Take a shuttle bus to Charleroi train station, then take the train to Brussels. This takes longer but costs less.
3. Private Transfer
Price: €120-150 for up to 4 people
Time: 60 minutes
Private transfers from Charleroi are more expensive because of the distance, but they’re much more comfortable than public transport.
4. Charter Bus for Groups
Price: €300-500 (depending on group size)
Time: 60 minutes direct
For groups of 20+ people, charter bus services offer the best value. Professional drivers know the best routes and can take you directly to your hotel or destination.
Best Options for Different Group Sizes
Solo Travelers or Couples
- Budget choice: Train (from Brussels Airport) or shuttle bus (from Charleroi)
- Comfort choice: Private transfer or taxi
Small Groups (3-8 people)
- Budget choice: Train or bus
- Comfort choice: Large taxi or minivan transfer
Large Groups (9-20 people)
- Best choice: Rent a minibus with driver
- Budget choice: Split into smaller groups and take taxis
Very Large Groups (20+ people)
- Only practical choice: Charter bus Belgium service
- Benefits: Everyone travels together, direct to destination, cost-effective per person
Charter Bus Belgium: Perfect for Group Travel
If you’re planning a trip with a large group, charter bus rental in Belgium is often your best option. Here’s why:
Advantages of Charter Bus Services:
- Everyone travels together – no one gets lost
- Direct transport to your destination
- Professional, licensed drivers who know the roads
- Comfortable, modern vehicles
- Often cheaper per person than multiple taxis
- Perfect for corporate groups, school trips, or large families
When to Choose Charter Bus:
- Groups of 15+ people
- Multi-day trips visiting several cities
- Corporate events or conferences
- Wedding parties or celebrations
- School or university groups
What’s Included:
- Professional driver
- Fuel and tolls
- Modern, air-conditioned bus
- Storage for luggage
- 24/7 customer support
Many charter bus companies in Belgium also offer airport pickup services. They can meet your group at the airport and take you directly to your hotel, conference center, or other destination. This is especially useful for corporate groups or organized tours.
For large group airport transfers, charter bus Belgium services provide reliable, comfortable transportation that eliminates the stress of coordinating multiple taxis or dealing with public transport logistics.
Money-Saving Tips
Book in Advance
- Online bookings are usually 10-20% cheaper
- Early booking guarantees availability
- Some companies offer group discounts
Compare Prices
- Don’t take the first option you see
- Check multiple websites
- Ask about group rates if you’re 8+ people
Consider Location
- Hotels near train stations save money on airport transfers
- Central Brussels locations have more transport options
- Some hotels offer free airport shuttle services
Travel Light
- Extra luggage fees can add up quickly
- Consider shipping some items ahead
- Pack only essentials for your trip
Brussels Airport to Popular Destinations
Here are typical costs and times to popular destinations from Brussels Airport:
Brussels City Center
- Train: €4-9, 15-20 minutes
- Taxi: €45-60, 20-30 minutes
- Private transfer: €50-70, 20-30 minutes
Brussels Hotels (Grand Place area)
- Train + walk/metro: €6-12, 25-35 minutes
- Taxi: €45-60, 25-35 minutes
- Private transfer: €50-70, 25-35 minutes
Bruges
- Train: €15-25, 60-90 minutes (with connection)
- Private transfer: €120-180, 60 minutes
- Charter bus: €300-400 (for groups), 60 minutes
Ghent
- Train: €12-20, 45-75 minutes (with connection)
- Private transfer: €100-150, 45 minutes
- Charter bus: €250-350 (for groups), 45 minutes
Antwerp
- Train: €8-15, 45-60 minutes
- Private transfer: €80-120, 45 minutes
- Charter bus: €200-300 (for groups), 45 minutes
What to Expect at Belgium Airports
Brussels Airport
- Large, modern airport with good English signage
- Plenty of restaurants, shops, and free WiFi
- Clear signs to transport options
- Can be busy during peak times (summer, holidays)
Brussels South (Charleroi)
- Smaller, budget-focused airport
- Limited food options, arrive early if you want to eat
- Less English signage – have your destination written down
- Transport options are clearly marked outside the terminal
Booking Your Transfer
Online Booking
Most transfer companies let you book online. You’ll need:
- Flight details (arrival time, flight number)
- Destination address
- Number of passengers
- Special requests (child seats, extra luggage space)
Payment
- Most companies accept credit cards
- Some offer payment on arrival
- Group bookings may require a deposit
- Always ask about cancellation policies
Meeting Your Driver
- Private transfers: Driver waits with your name sign
- Shared shuttles: Look for company signs in designated areas
- Charter buses: Usually arranged through your group coordinator
- Always save the company’s phone number in case of problems
Special Situations
Late Night/Early Morning Flights
- Trains stop running around midnight
- Night buses are limited
- Taxis and private transfers available 24/7
- Book charter buses in advance for large groups
Flight Delays
- Professional transfer companies track flights automatically
- Taxi drivers may leave if you’re very late
- Always contact your transfer company if delayed
- Most services include 60 minutes waiting time
Lost Luggage
- Don’t panic – Belgian airports have good lost luggage services
- Your transfer will still proceed as scheduled
- Airlines will deliver luggage to your hotel later
- Keep essential items in carry-on bags
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it safe to take public transport from Belgium airports? A: Yes, Belgium has excellent public transport safety. Trains and buses are reliable and secure.
Q: Do I need to tip my driver? A: Tipping isn’t required but 10% is appreciated for good service.
Q: Can I pay with US dollars or British pounds? A: Belgium uses euros. Most places accept credit cards, but have some euros for small purchases.
Q: What if my group is too big for one vehicle? A: Charter bus companies have vehicles for groups up to 50+ people. For smaller groups, they can provide multiple vehicles.
Q: Are there direct connections to other European cities? A: Yes, Brussels Airport has excellent connections. You can take direct trains to Paris, Amsterdam, and London from Brussels.
Final Tips for Smooth Airport Transfers
- Plan ahead – Don’t wait until you arrive to figure out transport
- Have backup options – Flight delays happen, have Plan B ready
- Keep important numbers – Save your transfer company’s contact info
- Confirm details – Double-check pickup times and locations
- Pack smart – Keep essentials accessible during transport
- Learn basic phrases – “Excusez-moi” (Excuse me) and “Merci” (Thank you) go far
- Use reliable companies – Choose established transport providers with good reviews
Belgium airport transfers don’t have to be complicated or expensive. Whether you choose the budget-friendly train, a comfortable private transfer, or a convenient charter bus for your group, the key is planning ahead and choosing the option that fits your needs and budget.
Safe travels, and enjoy your time in beautiful Belgium!