Belgium is a small country, and trains are the best option for intercity travel. For getting around cities, the metro, trams, and walking are sufficient. This guide explains airport transfers, intercity tickets, and cross-border travel tips.
Arrival and Getting into Town
| Airport | How to Get into Town | Time/Price |
|---|
| Brussels Airport (BRU) | Airport train to Brussels Central Station | About 20 minutes, around €11 |
| Brussels Airport (BRU) | Airport bus lines 12/21 | About 30 minutes, around €4.5 |
| Charleroi Airport (CRL) | Airport bus to Brussels South Station | About 1 hour, around €15 |
| Antwerp Airport (ANR) | Bus or taxi to the city center | About 20 minutes |
Intercity Trains
- Belgian railways are operated by SNCB/NMBS, covering the entire country, with most intercity journeys taking 30–70 minutes.
- Tickets can be purchased on the official website, app, ticket machines, or at the counter. There are no gates at stations, but you may be asked to show your ticket onboard.
- Weekend return tickets, youth tickets, and multi-ride passes offer discounts. Buying in advance via the app also helps you avoid queues.
- Brussels to Bruges takes about 1 hour, Brussels to Antwerp about 40 minutes, and Brussels to Ghent about 35 minutes.
City Transport
- Brussels metro, trams, and buses are operated by STIB/MIVB, and support contactless bank cards and mobile payments.
- A single ticket costs around €2.6. Multi-ride or day passes are available at ticket machines and offer better value.
- In Bruges and the old town of Ghent, everything is walkable and public transport isn’t necessary.
- In Antwerp, a day pass is convenient for trips to riverside museums and the city center.
- Ghent and Antwerp have tram networks covering major attractions. Tickets can be bought at station machines.
Taxis and Driving
Taxis in Belgium operate on a meter, with an initial flagfall of around €2.5–4. You can hail them at stands or book via apps. Late-night rides and extra luggage incur surcharges. Taxis aren't usually needed for getting around cities—metros and trams are sufficient. If you plan to hike in the Ardennes or visit rural wineries, renting a car gives you more flexibility. Road conditions in Belgium are good, but parking in cities is limited and expensive. Driving is better suited for countryside trips. Car rentals cost around €40–70 per day, and fuel prices are similar to the Western European average.
Cross-Border and Ticket Tips
- Use the official app or map services to check train schedules. Most intercity trains don’t require seat reservations.
- Trains from the airport to the city are much cheaper than taxis. Be mindful of service intervals during peak hours.
- For international trains (e.g., Brussels to Amsterdam, Paris, or Cologne), it’s recommended to book in advance, as prices vary significantly.
- Always purchase and keep your train ticket, as traveling without one may result in a fine.