Brussels Airport (BRU), located approximately 12 kilometers northeast of Belgium’s capital, Brussels, is one of Europe’s busiest hubs. Known for its efficiency and diverse services, the airport serves as a key gateway to Belgium and Europe. Whether traveling for business or leisure, first-time visitors to BRU can make their trip smoother with some useful insights.
General Information
Brussels Airport handles over 26 million passengers annually and offers flights to over 200 destinations worldwide. Its single-terminal layout makes navigation straightforward, while state-of-the-art facilities ensure convenience. Key highlights include multilingual signage, free Wi-Fi throughout, and excellent accessibility for people with reduced mobility. The terminal is divided into Pier A and Pier B, serving Schengen and non-Schengen destinations respectively.
Opening Hours: The airport operates 24/7, though certain services, like shops and lounges, may have specific operating hours.
Public Transportation
Brussels Airport is well-connected to the city center and surrounding areas by various modes of transport:
- Train:
- The Brussels Airport-Zaventem train station is located directly under the terminal. Trains run frequently to Brussels Central Station, Antwerp, Ghent, and other major cities.
- Journey time to Brussels Central: ~20 minutes.
- Tickets: Available online, at kiosks, or through mobile apps like SNCB/NMBS.
- Bus:
- Several bus lines connect the airport to Brussels and nearby regions. The De Lijn and STIB/MIVB buses are the most popular choices.
- Bus 12 (weekdays) and Bus 21 (weekends and evenings) provide direct routes to the European Quarter.
- Taxi:
- Taxis are available at designated stands outside the Arrivals hall. Ensure the taxi is licensed, with clear branding and a meter.
- Car Rental:
- Reputable car rental services, such as Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt, are located at the Car Rental Desk in the Arrivals hall.
Currency Exchange and Payment Options
Belgium uses the Euro (EUR), and currency exchange services are available at several spots within the airport, including Travelex counters and ATMs. While cash is widely accepted, card payments are more common. Contactless and mobile payments are popular, so ensure your card supports these options.
Tips:
- Avoid exchanging large sums at the airport due to less favorable rates.
- Look for ATMs to withdraw cash directly instead.
Local Transport Cards and Passes
For exploring Brussels and beyond, consider purchasing local transport passes:
- Brussels Card: Ideal for tourists, offering unlimited access to public transport and free entry to museums.
- STIB/MIVB Tickets: Perfect for shorter stays; available as single tickets, day passes, or multi-day passes.
Tickets can be bought from vending machines at the airport or via the STIB/MIVB mobile app.
Mobile Connectivity
Staying connected is crucial, and Brussels Airport makes this easy:
- Free Wi-Fi: Unlimited and accessible throughout the terminal.
- Local SIM Cards: Telecom providers like Proximus, Base, and Orange offer prepaid SIM cards at kiosks in the airport. These are cost-effective for data and calls within Europe.
Taxi Services and Ride-Sharing
Licensed taxis are readily available at the airport. For a more cost-effective option, consider ride-sharing services like Uber, which operate in Brussels. Pre-booking through apps is recommended during peak hours to avoid delays.
Car Rental Options
For those planning to explore beyond Brussels, car rental services are a great choice. The airport hosts several major providers.
- Booking Tip: Reserve your car online to secure the best rates and vehicle availability.
- Parking: Ample parking spaces, including short-term and long-term lots, are available near the terminal.
Other Local Tips
- Dining and Shopping:
- The airport offers a range of restaurants, cafes, and duty-free shops.
- Belgian chocolates and waffles make great souvenirs.
- Lounges:
- Business travelers can enjoy premium services at lounges like The Loft by Brussels Airlines.
- Local Secrets:
- The airport is close to the town of Zaventem, where you can experience authentic Belgian cuisine if you have extra time.