Wondering whether to rent a car in Brussels? Is it worth it? The answer depends on several factors. If you’re staying within Brussels, public transportation is likely your best option.
However, if you plan to explore other parts of Belgium or neighboring countries, renting a car might be a good choice.
Personally, when I travel to Brussels, I always rent a car. I prefer the independence it offers over relying on public transport, and I love the flexibility to go anywhere without restrictions. It allows me to make my trips as spontaneous as possible.
Not sure what’s best for your visit? This article will help you decide!
Why Renting a Car in Brussels?
The great thing about renting a car in Brussels is that it gives you more freedom and flexibility during your trip. You can easily explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace.
You Can Go Wherever You Want
As I mentioned earlier, with a rental car, you can venture beyond Brussels’ city limits. You’re free to take day trips to nearby towns and attractions. For instance, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerpen are just an hour’s drive away.
A car lets you discover hidden gems off the beaten path. You can stop at small villages, scenic viewpoints, or local restaurants that catch your eye. This flexibility is perfect for spontaneous adventures and photo opportunities.
Road trips become much easier with a rental car, especially with family. You can pack more into your itinerary and see multiple places in one day, and there’s no need to rush back for the last train or bus.
You Don’t Depend On Public Transport
It saves you time and hassle compared to using public transport. You won’t have to wait for buses or trains or deal with crowded vehicles during peak hours. Again, this is especially helpful if you’re traveling with luggage or children.
A car gives you door-to-door service. You can go straight from your hotel to attractions without transfers or long walks. This convenience is valuable in bad weather or when you’re tired after a long day of sightseeing.
You’ll have more privacy and comfort in your own vehicle. You can control the temperature, listen to your own music, and take breaks whenever you want, making your trip more relaxed and enjoyable.
How to Choose the Right Car Rental Company?
There are many car rental companies in Brussels, and like in many other cities, each has its own set of rules and deals. So, it’s important to compare options and find a deal that fits your needs.
International Brands vs Local Providers
Big names like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar have offices in Brussels. These companies often have more cars to choose from and locations at the airport. They might cost more, and not always, but you can usually count on their service.
Local companies can be cheaper. They may offer special deals for longer rentals. However, always make sure to check reviews first. Some local places to look at are:
- Sunnycars
- Carsrenter.com
Compare Rental Deals
To get the best price, book early and shop around. Here’s what to look for:
- Daily rates (economy cars start at €19-25)
- Insurance costs
- Fuel policies
- Extra fees (like young driver charges)
Use comparison websites to see many offers at once. Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Check what’s included in the price.
Always read the fine print. Some deals might seem great but have hidden costs. It’s worth spending a bit more for a trustworthy company with clear terms.
How Does Rental Policies Work?
When you rent a car in Brussels, it’s crucial to know the ins and outs of rental policies. These rules can affect your costs and coverage during your trip.
Insurance Coverage
Most car rentals in Brussels come with basic insurance. This usually covers damage to other cars and property but not your rental car. You might want to get extra coverage for peace of mind.
You can buy more insurance from the rental company. This often includes:
- Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
- Theft Protection
- Personal Accident Insurance
Your credit card might offer rental car insurance, too. Check with your card company before you travel. If it does, you could save money by skipping the rental company’s extra insurance.
Fuel Policies and Additional Fees
Car rental companies in Brussels use different fuel policies. The most common are:
- Full-to-Full: You get a full tank and return it full
- Pre-Purchase: You buy a full tank upfront and can return it empty
Watch out for extra fees that can add up:
- Young driver fee (usually for under 25s)
- Additional driver fee
- One-way rental fee
- Late return fee
Many companies offer free cancellation if you book in advance. This can be handy if your plans change. Just make sure to cancel within the allowed time frame to avoid charges.
How to Rent a Car in Brussels?
Renting a car in Brussels involves a few key steps. You’ll need to book your vehicle, pick it up, and have the right documents ready. It’s simple and easy if you know how to do it properly. Just follow these three simple steps, and you’ll be good to go.
Choose Your Rental Company
As I mentioned earlier, the first step before renting a car is comparing prices from different rental companies. Look for deals that include basic insurance. Think about what kind of car you need—a small car is great, as it allows you to park easily and doesn’t consume a lot of fuel unless it’s an electric car.
If you travel with a group of friends or family, you’ll need something bigger. Whatever your choice, book early to get better rates, especially in busy seasons.
Remember to check the rental terms. Companies have age limits or charge extra for young drivers. Make sure you know what’s included in the price and what might cost extra.
Airport Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Getting your rental car at Brussels Airport is easy. Most big rental companies have desks right in the arrivals area. Follow the signs after you get your luggage. You can usually drop off your car at the airport, too, even if you didn’t pick it up there.
Be sure to check your car for damage before you leave. If you spot any scratches or dents, take pictures. This can save you trouble when you return the car.
Documents You’ll Need
To drive in Brussels, you need a valid driver’s license. If you’re from the EU, your national license is usually sufficient.
For non-EU drivers, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required. An IDP translates your license into multiple languages and is recognized worldwide.
You can obtain an IDP in your home country before traveling. Carry both your national license and IDP at all times when driving. Some rental companies might ask for additional identification, so having your passport handy is a good idea.
Most places require you to be at least 21 to rent a car. If you’re under 25, you’ll have to pay extra. They’ll also ask for a deposit on your credit card. Debit cards often aren’t accepted. So, be aware of that.
How to Drive in Brussels?
Driving in Brussels is easy, and people are very patient and polite, making it a stress-free experience. However, before you start driving, it’s always good to know some rules and practices. You’ll need to adjust to local traffic patterns and be aware of parking and toll systems.
Traffic and Speed Limits
In Belgium, you drive on the right side of the road.
Also, when you drive on the main road, you must give priority to the vehicles that come out from the street on the right side, which is not always easy to remember when you aren’t used to it.
The speed limit in cities is usually 50 km/h (31 mph), and on highways, it’s 120 km/h (75 mph).
Brussels has many well-built pedestrian and cyclist roads, making it a real pleasure to drive there.
Rush hour can be tough. Try to avoid driving from 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM if you can.
Parking and Tolls
Finding parking in Brussels can be tricky. Look for blue zones where you can park for free with a parking disc. Set the time you arrived on the disc.
Many streets have paid parking. Use the machines to buy a ticket and display it on your dashboard.
Parking garages are good options in busy areas. They’re safer, but know that they are more expensive. You can expect to pay between €2-5 per hour, depending on the color’s zone – green, red, and orange.
Belgium doesn’t have many toll roads, so you won’t pay tolls driving around Brussels. But if you go to other parts of the country, check if there are any tolls on your route.
What Nearby Countries Can You Reach From Brussels?
Brussels offers a great starting point for adventures in Belgium and nearby countries. With a rental car, you can easily explore the city and venture out to exciting destinations.
Day Trips and Neighboring Countries
What I like about Brussels is that it’s close to many amazing places. You can hop in your car and drive to Bruges; it’s just an hour away. This fairy-tale city will charm you with its canals and medieval buildings.
Fancy a trip to another country? You can reach Amsterdam in about 2 hours. Spend a day exploring its famous canals and museums.
Paris is only 3.5 hours away by car. However, the traffic in Paris is extremely busy, and this can get really irritating.
So, if you drive in Paris, a good tip is to park your car in a parking lot and leave it there the whole day. Otherwise, consider traveling by train. Paris is beautiful, but the traffic is unbearable.
Germany is also within reach. You can drive to Cologne in about 2.5 hours to see its stunning cathedral. Luxembourg City, with its old fortress, is even closer at just 2 hours away.
Trains definitely get you there twice as fast as driving. But keep in mind that you might need to take a bus or metro to reach your final stop after the train ride. This extra step can make your trip longer and more stressful.
Public Transport Vs Driving?
The best choice depends on your specific travel plans and preferences. If you’re mainly exploring Brussels, public transport is probably better. Trains and buses are great for getting around Belgium’s cities and some towns.
But if you want to visit other parts of Belgium and countryside areas or need more flexibility, a rental car would be a better choice. It gives you more freedom, especially if you’re traveling with family. Remember, though, parking in Brussels can cost a lot, and driving in the city can be stressful, especially during busy times.
On the other hand, public transport in Brussels is really good. There are trains, trams, buses, and fast metros that can take you to your destination. So you don’t really need a car to visit Brussels itself.
In fact, many people find it easier to get around without one! I personally prefer to rent a car because it gives me all the freedom to do whatever I want whenever I want. So think about what you plan to do on your trip before deciding.
Final Words
Getting around Brussels with public transport is easy, but a rental car really helps when you want to explore other areas or nearby countries. Yes, trains get you there faster and allow you to enjoy beautiful views, but a car saves you from figuring out lots of bus and train connections. If you want to be flexible and travel easily, a car can be a great choice. But remember, driving in a new city can be tricky, so think about what matters most to you on your trip.
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