Navigating Brussels is an absolute breeze, thanks to its well-developed and user-friendly public transportation system.
Not to mention, Brussels, although beautiful, is a tiny city, which makes hopping from one spot to another a piece of cake.
But before you head out to Brussels, you might wonder what is the best way to get around Brussels. Buy public transportation? By car? By Bike?
That’s a great question!
In this article, you will find all the options available to help you choose the ideal way to wander through this stunning city so that you can enjoy your trip thoroughly.
Table of Contents
- Getting Around Brussels
- Where Can You Purchase Your Ticket?
- Note:
- Public Transportation Options
- Tip:
- Tip:
- Train
- Tips:
- Private Transport Alternatives
- Tips:
- Tips:
- Tips:
- Fun Ways to Get Around Brussels
- Tips:
- Tips:
- Tips:
- How to Get to and From the Airport
- What Language Are Public Transport Signs in Brussels?
- What Cards Are Suitable for a 3-Day Stay in Brussels?
- Does Brussels Offer Any Free Public Transport Options?
- Final Words!
Getting Around Brussels
As mentioned, navigating Brussels by public transport is quite easy and eco-friendly. You’ll have access to a plethora of networks of trams, buses, and metro lines. So you must get familiarised with them to get around the city.
STIB-MIVB
STIB-MIVB is your go-to for public transportation in Brussels. They manage the metro, tram, and bus services that connect every corner of the city. The tram system alone stretches over 147 kilometers, which means you’re never far from a ride. Timetables are easily accessible online or at the stations, ensuring you can plan your journey efficiently.
Where Can You Purchase Your Ticket?
You can get your ticket on public transportation through contactless transactions. Simply use your contactless bank card (either debit or credit), smartphone, or smartwatch to pay for your journey.
Each STIB bus, tram, and metro station is equipped with a designated contactless payment terminal. This terminal is compatible with any bank card featuring the contactless symbol.
Alternatively, for smartphones and smartwatches, you can use payment apps such as Google Pay, Apple Pay, Fitbit Pay, and Garmin Pay. Tickets are also available at STIB information desks and various metro stations.
The MOBIB card is a handy option, as it offers unlimited travel across different transport modes. Look into the BRUPASS if you plan multiple journeys—it’s a cost-effective choice!
- ONE JOURNEY: 2.10€ (Valid for one hour – unlimited public transport, except trains). After that, you will have to purchase another ticket.
- BRUPASS 10 JOURNEYS: €16.80 ( Valid for 10 days – Unlimited public transport, except trains)
- BRUPASS 1 DAY: €8.40 ( Valid for 24 hours – unlimited public transport, except trains)
Note:
In Belgium, all train routes are managed by a company called SNCB/NMBS. You can easily purchase their products through their app, at a machine, or online.
Bus, tram, and metro routes, on the other hand, are handled by separate companies in each region. In Brussels, transportation is managed by STIB/MIVB, while in Flanders, it’s De Lijn, and in Wallonia, it’s TEC.”
Public Transportation Options
When visiting Brussels, you’ve got a plethora of options to move around the city. From a well-connected public transport system to the freedom of private transport and the simplicity of muscle-powered travel, here’s what you need to know.
Public Transport Network
Metro
The metro in Brussels is your go-to for speedy transit. It covers a wide area, including key tourist destinations and business centers. You can easily spot the four metro lines by their numbers and colors, which are 1 (red), 2 (blue), 5 (yellow), and 6 (light blue).
Tip:
Metro in Brussels runs frequently throughout the day, arriving every few minutes during peak hours. However, the frequency will vary depending on the specific metro line and the time of day. During off-peak times, metros generally run a bit less often, but you can usually count on metros showing up within 5 to 10 minutes.
Buses and Trams
Operated by STIB-MIVB, buses and trams complement the metro service, reaching corners of the city that the metro doesn’t. They offer a scenic ride through Brussels, especially the trams that glide along 147km of the city’s streets.
Tip:
- In Brussels, bus and tram frequencies vary by route, time, and day. Peak hours mean buses and trams come every 5 to 10 minutes on weekdays. Off-peak and weekends see 15 to 30-minute intervals or less. Holidays and late nights may have fewer services.
- Buses and trams stop on request. So, to get off the tram or bus, you must press the bell button situated on the door.
Train
There are three train stations in Brussels, which include (Brussels South – Gare du Midi), (Brussels Nord – Gare du Nord), and (Brussels Central – Gare Central). The Brussels Midi is the main train station that allows you to travel inside and outside of Belgium. The Nord and Central stations provide only international and domestic travel.
Tips:
- In Brussels, trains run frequently, usually every 30 minutes for major routes and every 10 to 15 minutes for local routes during peak hours. Frequencies might vary during off-peak times. You can check the schedule online or via the NMBS/SNCB mobile app for specific route details.
- If you plan to travel to other cities or make day trips, it’s better to take intercity trains. Since these trains are operated by SNCB (NMBS), they won’t accept STIB (MVIB) tickets.
Private Transport Alternatives
Taxi
Taxi: Taxis in Brussels are abundant. They typically start with a base fare and charge per kilometer, which is around €1.80.
It’s important to note that taxi fares can escalate rapidly, especially when traveling outside the city center.
For example, if you’re staying in the outskirts, expect the taxi fare to increase to €2.70.
Additionally, it’s worth knowing that the service charge is already included in the price, so tipping the taxi driver is optional.
Tips:
- Be aware that taxis may add additional charges if you have excess luggage, travel during public holidays, or if they need to wait for you. An hour is around (€30).
- Always have small money on you as taxi drivers generally don’t carry change for notes larger than €20
- Most taxis aren’t wheelchair accessible, except for Taxi Hendriks, which you can order directly from their website.
Uber
For a more tech-savvy and perhaps familiar option, you’ve got Uber at your fingertips. It works just like in many other cities—book your ride through the app.
Tips:
- Your ride’s basic charge will be automatically billed to the credit card linked to your app. You won’t need to pay the driver separately or provide your credit card information.
- If you have a lot of stuff to transport, consider booking a larger vehicle to accommodate your needs comfortably.
- Before getting into an Uber vehicle, it’s wise to review your driver’s rating. Higher-rated drivers often deliver safer and more enjoyable rides, providing you with peace of mind.
Car Rental
If you prefer driving yourself, there are car rental services available. But be aware—parking can be tough, and traffic can get quite heavy, especially during rush hours. There are a variety of car rental services that can cater to your travel needs in Brussels. Whether you’re at the airport or in the city center, you’ll find major rental companies like Avis and Hertz and local providers.
Tips:
When you’re driving in Brussels, you’ll need to be aware of the speed limit and traffic hours.
- The city is a “30 zone,” which means a speed limit of 30 km/h applies to most areas, with exceptions on major roads.
- Try to avoid driving during rush hours, typically from 7:00 – 9:00 AM and 4:00 – 6:00 PM, to escape traffic jams.
- On-street parking is mostly paid, with the use of a parking disc or meter, especially in the city center.
- American tourists are allowed to drive in Brussels using their passports or valid driving licenses.
When driving in Brussels, it’s always good to do some price comparisons so that you can opt for the option that meets your needs. So, below is a simple comparison table for different driving transportation options that focus on prices.
| Service | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Uber | €0.85 – €1.50 per km | Additional charges for time spent waiting or in traffic. |
| Car Rental | €20 – €70 per day | Depends on the type of car, rental duration, and extras. |
| Green Taxi | €2.40 – €2.80 per km | Electric or hybrid vehicles with eco-friendly features. |
| Regular Taxi | €1.80 – €2.20 per km | Prices may vary based on time of day and traffic. |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on factors such as distance traveled, time of day, and specific service providers. It’s always a good idea to check current rates and any additional fees or surcharges before booking.
Fun Ways to Get Around Brussels
Walking Tour
Brussels is a walkable city, with many attractions clustered within an easily manageable distance. You can either take a guided walking tour or stroll around the city on your own. As mentioned previously, Brussels is very small, so it’s easy to navigate through. Plus, waffles are delicious there!
Tips:
- Getting a Brussels Card is your best bet, though. It will allow you to take advantage of free access to some of the most popular attractions and museums and discounts on shops and restaurants.
- Bring comfortable shoes to visit Brussels. There are lots of cobbled streets.
- Even in the summer, always have an umbrella in your bag or a waterproof light jacket, as the weather is quite unpredictable in Belgium.
- Use maps and navigation apps on your smartphone to plan routes, find nearby attractions, and check public transport schedules in real time.
Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour:
Hop on a hop-off bus tour is also a great way to get around Brussels and see the most popular sights at your own pace. You can purchase a ticket online or even at the bus stop.
Tips:
- The price for a hop-on a-hop-off tour ranges from €25 to €35 for a 24-hour ticket and €30 to €45 for a 48-hour ticket per adult.
However, it’s always safer to check current prices and promotions offered by specific tour operators, as they may vary.
Exploring By Bike
Nanda Sluijsmans from Den Haag, Nederland, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Your adventure in Brussels can begin with a Villo! Bike, available at over 360 stations across the city. It’s a self-service system, allowing you to pick up and drop off bicycles at your leisure. Whether you need it for a quick jaunt or a full day of exploration, Villo! has flexible rental periods—from a single day up to a month.
Tips:
- For a more tailored experience or longer rides, consider visiting local bike shops or travel agencies like “Bike-Packer,” stationed in the heart of Brussels. They can equip you with not only bikes but also cycling maps and gear. Some other notable services, like the “Blue Bike,” provide bicycles at major train stations, perfect if you’re coming from out of town.
How to Get to and From the Airport
When you fly into Brussels, you have two major airports to choose from, and each offers several transport options to get you to the city center swiftly.
Brussels Airport (Zaventem)
At Brussels Airport (Zaventem), located just a stone’s throw from the city center, you’ve got a few good choices for transport. If you’re budget-conscious, the train might be your best pick.
You can catch a train from the airport directly to central Brussels for about 9 euros to 12 euros; it’s a quick, 16-minute ride.
For an even cheaper option, the bus fare is around 3 euros, but the journey is a bit longer, taking approximately 38 minutes.
However, if comfort’s your priority or you’re lugging around a lot of bags, you might want to hop in a taxi. It’s definitely pricier, with the ride costing you between 45 and 55 euros, but it’s direct and stress-free.
- Train: 9 euros, 16-minute ride to central Brussels
- Bus: 3 euros, 38-minute journey
- Taxi: 45-55 euros, direct to your destination
Brussels South Charleroi Airport
Getting to and from Brussels South Charleroi Airport is a bit different. It’s farther away, so plan for a slightly longer commute.
The shuttle bus service is your wallet-friendly option, connecting the airport to the main train station in Brussels.
Expect to pay around 14 to 17 euros for a one-way bus ticket, and the trip takes about an hour.
If you’re thinking of a taxi, just know it’s a longer distance, so it will cost considerably more. Always check the price with the driver before you start your journey to prevent costly surprises.
- Shuttle Bus: Around 14-17 euros, about an hour’s ride. You’ll be able to buy your ticket straight from their website (Flibco company)
- Taxi: 1 to 2 passengers will cost around €90 and 3 passengers around €180. However, it’s always best to require the taxi driver to put the taximeter on so that you can see the kilometers and the final price.
- Train: To travel by train, you will have to take first an express bus outside of the Airport terminal to the train station, which is about a 20-minute ride. Train tickets cost between €17 to €25 depending on the type of train service you choose.
What Language Are Public Transport Signs in Brussels?
When you’re winding through the streets of Brussels, it’s good to know that the city is officially bilingual. You’ll see signs in French and Dutch, and many locals seamlessly switch between the two.
However, you will also find some signage in English, especially in tourist-heavy areas or at major transportation hubs.
Keep an eye out for multilingual signage at transport hubs. The city’s public transport provider, STIB-MIVB, provides information in both of the main languages and often in English as well.
If you find yourself puzzled, don’t hesitate to ask for directions. People are very friendly in Belgium and will help you navigate your way.
In the realm of transport, terms like “bus,” “tram,” and “ticket” are pretty universal, and you’ll frequently spot the English word even on signs and ticket machines.
What Cards Are Suitable for a 3-Day Stay in Brussels?
The BRUPASS XL 1 DAY is tailored for short stays. If you’re staying for 3 days, you could get a card for each day. This would be a smart choice, allowing you to explore the city to the fullest and travel freely without having to purchase individual tickets for each journey.
Does Brussels Offer Any Free Public Transport Options?
While Brussels doesn’t offer free public transportation on a regular basis, the city does provide it annually during Car Free Sunday.
This event takes place every year, typically on a Sunday in September, as part of European Mobility Week.
On this day, public transportation in Brussels, including buses, trams, and metros, can be used free of charge.
However, It’s always best to check the specific date of Car Free Sunday during your visit to take advantage of this opportunity to explore the city using sustainable, car-free transportation.
Final Words!
So, to wrap it up, there isn’t any better way to get around Brussels, as it all depends on your preferences, budget, and itinerary.
For instance, I personally prefer to rent a car when I go to Brussels with my family, even though I may get into traffic, but I prefer not to rely on public transportation. It’s a choice.
Note that traffic in Brussels is not as bad as in Paris and there are lots of parking available, which are relatively cheap ( around 2€ to 4€ per hour).
However, if you plan to stay uniquely in Brussels, public transportation might be your best bet.
But if you plan to visit other towns in Belgium, then you may consider renting a car. Highways in Belgium are toll-free and provide a comfortable travel experience.
Whatever you decide, always plan and compare prices; this is the key to having a pleasant and stress-free travel experience in Brussels. Take care!
Welcome to TravelOnQuest.Com! I’m Simone, and I am here to help you plan your dream European adventure without breaking the bank. Join me as we uncover hidden gems, must-see attractions, and insider tips for creating unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re exploring solo, with family, or with friends, let’s connect and make your budget-friendly European escapade a reality.
What an captivating piece, you literally took me for an online tour of the city. Visiting Brussels has to be part of my bucket list, I’ll definitely consider that. Just for interest’s sake, I understand in Belgium they speak a number of languages and none of them is English, how easy is it to interact and communicate when you can only speak English?
Hi Elias,
Thank you for your kind comment!
Most people are bilingual in Brussels. They speak French and Flamutch or Dutch, but many speak English too. So you won’t have any issues communicating with locals. However, you can always use Google Translate,
This app allows you to translate text, voice, and even images in real-time. It’s particularly useful for translating signs, menus, and conversations:)
What a comprehensive guide to navigating Brussels! The breakdown of transportation options, from the efficient STIB-MIVB system to the convenience of taxis and Ubers, is incredibly helpful. I especially appreciate the tips on using public transport apps and the insight into the multilingual signage around the city.
I’m curious, for someone who enjoys exploring on foot, are there any particular neighborhoods or areas in Brussels that you recommend for a leisurely stroll?
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad you found the guide helpful. If you enjoy exploring on foot, Brussels has several neighborhoods perfect for a leisurely stroll such as the Sablon, the Marolles, Bois De La Cambre, Rue Neuve, La Rue De Bouchers, and Cinquantenaire Park. I hope you find this useful:)