RideNavigator
BRU22 million passengers/year

Brussels Airport Transfer Guide

Everything you need to know about transfers from Brussels Airport. Meeting points, prices, transport options, and insider tips.

Introduction

Welcome to your comprehensive guide to Brussels Airport (BRU). Whether you're arriving in the heart of Europe for business or pleasure, this guide provides all the essential information you need for a smooth and stress-free transfer. From navigating the terminals to finding the best transport options, we've got you covered.

Airport Overview

Feature Details
Full Name Brussels Airport
IATA Code BRU
City Brussels
Country Belgium
Terminals 1 (with two piers: A and B)
Passenger Traffic Over 26 million passengers annually
Distance to City Center Approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) northeast of Brussels

Terminal Layout & Airlines

Brussels Airport has a single terminal building, which is divided into two piers: Pier A and Pier B. This integrated design makes transfers relatively straightforward.

  • Pier A: Primarily serves flights to and from Schengen countries. Airlines operating from this pier include Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, Swiss International Air Lines, and other Star Alliance members.
  • Pier B: Handles flights to and from non-Schengen destinations. This includes long-haul flights from carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, United Airlines, and others.
  • Arrivals & Meet Your Driver

    Upon arrival, you will proceed to the baggage reclaim hall, which is located on the ground floor (Level 2). After collecting your luggage, you will exit into the arrivals hall. This is the main meeting point for passengers and their drivers.

    For pre-booked transfers, your driver will typically be waiting in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name. The designated waiting area is located just beyond the customs exit. Look for the area marked with signs for "rendez-vous" or "meeting point."

    Taxi & Rideshare

    Service Location Estimated Fare to City Center
    Official Taxis Taxi rank outside the arrivals hall €45 - €55
    Uber Designated pickup zone €35 - €45
    Bolt Designated pickup zone €35 - €45

    Public Transport

    Service Location Price Journey Time to City Center
    Train Airport train station (Level -1) €9.30 17 minutes
    Bus (STIB Airport Line) Bus station (Level 0) €7.00 30 minutes

    Car Rental

    Major car rental companies have desks in the arrivals hall. These include:

  • Avis
  • Budget
  • Europcar
  • Hertz
  • Sixt
  • Enterprise
  • Airport Facilities

  • WiFi: Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the airport.
  • Lounges: Several lounges are available, including the Diamond Lounge and The Loft by Brussels Airlines.
  • Currency Exchange: Travelex counters are located in the arrivals hall and throughout the airport.
  • Luggage Storage: Lockers are available in the public area on Level 0.
  • SIM Cards: SIM cards can be purchased from various shops in the arrivals hall.
  • Parking Information

    Parking Option Rate (per day)
    P1, P2, P3 (Short-term) €25 - €30
    Discount Parking (Long-term) From €15

    Top Destinations & Drive Times

    Destination Drive Time
    Brussels City Center 20-30 minutes
    Antwerp 30-45 minutes
    Ghent 45-60 minutes
    Bruges 60-75 minutes
    Leuven 20-30 minutes
    Waterloo 30-45 minutes

    Layover Tips

    If you have a layover of 4 hours or more, you can take a train to Brussels Central Station and explore the city center. The Grand-Place, Manneken Pis, and the Royal Palace are all within walking distance of the station.

    Dining & Shopping

    Brussels Airport offers a wide range of dining and shopping options, from Belgian chocolates and beers to international brands. Most shops and restaurants are located in the departure hall, after security screening.

    Accessibility

    Brussels Airport is fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility. Assistance can be requested in advance through your airline.

    FAQs

    1. How do I get from Brussels Airport to the city center?

    The fastest way is by train, which takes about 17 minutes. The bus is a cheaper option, taking around 30 minutes.

    2. Is there free WiFi at Brussels Airport?

    Yes, free and unlimited WiFi is available throughout the airport.

    3. Where can I find a taxi at Brussels Airport?

    The official taxi rank is located just outside the arrivals hall.

    4. Can I store my luggage at the airport?

    Yes, luggage lockers are available on Level 0.

    5. What are the opening hours of the shops at Brussels Airport?

    Most shops are open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

    6. How much does parking cost at Brussels Airport?

    Short-term parking starts at €25 per day, while long-term options are available from €15 per day.

    7. Which airlines fly from Brussels Airport?

    Brussels Airport is a hub for Brussels Airlines and serves many other international carriers.

    8. How early should I arrive at Brussels Airport for my flight?

    It is recommended to arrive 2 hours before a Schengen flight and 3 hours before a non-Schengen flight.

    9. Are there hotels at Brussels Airport?

    Yes, the Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel is located directly opposite the terminal.

    10. What is the currency in Belgium?

    The currency in Belgium is the Euro (€).

    Last updated: March 2026

    Book your Brussels Airport transfer

    Skip the queue. Compare verified drivers, lock in your price, and get met at arrivals with a name sign.

    Compare Brussels Drivers →