EXPLORE Brussels

Brussels arrival: the railway is hiding directly under your feet

Welcome to Brussels Airport, where BRU is in Zaventem and the easiest route into the capital starts beneath the terminal. Follow the train symbols after baggage claim, buy the correct ticket and keep its barcode ready for the station gates. Check live service before committing because Belgian strikes can be announced at short notice. Brussels has enough governments to occupy several buildings; apparently none could abolish the airport supplement.

BRU transport: train first, official taxi if luggage wins

Direct trains connect the airport with Brussels and major Belgian cities. The railway operator states Brussels Central can take about 11 minutes and most airport tickets include the required Brussels Airport Supplement. Buses also serve the terminal, while official taxis wait outside arrivals. Use only the marked rank or an airport-approved booking. A rental car is poor value for central Brussels, where traffic, parking and low-emission registration requirements convert freedom into administrative theatre.

Brussels safety: guard the bag at Midi and Nord

Pickpocketing and luggage theft are common on public transport and at major stations, with particular concern around Bruxelles-Midi, Bruxelles-Nord and busy central areas. Keep passports and phones secured, retain physical control of luggage on trains, and ignore distraction attempts. Use licensed taxis only. Belgium’s national threat level is serious, so remain alert in transport hubs and crowded places, follow police instructions and avoid demonstrations or strike gatherings. Call 112 in an emergency. The waffles are friendly; the unattended suitcase is a separate negotiation.

Sources

• Brussels Airport official transport guidance
• Brussels Airport official train guidance
• Belgian Rail official Brussels Airport information
• United Kingdom government Belgium safety guidance
• United Kingdom government Belgium travel updates

Last verified: September 8, 2026