Airport Transport in Belgium
Train & Diabolo Supplement
The train is the fastest way to travel between Brussels Airport (Zaventem / BRU) and major Belgian cities. The airport railway station is located directly underneath the terminal at level -1, offering direct, frequent NMBS/SNCB trains to Brussels Central (17 minutes), Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.
Important Diabolo Fee: All train journeys to or from Brussels Airport-Zaventem require the Brussels Airport Supplement (known as the Diabolo fee). Regular tickets purchased specifically for the airport include this automatically. However, if you travel using a rail pass (such as a Standard Multi, Youth Multi, or Eurail), you must buy a Diabolo gate pass separately to scan through the automated station turnstiles.
For Charleroi Airport (CRL), there is no direct train station at the terminal. Instead, TEC bus line A connects the airport to Charleroi-Central train station (formerly Charleroi-South), where you can catch trains to any destination across Belgium. You can purchase a combined train+bus ticket directly through the NMBS/SNCB app.
Airport Shuttles & Express Buses
Flibco Shuttle Buses (Charleroi): For travelers flying via Charleroi Airport, the direct Flibco shuttle coach is by far the most convenient transport method. Coaches run roughly every 20-30 minutes directly between Charleroi Airport and Brussels-South (Gare du Midi) in approximately 55 minutes, with additional direct routes connecting to Ghent, Bruges, and Antwerp. Booking online ahead of time guarantees a seat and secures lower fares.
STIB Line 12 (Brussels Airport): From Brussels Airport (Zaventem), STIB/MIVB operates express Bus 12 directly to the European quarter and Schuman metro station. Passengers can easily tap their contactless credit card, debit card, or smartphone directly at the onboard validator.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available at both Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport. At Brussels Airport, you'll find official taxi stands outside the arrivals hall. Similarly, Charleroi Airport has designated taxi ranks where you can easily hail a cab. Ride-sharing services can be accessed through their respective mobile apps, offering another convenient option for travelers. Both airports have well-organized taxi and ride-sharing services, ensuring passengers can swiftly reach their destinations.
Car Rental
Car rental services are available at both Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport, offering travelers flexibility and autonomy during their stay. At Brussels Airport, you'll find numerous car rental companies conveniently located within the arrivals hall, including Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt. Similarly, Charleroi Airport hosts several car rental agencies, such as Enterprise, Budget, and Thrifty. Renting a car provides the freedom to explore Belgium at your own pace, with easy access to major highways and scenic routes.
Note
It's advisable to check the specific details and options for airport transport at Brussels Airport (Zaventem) or Charleroi Airport before your trip. While this guide provides an overview of available services, it's essential to verify schedules, fares, and any updates directly with the respective airports. Planning ahead ensures a smooth and stress-free travel experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time in Belgium.