How to get from Brussels Airport to Grand Place

Belgium · Cities & Metropolitan Areas · Urban & Cultural · Brussels · Brussels Airport · Grand Place

Brussels Airport (BRU) sits about 15 km from the Grand Place, and you can reach the historic square in roughly 20–60 minutes by airport train, bus + metro, taxi/ride-hailing, or rental car; this guide walks you through each option with timings, rough costs, booking links, and step-by-step directions so you can pick what suits your luggage, budget, and arrival time best.

At A Glance (Brussels Airport to Grand Place)

Mode Duration Best For
🚆 Airport Train (Brussels Airport-Zaventem → Brussels Central) ~20–30 min train + 5–10 min walk Most travelers, fast & simple
🏷️ Cost: ~€10–13 one-way (incl. airport supplement) » book train tickets | plan onward trains
🚌 Airport Bus 12/21 + Metro ~35–60 min total (traffic & connections) Budget-conscious, light luggage
🏷️ Cost: ~€7.50–9 bus + ~€2.40 metro single » public transport tips
🚕 Taxi, Ride-hailing & Private Transfer ~30–60 min (very traffic-dependent) Door-to-door comfort, late arrivals
🏷️ Cost: ~€45–70 per car (airport taxi/transfer) » prebook car & driver | compare private transfers
🚗 Car Rental / Self-Drive ~30–60 min drive (plus pickup & parking) Road trips beyond Brussels
🏷️ Cost: Day rental from ~€45–70 + toll-free roads, paid parking in centre » compare rentals | rent a bike in Brussels

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

How to Book and Practical Tips

  • Train tickets & passes: For the airport train, buy tickets from SNCB/NMBS machines or counters at the airport station (level -1). You can also prebook certain airport train options and international onward journeys on Klook, or compare cross-border routes via 12Go and Trip.com if you’re continuing to other cities.
  • Public transport cards: In Brussels, STIB/MIVB buses, trams and metro use contactless tickets and MOBIB cards. Visitor travel cards and transit-based sightseeing passes are often bundled with attractions on GetYourGuide and Klook.
  • Taxis & ride-hailing: Official airport taxis queue outside arrivals. You can also prebook a car with Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer. In Brussels, ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt generally operate, but may be affected by local regulations and occasional strikes.
  • Driving & parking: Traffic can be heavy at rush hours and streets around Grand Place are largely pedestrianized. If you rent a car via Booking.com Car Rental, consider parking on the edge of the centre and walking or using metro/tram into the core.
  • Bike & micromobility: Brussels is increasingly bike-friendly and bikes or scooters are handy once you’re in town. You can book longer-term rentals via BikesBooking, and check municipal info on cycling routes on the City of Brussels site.
  • Luggage storage near Grand Place: If your room isn’t ready yet, stash bags near Brussels Central or the city centre using Radical Storage Brussels City Centre, then explore the Grand Place hands-free.
  • Where to stay: For easy access from the airport and short walks to Grand Place, look for hotels around Brussels Central, De Brouckère, or Sainte-Catherine on Booking.com.

🚆 Option #1 — Airport Train to Brussels Central (Fastest & Most Reliable)

Fast Frequent Short walk to Grand Place

  • Overview: Trains operated by SNCB/NMBS run from Brussels Airport-Zaventem station (directly under the terminal) to Brussels Central up to 6 times per hour during the day. From Central, the Grand Place is about a 5–10 minute walk through the historic core.
  • Duration: Around 17–20 minutes on the train plus 5–10 minutes on foot, depending on walking speed and crowds.
  • How to book (with price): A standard second-class ticket including the required Brussels Airport Supplement typically costs about €10–13 one-way. Buy at airport ticket machines or counters, or prebook selected options and tourist-friendly passes on Klook. For onward train journeys from Brussels to other Belgian cities, you can also explore options using 12Go or Trip.com.
  • Pros: Fast, runs early to late, largely unaffected by road traffic, drops you very close to Grand Place.
  • Cons: Requires a short walk with luggage; you must scan your ticket barcode to pass the airport station gates; seating can be busy at peak commute hours.
  • Good to know: Validate that your ticket includes the Brussels Airport Supplement (often called the Diabolo fee). Keep your ticket handy when entering or exiting the airport station.

Step-by-step: Airport Train to Grand Place

  1. After clearing customs at Brussels Airport, follow signs for “Train/Train Station” or “Railway Station” down to level -1.
  2. Buy a ticket to Bruxelles-Central / Brussel-Centraal from the SNCB/NMBS machines or counter. Make sure the ticket includes the airport supplement.
  3. Scan your ticket’s QR code (or MOBIB card) at the station gates to access the platforms.
  4. Board any train whose route includes Bruxelles-Central / Brussel-Centraal (most Brussels-bound trains stop at North–Central–South). Journey time is around 20 minutes.
  5. At Brussels Central, exit towards the city centre and follow signs to Grand Place / Grote Markt, or use your map app for walking directions.
  6. Walk downhill via Rue de la Montagne or Rue du Marché aux Herbes; within a few minutes you’ll emerge into the Grand Place.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Station / Brussels Central)

  • From Arrivals to airport station: Follow the clear rail icons; the station is directly under the terminal on level -1 accessible by lift or escalator.
  • From Brussels Central to Grand Place: Exit the station following “Centrum/Centre” signs; Grand Place is roughly 400–500 m away and well signposted.
  • From Grand Place back to the airport: Walk to Brussels Central, buy or validate your airport train ticket, and take any train marked for Brussels Airport-Zaventem.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚌 Option #2 — Airport Bus 12/21 + Metro/Walk (Cheapest)

Low cost Frequent More steps & connections

  • Overview: STIB/MIVB buses 12 (Airport Line, weekdays) and 21 (evenings/weekends/holidays) connect Brussels Airport with the European district (Schuman/Luxembourg). From there, you can switch to the metro for Brussels Central or walk from certain stops into the city centre.
  • Duration: Roughly 30–40 minutes on the bus plus 5–20 minutes for metro or walking, depending on route, wait times, and traffic.
  • How to book (with price): A single “Airport Line” ticket bought from station machines is typically about €7.50–9. Standard STIB tickets and day passes are cheaper but may not cover the airport surcharge. Tickets can be bought from machines at the airport bus station, at metro stations, or contactlessly on board. For visitors interested in bundled transport + attractions, check GetYourGuide’s Brussels city passes & tours or similar passes on Klook.
  • Pros: Lowest cost if you’re primarily using buses/metro, runs early till late, good for those staying near the European Quarter or along the route.
  • Cons: Less straightforward to Grand Place than the train; must manage luggage on bus and metro; can be affected by traffic and peak-hour crowding.
  • Good to know: Bus 12 operates as an express on weekdays; in evenings and weekends, it often switches to route number 21 with more stops. Check current timetables before travel.

Step-by-step: Airport Bus 12/21 to Grand Place

  1. From Arrivals, follow signs to “Buses”; the airport bus station is on level 0, directly below arrivals.
  2. Buy a ticket for the Airport Line (bus 12/21) from the STIB machines or use contactless payment as per the latest rules.
  3. Board bus 12 (weekday daytime) or 21 (evenings/weekends). With luggage, aim for space near the doors and be mindful of fellow passengers.
  4. Ride to Schuman or Luxembourg stop in the European Quarter. From Schuman, you can transfer to metro line 1 or 5 towards Gare Centrale; from Luxembourg, you can walk or take onward buses.
  5. From Gare Centrale metro station, follow signs to Brussels Central railway station and then continue on foot to Grand Place.
  6. Alternatively, if you prefer less walking, check your map app for trams stopping near Bourse/Beurs or De Brouckère and walk a few minutes to Grand Place.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Bus Station / Metro)

  • Airport bus station: Located on level 0 of Brussels Airport; use elevators or escalators down from Arrivals. Look for signs “Bus” and for buses 12 and 21 on departure boards.
  • Schuman/Luxembourg area: Both stops are in the European Quarter, with clear signage to the metro (Schuman) or to the nearby rail station (Bruxelles-Luxembourg) and city-centre buses.
  • From Gare Centrale to Grand Place: Use the station exits toward the city centre; the Grand Place is a short, mostly pedestrian walk.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #3 — Taxi, Ride-hailing & Private Transfer (Door-to-door)

Most comfortable Direct to your door Higher cost

  • Overview: Metered taxis, app-based ride-hailing, and prebooked private transfers offer a direct ride from Brussels Airport to your hotel or apartment around Grand Place, without the need to navigate stations or walk with bags.
  • Duration: Usually 30–45 minutes outside rush hour, but can stretch beyond 60 minutes during peak traffic or roadworks.
  • How to book (with price): Official airport taxis queue outside arrivals and typically cost around €45–60 to central Brussels, depending on traffic and exact destination. For a fixed price and meet-and-greet, prebook a private car through Welcome Pickups or compare vehicle sizes and prices with GetTransfer. Some transfers and shuttles are also listed on GetYourGuide and Klook.
  • Pros: Easiest with heavy luggage, kids, mobility issues, or late-night arrivals; direct drop-off at your accommodation; no need to handle tickets or station gates.
  • Cons: Sensitive to traffic; significantly more expensive than train or bus; you need to ensure you choose a licensed provider.
  • Good to know: Ride-hailing services (like Uber or Bolt) may require meeting your driver at a specified pick-up point. Check the app’s instructions and any airport-specific rules.

Step-by-step: Taxi / Private Transfer to Grand Place

  1. After exiting customs, follow signs to the official taxi rank outside the arrivals hall, or to the designated ride-hailing pick-up area if using an app.
  2. For maximum clarity and fixed pricing, consider booking ahead with Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer; your driver will typically meet you in the arrivals hall with a sign.
  3. Confirm the fare estimate and destination (e.g. your hotel near Grand Place or the Grand Place itself) before departing.
  4. Ride via the Brussels Ring and city streets into the centre; your driver will navigate local traffic and one-way roads around the pedestrian core.
  5. Get dropped as close as possible to your accommodation; for hotels directly on or next to Grand Place, drop-off is usually on a nearby accessible street, followed by a short walk.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taxi Rank / Pickup Zones)

  • Airport taxi rank: Follow “Taxi” signs from arrivals; only use licensed taxis from the official rank to avoid scams.
  • Ride-hailing pickup: Check your app’s map for the exact meeting point; some services designate specific levels or car parks for pickups.
  • Drop-off near Grand Place: Many streets directly around Grand Place are pedestrian; expect drop-off near Brussels Central, Rue du Marché aux Herbes, or Rue de la Madeleine, followed by a short walk.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #4 — Car Rental / Self-Drive (Best for Regional Trips)

Flexible Good for multi-day tours Not needed in city centre

  • Overview: Renting a car at Brussels Airport makes sense if you’re planning a wider Belgium or Benelux road trip (e.g. Ghent, Bruges, Leuven, Ardennes) and just passing through Brussels. Driving into the historic core near Grand Place is possible but not recommended due to traffic, narrow streets, and limited parking.
  • Duration: Around 30–45 minutes driving to the central area in light traffic, plus time for rental pickup and parking.
  • How to book (with price): Major international and local agencies have desks at the airport. Expect small cars from roughly €45–70 per day excluding fuel and insurance, depending on season and availability. Compare offers, insurance options, and pick-up times on Booking.com Car Rental. For two-wheel exploration once in the city, look at bicycle or scooter rentals on BikesBooking.
  • Pros: Full flexibility for day trips; easy luggage handling; ideal if you’re visiting smaller towns or countryside areas poorly served by trains.
  • Cons: City-centre driving can be stressful; parking garages near Grand Place are paid and can be pricey; you don’t need a car to explore the core of Brussels.
  • Good to know: Check whether your hotel offers guest parking and whether it’s accessible via the city’s circulation plan. Watch for low-emission zones and local driving rules.

Step-by-step: Car Rental to Grand Place

  1. Reserve your car in advance via Booking.com or your preferred rental agency, selecting Brussels Airport as pick-up and specifying your arrival time.
  2. After landing, follow signs to the Car Rental desks, complete paperwork, and collect your vehicle from the designated car park.
  3. Use your GPS or map app to route to a central car park near Grand Place (for example, parking facilities near Brussels Central or De Brouckère).
  4. Park the car and keep your ticket; then walk 5–10 minutes to Grand Place.
  5. For onward travel, retrieve your car and drive out following signs to the ring road or your next destination city.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airport Car Rental Desks)

  • Airport rental desks: Located within or adjacent to the terminal, clearly signposted after arrivals; some agencies may have counters in nearby car parks.
  • City-centre parking: Use underground parking near Brussels Central, De Brouckère, or Sainte-Catherine for easier walking access to Grand Place.
  • Returning to the airport: Follow rental agency instructions for fuel, drop-off time, and return lane; allow extra time at peak hours.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Brussels Airport to Grand Place)

What is the fastest way to get from Brussels Airport to Grand Place?
The fastest and most reliable option for most travelers is the SNCB/NMBS airport train to Brussels Central, then a 5–10 minute walk to Grand Place. Trains are frequent and avoid road traffic.

How much does the train from Brussels Airport to Brussels Central cost?
A standard second-class ticket including the Brussels Airport Supplement typically costs about €10–13 one-way, depending on time and fare type. Always check current prices on the official Belgian Rail channels or at the ticket machines.

Is there a direct bus from Brussels Airport to Grand Place?
There is no direct bus to Grand Place itself, but the Airport Line 12/21 runs to the European Quarter, where you can transfer to metro or tram towards the city centre, then walk a short distance to Grand Place.

Are taxis and ride-hailing safe from Brussels Airport?
Using licensed airport taxis from the official rank is generally safe. Prebooked transfers via reputable providers such as Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer add an extra layer of reliability. If using ride-hailing apps, follow local guidance and meet drivers only at designated pick-up points.

Can I store my luggage near Grand Place or Brussels Central?
Yes. If you arrive early or have a late flight, you can drop bags at luggage storage services around Brussels Central and the city centre, such as Radical Storage Brussels City Centre, and explore Grand Place baggage-free.

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