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Brussels · Belgium

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Brussels Airport (BRU) is located in Zaventem, approximately 12 kilometres north-east of central Brussels. The airport operates from a single passenger terminal structure connected to two main pier areas (Pier A and Pier B). It serves as Belgium's primary hub for international flights, long-haul carriers, and European regional services.

Terminals

Pier A
Handles Schengen area flights and select short-haul destinations via a single integrated concourse.
Pier B
Handles non-Schengen international flights, requiring border control screening upon arrival and departure.

Arriving

Arrivals follow a direct path from the gates through border control (if arriving from non-Schengen countries), baggage claim, customs, and into the main arrivals hall on Level 2.

  • Deplane into Pier A or Pier B and follow the clear overhead signs directing towards Arrivals and Baggage Reclaim.
  • Passengers arriving from non-Schengen origins must clear passport control operated by the Belgian Federal Police.
  • Proceed down to the baggage reclaim area on Level 2 to collect checked luggage from designated carousels.
  • Pass through customs control; select the green channel if you have nothing to declare or the red channel if carrying taxable goods.
  • Exit into the main public arrivals hall on Level 2, where ground transport access and airport services are situated.

Getting to the city

  • Train

    NMBS / SNCB

    Direct trains depart from the airport railway station located directly below the terminal on Level -1, running frequently to Brussels-Central, Brussels-Midi, and Brussels-North.

    Time:
    15-20 minutes
    Typical cost:
    €10 - €15 (includes Brussels Airport Diabolo supplement)
  • Train

    STIB-MIVB (Line 12)

    The Airport Line (Line 12) connects the bus station on Level 0 to the European Quarter and Luxembourg Station, operating express services on weekdays and regular stops at weekends.

    Time:
    30-45 minutes
    Typical cost:
    €4.50 - €7.00
  • Bus

    De Lijn

    Regional buses serve local destinations around Flemish Brabant and outer Brussels neighbourhoods from the Level 0 bus station.

    Time:
    40-60 minutes
    Typical cost:
    €2.50 - €3.00
  • Taxi

    Official Licensed Taxis

    Metered taxis are available 24/7 from the ranks immediately outside the arrivals hall on Level 2. Ensure the vehicle has a blue licensed taxi badge.

    Time:
    20-40 minutes
    Typical cost:
    €45 - €60
  • Ride-hailing

    Uber

    Rideshare pickups are arranged via mobile app and take place at designated passenger pickup zones on the parking levels.

    Time:
    20-40 minutes
    Typical cost:
    €35 - €55

Connections & transfers

Transferring between flights depends on whether your origin and destination are within the Schengen zone.

  • Schengen to Schengen transfers remain within Pier A without needing to clear passport control or customs.
  • Non-Schengen to Schengen transfers require passing through passport control and security screening before proceeding to Pier A gates.
  • Ensure your baggage is checked through to your final destination; otherwise, clear customs and re-check bags at Level 3 departures.

Wi-Fi & staying connected

Free unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the passenger terminal.

  • Connect to the network named 'Brussels Airport Wi-Fi'.
  • Open a web browser page to accept the basic terms and conditions.
  • No registration via phone number or social media profile is required for standard access.

Money, cards & tipping

Cash machines and foreign exchange counters are located across both arrivals and departure levels.

  • ATMs accepting major international cards are available on Level 2 (Arrivals) and Level 3 (Departures).
  • Currency exchange desks operate in both Pier A and Pier B, as well as the main departure hall.
  • Electronic payments and contactless cards are universally accepted across airport shops, cafes, and public transport ticket machines.

Food & drink

A wide variety of eateries, cafes, and grab-and-go spots operate across all terminal areas.

  • Options range from quick coffee shops and Belgian bakeries to sit-down restaurants and bars.
  • Dining outlets are situated both airside (in Pier A and Pier B) and landside in the main terminal hall.
  • Several food vendors operate early morning to late evening to match flight departures.

Lounges & rest

Multiple airline and independent pay-per-use lounges are available in both piers.

  • The Brussels Airlines Loft is located in Pier A, catering primarily to Star Alliance passengers and business class travellers.
  • Independent lounges in Pier A and Pier B accept major lounge membership schemes and walk-in bookings subject to capacity.
  • Facilities generally include complimentary refreshments, quiet seating, Wi-Fi, and business workstations.

Airport hotels

Hotel options are located directly opposite the terminal and in the immediate airport zone.

  • The Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel is situated directly across from the terminal building, accessible via a short walkway.
  • Multiple additional airport hotels operate nearby, offering complimentary or low-cost shuttle bus links from Level 0.
  • Bookings can be made online in advance or via assistance desks in the main arrivals area.

Baggage & customs

Luggage services include luggage storage, wrapping, and lost property assistance.

  • Self-service luggage lockers are available on Level 0 near the bus station.
  • Lost property left on aircraft or within the terminal is managed via the airport's official website reporting tool or desk on Level 2.
  • Luggage wrapping and protection services are located in the main departures hall on Level 3.

Family & accessibility

Brussels Airport provides dedicated amenities for travellers with children.

  • Baby changing facilities are integrated into most main toilet blocks across all pier levels.
  • Strollers are available for use airside past security in both Pier A and Pier B.
  • Dedicated play areas for young children are situated in the main gate areas.

Facilities

  • Free Unlimited Wi-Fi
  • Luggage Storage Lockers
  • Pharmacy
  • Medical Centre
  • Prayer & Meditation Rooms
  • Duty Free Shopping
  • ATMs & Exchange Desks

Emergency & safety

Local emergency number: 112 (National Emergency Number, Free dial).

  • Dial 112 from any telephone for general emergency services, including medical emergencies and fire.
  • A first-aid medical station staffed by medical personnel is located landside within the main terminal building.
  • If you lose your passport, report immediately to the Belgian Federal Police station located in the airport complex.

Before you leave home

  • Check your passport validity and any visa, ETA or entry declaration required.
  • Confirm your departure terminal on your boarding pass the day before.
  • Activate a travel eSIM so you are online the moment you land.
  • Download offline maps and screenshot your hotel address and booking reference.
  • Tell your bank you are travelling and carry a backup payment card.
  • Save the local emergency number and your embassy contact in your phone.
  • Photograph your passport and store the copy somewhere you can reach offline.
  • Check baggage allowance and any restricted items for your destination.

Official sources

Airport operations change. Always confirm terminals, fares and timetables with the official sources below before you travel.

Guide last reviewed August 27, 2026

Airport information can change. Verify terminal assignments, schedules, fares, entry requirements and operating hours with the official provider before travel.

Land connected

Airport Wi-Fi is slow, time-limited and not private. A travel eSIM activates before you fly, so maps, ride-hailing and your booking emails work the second you switch off airplane mode.

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Travel information disclaimer: passport, visa and entry requirements change frequently and vary by nationality, route and purpose of travel. Everything published here is general guidance only and is not legal or immigration advice. Always verify current requirements with the official government sources for your citizenship and your destination before booking and before travel.