Brussels Airport (Zaventem) (BRU) Traveler Essentials

Terminals: Single main terminal complex with departures on level 3 and arrivals on level 1. Piers A, B, and T serve different flight types. Clear signage throughout.
Distance to city: 12 km / 17 min by train to Brussels-Central

Overview

Brussels Airport is Belgium's primary international hub, handling 25+ million passengers. Located in Zaventem, 12km northeast of Brussels centre, it offers excellent rail connections. A well-equipped, modern airport with strong Schengen and transatlantic connectivity as a Brussels Airlines hub.

Transport to city center

Train directly from the airport basement to Bruxelles-Midi/Brussels South (17 min, EUR 15.90) — most convenient. Brussels-Midi connects Eurostar and Thalys. Train to Bruxelles-Central (22 min). Taxi: EUR 35–45, 20–30 min. No dedicated bus service needed with the excellent train.

Wi-Fi

Free unlimited WiFi at Brussels Airport — connect to the airport network; no time limit.

Lounges

Brussels Airlines Platinum Lounge (Priority Pass eligible), Aspire Lounge, No. 1 Traveller Lounge. Multiple options with Priority Pass.

Security & customs

EU/EEA passport holders and eligible ePassport travelers aged 12+ can use the automated eGates. Standard EU 100ml liquid rules apply at security. Belgium is in Schengen, so intra-Schengen flights skip passport control; duty-free allowances apply only on non-EU arrivals.

Travel tips

The airport train is the best option — runs every 15 minutes and takes you directly under the airport. Belgian chocolate (Leonidas, Neuhaus, Godiva) is available at much better airport prices than tourist shops. Eurostar to London from Bruxelles-Midi is 2 hours — a great option for UK-bound travellers.