Quick choice
For Brussels Airport (BRU), the airport train is usually a straightforward way to reach Brussels-North, Brussels-Central or Brussels-Midi. Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) is a different airport, much farther from the city: compare a direct coach with TEC airport bus plus SNCB train, including connections.
Choose your arrival station
Brussels-Central is convenient for the Grand-Place and Mont des Arts. Brussels-Midi / Brussel-Zuid is the hub for international trains such as Eurostar. Brussels-North serves another part of the city. Schuman and Brussels-Luxembourg are often better reference points for the European Quarter. Choose based on your hotel address, not only the station's name.
From Brussels Airport (BRU)
The rail station is below the terminal. Direct trains connect the airport with Brussels-North, Central and Midi. Check ticket prices and whether the airport supplement is already included; do not pay it twice. The STIB/MIVB Airport Line can instead make sense for addresses near its route. Compare total travel time, including the final local connection.
From Charleroi Airport (CRL)
The direct airport coach is one option. Another is the TEC airport bus to Charleroi's railway station, followed by a train to Brussels. Schedules, prices and route combinations change; check the operator for your date. An advertised coach journey is not the same as the time to your accommodation.
After arrival
STIB operates metro, trams and buses; SNCB operates trains. Their tickets are not always interchangeable. Walking works well in the compact historic centre, though the upper town has hills. Check the last airport service when landing late and allow time for luggage.
Official sources
Visit Brussels arrival guide · SNCB/NMBS train planner · STIB/MIVB.
Editorial verification: October 2026. Confirm fares and operating times before departure.