Brussels is an easy city to visit, but a few practical tips will save you time, money and stress: how to get in from the airport, how to pay on public transport, what to pack, and what to know about driving. Information checked in October 2026; prices and timetables can change, so confirm on the official websites before you travel.
This guide is part of our complete Brussels travel guide.
Arriving in Brussels
Brussels Airport (Zaventem)
The main airport is about 20 km north-east of the city centre.
- Train: the station is under the terminal. Direct trains reach Brussels-Central in about 18–20 minutes, with several departures an hour. The ticket includes an airport supplement.
- Private transfer: the most comfortable option with luggage or children, door to door to your hotel.
Brussels South Charleroi Airport
Used by many low-cost airlines, Charleroi is about 50 km south of Brussels. Shuttle buses run to Brussels-Midi station and take about an hour; a private transfer avoids waiting for the next departure.
By train
Brussels has three main stations in the centre: Brussels-Midi (Zuid), Brussels-Central and Brussels-North. International high-speed trains, including Eurostar, use Brussels-Midi. Eurostar takes about 2 hours from London and from about 1 hour 22 minutes from Paris.
Getting around the city
Walking
The historic centre is compact: the Grand-Place, Manneken Pis, the Galleries, the Mont des Arts and the Sablon are all within about 15 minutes' walk. The upper city (Royal Quarter, Sablon) is uphill, so take your time.
Metro, tram and bus (STIB)
- The STIB network has four metro lines plus many tram and bus lines, and night buses at weekends.
- Paying: the easiest way is to tap your contactless bank card or phone on the reader when you board or enter the metro. It costs the same as a standard ticket.
- Price: a single journey cost €2.40 from 1 February 2026. Check the STIB website for day passes and current fares.
Taxis and ride-hailing
Taxis are available at stations and taxi ranks, and ride-hailing apps operate in Brussels. For fixed prices and a professional chauffeur, book a private transfer in advance.
Driving and the Low Emission Zone
- The whole Brussels region is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ), 24 hours a day, for Belgian and foreign vehicles. Since 1 January 2026, Euro 5 diesel cars and Euro 2 petrol cars are no longer allowed. Check your vehicle on the official LEZ website before you drive in.
- Parking in the centre is limited and expensive; many visitors leave the car at the hotel.
Weather and what to pack
Brussels has a temperate, changeable climate. According to the official 1991–2020 averages of the Royal Meteorological Institute, January averages about 3.7 °C and July about 18.7 °C, and there is rain or snow on around 190 days a year.
- Spring: mild and fresh. Bring layers.
- Summer: generally pleasant, with occasional hot spells and showers.
- Autumn: cooler and often grey, with fewer crowds.
- Winter: cold and damp rather than snowy. A warm coat, scarf and waterproof shoes are essential.
In every season: a small umbrella or rain jacket and comfortable shoes for the cobblestones. For December, see our Brussels Christmas Market 2026 guide.
Money, tipping and costs
- Currency: euro. Cards and contactless payment are accepted almost everywhere, but keep a little cash for small stands.
- Tipping: service is generally included in restaurants. Rounding up or leaving a small extra for good service is appreciated, not expected.
- Saving money: look for weekday lunch menus, free museums (House of European History, Parlamentarium) and free entry on the first Wednesday of the month in several museums.
Languages
Brussels is officially bilingual: French and Dutch. Street names and signs are in both languages. English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, shops and museums. A simple "bonjour" or "goedendag" is always appreciated.
Safety
Brussels is generally safe for visitors. As in any capital, watch out for pickpockets in crowded places, on public transport and around the large train stations, especially Brussels-Midi and Brussels-North. Keep your bag closed and your phone out of back pockets.
Accessibility
- Metro: most stations (more than three-quarters) have lifts, and the network aims to equip all of them.
- Old town: cobblestones, kerbs and slopes can be difficult for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
- Atomium: a lift reaches the panoramic sphere; the exhibition spheres are reached by steep escalators and stairs.
- Private tours: travelling by car between sights reduces walking and lets you go at your own pace.
Other useful information
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- Electricity: 230 V, with European plugs (type E; type F plugs also fit).
- Opening days: many museums close on Mondays; many shops close on Sundays outside the centre.
- Emergencies: call 112 from any phone.
Travel stress-free with a private tour
If you prefer not to deal with tickets, timetables and maps, a private tour is the easiest way to discover Brussels: hotel or station pickup, a certified guide and a professional chauffeur. Discover The Heart of Belgium — History, Elegance & Chocolate, or plan a private day trip from Brussels.