When flying to and from the city of Brussels, Belgium most travelers will use Brussels Airport (also called Brussels-Zanventem). This airport is only about 12 kilometers away from the city center, and is very easy to access via train and/or bus. Other travelers may find they have been scheduled to fly out of another airport by the name of Brussels South Charleroi Airport. This airport is around 60 kilometers away from the city center, and requires more time to reach.
While you may have to leave earlier than expected, flying in and out of Brussels South Charleroi Airport can end up saving you lots of money, due to the low-cost airlines that use this airport. If you plan on flying through Brussels Charleroi, here is how to get there from Brussels’ city center.
From Brussels, you will want to make your way to the Brussels Midi train station. Depending on where you are located in Brussels, you can either walk here or take the train from another Brussels station. The amount of time it takes to get to Brussels Midi station will also depend on your location. Always make sure to over-estimate your anticipated travel time, to account for any unexpected delays.
Once you reach Brussels Midi station, you will take a bus to the airport. The bus company you’ll want to find is called Brussels City Shuttle. The stop for this bus will not be located in the same area as the rest of the Brussels city buses. Instead, you will find it at the point indicated on these maps:
Brussels Midi station is a fairly big train station, so it may be easy to get turned around trying to find your way out. If this happens, you can always ask the ticket agents for help. There is also a travel information desk located in the central area of Brussels Midi station. They can also help you find the right bus.
Once you are in the correct spot, you will know by the Brussels City Shuttle sign posted. The bus schedule will be posted here as well. If the bus is not yet there, simply wait patiently for the next one to arrive.
You can either buy your ticket online, prior to boarding, or you can pay the driver when you board the bus. A one-way ticket from Brussels to Charleroi Airport will cost you €14 when you buy online, or €17 when you buy on the bus.
Once you board the bus it’s an easy 60 minute ride to Brussels South Charleroi Airport. The bus will drop you off right at the departures hall so you can enter and check in for your flight.
To get from Brussels South Charleroi Airport to the city center, simply follow these directions backwards 🙂
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