Belgium Transportation Guide

Belgium Transportation Guide: Efficient Belgian transportation relies on a well-connected train network, trams in cities, and bike-friendly paths, ensuring easy exploration.

Airports

Belgium Transportation Guide – International Airports

Belgium has two main international airports that serve the country and the surrounding regions:

Brussels Airport (BRU) – Located in Zaventem, approximately 11 km northeast of Brussels, the capital city of Belgium. Brussels Airport is the largest and busiest airport in the country, with flights to over 200 destinations worldwide. It serves as the hub for Brussels Airlines and TUI fly Belgium.

Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) – Located in Gosselies, approximately 46 km south of Brussels. Brussels South Charleroi Airport is a smaller airport that mainly serves low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air. It offers flights to several European destinations, including Spain, Italy, and Poland.

In addition to these two airports, there are several other regional airports in Belgium that offer domestic and international flights to select destinations.

National Airports

Belgium has several regional airports that serve as national airports for domestic flights and some international flights to nearby destinations. These airports include:

Antwerp International Airport (ANR) – Located in Antwerp, this airport offers flights to several European destinations, including London, Manchester, and Geneva.

Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST) – Located in Ostend, this airport offers flights to several destinations in Europe, including Alicante, Malaga, and Tenerife.

Liege Airport (LGG) – Located in Liege, this airport primarily handles cargo flights, but also offers some passenger flights to several European destinations, including Rome, Milan, and Budapest.

Kortrijk-Wevelgem International Airport (KJK) – Located in Kortrijk, this airport mainly serves as a regional airport for flights to other parts of Belgium and some nearby destinations.

While these airports are not as large as the two main international airports in Belgium (Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi Airport), they still offer convenient options for domestic travel and travel to some European destinations.

Belgium Transportation Guide – Trains

Belgium has a well-developed train system that connects major cities within the country and provides easy access to neighboring countries. The train system in Belgium is operated by the national railway company, called SNCB/NMBS. Here are some key points about the train system in Belgium:

High-speed trains – Belgium’s high-speed train network is called Thalys, which connects Brussels to Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne. Eurostar trains also connect Brussels to London via the Channel Tunnel.

Regional trains – SNCB/NMBS also operates regional trains, which connect cities within Belgium and offer frequent services throughout the day.

Train tickets – Train tickets can be purchased online, at the train station, or via mobile app. The prices vary depending on the type of train and the distance traveled.

Train passes – SNCB/NMBS offers several train passes, including the Rail Pass, which allows for 10 trips anywhere in Belgium over a 12-month period, and the Go Unlimited Pass, which provides unlimited travel on all trains in Belgium for a specified period of time.

Train stations – Major train stations in Belgium include Brussels Central, Brussels Midi, and Antwerp Central. These stations offer amenities such as shops, restaurants, and luggage storage.

Trains

Buses

Belgium Transportation Guide – Buses

Belgium has a comprehensive bus network that provides a convenient and affordable way to travel within the country and to neighboring countries. Here are some key points about the bus system in Belgium:

National bus companies – The two main national bus companies in Belgium are De Lijn (Flemish region) and TEC (Walloon region). These companies operate local, regional, and long-distance bus services throughout the country.

International bus companies – Several international bus companies, such as Flixbus and Eurolines, operate bus services to and from Belgium to other European countries.

Bus tickets – Bus tickets can be purchased online, at bus stations, or on board. Prices vary depending on the distance traveled and the type of bus.

Bus passes – Both De Lijn and TEC offer bus passes for frequent travelers. These passes provide unlimited travel on buses within a specified region or for a certain period of time.

Bus stations – Major bus stations in Belgium include Brussels North Station, Brussels South Station, and Antwerp Central Station. These stations offer amenities such as shops, restaurants, and luggage storage.

Links of interest

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Belgium Transportation Guide – SIM Cards

When getting a SIM card in Belgium as a traveler, follow these steps:

Providers:
Consider major providers like Proximus, Orange, and Base. Visit their stores or authorized resellers.

Prepaid Options:
Choose a prepaid SIM card for flexibility. They usually come with data, talk, and text allowances.

Documentation:
Bring identification (passport) for SIM card registration, a legal requirement in Belgium.

Compatibility:
Ensure your phone is unlocked to accept a Belgian SIM card. Most modern smartphones are unlocked, but verify before purchase.

Package Comparison:
Compare packages for data, talk time, and validity. Some may include additional perks like international calling or text allowances.

Data Allowance:
Consider your data needs. Belgium offers good 4G coverage, but if you plan on heavy data usage, choose a package accordingly.

Activation:
Activate the SIM card as per the provided instructions. This may involve calling a number or visiting a website.

Coverage:
Check coverage maps to ensure your chosen provider has good coverage in the areas you plan to visit.

Roaming:
If planning to travel beyond Belgium, check the roaming rates and policies of the chosen provider.

Emergency Services:
Ensure you can dial emergency services (112) without credit.

E-SIM Option:
Check if your phone supports eSIMs. Some providers offer eSIM options for added convenience.

Returning the SIM:
If it’s a one-time visit, be aware of the procedure for returning or disposing of the SIM card.

SIM Card Return:
If you have a Belgian friend, inquire about returning the SIM card through them to avoid environmental impact.