Direct trains run from Brussels Airport-Zaventem station (under the terminal) to Brussels-North, Brussels-Central and Brussels-Midi, with up to 6 trains per hour to the city until around midnight; typical travel time airport–Central is about 15–20 minutes. Services are operated by SNCB/NMBS and include a mandatory Diabolo airport surcharge in the ticket price; check the journey planner for exact times and any temporary disruptions such as engineering works. cite
Arrivals decoded
Brussels: City Transfer Guide
Fast, easy ways to reach the primary city center after landing. Targets queries likebrussels airport busandbru to city centerfor eSIM funnels.
Budget path
Brief
Cheapest door-to-door option; expect extra stops and tighter luggage space.
Service
STIB/MIVB Bus 12 “Airport Line”
Mode
bus
Freq
10-20m
Note
Bus 12 runs between Brussels Airport and the European Quarter (Schuman and Troon/Trône), linking easily by metro lines 1–5 and 2–6 to Brussels-Central and the historic city centre; the journey airport–EU quarter is about 30 minutes. Standard STIB/MIVB tickets are valid from the city to the airport, while trips from the airport to the city require an Airport2City ticket or contactless payment. cite
Priority path
Brief
Fastest connection with wider aisles and better luggage handling.
Direct trains run from Brussels Airport-Zaventem station (under the terminal) to Brussels-North, Brussels-Central and Brussels-Midi, with up to 6 trains per hour to the city until around midnight; typical travel time airport–Central is about 15–20 minutes. Services are operated by SNCB/NMBS and include a mandatory Diabolo airport surcharge in the ticket price; check the journey planner for exact times and any temporary disruptions such as engineering works. cite
Fare math
Brief
Express trains tend to be twice as expensive but half the time. Budget routes take longer yet often have more frequent departures after work.
eSIMComing Soon
Stay connected from landing
Skip the airport SIM queue. We're partnering with eSIM providers to get you online before you even leave the gate.
✓Instant activation✓Local rates✓No SIM swap
FAQs
KB
01Where will the downtown drop-off be?
A
Most services target Brussels Central Station / Brussels city centre, so drop a pin in your maps app before boarding.
02How frequent are departures?
A
SNCB/NMBS Brussels Airport – Brussels North/Central/South trains usually runs every 10-15 minutes. If it pauses, follow the overhead signs to the bus bay for the fallback service.