Brussels Airport

A modern airport 10km northeast of the city centre
Word to the wise: Brussels airport is commonly called Zaventem Airport by locals, after the suburb in which it is located.

Noteworthy for: This efficient travel hub is the national airport of Belgium and serves most international flights in and out of the country.
A past winner of Best Airport in Europe, its spacious modern interior is easy to navigate and offers a wide range of facilities. WiFi access is provided throughout all waiting areas and most public areas and there are a number of shops, restaurants and bars, as well as luggage lockers, a post office, a hairdresser and a pharmacy.

The easiest, cheapest and fastest way to travel to the city centre is to take the Airport Express train, located below the terminal. From 5.30am to 11.30pm, up to four trains per hour connect the airport with the city's three main stations, Brussels North, Brussels Central and Brussels Midi, a journey that takes approximately 18 minutes. Tickets can be bought from the station's booking office or from machines and cost EUR 2.90.

The bus station can be found on the floor below the Arrivals Hall and tickets can be purchased from the machines on the platforms (EUR 3.50), or from the driver on board (EUR 6). The Airport Line runs a 30-minute express service to and from the city centre. The De Lijn bus company operates a service to Brussels North but takes longer (EUR 2).

Taxis are best avoided as they are expensive and, thanks to the city's notoriously bad traffic, will take far longer than the train. There are ranks outside the airport, where licensed taxis will take you to the city centre for around EUR 45. Alternatively, book a return journey with Autolux in advance and receive 20 percent off.