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Getting from Brussels Airport to Bruges

Located 108 kilometers from Brussels Airport (BRU), visitors have a choice of four different transport options to reach their destination in Bruges. These include a local taxi, a private Brussels Airport transfer, a train, or a bus.  

The quickest option is a Brussels Airport taxi, with a journey of just 1 hour and 15 minutes in light traffic. Another direct but more affordable choice is a private transfer, where an English-speaking driver will drop you directly at the door of your hotel. 

The cheapest transfer option from Brussels Airport to Bruges is the bus, with a journey time of 2 hours and 30 minutes or less. Lastly, you can take the IC train, which costs more than the bus but departs more frequently and takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Brussels at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS
OPTION PRICE DURATION AVAILABILITY Action
Taxi €250 75min 24/7
Train €51.80 90min 05:30–23:57
Bus €30 150min 10:55–18:40
Welcome Airport Transfer €174 75min 24/7

How to get from Brussels Airport to Bruges by taxi

Taking a Brussels Airport taxi from Brussels Airport to Bruges is the quickest but most expensive transfer option. Taxis at Brussels airport charge based on a taximeter, not at a flat rate fee, and you can either book one in advance or simply join the queue on arrival.

Vehicles can typically seat up to four passengers, and the journey is around 1 hour and 15 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

How much is a taxi from Brussels Airport to Bruges?

Taxis in Brussels don’t offer a flat rate fee to Bruges, instead, they charge using a taximeter based on the exact distance traveled. For the journey from Brussels Airport to Bruges, a taxi should cost around €250, depending on the exact location of your accommodation.

If you’d rather secure a fixed rate fee with no hidden extras, we recommend booking a private transfer in advance with Welcome Pickups.

Cost

€250

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 15 Min.

*Rates may vary unless you book your taxi in advance.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Brussels Airport.

Where can I catch a taxi from?

As you exit the Arrivals Hall on the Ground Floor, you will see a line of taxis ready to pick you up. Bear in mind that taxis at Brussels Airport can vary in color and model as they are owned by different companies, but a blue and yellow symbol should be displayed on the front of the vehicle, in addition to featuring a “T” at the start of their licence plate.

Convenience

Nothing says “I’m on holiday” like walking out of the airport and hopping into an air-conditioned taxi. You can’t beat the convenience of a door-to-door service while you sit back and enjoy the Belgian scenery.

The factors that make a private transfer better than a taxi are that private transfers have more modern vehicles at cheaper fares, help with luggage from Baggage Claim to the vehicle, and a complimentary mini-tour of the area along the way. 

Editor’s Note

Although the fare for a taxi from Brussels Airport to Bruges is a high, if you're in a group and split the cost per-person, it is more affordable.

Useful Tips

All taxis at Brussels airport are owned by different companies, so surcharges may vary between each car.
Make sure your driver has his taxi license and meter clearly on show before you leave the airport.
Brussels taxi drivers don't expect a tip, although you are welcome to round up the fare to the nearest euro.

Getting from Brussels Airport to Bruges by train

A more affordable transport option is to take a train from Brussels Airport to Bruges, perfect for those traveling on a budget. The National Railway Company of Belgium (SNCB) operates three to four services each hour, one of which is direct. Otherwise, you will need to make a short stop at Brussels Central Station (Brussel-Centraal/Brux.-Midi/Brus.-Zuid). In any case, the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, or slightly less. 

How much is the train from Brussels Airport to Bruges?

Whether you’re traveling from Bruges to Brussels Airport or vice versa, the IC train costs €25.90 for a one-way ticket. You can purchase your tickets from the automatic machines found in Brussels Airport – Zaventem station or in advance online.

Cost

€25.90

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 30 Min.

There is a wait time of 30 minutes, or 1 hour if you wish to take the direct train.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

IC trains are available between 05:30 and 23:57 from Brussels Airport.

Where do I get the train from?

The train station is located on Level -1 of the main terminal in Brussels Airport. From the Arrivals Hall, you can access it from Level 2, and if you’re in the Departures Hall, you can access it from Level 3.

Convenience

The IC train runs most of the day, so as long as you aren’t traveling overnight, you should be able to catch a train to Bruges within 30 minutes or less. However, once you arrive in Bruges, you’ll need to walk or take a cab to your accommodation, which can add time and a bit of inconvenience to your journey.

Editor’s Note

IC trains alternate between a direct line and an indirect line with a change in Brussel-Centraal, so if you have a lot of luggage to maneuvor, you may want to wait for the direct train.

Useful Tips

Trains usually arrive and depart from the same platform at Brussels Centraal.
There are two luggage racks in each section of the train, so be sure to select a cabin with a free rack.
If you want to save some time in the train station, you can purchase your tickets online and skip the queues.
Bruges is pedestrian friendly, so it will be easy to walk to your accommodation from the train station.

How to get from Brussels BRU Airport to Bruges by bus

Catching a private bus is the cheapest transfer option between Brussels Airport and Bruges, with a journey time between 2 hours and 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the time of day. Flixbus coaches are large and comfortable, with plenty of room for storage. Keep in mind, however, that there are only three daily departures, with several hours between each service.

How much does the bus from Brussels Airport to Bruges cost?

A one-way bus ticket on the Flixbus service to Bruges can be snapped up for as little as €15 per person when booked online in advance. Tickets can also be purchased onboard from the driver, provided there are seats still available.

Cost

€15

Trip Duration

2 Hrs. 30 Min.

Wait times range from 1 hour 30 minutes to 6 hours.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Flixbus departs daily between 10:55 and 18:40.

Where does the bus depart from?

Directions to the bus stop will be provided upon booking. After exiting the Baggage Claim area, follow the signs towards ground transportation while keeping an eye out for the P16 bus parking zone.

Convenience

If the bus schedule coincides with your flight landing time, this can be a great budget option, so long as you’re not in a hurry. Otherwise, for a few extra euros, you can catch the train and reach your destination in almost half the time.

Editor’s Note

The bus is ideal for anyone looking to go directly to Bruges for an affordable price.

Useful Tips

On-board services include WiFi, air-conditioning, and toilets.
Luggage will be stored underneath the coach.
Given services are limited, we recommend booking in advance to guarantee a seat.

How to get from Brussels Airport to Bruges by private transfer

The most popular way to travel from Brussels BRU Airport to your Bruges accommodation is to take a private transfer. A Brussels Airport transfer offers ease and comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle that will drop you right at the curb of your hotel.

You’ll be provided a guaranteed fixed fare rate with 24/7 customer support and an English-speaking driver. Furthermore, upon arrival, you’ll be provided with a meet-and-greet, just one of the personalized touches included with a Welcome transfer.

Your driver will also point out some sites along the way and share their local tips and tricks on how to best enjoy this charming city.

How much is a private transfer from Brussels Airport to Bruges?

When you book a private transfer, you’ll know the final cost of your journey before you ride, allowing you to budget and travel with confidence. Welcome will send you a fixed quote ahead of time, giving you peace of mind that the price won’t increase due to additional surcharges or the meter going up in heavy traffic.

From Brussels Airport, a transfer to Bruges will cost €174 for a ride in a comfortable sedan that can seat four passengers. Alternatively, you can choose to travel in an 8-seater minivan for €204, or a minibus for €408 with room for up to 12 passengers.

To book your ride, either head online or download the Welcome Pickups app. Then enter your flight details, destination, your preferred pick-up time, and a few personal details. The whole process can be completed in less than a minute.

Cost

€174

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 15 Min.

*When booked in advance a vehicle of your choice will be waiting on arrival.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from Brussels Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Upon arrival at Brussels Airport, you’ll find your driver waiting for you outside the Baggage Claim area, holding up a sign with your name on it. Following a warm introduction, you’ll be shown to your pre-selected private vehicle while being lent a hand with any luggage, ensuring that your transfer starts relaxed and stress-free

Convenience

Unlike other transport options, a Brussels Airport transfer is fully customizable, giving you complete flexibility over the schedule and vehicle type. Being able to organize everything in advance means there are no surprises on the day, ensuring a seamless and relaxing ride to your hotel. 

Editor’s Note

Private transfers are ideal for groups and families where space and reliability are the main priorities.

Useful Tips

To ensure you recognize your driver on arrival, we'll send you an email the day before with their name, contact number, and a photo.
At Welcome Pickups, we provide all our drivers with live updates on any changes to your flight time. This means that if your flight is delayed or arrives early, your driver will always be there to greet you when you land.
Select a pickup time at least 30 minutes after your flight’s scheduled arrival time to ensure you have enough time to clear Immigration and collect any luggage.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Welcome Pickups

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Brussels. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Read more

Prices

DAYTIME
€119
NIGHTTIME
€119
Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to get from Brussels Airport to Bruges?

If you’re after convenience, comfort, and reliability, a private transfer is the best way to travel. For those traveling on a budget, a train may be more suitable, although the journey takes 15 minutes longer, excluding wait times.

How much is the train ticket from Brussels Airport to Bruges?

The IC train services depart Brussels Airport approximately every 30 minutes and take 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Bruges train station. Tickets cost €25.90 one-way and can be purchased online in advance or at the automatic ticket machines in the Brussels Airport train station.

Does Brussels Airport have a train station?

Yes, Brussels Airport-Zaventem railway station is located on Level -1 of the main terminal in Brussels Airport. Access is via Level 2 from the Arrivals Hall and Level 3 from the Departures Hall.

How much is a taxi from Brussels Airport to Bruges?

A standard 4-person taxi from Brussels Airport to Bruges should cost around €250, depending on the exact distance to your destination. Rides are metered, which means the price is subject to change unless you pre-book a private transfer, in which case you’ll be provided an upfront set rate fee.

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