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Taking the train from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central in 17 minutes
Thinking about taking the train from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central? We’ve got you covered.
It usually takes around 19 minutes to travel the 7 miles (11 km) from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central by train, although you can get there in as little as 17 minutes on the fastest services. You’ll normally find around 112 trains per day running on this route. You won’t need to worry about making any changes along the way either as direct trains are available. The route to Brussels Central is operated by SNCB, the Belgian national train operator. You're likely to be travelling on an Intercity or local service during your journey, both of which are modern and comfortable.
Train tickets from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central are usually cheaper when you book in advance compared to buying them on the day. Start a search in our Journey Planner to check out the latest prices.
Keen to book your train tickets to Brussels Central? No need to wait, start a search with us today! If you want to find out a bit more about the journey first, you can find our train timetable below, tips on booking cheap tickets and our FAQs, including first and last train times.
Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central by train
| First train | 00:19 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 23:57 | |
| Departure station | Brussels-Airport-Zaventem | |
| Arrival station | Brussels Central | |
| Journey time | From 17m | |
| Distance | 7 miles (11 km) | |
| Frequency | 112 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Train and bus operators |
FAQs about the train journey from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central
Want to know more about your journey from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How close is Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central by train?
Which train companies operate from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central?
Is it possible to get from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central?
What time does the first train from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central leave?
What time does the last train from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central leave?
How often are trains from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central?
Do you need to book the train from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central?
SNCB trains from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central
SNCB is the national railway company of Belgium, with services that include national (Intercity) and regional (Local) express trains. All SNCB trains come with both First Class and Second Class carriages. Belgium has one of the densest rail networks in the world. Seat reservations aren’t possible for any of the company's trains.
More information
SNCB classes from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central
Compare the different travel classes offered by SNCB when travelling from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central.
Second Class
If you're travelling in Second Class, you'll find plenty of luggage storage and power sockets as standard. You can reserve your seat only if you buy a group ticket.
- Power sockets
- Luggage storage
- More legroom
First Class
Upgrade to First Class and enjoy more legroom and comfier seats. You can reserve your seat only if you buy a group ticket.
- Power sockets
- Luggage storage
- More legroom
Onboard services on SNCB
Discover more about the onboard services offered on trains from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central.
When travelling with SNCB, each passenger can take 3 items of luggage on board, as long as the total weight does not exceed 30kg. Once you’ve found your seat, you can stow your luggage in the space provided above and below your seat. You can take the following luggage on board for free:
- Briefcases, rucksacks and suitcases
- Wheelchairs (manual or automatic)
- Pushchairs and prams
- Folding bikes, unicycles, scooters
- Sports equipment (e.g. skis)
Currently, SNCB does not offer a food and drink service. Although, you may bring food and drink with you to enjoy on the train.
SNCB offer free WiFi in their main stations, including Brussels Central, Bruges, Antwerp Central and more. Currently, SNCB do not offer WiFi onboard their trains.
As long as they are travelling with a person aged 12 or above with a valid ticket, children under 12 can travel for free without a ticket. However, please note that this only applies to a maximum of 4 children per passenger with a valid ticket. If you have any additional children travelling with you, they will need a half-price Kids Ticket.
Hoping to travel with your bike? You’ll need to add a Bike Supplement to your ticket. However, if you’re travelling with a folding bike, you don’t need to worry about paying. Bike Supplements are paid on top of your rail fare and cost €4 for a single journey.
When boarding, speak to the train conductor and they will tell you if there are spaces available and where you can put your bicycle. SNCB advise you not to travel with a bike at Peak times, because bicycle spaces may not be available.
Guide and assistance dogs
Travel is free for guide and assistance dogs. You won’t need to add a Pet Supplement to your ticket.
Pets
Pets are welcome to travel on SNCB trains if they are on a lead or in a small basket, cage or box. For animals on a lead, a Pet Supplement costs €3 for a single trip. If your pet is in a small basket, cage or box that is smaller than 30 x 55 x 30 cm, you do not need to pay for a Pet Supplement. Finally, your pet is not allowed to sit on the seats or tables.
Passengers with reduced mobility should directly contact SNCB to make use of their free assistance service. You can take your wheelchair on board the train for free, regardless of whether or not you use the SNCB's free assistance service. If you are blind or partially sighted, you can take the train for free in 2nd class.
Cheap train tickets from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central
Book in advance
Most of the train companies across Europe release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper train tickets from Brussels-Airport-Zaventem to Brussels Central by booking early.§
Be flexible with your travel times
Many of the train services in Europe are also popular commuter services, lots of train companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider travelling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.
Choose a slower or connecting train
On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting train. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!
Look out for special deals
Take a look at our handy guides to find out when train operators release their special deals and offers to see if you can find cheap European train tickets for your journey.
For specific information about how to get your hands on cheap tickets, check out our European train tickets hub.