Overview
The Brussels Metro is a rapid transit system serving a large portion of the Brussels-Capital Region in Belgium. Managed by the STIB/MIVB, the network provides an efficient way to navigate the city and its surrounding areas. As a visitor, you can ride the metro to reach major landmarks, connect with national rail networks (SNCB), or transfer to various tram and bus lines operated by local and regional providers.
The network
The transit infrastructure in Brussels is composed of several distinct systems:
- Metro: The system features four conventional metro lines: M1, M2, M5, and M6. These lines share some sections and provide extensive coverage across the region.
- Premetro: This consists of three tram lines (T4, T7, and T10) that travel through underground tunnels designed for future conversion to metro service. These lines utilize shared infrastructure with the metro network in certain areas.
- Suburban Rail: The Brussels Regional Express Network (RER/GEN) provides suburban rail links at several metro stations. Additionally, the National Railway Company of Belgium (NMBS/SNCB) operates trains connecting to major hubs like Gare du Nord/Noordstation and Gare de l'Ouest/Weststation.
- Trams and Buses: The STIB/MIVB operates a comprehensive network of trams and buses. Regional services are provided by De Lijn (Flemish) and TEC (Walloon).
Tickets & fares
The primary smartcard for the STIB/MIVB system is the MOBIB. While specific current prices for all ticket types fluctuate, you can find various options based on your travel needs:
- MOBIB Card: A physical card that can be purchased at vending machines (typically for a fee of approximately €6).
- Go2City Ticket: This is a specialized ticket used when traveling from the airport to the city center. It is valid for 60 minutes across various modes of transport, including trains (SNCB), metro (STIB), and buses/trams from both STIB, De Lijn, and TEC. The price for this ticket is approximately €7.90 when paid via a contactless bank card or MOBIB card, and approximately €8.40 for a paper ticket.
- Regional Bus Tickets: Certain regional lines (De Lijn) offer tickets that are valid only on their specific network. For example, some routes from the airport to local stations may cost approximately €3.
From the airport
Depending on which airport you arrive at, there are several ways to reach the city center:
- Brussels Airport (BRU):
- Train: Direct trains run every 10-20 minutes to major stations like Gare du Nord/Noordstation. A "Brussels Airport Supplement" is usually included in your ticket.
- Bus: STIB/MIVB bus 12 connects the airport to the European district and the Trône metro station (approx. 30 minutes). Alternatively, De Lijn buses R26 and R59 provide connections to local hubs.
- Alternative Train Route: You can take a train from Zaventem village station (a short walk from the airport) for a lower fare of approximately €3.80.
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL):
- Bus & Train: You can take a TEC-bus to Charleroi-Sud station and then transfer to an intercity train to Brussels. A combined ticket for this journey is available at the airport vending machines.
- Shuttle Services: Flibco operates shuttle buses from Brussels Airport to Brussels Midi/Zuid station, with journeys taking approximately 1 hour.
Etiquette & customs
While specific behavioral rules like "standing on the right" or "quiet zones" are not detailed in the provided records, standard transit etiquette applies. When using trains from the airport, you must manually push the green button to open the doors, as they do not open automatically at stations.
When traveling from the airport via bus, ensure your destination is correctly set to "Brussels Airport" if traveling toward the airport, as some routes may end at different locations.