How to travel from London to Brussels?

Traveling from London to Brussels (the capital of Belgium) is a popular route for many people, for both business trips and leisure. With this guide, you will find out all the best ways you can use to reach your destination.

Traveling by Air

One of the quickest and most convenient ways to travel from London to Brussels is by air. London has numerous airports with flights leaving regularly to Belgium’s capital city, including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, London City, and Luton. Depending on which airport you choose to depart from, journey times can take anywhere between 1 and 2 hours, with some airlines offering direct flights that take as little as 55 minutes. The two main airports in Brussels are Brussels Airport and Brussels South (Charleroi). Brussels Airport is located 12km north east of the city centre, while Brussels South is located 80km southwest of the city – however this airport offers far fewer routes.As the majority of traffic tends to gravitate to Brussels airport, carriers such as British Airways, Ryanair, Vueling, KLM and EasyJet all provide regular flights between the two cities as well as from other surrounding European destinations. Return fares typically start from as little as £40, however prices can vary depending on the time of year and availability.

Traveling by Rail

Another popular way to travel from London to Brussels is by rail. Eurostar runs regular services out of St Pancras International station for those wishing to get to the Belgian Capital in just a few hours. Eurotunnel trains also depart several times a day from both St Pancras station, and Ashford International in Kent, with journey times of around 3 hours 30 minutes. Be sure to book your tickets in advance though as Eurostar fares increase quickly as departure approaches – especially at peak times and holidays. Once in Brussels, trains then go right into the city’s main station (Brussels Midi), which is located just a short journey away from the Grand Place (the main city square). Access to Eurostar is made even more convenient thanks to numerous local UK train lines connecting with London so travellers anywhere in the south of England have quick access to international high speed rail from their doorstep. If you are based in North England or Scotland, then you can also catch a variety of trains heading south to London for connections with Eurostar using operators such as TransPennine Express or Virgin Trains East Coast.

Traveling by Bus

The budget traveller may prefer the convenience and low cost of international coaches over rail or air travel. Companies such as Eurolines provide a direct service from London’s Victoria Coach Station every day, with journey times totalling 8-10 hours depending on traffic. As you would expect with any long distance coach trip, be sure to pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep you going during the long journey – especially if travelling overnight! The A1 Paris-bound service takes passengers directly into Brussels (no changes required), although there are limited departures each day so do book this in advance if considering this route. Fares start at £19 one way although discounts are often available for those booking return tickets together.

Personal Opinion

Whichever option you decide is best for your needs, all methods of transportation listed provide an easy and convenient way to reach the Belgian capital from London – each with its own added benefits depending on what truly matters most to you. For swiftest, most comfortable journey times, flying seems be the best option – but if you require something affordable, then taking the train is usually your best bet. So, don’t wait around – book your trip today and get exploring one of Europe’s most picturesque cities!

A Local’s Guide to the Beautiful City of Brussels

Welcome to Brussels, the heart of Belgium! You’ll find an abundance of art, culture, and history in this city. But instead of just exploring the usual spots, let’s dive deeper and experience Brussels like a local. Here’s an insider’s guide to some of the hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will help you truly connect with the city:

Local Attractions:

While the Grand Place and Manneken Pis are definitely worth a visit, we suggest exploring the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods like Marolles and Saint-Gilles. You’ll stumble upon vibrant street art, antique shops, and cozy cafes. If you’re a fan of comic books, don’t miss out on visiting some of Belgium’s most famous comic book murals hidden around the city!

Brussels also has a rich history in brewing, so make sure to visit Cantillon Brewery, which has been producing lambic beers since 1900. The brewery tours are informative, and you get to try some fantastic sour beers at the end!

Dining Spots:

Don’t leave Brussels without trying the world-famous Belgian waffles, fries, and chocolate, but our locals suggest exploring beyond those and trying out some authentic Belgian cuisine. One of the most unique dishes you can try is the national dish, “Moules-Frites,” which is a flavorful bowl of mussels and fries.

For an immersive culinary experience, we recommend visiting a traditional “Brusseleir” tavern like À la Mort Subite, where you can taste Brussels’ own beer accompanied by some classic bar snacks. For something more indulgent, try La Buvette’s artisanal charcuterie plate, cheeseboard and organic wine.

Cultural Experiences:

Brussels is a hub for contemporary art, with many art galleries and exhibitions like Wiels highlighting new and emerging artists. If you visit during the summer, don’t miss out on the Brussels Summer Festival. It’s a multi-genre event, which features concerts, comedy shows and street performances, taking place throughout Brussels’ historic city center.

Another cultural experience to check out is the famous Ommegang procession. This unique event dates back to the 16th century and is celebrated in central Brussels every summer. It’s an impressive parade, with performers decked out in Renaissance costumes marching through the streets.

Local History:

Brussels has been the center of European politics for centuries, which means there’s a plethora of history to uncover. Take a walking tour around the old town, and you’ll stumble upon the Brussels City Museum, where you can learn about the city’s fascinating history, from its founding to the present day.

Another historical must-visit spot is the Justice Palace, the largest courthouse in the world, with over two kilometers of hallways and thousands of rooms. You can also check out the Atomium, a unique museum that provides insight into the city’s fascinating past, and an impressive view of the city from its roof.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions:

If you’re looking for something unique, visit the Rene Magritte Museum for a quirky art experience. This museum explores the works of the famous Belgian surrealist painter who questioned the limits of reality.

For a more relaxing experience, take a walk in the beautiful Parc du Cinquantenaire, just steps away from the European Quarter. the park features a triumphal arch, historical museums, and lush greenery.

Wrap up:

Brussels may not land on the top of everyone’s bucket list but with rich history, unique culture, exquisite food and drink, and hidden gems that only locals know about, the city offers just as much — if not more– than most major European cities. So, take our insider’s tips and dive into the real beauty of this wonderful city that will leave you amazed and wanting more.