Getting from Brussels to Antwerp (and return)

Antwerp is a city located in the Belgium region of Flanders. It is known for being the world’s leading “diamond city” and also a very relaxing city to visit.

Brussels (Bruxelles, Fr) is Belgium’s capital and the home to many headquarters of European Institutions. The city still retains its unique charm, although it’s definitely a melting pot of cultures. Aside from its administrative importance, Brussels also boasts interesting sights, such as: Manneken Pis – a small bronze statue thought to represent the “irreverent spirit” of Brussels -, Basilique du Sacré Coeur, the Statue of Europe and Atomium.

Although Antwerp is served by a small airport, it only serves the UK. Brussels Airport (BRU) remains a very good choice for those who need to get to Antwerp.

Trains from Brussels to Antwerp

Direct trains from Brussels Midi Station to Antwerp (Antwerpen Centraal) are run by SNCB . There are departures daily, almost every 30 min and the journey takes between 36 min and an hour, depending on the train you choose. The adult single 2nd class ticket costs €6.70*.

If you need to get to/from Brussels Airport , take the train from Brussels Noord (Bruxelles Nord) to Antwerpen Centraal . It takes 45 min and there are departures daily, every 30 minutes. The adult single 2nd class ticket costs €6.70.

The Antwerp – Brussels Airport Express

There is a direct coach service which departs Brussels Airport every hour . It leaves from the back of platform B. In Antwerp it stops at “De Keyserlei” (near the central station) and on request it will also stop at “Crowne Plaza”. On weekdays the first departure is at 5 a.m. while on weekends it’s at 7 a.m.

From Antwerp you need to take the bus from the “De Keyserlei” stop or the “Crowne Plaza” stop. The bus leaves every hour. On weekends and Saturdays, the first bus from “De Keyserlei” stop departs at 4 a.m.; while on Sundays it departs at 6 a.m. The travel time is 45 min.
From “Crowne Plaza”, the first bus leaves at 4:10 a.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, while on Sundays at leaves at 6:10 a.m. The travel time is 35 min.

The fare is €10 for an adult, one way and €5 for a child, one way.

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Driving from Brussels to Antwerp

You can also rent a car and drive the 45 km from Brussels to Antwerp via A12. You should be able to cover the distance in about 40 min. Please note that this is not a toll road.

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Note: * the prices are valid at the time the article was written

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