One of the best things about moving to Brussels is how easy it is to get around without a car. Belgium’s capital has a comprehensive public transport system that covers the city and connects it with other major Belgian cities. For newcomers arriving in 2025, understanding how the system works will help you save money and make your daily commute stress-free.
The Basics: STIB-MIVB
Public transport within Brussels is run by STIB-MIVB. The network includes metro lines, buses, and trams that cover almost every corner of the city. A single journey ticket costs just a few euros, but most residents opt for a monthly pass at around €50, which allows unlimited travel. Compared with cities like London or Paris, Brussels transport is affordable and reliable.
National and Regional Trains
The Belgian national rail company SNCB/NMBS connects Brussels with Antwerp, Ghent, Leuven, Liège, and Bruges in under two hours. Many expats live in these cities and commute daily to Brussels, thanks to efficient trains and discounted season passes. The rail network also makes it easy to explore Belgium on weekends or travel to neighboring countries like France, the Netherlands, and Germany.
International Connections
For long-distance travel, Brussels has two main international hubs: Brussels Airport in Zaventem and the Eurostar Terminal at Brussels-Midi. High-speed trains connect the city to Paris in 90 minutes and to London in just over two hours. For professionals, this level of connectivity is one of Brussels’s biggest advantages.
Bikes and Alternatives
Brussels is also investing in cycling infrastructure. Bike-sharing schemes like Villo! are popular, and cycling is a convenient option in flatter parts of the city. Car-sharing services and ride-hailing apps are widely available for when public transport isn’t practical.
For newcomers in 2025, Brussels offers excellent public transport both within the city and beyond. Whether you’re commuting to work, visiting friends in Antwerp or Ghent, or heading to Paris for the weekend, the combination of metro, trams, buses, and trains makes Brussels one of Europe’s best-connected cities.