Top Transport Options from Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent to the Closest Airports
Belgium may be a relatively small country, but getting to the right airport depends a lot on where you are starting from. Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent are all well connected, yet each city offers different routes, travel times and transport options for airport travel.
Not every airport is equally easy to reach from every city. Some journeys are short and straightforward, while others involve longer distances, transfers or even crossing into another country. Factors like traffic, luggage and departure times can also affect which option works best.
In this guide, we look at the most practical ways to travel from each of these cities to the nearest airports, helping you choose the option that fits your route, timing and comfort.
Which Airport Is Best from Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent?
Choosing the right airport often depends on your departure city, as travel time and connections can vary significantly.
From Antwerp, many travellers prefer Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. Despite being in another country, it is often a practical option due to its extensive international flight network and relatively straightforward motorway connections.
From Bruges, Brussels Airport (Zaventem) is usually the most convenient choice. It offers the best balance between distance, travel time and available transport options.
From Ghent, both Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport are used. Zaventem is generally easier to reach, while Charleroi is often chosen for low-cost flights, even though the journey can be more complex.
In practice, the airport you choose has a direct impact on how you travel, including the time, cost and level of comfort involved.
Distance and Travel Time Overview
The distance and travel time to each airport vary depending on the route, which directly affects how you plan your journey.
From Antwerp to Schiphol Airport, the distance is around 140 kilometres. This is a longer, cross-border route that typically takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
From Bruges to Brussels Airport (Zaventem), the journey is approximately 110 kilometres. Travel time usually ranges from 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, making it a medium-distance route with relatively straightforward access.
From Ghent to Charleroi Airport, the distance is close to 100 kilometres, but the journey can take 1.5 to 2 hours. Despite being shorter, this route is often more complex due to fewer direct transport options and the need for transfers.
In general, longer routes require more planning, while shorter ones can still be time-consuming depending on connections and traffic.
Transport Options Available
There are several ways to travel from Belgian cities to nearby airports, and the right choice depends on your route, timing and travel needs.
Train
Trains are often the fastest and most reliable option, especially for major connections. However, airport journeys usually involve at least one transfer, which can make the trip less convenient, particularly with luggage.
Bus
Buses are generally the most affordable option, but they tend to be slower and less direct. They can also be less frequent depending on the route and time of day.
Taxi
Taxis offer flexibility and door-to-door convenience, making them a good choice for shorter distances. For longer routes, however, the final price can vary depending on traffic and travel time.
Airport Transfer
Airport transfers provide a more structured alternative. With a fixed price and direct pickup, they are often the most straightforward option for longer journeys or when timing and comfort are important.
In practice, the best option depends on how far you are travelling, whether you have luggage, and how important predictability is for your journey.
Price Comparison for Popular Airport Routes
Cost is often one of the key factors when choosing how to get to the airport. While some options may seem cheaper at first, the final price can vary depending on distance, traffic and time of travel.
Below is a simple comparison based on common routes from Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent:
In general, taxis calculate fares based on time and distance, which means the final cost can increase with traffic or delays. Airport transfers, on the other hand, are usually booked in advance with a fixed price, making it easier to plan your trip without unexpected expenses. This makes airport transfers easier to budget, especially for longer journeys.
Best Travel Options for Each Route
The best way to reach the airport depends on the specific route, distance and level of convenience you need. Below are some of the most common journeys from Belgian cities and how to approach them.
Antwerp to Schiphol Airport (International Route)
Travelling from Antwerp to Schiphol Airport is a typical international route of around 140 kilometres. While the journey is relatively straightforward by road, traffic conditions can vary, especially during peak hours.
Some travellers consider options like a airport taxi Schiphol, but for longer distances the final price can fluctuate depending on traffic and travel time. Train connections are also available, although they usually involve at least one transfer, which can be less practical with luggage.
For a more predictable and direct journey, services such as airport transаfer Antwerp Schiphol are often preferred. With a pre-arranged route and fixed pricing, you avoid unexpected delays and cost changes.
In this case, choosing a reliable airport transfer Schiphol solution makes the journey more comfortable and easier to plan.
Bruges to Brussels Airport (Zaventem)
The route from Bruges to Brussels Airport (Zaventem) is one of the most frequently used in Belgium, especially by tourists. The distance is about 110 kilometres, and travel time can vary depending on traffic and time of day.
Train connections are available and fairly efficient, but they often require at least one change in Brussels. This can make the journey less convenient, particularly if you are travelling with suitcases or during busy periods.
A direct option such as airport transfer Brugge Zaventem offers a simpler alternative. With door-to-door transport, you can avoid transfers and travel more comfortably, especially when timing is important.
Ghent to Charleroi Airport (Low-Cost Airport Route)
Getting from Ghent to Charleroi Airport can be more complicated compared to other routes. Although the distance is around 100 kilometres, the journey often involves multiple transfers when using public transport, typically combining train and bus.
This can increase travel time and make the trip less predictable, especially during off-peak hours or when connections are limited. Taxis are an option, but as with other longer routes, pricing may vary depending on traffic conditions.
For a more straightforward solution, services like airport transfer Gent Charleroi provide a direct connection without the need for transfers. On routes where accessibility is limited, a pre-arranged transfer is often the simplest and most reliable way to travel.
Taxi vs Airport Transfer for These Routes
For the routes mentioned above, the choice between a taxi and an airport transfer depends mainly on distance and travel purpose.
- Short trips → a taxi is usually the easiest and quickest option within the city
- Airport travel or longer distances → an airport transfer is generally more practical
On routes like Antwerp to Schiphol or Ghent to Charleroi, where distance and timing play a bigger role, taxis can become less predictable in terms of cost and availability.
In contrast, airport transfers offer a planned, direct journey, which makes them better suited for longer trips or when you need to reach the airport on time.
Travel Tips for Airport Journeys
Planning your airport trip can make a big difference, especially on longer or more complex routes.
- Plan ahead → check your route and choose your transport early to avoid last-minute stress
- Consider traffic → travel times can increase during peak hours, especially on motorway routes
- Early or late flights → public transport options may be limited, so timing becomes more important
- Travel with luggage → carrying bags between transfers can slow you down and make the journey less comfortable
Taking these factors into account helps you choose the most suitable option and avoid unnecessary delays on your way to the airport.
Which Option Is Right for You
Choosing between a taxi and an transfer really comes down to the type of journey you are making.
For shorter trips within the city, a taxi is often the easiest option. It is quick to find and works well when the distance is small, and timing is flexible.
However, when you are travelling to the airport—especially over a longer distance—the situation changes. Routes like Antwerp to Schiphol or Ghent to Charleroi require more planning, and factors like traffic, timing and luggage start to matter much more.
In these cases, a pre-arranged transfer tends to be the more practical choice. You know the price in advance, the route is direct, and you avoid the uncertainty that can come with longer taxi journeys.
If you are travelling with luggage or heading to an early or late flight, the added convenience of a door-to-door service can make the trip significantly easier.
In simple terms, taxis work best for short and flexible trips, while airport transfers are better suited for longer, planned journeys where comfort and reliability are important.
Final Thoughts
Getting to the airport from Antwerp, Bruges or Ghent is generally straightforward, but the best option depends on your route and travel needs.
Shorter trips can be handled easily with a taxi, but for longer journeys or airport travel, planning makes a real difference. Factors like distance, timing and luggage can quickly turn a simple trip into a more complex one.
Regardless of whether you choose a bus, train, or taxi, Airport Taxis can help ensure your journey is safe, comfortable, and well planned, without unnecessary stress along the way.
FAQ
What is the best way to get from Antwerp to Schiphol Airport?
The best option depends on your priorities. Trains are available but usually require a transfer. For a direct and more predictable journey, many travellers choose a pre-arranged airport transfer, especially for longer distances.
How do I travel from Bruges to Brussels Airport (Zaventem)?
You can take a train with a connection in Brussels, use a taxi, or book a direct transfer. If you are travelling with luggage or need a door-to-door option, a transfer is often the most convenient choice.
Is there a direct connection from Ghent to Charleroi Airport?
There is no simple direct public transport route. Most journeys involve a combination of train and bus. A direct transfer is usually the easiest way to avoid multiple connections.
Is a taxi cheaper than an airport transfer in Belgium?
For short city trips, taxis can be cheaper. However, for longer routes, taxi prices can vary depending on traffic and time, while airport transfers usually offer a fixed price agreed in advance.
How long does it take to reach Schiphol from Antwerp?
The journey typically takes between 1.5 and 2 hours by car, depending on traffic. Travel time may be longer if you use public transport with transfers.
Which airport is easiest to reach from Ghent?
Brussels Airport (Zaventem) is generally easier to reach. Charleroi Airport is also used, but the journey is usually more complex due to indirect connections.
When should I book an airport transfer?
It is best to book in advance, especially for early flights, late arrivals or longer routes. This helps ensure availability and avoids last-minute stress.
