Flight Deals to Brussels Airport (BRU), Zaventem

Brussels Airport, often called Zaventem after the town it sits in, is Belgium's largest airport and the arrival point for almost every long-haul flight to Brussels. From here the capital, the EU institutions and the rest of Belgium are a short train ride away. If you are hunting for flight deals to Brussels, this page explains how the airport works, how to reach the city and how to time your trip, so the saving on your fare is not lost on the ground.

About Brussels Airport (BRU)

Location

Brussels Airport lies in the Flemish municipality of Zaventem, just beyond the north-eastern boundary of the Brussels-Capital Region. It is close to the ring road and to the E40 motorway towards Leuven, which makes it convenient both for the city and for onward trips east. Do not confuse it with Brussels South Charleroi, a separate airport much further south that mainly serves short-haul European routes.

Terminals

All passenger flights use a single terminal complex. Check-in and arrivals share one main hall, and gates are split between Pier A, for flights inside the Schengen zone, and Pier B, for flights beyond it. If your flight comes from outside Schengen, you will normally arrive at Pier B and clear passport control before baggage reclaim. Moving between the two piers involves a passport check, so leave enough time for onward connections.

Getting to and from the airport

The quickest link into town is the train. Brussels Airport station is on the lowest level of the terminal, and trains run to Brussels-North, Brussels-Central and Brussels-South, as well as direct to Leuven, Ghent, Antwerp and other Belgian cities. City buses head to the European Quarter, regional buses serve nearby Flemish towns, and taxis and ride-hailing cars pick up outside the arrivals level. Note that trains from the airport carry a station supplement on top of the normal fare.

Direct and connecting flights to Brussels Airport

Flights from Malaysia to Brussels Airport normally include a stop, because there is no regular nonstop link between the two countries. Common options connect in the Gulf, in Istanbul, in other European hubs or in North Asia. Travellers searching for Xiamen to Brussels flight prices will usually see one-stop itineraries too, with some routes via other Chinese gateways.

To compare fairly, filter by number of stops, then check the layover length and whether you change terminals at the hub. If your final destination is Paris, Amsterdam or Cologne, you can also land at Brussels Airport and continue by high-speed rail from Brussels-South station (ZYR). For an overview of every arrival option in the capital, see all flights to Brussels.

When to fly to Brussels Airport for better deals

Belgium has a temperate maritime climate: summers are pleasant but rarely hot, winters are damp and chilly, and showers can arrive at any time of year. Spring blossom and the long days of June draw many visitors, while the Christmas season brings markets and festive lights across the capital.

Fares from Malaysia usually climb during the year-end school holidays, around Hari Raya and in the weeks before Chinese New Year, when many families fly long-haul. European summer holidays in July and August are also busy at Zaventem. Booking early for those periods, or shifting your trip by a few days, often brings better deals. The fare charts on this page show how prices have moved on this route.

Popular places near Brussels Airport and in the city

Leuven

This lively university town lies just east of Brussels Airport and is reachable by direct train. Its Gothic town hall, historic library and busy Oude Markt square make it a rewarding first or last stop if you have time around a flight.

Grand-Place

Brussels' central square is one of the most beautiful in Europe, framed by gilded guild houses. Trains from the airport reach Brussels-Central, only a short walk away.

Royal Greenhouses of Laeken

These glass-domed greenhouses in the royal estate open to the public for a few weeks each spring. Tickets go quickly, so plan ahead if your visit falls in that season.

Atomium and Mini-Europe

North of the centre, the steel spheres of the Atomium stand beside Mini-Europe, a park of scale models of European landmarks that is popular with families.

Mechelen

Halfway between Brussels and Antwerp, Mechelen has a towering cathedral tower you can climb and a relaxed old centre. It is an easy train ride from the airport.

Where to stay in Brussels near the airport and in town

If you land late or leave early, the Zaventem and Diegem business area beside Brussels Airport keeps you close to the terminal. For sightseeing, most visitors prefer the historic centre around the Grand-Place or Brussels-Central, both reached directly by train. The European Quarter suits meetings with EU offices, and Ixelles and Saint-Gilles offer a more residential feel with plenty of cafés.

Food to try in Brussels

Carbonade flamande

A slow-cooked Flemish stew of beef and onions in a rich, dark gravy, usually served with frites. The classic recipe is braised in beer, so ask before you order if you avoid alcohol.

Stoemp

Mashed potatoes blended with vegetables such as carrots, leeks or spinach. It is hearty Brussels home cooking, often paired with a sausage or egg.

Liège waffle

A dense, chewy waffle with caramelised sugar pearls. You will smell them from street kiosks long before you see them.

Belgian pralines

Filled chocolates are sold in elegant boxes all over the city and at the airport too, which makes them a convenient last-minute gift.

Found the flight deal to Brussels you want? Book on Traveloka to get your e-ticket straight away, keep plans flexible with Easy Reschedule, and fly with the Best Price Guarantee behind your fare.