2–3 trains per hour from BRU to Leuven and Liège
The SNCB InterCity (IC) Brussels–Leuven–Liège train runs from Brussels Airport station directly under terminal T, with 2–3 departures per hour toward Leuven and on to Liège-Guillemins. The station sits three levels below arrivals, signed as "Brussels Airport – Zaventem" and served by elevator and escalators. Trains usually start around 05:00 and run past 23:00, so early and late flights still have rail options most days.
Tickets from the airport to Leuven start around €12 one-way in 2nd class, including the mandatory Brussels Airport Supplement (€6.70 at last check). A standard 2nd class ticket to Liège-Guillemins usually lands in the €20–€25 range, again with the supplement folded in if you buy "from Brussels Airport." You can buy on SNCB machines on level -1, at the ticket counter, or in the SNCB app before you land.
Most IC trains on this line use platform tracks 1–3 at Brussels Airport station, with the exact track shown on the blue departure boards about 10–15 minutes before departure. IC services run with classic SNCB double-deck or single-deck coaches, with 1st class typically in coach 1 or at one end of the consist. Expect about 15 minutes to Leuven and around 55–65 minutes total if you stay on to Liège-Guillemins.
How to ride it step by step
- 1. Clear arrivals in T and follow signs for "Train" down to level -1, which takes about 5–10 minutes walking from most baggage belts.
- 2. Buy your ticket at the SNCB machines or counter; select "Brussels Airport – Zaventem" as origin and Leuven or Liège-Guillemins as destination so the airport supplement is included.
- 3. Check the departure board for the IC to "Leuven" or "Liège-Guillemins" and note the 4-digit train number plus platform, usually posted at least 10 minutes before departure.
- 4. Head down to the platform using the correct escalator or elevator; boarding usually starts as soon as doors unlock, about 3–5 minutes before scheduled departure time.
- 5. Pick your class and seat; 2nd class cars are marked with a large "2" on the exterior, 1st class with a "1," and seats are generally unreserved on these IC services.
- 6. Validate your trip mentally by having your digital or paper ticket ready, as conductors often check tickets once between the airport and Leuven.
One last tip
Build a 20–30 minute buffer between scheduled landing and your target IC departure, especially if you land in T during peak Schengen arrival waves around 08:00–09:00 or 17:00–19:00.