Brussels Zaventem Airport (BRU) to Charleroi Airport Brussels South (CRL)

The drive from Brussels Airport to Charleroi

The road journey between Brussels Zaventem Airport (BRU) and Charleroi Airport Brussels South (CRL) covers 69 km (43 miles) and typically takes around 49 minutes. This is an occasionally booked route, so it is worth reserving ahead rather than relying on last-minute availability. Brussels traffic is the main variable: the morning and late-afternoon rush hours can slow the first part of the trip around the capital. If you are catching a departure from Charleroi, plan a comfortable buffer on top of the driving time, especially on weekday peaks.

Choosing the right vehicle

For solo travellers, couples and small families, a Private Taxi is the simplest fit, with versions for 1-3 or 1-4 passengers. The four-seat option gives a little more flexibility when you travel with several cases. Larger parties can choose a Private Minibus with 8, 16, 24, 32, 40 or 48 seats, which keeps the whole group and its luggage in one vehicle. Teams, school trips and tour groups often prefer this to splitting up across several cars.

Charleroi Airport Brussels South as a destination

Charleroi Airport is located near Gosselies, north of the city of Charleroi in Wallonia. It is widely known as a base for low-cost airlines and as a southern alternative to Brussels for travellers heading to or from Wallonia. The terminal is compact, so drop-off is usually straightforward. Check your airline's check-in and bag drop times before you set off, since low-cost carriers tend to be strict about them.

Places to stay near Charleroi

If you need a night before or after your flight, the nearest larger town with well-known hotels is Charleroi itself. Two established options near Charleroi-Sud railway station are the Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare and the Mercure Charleroi Centre Gare. Both are practical bases for a short stay, and your driver can take you straight from Brussels Airport to the hotel instead of the terminal if you prefer.

Meeting point at Brussels Airport

Your driver meets you at the Java Coffee House, holding a personalised name sign. The spot is easy to find once you have collected your luggage, so you can go straight there without searching the arrivals hall.