Brussels Zaventem Airport (BRU) to La Madeleine

The drive from Brussels Airport to La Madeleine

The route covers 125 km (78 miles) and typically takes 1 h 28 m. It crosses the Belgian-French border and ends in La Madeleine, which sits directly beside Lille. You stay in the same vehicle the whole way, with no changes and no luggage to carry between platforms. This route is booked less often than some others, but it is available on request like any other. Allow extra time at weekday rush hours, when traffic around Brussels and on the approach to Lille slows down, and in poor weather.

Choosing the right vehicle

A Private Taxi suits solo travellers, couples and families of up to four. For larger parties, the minibus options are:

• 8 seats for small groups with extra luggage
• 16 and 24 seats for business teams, school trips or wedding guests
• 32, 40 and 48 seats for conference delegations and tour groups

Pick a vehicle by the number of passengers and the amount of luggage you have, not just by seat count.

La Madeleine as a destination

La Madeleine is a residential town in the Lille metropolitan area in northern France. It lies on the Deûle river, close to the centre of Lille. Many visitors choose it for its location, as it gives easy access to Lille while staying a little calmer than the city centre itself.

Where to stay nearby

I cannot name well-known, long-established hotels in La Madeleine itself with confidence, so here are established options in neighbouring Lille, a short ride away:

• Grand Hôtel Bellevue, on the Place du Théâtre
• Hôtel Carlton, on the Rue de Paris
• Hôtel Alliance Lille Couvent des Minimes, a former convent in the old town

Meeting point at Brussels Airport

Your driver waits at Java Coffee House with a personalised name sign. The spot is easy to find after you have collected your luggage.