Charleroi Airport Brussels South (CRL) to La Vieille Lanterne, Brussels

The drive from Charleroi to central Brussels

The route covers 59 km (37 miles) and typically takes around 55 minutes. Most of the way is on motorway towards the Belgian capital, and the final stretch runs through city streets in the centre. Morning and late-afternoon rush hours on the approach to Brussels can slow things down, so add a buffer if you have a tight connection, a meeting or a restaurant reservation. If you are heading back to the airport, plan to leave earlier than the bare driving time suggests.

Choosing the right vehicle

For solo travellers, couples and small families, a private taxi is available for 1-3 or 1-4 passengers. If you travel with a lot of luggage or a party of up to eight, the 8-seat minibus gives everyone more room. For tour groups, school trips and events, minibuses with 16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 56 or 64 seats can be arranged on request. This route is not booked as often as some others, but it is available like any other, so just state your passenger and luggage numbers when booking.

About La Vieille Lanterne and its surroundings

La Vieille Lanterne sits in the centre of Brussels, an area of narrow streets, cafés, shops and historic buildings that is easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's best-known sights are within walking distance, so you can leave the car behind once you arrive. Because streets in the old centre can be tight or partly pedestrianised, the driver may drop you at the nearest accessible point. Having the exact address and your phone at hand helps.

Places to stay in central Brussels

We cannot confidently name hotels within La Vieille Lanterne itself, so here are two long-established addresses in central Brussels. Hotel Amigo is a well-known hotel close to the Grand-Place. Hotel Métropole is a historic hotel on Place de Brouckère, dating from the 19th century. Both are in the city centre, a short ride from the La Vieille Lanterne area.

Meeting Point

Your driver waits at the Starbucks inside Brussels South Charleroi Airport, 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 terminal.