Brussels is a compact city, but its public transport network—operated by STIB/MIVB (Société des Transports Intercommunaux de Bruxelles / Maatschappij voor Intercommunaal Vervoer in Brussel)—is the most efficient way to get around. With 4 metro lines, 18 tram lines, and dozens of bus routes, you can reach almost any corner of the Brussels-Capital Region without a car. This guide explains how to use STIB services, buy tickets, plan journeys, and save money.
Understanding the Network
STIB runs three modes: metro, tram, and bus. They all use the same ticketing system, so you can switch between them on a single journey. The metro is the backbone: four lines (1, 2, 5, 6) that cross the city center and connect to major suburbs. Trams are slower but cover more streets, often with dedicated lanes. Buses fill the gaps, especially in outer neighborhoods.
Key metro stations include Gare Centrale (Central Station), Arts-Loi (European Quarter), Schuman (EU institutions), and Midi (South Station). Trams like the 51 and 82 are popular for reaching Ixelles, Saint-Gilles, and Schaerbeek. Buses are useful for areas without rail, such as Etterbeek and Woluwe-Saint-Lambert.
Buying Tickets and Fares
STIB tickets are valid for all modes (metro, tram, bus) and allow unlimited transfers within 60 minutes (or 90 minutes at night). You can buy them from:
- Ticket vending machines at metro stations (accept coins, cards, contactless).
- GO vending machines at major tram and bus stops.
- STIB sales points (e.g., at Porte de Namur, Gare Centrale).
- BOOTIK stores (e.g., in Bourse, Rogier).
- Mobile app (STIB/MIVB) for digital tickets.
As of 2025, a single ticket costs €2.60 (valid for 60 minutes). A 10-journey ticket (called 10 voyages) costs €17.00 and can be shared. A day pass (Journey Pass) is €8.00 for unlimited travel all day. Monthly and annual subscriptions are available for residents.
Children under 6 travel free. Students and seniors get discounts with a STIB Campus or STIB Senior card. The MOBIB card (€5) is a reloadable smart card that stores tickets and subscriptions—tap it on the validator when you enter.
How to Ride
Metro
Enter the station, tap your MOBIB card or paper ticket on the purple validator at the gate. Follow signs to your platform. Trains run every 3–10 minutes depending on the line and time. Announcements are in French and Dutch, but English appears on screens. Exits are clearly marked.
Trams and Buses
At stops, check the digital display for the next arrival. Board through the front door (some newer trams have all-door boarding). Validate your ticket inside the vehicle by tapping your MOBIB or scanning the QR code on a paper ticket. Press the stop button in advance. Exit through the middle or rear doors.
Night Network (Noctis)
On Friday and Saturday nights, 11 Noctis bus lines run from 12:30 AM to 3:00 AM, departing from Gare Centrale. A single Noctis ticket costs €6.00, or you can use a regular day pass if bought after 7:00 PM (valid until end of service).
Planning Your Journey
Use the STIB/MIVB mobile app or Google Maps (transit mode) for real-time schedules. The official website stib.brussels has a journey planner. For example, from Flagey (Ixelles) to Schuman, take tram 81 to Mérode, then metro line 1 to Schuman—about 20 minutes. From Saint-Gilles (Parvis) to Bourse, tram 82 runs directly in 15 minutes.
If you're new to Brussels, check out our guide on living in Brussels as an English speaker for more transport tips.
Practical Tips
- Validate every time: Even if you have a pass, always tap your MOBIB card or scan your ticket. Inspectors issue fines (€107) for non-validation.
- Beware of peak hours: 8:00–9:30 AM and 5:00–6:30 PM are crowded. Avoid if possible.
- Bikes allowed: Folding bikes are allowed anytime; regular bikes are allowed after 9:00 AM and before 4:00 PM (except metro during peak hours).
- Accessibility: Most metro stations have elevators, but some older ones (e.g., Louise) do not. Trams and buses are low-floor.
- Lost & Found: Contact STIB at +32 2 515 20 00 or visit their office at Rue des Colonies 60.
For more about specific neighborhoods, read our articles on Ixelles/Flagey, Saint-Gilles, and Schaerbeek.
Alternatives and Integration
STIB is part of the Brussels-Capital Region transport system. You can also use De Lijn (Flemish buses) and TEC (Walloon buses) for trips outside the region, but they require separate tickets. For train travel within Brussels (e.g., from Gare du Midi to Gare Centrale), use SNCB/NMBS trains—they are not part of STIB but accept the Mobility Card (a combined pass).
If you're considering buying a car, think again. STIB, combined with biking (Villo!) and walking, makes car ownership unnecessary for most residents. A monthly STIB pass costs €49.00 (as of 2025)—far cheaper than parking and fuel.
Common Routes for Newcomers
- Airport to city center: Bus 12 from Zaventem Airport to Schuman (€7.00) or train to Gare Centrale (€9.00).
- European Quarter to City Center: Metro lines 1 or 5 from Schuman to Park or Gare Centrale.
- Ixelles to Schaerbeek: Tram 81 from Flagey to Mérode, then metro line 1 to Gare du Nord, then tram 55 or 62.
For a deeper dive into Brussels life, see The Complete Guide to Living in Brussels as an English Speaker.
Related Articles
- The Complete Guide to Living in Brussels as an English Speaker
- Ixelles/Flagey: A Local's Guide
- Saint-Gilles: Vibe and Practical Tips
- Schaerbeek: Hidden Gems of Brussels