24 Jan 2026 So you've decided to go to the center of Europe, to its administrative capital, the paradise of beer and chocolate. Well, our sincerest congratulations.
Brussels is one of the most open, modern, and diverse cities in all of Europe, so you can imagine that your time here will be one of the best experiences you'll ever have.
In this guide, we'll give you tips on how to make the most of your Erasmus in Brussels, from advice before you arrive to what to do or eat once you're here.
Join us on this tour of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, where we'll guide you through common questions and tips to make your stay here a wonderful one.
Here we'll give you some information about things you might not have thought about before you arrive here, but that you should have.
For example, don't worry about the electrical outlets; you don't need any kind of adapter; they're the same as in Spain. Unlock a new fear and instant peace of mind.
To get around Brussels, taking advantage of its fantastic location, get the Go Pass 10. This is a kind of pass that allows you to make 10 trips to any Belgian city, and if you're under 26, it will cost you 50 euros. To make this and any other payment, remember that it's best to get a card that doesn't charge fees and always gives you the best currency exchange, such as the N26 or Revolut card, among others.
Language in Brussels is a different story than you might imagine. If you're here, it's because you want to practice the language, but which language? Brussels has two official languages: French and Dutch. The second is more difficult than the first, although you'll be able to get by very well in English, as it's a widely spoken language here. Plus, if you pay attention, you'll recognize many Spaniards working in Brussels, so even Spanish is a well-known language in the city. Making yourself understood has never been easier.
Let's start by saying that Brussels has two airports: Zaventem Airport, about 15 kilometers away, and Charleroi Airport, 55 kilometers away.
In the first case, from Brussels Zaventem Airport to the city center, you can easily travel by almost any means of transportation.
In addition to a taxi, which will cost you about €45 to get to the city center, and private transportation, which has a separate cost as there are several companies, the most common option is to use the bus or train.
In the case of buses, lines 21 and 12 connect to the metro with the city center, which is the Schuman line. You'll be in the center of Brussels in half an hour, and it will cost between €4.50 and €6, depending on whether you buy it in advance or on-site.
If you choose the train, you'll be in the city center in just 20 minutes, with stops at Brussels Central, Brussels South (Midi), or Brussels North Station, for a cost of €9.
If you landed at Charleroi Airport, there's a shuttle bus that will take you to Brussels South Station in less than an hour for about €17, and it's cheaper if you book online in advance.
If you prefer the train, for speed or convenience, you'll have to take a bus first that will take you to Charleroi station. Once there, the train will stop at Brussels' three main stations: Brussels Central, Brussels South (Midi), and Brussels North. It will cost €14 and the arrival time will be an hour and a half.
If you're arriving with a small group, a taxi may be the cheapest and quickest option, costing €90. However, if you're traveling alone, this is a very expensive option.
In addition to walking the first few days to get a good feel for the city and become aware of distances, the bus and metro will be part of your daily life in the Belgian capital.
Whether you're going to class, strolling through one of its many parks, or heading downtown for a beer, transportation will be essential. Over time, you'll decide which is best for each situation.
The metro has six lines: 1 and 5 serve the Cinquantenaire Park and the European Quarter, 2 and 6 serve the entire Atomium area, while 3 and 4 serve the city center from Gare du Midi. The latter is the closest to the center, although the center itself doesn't have many stations, so you'll have to choose between walking or using trams and buses.
Yes, you read that right, the tram. And don't think it's used only occasionally, far from it; it has 19 lines and many more stops than the metro. It operates from 5:30 a.m. to midnight.
The annual student transportation pass costs €125 and covers travel on the metro, tram, and bus.
With a gastronomy rich in ingredients and a dessert section fit for kings, the local cuisine will surprise you. These are just some of the most...
Another of the best reasons to travel to Brussels is to try its local dishes, always accompanied by a delicious Belgian craft beer. Some of the most typical dishes are:
Mitraillette: We start with something quick, a sandwich with meat, fries, and sauce.
Moules-frites: One of the most well-known and characteristic dishes of the local cuisine. These are steamed mussels with fries.
Stoemp: Mashed potatoes served with sausages.
Waterzooi: This is another very traditional dish, a traditional fish or chicken stew.
Carbonnades flamandes: Another stew, this time with beef and onions, along with local spices.
Waffle: Does anyone need to know what a waffle is? Welcome to waffle heaven, Brussels.
There are many reasons, some of which you may know and others you may not, but we'll present them all here. The first, and perhaps most important, is its impressive atmosphere. If you imagine Brussels as a serious place focused only on European bureaucracy, think again.
It has a fantastic student atmosphere. There are many universities, colleges, and university campuses where multiculturalism is the foundation of everything. The Ixelles and Etterbeek neighborhoods have the highest concentration of students. The reason is that its two main, but not only, universities are located: ULB and VUB.
Student groups and associations, both local and Erasmus students, constantly organize activities and parties. Meeting people here comes naturally, and as soon as you arrive, be sure to sign up for one of these associations. Ask at your faculty and they'll help you with everything.
The people of Brussels are used to welcoming visitors, and it shows in their treatment. They are friendly, open, and very helpful with any problems you may have, from not understanding how a ticket machine works to feeling a little lost in the city.
Another great advantage is the city's excellent location. Not only can you use Brussels as a base camp for traveling around the rest of Belgium, but you also have fantastic connections to other European cities such as Amsterdam, Paris, and Cologne, among others.
The cost of living is similar to that of any major European city. Looking back, it's cheaper than Paris and quite similar to Madrid, sometimes even cheaper.
As for the language, as we mentioned earlier, you shouldn't be overwhelmed. You'll be able to make yourself understood and understand others quite easily, no matter what language you speak.
Universities offer free French courses to Erasmus students, as well as making it easier to learn other languages with discounts at academies.
In addition to all the parties organized by student associations and groups, both local and Erasmus students, there are a few clubs you'll discover as you go out and meet new people.
If you want to get ahead of everyone, we can give you some must-see names for Brussels nights, such as Havan Club, Le Cercle, or La Fuse. However, if bars and pubs are more your thing to spend the evening, then head to any bar on Place St. Gery, The Big Game, or Le Waff.
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