How to Make the Most of Your Stopover in Belgium

A stopover can turn an ordinary flight into an exciting mini-adventure, especially if you’re flying through Belgium. Brussels, the capital, offers a range of activities and experiences, even on a tight schedule. Wondering how to book flights with a stopover? Or asking, how do you book a stopover flight that allows you to explore Belgium’s gems? Whether you have just a few hours or an entire day, here’s how to make the most of your stopover in Belgium.

How Do You Book a Flight with a Stopover?

Booking a flight with a stopover is easier than you might think. When searching for flights, choose multi-city or extended layover options. Airlines often offer extended stopovers at no extra cost, especially in destinations like Brussels. So if you’re pondering how to book flights with a stopover, most major airlines provide this option directly through their websites, and third-party booking platforms can help you compare prices.

Brussels Airport: Your Gateway to Adventure

Your stopover journey begins at Brussels Airport (Zaventem), Belgium’s largest airport. Conveniently located just 15 minutes from the city center by train, Zaventem is known for its efficient services, including free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and a range of international dining options. If you’re wondering, how do you book a stopover flight with enough time to explore, look for flights that offer at least a 5-hour layover to give you plenty of time for an adventure in Brussels.

Once you arrive at the airport, simply head to the underground train station. Trains leave every 10-15 minutes, making it easy to get to Brussels Central Station quickly and start your exploration.

Exploring Brussels with a Short Stopover

3 Hours to Spare: Discover Cinquantenaire Park

If you’ve got three hours to kill, take a short 10-minute train ride to Cinquantenaire Park, one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. Built to celebrate Belgium’s 50th anniversary, this park is ideal for a quick stroll or picnic. The Triumphal Arch and the surrounding U-shaped colonnade are iconic features worth seeing.

During colder months, explore the park’s impressive museums. The Cinquantenaire Museum offers prehistoric artifacts, while Autoworld houses vintage cars. For history enthusiasts, the Royal Military Museum displays a stunning collection of aircraft. And here’s a hidden gem: you can climb to the top of the Triumphal Arch for a breathtaking panorama of Brussels.

5 Hours to Spare: Dive into the Grand Place

With a five-hour stopover, you can venture further into the city and visit the Grand Place, Brussels’ iconic central square. Just a short 15-20 minute train ride from the airport, the Grand Place boasts 17th-century architecture that will transport you back in time. Admire the ornate City Hall, Breadhouse, and guild houses that frame this UNESCO World Heritage site.

No visit to Brussels is complete without seeing the world-famous Manneken Pis, a quirky statue just a few minutes’ walk from the Grand Place. If you have extra time, don’t miss the lesser-known but equally amusing Jeanneke Pis, tucked away in an alley nearby.

Cap off your mini-adventure with a visit to Délirium Café, where you can sample from its legendary menu of over 3,000 beers – the perfect way to toast your Belgian stopover.

Top Hotels Near Brussels Airport

If your stopover includes an overnight stay, you’ll find several excellent hotels near Brussels Airport. The Sheraton Brussels Airport Hotel is a top choice, just a short walk from the terminal, offering convenience and comfort. For a more budget-friendly option, Novotel Brussels Airport offers shuttle services to and from the airport.

Key Takeaways for Planning Your Stopover in Belgium

• How do you book a stopover flight? Most airlines and third-party booking platforms offer the option to book a flight with an extended layover, often at no additional cost.
• How to book flights with a stopover: Choose flexible flights and take advantage of stopover programs offered by airlines to spend extra time exploring.
• Zaventem Airport: Offers seamless access to the city via train in just 15 minutes, making it easy to explore even with a short layover.
• Top attractions: Cinquantenaire Park for a peaceful retreat, and the Grand Place for a glimpse of Brussels’ rich history and culture.
• Hotels: Sheraton and Novotel offer great options for a comfortable overnight stay near the airport.

A stopover in Belgium can be much more than a layover. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in history, culture, and perhaps even a world-class beer – all within just a few hours.