How to Travel from India to Brussels A Complete Guide
Brussels the capital of Belgium and the de facto capital of the European Union is a popular travel destination for tourists business travellers and students from India. Whether you are planning a holiday a business trip or higher studies this article provides a step by step guide on how to travel from India to Brussels
Step One Choose Your Mode of Travel
Air Travel is the Only Practical Option
Since India and Belgium are separated by thousands of kilometres and no land or sea connections exist for passengers the most convenient and fastest way to travel from India to Brussels is by air. There are no direct land routes or ferries available between the two countries for ordinary travellers
Step Two Select a Departure City in India
Major Indian Cities with International Airports
You can depart from any of the following major international airports in India
Indira Gandhi International Airport Delhi
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport Mumbai
Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Hyderabad
Chennai International Airport Chennai
These airports offer multiple international connections including to Brussels either directly or through layovers
Step Three Find Flights to Brussels
Direct and Connecting Flights
As of now there are no direct nonstop flights from India to Brussels. However many airlines offer one stop or two stop connections. Popular connecting cities include Doha Istanbul Dubai Frankfurt Amsterdam and Paris
Airlines commonly serving the India to Brussels route include
Qatar Airways
Emirates
Turkish Airlines
Lufthansa
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Air France
Etihad Airways
Flight durations vary from around eleven to sixteen hours depending on the number of layovers and transfer time
Step Four Apply for a Visa
Schengen Visa Requirement
Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to enter Belgium for tourism business or education. Belgium is part of the Schengen Zone so a visa issued by Belgium or any other Schengen country allows access to Brussels
To apply for a visa you will need the following
Completed visa application form
Valid passport with at least six months validity
Recent passport size photographs
Proof of accommodation in Brussels
Confirmed return flight tickets
Travel insurance with minimum coverage
Proof of financial means
Submit your application through VFS Global or the Belgian embassy in India
Step Five Prepare for the Journey
Currency and Essentials
The official currency in Belgium is the Euro. It is advisable to carry some cash and a travel card for expenses
Make sure to pack warm clothes depending on the season
Carry your visa documents and vaccination certificates
English French and Dutch are commonly spoken in Brussels
Step Six Arrival in Brussels
Brussels Airport Zaventem
Most international flights land at Brussels Airport located about twelve kilometres from the city center. From the airport you can travel by
Train to Brussels Central Station
Airport shuttle or taxi
Public buses
Travel time to the city center is approximately twenty to thirty minutes
Tips for a Smooth Trip
Book your flights well in advance to get the best prices
Plan your visa process early since appointments can take time
Learn basic local phrases in French or Dutch for convenience
Use public transport in Brussels for affordable and efficient travel
Buy a local SIM card or international roaming plan to stay connected
