Book the Belbus in Belgium
When you are traveling in Belgium, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the public transport system. What if you're stuck in a small town, with no train station nearby? What transportation should you use? You can always use the bus, but if that's not around, then there is a second choice, one that is cheaper than taking the cab. The Belbus!
The Belbus is a bus that drives per reservation, and it serves people in sparsely populated areas. It doesn't have a fixed route or schedule, and stops only at the bus stops of the Lijn (buses in Flanders). You can use the Belbus if you're in a small town with no normal buses nearby. Read this article to find out how to book the Belbus.
Steps
- Plan your trip beforehand. Remember that the Belbus only drives in specific areas, and it is possible that you will have to change buses, so allow extra time if necessary. Remember, when you make a reservation, you will need to tell the Become a 911 Operator/Dispatcher where the bus stop is at your destination.
- Book the Belbus. Book the Belbus at least 2 hours before your departure; ideally, you should book the bus one day before. Note that the rules for making a reservation may vary from town to town. If you plan to use the Belbus all week, you can mention this to the operator and they will make arrangements. Usually, the operator will ask you the following questions:
- What is your name/client number?
- When would you like to depart (date and time)?
- Which bus stop will you depart from?
- What is your destination?
- Will you return with the Belbus?
- Call and book the Belbus.
- Antwerp:+32 03 218 14 94
- Limburg:+32 011 85 03 00
- East-Flanders: +32 09 210 94 94
- Flemish Brabant:+32 016 31 37 00
- West Flanders:+32 059 56 52 56
Note: If you wish to return with the Belbus, be sure to mention this to the operator. Otherwise you might find yourself stranded in an out-of-the-way location.
- Buy your ticket(s). Buy your ticket(s) a day or two before your trip. You don't have to do this, but it will make your trip easier and less stressful and it will help the bus driver keep to his schedule. You can buy tickets at any NMBS station (train station) in Belgium, or at the ticket window near the bus stop in a big Explore a New City. You can also buy tickets at many Make a Newspaper and magazine shops.
- Arrive at the bus stop on time. As a general rule, make sure you arrive at the bus stop at least 10 minutes before the bus driver is scheduled to pick you up. Don't forget to bring your ticket and any other items you might need.
Tips
- If you are disabled, you can still book the Belbus. There is an elevator in every bus.
- The price for a Belbus ticket is the same as for normal buses.
