Transport: The modern and well-organised public transport system of
Brussels consists of the metro, trams and buses. The network is
user-friendly with route diagrams and timetables posted at most
stops, and there are free maps available from the tourist office.
Trams provide an ideal way to get around and are faster than buses,
especially when they travel underground in the city centre to
become the prémétro. Both tram and bus stops
are by request only. There is a separate system of local trains
linking the inner city to the outskirts, although they are of
minimal use to tourists, except for getting to and from the
airport. Tickets are valid for any form of public transport except
local trains, and once validated can be used for multiple transfers
within an hour. Tickets are fairly cheap; strips of five or ten
tickets or day passes are also available. Children below 12 years
ride free. Taxis can be hailed from any of the taxi stands around
the city; they are metered and expensive, and taxes and tips are
included in the price. The city is relatively easy to negotiate by
car, though renting a vehicle is unnecessary. The towns of Bruges
and Antwerp are a short train or car journey from Brussels; they
are fairly compact and once there it is easy to get around on
foot.
