Brussels Airport (BRU): The Primary Gateway
Brussels Airport, officially known as Brussels Airport Zaventem, is the largest and busiest airport in Belgium and the most common entry point for international festival visitors. It receives direct flights from over 200 destinations worldwide, including major hubs in North America, Asia, Africa, and across Europe. From the airport, the most convenient option is the Airport Express train, which runs directly to Brussels Central, Brussels Midi (South), and Brussels Nord stations. The journey to Brussels Central takes approximately 17 minutes. From Brussels Central, you can connect to Mechelen in a further 20 minutes, from where Tomorrowland shuttle buses operate during the festival weekends. The total journey time from Brussels Airport to the festival site is typically between 75 and 90 minutes, depending on connections. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and the Belgian rail operator SNCB provides a reliable and affordable service.
- Book your train tickets in advance via the SNCB website to avoid queues
- The Tomorrowland shuttle from Mechelen runs on a fixed schedule — check times in advance
- Allow extra time on the first day of each weekend when queues are longest
Antwerp Airport (ANR): The Local Option
Antwerp International Airport is a small regional airport located just 5 kilometres from Antwerp city centre. While it serves far fewer routes than Brussels, it offers direct connections to several UK airports including London City, as well as destinations in Spain, Italy, and Scandinavia. The advantage of flying into Antwerp is proximity. The city centre is a short taxi or bus ride from the terminal, and from Antwerp Central Station, Tomorrowland shuttle buses run directly to the festival during event weekends. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. For visitors from the United Kingdom, flying into Antwerp can be a particularly efficient option, avoiding the longer transfer from Brussels and placing you in a city with excellent hotel options and a vibrant food and culture scene.
Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS): The Northern Route
Amsterdam Schiphol is one of Europe's busiest a
nd best-connected airports, making it an attractive option for visitors who cannot find convenient direct flights to Belgium. High-speed Thalys trains connect Amsterdam Centraal to Antwerp in approximately 50 minutes, and the frequency of services means you can plan your journey with considerable flexibility. The main drawback of flying into Amsterdam is the additional travel time. Including the train journey and connections, you should budget at least three hours from landing to arriving at the festival site. However, for visitors from long-haul destinations, Schiphol's extensive intercontinental connections often make it the most practical choice.Travelling by Train: Eurostar and Thalys
For visitors from the United Kingdom, the Eurostar service from London St Pancras to Brussels Midi is a comfortable and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. The journey takes approximately two hours, and Brussels Midi connects directly to the Belgian domestic rail network. From Paris, the Thalys high-speed train reaches Brussels in just 1 hour 20 minutes, making a day trip from the French capital theoretically possible, though staying overnight is strongly recommended for festival visitors. Rail travel within Belgium is efficient and affordable. The SNCB offers multi-journey passes and weekend discounts that can reduce costs significantly for visitors planning to travel around the country before or after the festival.
Driving to Tomorrowland
Belgium's motorway network is comprehensive and well-maintained, making it straightforward to drive to the festival from neighbouring countries. The E19 motorway connects Brussels to Antwerp, and the festival site in Boom is easily accessible from the A12 road. Tomorrowland provides several designated parking areas, but spaces fill quickly on the first morning of each weekend. Arriving before 9am is recommended if you plan to drive. Parking is not included in the standard ticket price and must be purchased separately. Carpooling is encouraged by the festival and can significantly reduce both costs and environmental impact. Several online platforms facilitate carpooling arrangements between festival visitors travelling from the same region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airport is closest to Tomorrowland?
Antwerp Airport is the closest, at approximately 25 kilometres from the festival site. Brussels Airport is the most commonly used due to its wider range of international connections.
Is there a direct shuttle from Brussels Airport?
Tomorrowland operates shuttle buses from several locations including Mechelen, Antwerp, and Brussels during the festival weekends. Check the official transport page for current routes and schedules.
Can I travel to Tomorrowland by train?
Yes. Belgian rail services connect all major cities to Mechelen and Antwerp, from where festival shuttles operate. The rail network is reliable and affordable.
How long does it take to get from Brussels to the festival?
Allow approximately 90 minutes from Brussels Airport to the festival entrance, including the train to Mechelen and the shuttle bus to the site.
Belgium's central location in Europe and its excellent transport infrastructure make Tomorrowland accessible from virtually anywhere in the world. Planning your journey carefully, booking transport in advance, and allowing generous time for connections will ensure that your arrival is as smooth as possible, leaving you free to focus on the experience ahead.