Taxi in Belgium: everything you need to know about taxis in Belgium
- Damian Brzeski
- 2 days ago
- 13 min read
There is no single nationwide taxi fare in Belgium, and the appearance and operating rules of taxis can vary dramatically depending on the region? If you are planning a trip to Brussels, Antwerp or Liege – this article is a must-have for you.
We discover what the Belgian taxi system is like, how an airport transfer differs from VIP class, what to look out for when booking and which apps really work.
Don't be surprised - read on and learn how to choose the best taxi for your needs.
What is the taxi system like in Belgium?
Taxis in Belgium are a combination of private initiative and a state framework. Although they are mainly private companies, they must adhere to maximum rates set by law. This means that taxi prices in Belgium will not surprise you overnight.
The system is highly decentralized , however, with different rules for each region. Taxis in Brussels have their own regulations, while in Flanders or Wallonia the rules may be completely different.
The result? No single, nationwide standard.
Not only do the rates differ, but also the appearance of the vehicles and the services available. When ordering a taxi with a service in Antwerp, for example, you can get a completely different experience than in Liege.
This can be a challenge for companies that want to operate in several regions at once – you have to navigate different regulations. But for passengers? If you know where you are and what you’re looking for, you can find a taxi with a travel time to Brussels or any other city that fits local realities.
Description of a standard taxi in Belgium
Have you ever wondered what a classic Belgian taxi looks like? It's not just a random car with the word "TAXI" written on it - it's a vehicle that has to meet specific standards. First of all: an electronic taximeter - legalized and always visible to the passenger.
Secondly: comfort. A taxi should have at least two seats for passengers and an appropriate door layout that will ensure a quick and safe exit – even in an emergency. And luggage – space for hand bags is essential.
Drivers? Increasingly, they are not just chauffeurs, but true professionals. Instead of a random driver, you will get a person with a license, experience and training. In addition, often speaking several languages.
A taxi with a professional driver is not an exception these days, but the standard – especially with companies such as UniTaxi, Airport Taxis, TaxisVerts or Taxis Bleus.
It used to be different, but competitive pressure – especially from apps – has taken its toll. Traditional taxi services now have to keep up, offering taxis with comfort , clean interiors and predictable service quality.
How to recognize a legal taxi in Belgium?
In Brussels , you will be helped by a distinctive license plate with the letter "T" or "TX", a taxi light on the roof in black and yellow checks and a 4-digit number on the rear of the vehicle. Additionally - classic Belgian plates: burgundy characters on a white background with a blue EU stripe and the letter "B".
In short: a taxi with a passenger service in Belgium is more than just transport today. It is increasingly about comfort, safety and class.
Types of taxi services available in Belgium
In Belgium, taxis are more than just a ride from A to B. The market offers a whole range of options, from basic rides to luxury transfers and solutions for families or larger groups. Below you will find the most important types of services you can book.
Airport Transfers: Zaventem and Charleroi Taxis are the most popular choice between Zaventem Airport and Charleroi Airport – available 24/7, with the option to book in advance. Companies such as City Cab Brussels, AtoB Transfer and Welcome Taxi offer taxi transfers with travel time to Brussels or other cities, often at a fixed price. Services include flight monitoring, a taxi with a child seat , luggage handling and a meet-and-greet option.
Group Taxi and Minibuses For larger groups, minibuses and taxi vans are available, for example from TaxisVerts or Sixt Ride. They can accommodate 6 to 8 people and large luggage - ideal for group trips or family trips.
VIP and premium taxisVIP and premium taxis (e.g. Prestige Driver, VIP Airport Taxi) are an option for business and those expecting luxury. Wi-Fi interiors, professional drivers and S-class cars are standard. Fixed prices, discreet service and flexible travel conditions are the norm.
Taxi with child seat Although the regulations allow transporting children without a child seat, many companies provide it. Airport-driver.be offers it for an additional fee, City Cab Brussels - for free (with prior registration). This is a taxi with a service for families , where the safety of the youngest is a priority.
Taxi with nameplate and welcome "Meet-and-greet" service is a sign of quality. The driver waits with a nameplate, helps with luggage and takes care of comfort from the very first moments. The ideal taxi with service for airport passengers , especially in a new place.
As you can see, whether you are travelling with your family, a business meeting or a group of friends, you will easily find a taxi in Belgium with a service that is perfectly tailored to your needs. It is flexibility and choice that really makes a difference!
Belgian Taxis Price List and Payment Models
In Belgium, taxi prices are regulated, but that doesn’t mean everything works according to one scheme. Passengers have flexible payment options to choose from, from a taximeter to fixed fares , and companies are increasingly offering subscriptions and corporate accounts.
Fixed fare – when is it worth it?: Most journeys are metered, but taxis with fixed-price transfers are popular on airport routes. For example, Staxi offers a fixed fare from Charleroi Airport , and in Ghent you can get to Zaventem Airport for €120. This is convenient and avoids surprises. TaxisVerts lets you estimate the cost before the journey via the app – an example of how a taxi with a customer service can offer predictability.
Night tariff – what do you need to know?: During night hours (22:00–6:00) there is a surcharge of €2. In Ghent during events or New Year's Eve there is a special tariff B – with a higher entry fee and kilometre fee. In Brussels there is also Collecto – a 24/7 transport service , i.e. a night shared taxi for €6. Different cities – different rates, but everything is clearly defined.
Subscriptions and business accounts: Brussels taxis – such as TaxisVerts and Taxis Bleus – offer subscription models for companies and drivers. Online bookings, online payment , itemized invoices and no cash – all of this makes life easier. Drivers can work on a subscription basis, while regular customers can use vouchers or monthly invoices. This is a taxi with a business service that thinks about convenience and saving time.
Whether you use a taxi every once in a while or every day, the Belgian payment system is ready to meet your needs. What about you? Do you prefer a classic taximeter or a fixed price in advance?
Vehicle Types and Available Transportation Options
In Belgium, taxis are not just standard sedans – they are a whole range of vehicles tailored to different needs: from economical trips to comfortable business journeys or transport for people with limited mobility.
1. Vehicle classes: economy, comfort, premium
There are four main categories to choose from:
Economy taxi : basic comfort, ideal for 1-4 passengers.
Comfort class : more space and comfort.
Business / Premium Class : reclining seats, Wi-Fi, air conditioning – the perfect taxi with comfort for working on the road.
First class luxury : chauffeur, exclusive equipment and full comfort. Companies like Sixt Ride also offer eco-friendly (Green), larger (XL) and hybrid versions – something for everyone.
2. Minibus taxi and group transportMinibuses and van taxis are a great solution for groups of 6 to 19 people. TaxisVerts and Sixt Ride have vehicles adapted to travel together with family, friends or colleagues.
3. PMR taxi: for people with limited mobility Companies such as TaxisVerts and Taxis Bleus offer taxis with mobility – adapted to transport wheelchairs, with ramps and special fixings.
In Brussels, around 10% of the fleet meets these requirements. In addition, people with disabilities can use travel vouchers (€5) awarded by the municipalities – a form of support and a way to increase accessibility.
The Belgian transport market proves that there is no one size fits all solution – there are taxis with friendly transport that adapt to your needs. Comfort, flexibility and inclusiveness – here it works!
Additional services and travel personalization
In Belgium, a taxi with a service is often more than just a ride. Companies are developing their offer to provide passengers with comfort and full customization to their needs.
Comfort and flexibility while traveling Some companies (e.g. City Cab Brussels) offer free water, the possibility of stops on request and the transport of animals - just indicate "animal on board" when booking. For longer routes, there are even specialist animal transport services with feeding and stops.
Professional drivers and comfortable cars Licensed, experienced, multilingual - a taxi with a professional driver is standard today. The cars are clean, serviced and equipped with air conditioning or Wi-Fi, which is everything you need for a comfortable ride.
Route and travel time information Thanks to applications, when ordering a taxi with route information , you immediately see the approximate price and time of arrival. You can also follow the course live. This is convenience and transparency, which translates into greater trust in the service.
In short: a taxi with comfort , information and extras? In Belgium, this is an everyday occurrence – not a luxury.
Regulations and industry organisations in force in Belgium
The taxi system in Belgium is based on clearly defined regulations and the support of industry organisations that look after quality, safety and the interests of carriers.
GTL – Belgian Taxi Federation GTL is the key organisation representing taxi and car hire companies with drivers. It works with the federal and regional authorities, advising on regulations: from taxi meters and licenses to taxes, driver status and technical requirements for vehicles. GTL ensures regulatory consistency and supports the interests of the industry – it is a bridge between companies and bureaucracy.
Safety and quality standards Safe travel is a priority. Here are the rules you should know:
Use licensed taxis – with a visible plate, license and driver ID.
Booking in advance is not only convenient, but also safer.
Check that the taximeter is working and that you know what the rates are – in Brussels , for example, they are strictly regulated.
Use reputable apps – they provide information about the driver, car and route.
When travelling at night, share your travel details with your loved ones.
Vigilance is key – if you feel uncomfortable, ask to be stopped in a public place.
In case of emergency: call 112 (emergencies) or 101 (police).
Vehicles must have a first aid kit and meet technical standards.
Drivers undergo tests, must have a certificate and a clean record.
All this together means that a taxi with a safe ride is not an empty slogan in Belgium, but a concrete practice – with clearly defined rules and high standards.
Reservation and availability of services
Modern 24/7 transport services in Belgium focus on convenience – you can order a taxi whenever you want and however you want: online, via an app or the classic way – by phone.
Online booking – fast and convenient Secure online bookings are already standard. TaxisVerts, Taxis Bleus or Airport Driver have intuitive websites and apps. You can also call or use kiosks at airports and train stations. The ordering process? A few clicks and you're done.
Services available 24/7 Round-the-clock service is the norm – even on holidays. A taxi with a 24/7 service is useful for a morning flight or returning after a party. In Brussels, there is also Collecto – a shared night taxi for 6 EUR.
Free cancellation and one hour free Unsure plans? No problem. City Cab Brussels, Airport Driver or Welcome Taxi offer free cancellation up to 72 hours before the trip. In addition, you often get a free hour of waiting after landing - no stress, even if the plane is delayed.
In short – a taxi with a reserved seat , flexible conditions and full availability? In Belgium, it is an everyday occurrence. And that is why passengers appreciate it.
Taxi booking apps and platforms available in Belgium
Belgium has a thriving market for app-based taxi hailing apps that offer convenience, safety, and personalized ride options.
Taxi.eu app – solid and universal. Works in many Belgian cities (e.g. Brussels, Antwerp). Allows:
calculate the cost and travel time,
track taxi with travel time ,
pay cashlessly ( card, Apple Pay, PayPal , etc.),
choose a vehicle with a child seat, for groups, eco-friendly or with a driver who speaks your language,
book a course in advance or save your favorite addresses.
Uber in Brussels – legal, but with restrictions UberX operates, but only with an LVC license (limousine with driver). Uber is treated as a technology platform, not a carrier. It also offers UberBlack and UberVan – it all depends on local regulations. This is a taxi with a dispatch service operating outside the classic system, but still popular.
Other Apps – Wide Selection
Bolt : fast, cheap and with the option to choose the gender of the driver. Integrated with scooters.
FreeNow : not only taxis, but also bikes, scooters, cars. Possibility of pre-booking, eco options.
Obi : price comparison between different carriers – find the cheapest option.
B Taxi Brussels : local, reliable and with transparent pricing and flight tracking.
Applications are now an integral part of taxi with our offers . Thanks to them you choose, save and have everything under control - without stress, without surprises.
What are the most popular transfer locations and routes?
In Belgium, a taxi transfer is a popular choice for travel between airports, cities and key attractions. Here are the most popular routes:
Zaventem Airport to Brussels and other cities
Taxi from Zaventem airport to Brussels : approx. 50–55 EUR (25–30 minutes).
To the European Quarter: approx. 50 EUR, Avenue Louise: 55 EUR.
Taxi travel time to Antwerp : 90–100 EUR (55 minutes).
To Ghent: 179–184 EUR (45 minutes), to Bruges: approx. 300 EUR (1 hour 20 minutes), Hasselt: approx. 230 EUR (1 hour).
Charleroi Airport - Main Destinations
Taxi from Charleroi Airport to Brussels : €173–€178 (50 minutes).
To Zaventem: approx. EUR 170 (45 minutes).
There are also services to Ghent, Bruges and Antwerp.
Routes from Ghent and SHAPE
From Ghent: Taxis with comfort and driver from Sixt Ride available.
From SHAPE (NATO Supreme Command):
To Brussels: 1h,
To Bruges: 1h 30 min,
To Antwerp: 1h 20min,
To Zaventem: 1 hour, to Charleroi: 45 minutes.
Other popular destinations
Waterloo Battlefield: 20 mins,
Pairi Daiza: 30 min,
Atomium: approx. 1 hour.
These routes show where the taxi is most likely to go with travel time to the city or airport. Taxi companies focus on efficient transport where there is the greatest demand – and that’s a good thing, because that’s exactly what passengers are looking for.
Popular Taxi Companies Operating in Belgium
The taxi market in Belgium is dominated by a few large companies, as well as numerous smaller, specialised entities, which demonstrates its diversity and competitiveness.
There are a total of 7,432 taxi companies operating in Belgium, with Brussels having the largest market share (35%), followed by Antwerp (18%) and Liège (13%).
TaxisVerts: services in Brussels and for people with disabilities
TaxisVerts (Green Taxis) is the largest taxi fleet in Brussels, operating for over 40 years. The company offers a wide range of services, including:
Standard taxi rides 24/7.
Business and corporate solutions.
Taxis to events.
Services for people with reduced mobility (PMR) via specially adapted vehicles and trained drivers.
Transfers to train stations and airports.
Parcel delivery services.
Collecto's night shared service in Brussels for a fixed price of €6.
TaxisVerts focuses on regulated rates, transparent prices without dynamic surcharges, guaranteed reservations, real-time tracking and professional drivers. Reservations can be made via the mobile app or by phone.
Prestige Driver: Airport Transfers and Subscriptions
Prestige Driver focuses on the luxury segment of the market, offering luxury and exotic car rentals throughout Belgium, with the possibility of personalized routes and adventures. The company also provides airport transfers.
Although the materials do not specify subscriptions in the context of taxis, Prestige Driver is in line with the trend of premiumization of transport services, offering solutions for the most demanding customers.
Other taxi companies
The Belgian market is rich in a variety of taxi companies that complement the offer of TaxisVerts and Prestige Driver:
Taxis Bleus: Operates in Brussels, offering 24/7 service, app bookings, regulated rates, minivans for groups, PMR vehicles and corporate services. The company prides itself on high customer ratings and adherence to the "Code Bleu" – a code of good conduct for drivers.
City Cab Brussels: Specialising in luxury private airport transfers, employs multilingual drivers, offers free child seats, flight monitoring and free cancellation.
Sixt Ride: Provides airport and city transfers in various vehicle classes (economy, comfort, premium), with professional drivers and the possibility of cashless payments. It also offers 24/7 customer service.
UniTaxi: Guarantees professional drivers, meet-and-greet service with nameplate and fixed prices, with no extra charges for late arrivals.
VIP Airport Taxi / Taxi Kronos: These companies offer high-end VIP services, with luxury vehicles and professional chauffeurs, tailored to the individual needs of customers.
The presence of so many companies, from large, established players to specialist luxury services, reflects the dynamic and competitive landscape of the taxi transport market in Belgium.
What is worth remembering about Belgian taxis?
The Belgian taxi market is a real mix of tradition, modernity and local specificity. Despite the general regulations, regional differences between Brussels, Flanders and Wallonia mean that each part of the country has its own "version" of taxi services.
This can be a challenge, but it also gives us the opportunity to tailor our offering to local needs.
The fight for the customer is not only about price, but also quality. A taxi with comfort , a professional driver, a "meet-and-greet" service or an option for people with disabilities - these are no longer extras, they are standard.
Companies are developing, investing in technology, and taxi apps are now the command center for the passenger – booking, tracking, payment, route information – all in one hand.
For travelers, predictability is key. Hence the popularity of fixed prices , online payments , free cancellation and no-cost waiting times .
The greatest traffic is concentrated around the airports – Zaventem and Charleroi , as well as in the large cities: Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges. And it is there that the services are most extensive.
We also cannot forget about GTL – the organization that ties it all together and represents the industry in the world of regulations and politics.
In summary? A taxi in Belgium is more than just a means of transport these days. It is a convenient, flexible and increasingly intelligent solution for anyone who wants to travel without stress – regardless of whether you are flying on business, sightseeing or returning from an event.
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