Brussels' modern and efficient public transportation system includes the metro, trams, premetro (trams that go underground for part of their journey) and buses
Metro, Premetro and Trams
The three metro lines include lines 1A and 1B which run on the same track between Beekkant and Merode and line 2 which connect with line 1A at Simonis and lines 1A and 1B at Arts-Loi.
The pre-metro offers a similar service to the metro, however this system consists of trams running through tunnels in the city centre which surface and run along the streets in the suburbs. The most useful pre-metro line runs from Gare du Nord through the city centre to Albert with transfer stations at Rogier, De Brouckere, Gare du Midi/Zuid Station and Porte de Hal/Hallepoort.
Stations for both the métro and pre-metro are indicated by a blue sign with a white M. The métro is not as busy as other European systems like those of London or Paris and trains and stations can get quite deserted as early as 10pm.
Trams are a good way to visit places in the suburbs, including the Atomium, the Museum voor Midden-Afrika as well as the good hitchhiking spots. Trams are generally clean and comfortable and include the futuristic T2000 trams.
Fares
A single tickets are ˆ2.50, although it is better value to pay for five or ten journeys at a time. A ten-ride ticket (une carte des dix trajets, s'il vous plaît) costs €9. A five-ride ticket is €6.20.
If you're planning to see a lot of Brussels in one day, you may like to invest in a one-day pass which costs ˆ3.60.
Taxis
Taxis Verts (PHONE: 02/349-4949).
Taxis Oranges (PHONE: 02/349-4343).
You can also catch one at cab stands around town. Distances are not great, and a cab ride costs between EUR6.20 and EUR12.40. Tips are included in the fare.
