Brussels public transport operator STIB is once again offering free access to its trams, metros and buses on New Year's Eve. It is also increasing the frequency of services to ensure all partygoers can get home safely.
With the many parties – both public and private – taking place in Brussels, many will be relying on public transport to get around the region. In 2023, nearly 125,000 people chose STIB to travel on New Year's Eve. People can again travel for free on 31 January this year.
"From midnight, the entire STIB network will be free for all travellers The entire STIB network until 05:30," spokesperson Laurent Vermeersch said. The police strongly advise using public transport for movements around Brussels on New Year's Eve.
Increased frequency
The four metro lines, tram (4, 7, 10, 39, 44, 51, 55, 81 and 93) and bus lines (45, 49, 50, 54, 56, 65 and 87) will run at an increased frequency until 02:30. "Even after that, partygoers can still get home safely with the night buses and/or tram 81," he said.
Credit: Belga/James Arthur Gekiere
Buses on the Noctis night network will run between midnight and 05:30. Travellers can expect the N18 every 10 minutes, while a bus will come every 15 minutes on lines N04, N05, N06, N08, N09, N10 and N11, and every 20 minutes on lines N12, N13 and N16.
"The last night buses leave the city centre at 05:00 at the earliest. After that, the regular timetable takes over immediately," Vermeersch said.
Atomium fireworks
One of the main attractions will be the traditional fireworks organised by the City of Brussels. This year, the display moved to a new location by the Atomium, on the Heysel plateau. The site will be open to the public from 21:00.
"Connection with lines 1 and 5 at Beekkant will be ensured for passengers taking the last metro at Roi Baudouin on line 6," said Vermeersch. However, the organisation of the fireworks will cause a few interruptions to public transport due to the closure of Avenue Impératrice Charlotte, Belgium Square and Miramar Avenue.
"From 20:00, trams 7 and 35 and buses 83 and N18 will be diverted. At the request of security forces, some metro stations may also be temporarily closed."
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Security checks will be carried out at the entrance to the fireworks show. "To make access to the site as smooth as possible, we strongly advise you not to bring bags, bags or umbrellas. Glass bottles, cans, pyrotechnic material, and other items that could injure yourself or other partygoers are prohibited and will be confiscated," police said.
On and around the Heysel Plateau, several streets will be closed to traffic and parking is also prohibited throughout the evening.
