Brussels Airport has packaged itself as a European hub in recent years and enjoys particularly cheap connections to many European destinations thanks to the rise of budget airlines - British Midland and Aer Lingus, among others, fly here.

Flights arrive in Brussels from just about every country in Europe along with other major cities in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Australasia meaning that visitors from far-flung destinations like New York, Beĳjing and Johannesburg can fly here directly.

Other services available to travellers include a hairdresser, moneychangers, places of worship for all the main religions and baggage lockers to keep valuables safe.

Airport information: +32 27538798

Transportation: options for getting away from the airport are numerous. In the arrivals terminal building, travellers can find a number of car rental companies available. For those travelling by train, there are regular services between the airport station and the main Brussels station, with connections on to Bruges.

Parking: the airport has more than 10,000 parking spaces for both long and short-term stays. Those that are worried about getting a space can reserve one in advance by contacting the airport by telephone or via their internet site.