Brussels Car-Free Sunday 2026: what closes and how to get around on 20 September

Brussels will close almost the entire Brussels-Capital Region to ordinary motorised traffic from 09:30 to 19:00 on Sunday 20 September 2026. The Ring and motorways remain open, but access roads into the Region will close. STIB-MIVB metro, tram and bus services will be free all day, with extra service on several lines.

For international residents, visitors and anyone travelling through Brussels, the simplest plan is to leave the car outside the Region and use public transport, walk or cycle.

What time is Brussels Car-Free Sunday?

Car-Free Sunday runs from 09:30 until 19:00 on 20 September 2026 across the Brussels-Capital Region. The City of Brussels says motorised traffic is prohibited during that period unless the vehicle is exempt or has a special permit.

The event forms part of European Mobility Week, which runs in Brussels from 16 to 22 September.

Can you drive into Brussels on 20 September?

For most drivers, no. The Brussels Ring and motorways remain open, but roads leading into the Brussels-Capital Region will be closed to ordinary motorised traffic during the car-free period.

The City recommends using park-and-ride facilities outside or on the edge of the restricted area and continuing by public transport. STIB is also operating a shuttle every eight minutes between Parking C and Heysel/Heizel metro station from 09:30 to 20:00.

Which vehicles are allowed?

Some vehicles can continue to operate. The official city guidance lists public transport, emergency services, law-enforcement vehicles, vehicles with a special permit and certain taxis among the exemptions. Vehicles that are authorised to travel must respect a maximum speed of 30 km/h.

Taxi-rank taxis may operate without a special permit. Hail taxis require a permit. People or businesses that have an essential reason to use a motor vehicle should check the City of Brussels exemption process before travelling.

Is public transport free in Brussels on Car-Free Sunday?

Yes, all STIB-MIVB metros, trams and buses are free on 20 September. STIB says it is also increasing service to cope with the additional demand.

STIB warns that metros may be crowded at busy times. If you are taking a bicycle or scooter on public transport, check the operator’s rules before boarding, especially on buses and older trams.

What if you are travelling to or from Brussels Airport?

Normal commercial travel is not being suspended, but road access inside the Brussels Region will be very different from an ordinary Sunday. STIB says bus line 12, which links Brussels with Brussels Airport, will run every 15 minutes from 08:00.

If you have a flight, long-distance train or fixed appointment, allow extra time and check your route on the day. Do not assume a taxi can use every street simply because taxis are exempt from the general ban.

Can you cycle freely through Brussels?

Car-Free Sunday is designed around walking, cycling and other forms of light mobility, but the streets are not completely traffic-free. Buses, trams, emergency vehicles, taxis and authorised vehicles will still be moving.

STIB specifically asks cyclists and scooter users to follow traffic rules and take care around buses and trams, which need a longer stopping distance.

What is happening around the city?

Car-Free Sunday is also a city event rather than just a traffic restriction. Brussels is hosting activities throughout the Region. For example, Beursschouwburg on Rue A. Orts is holding a free brunch and street party from 11:00 to 18:00.

The City of Brussels links to the wider Mobility Week programme for neighbourhood events, cycling activities and public-space events.

Practical checklist before travelling

• If driving, plan to park outside the restricted area before 09:30.
• Use STIB metro, tram and bus services for free during the day.
• Allow more time for crowded public transport and changed road access.
• If you need an exemption, apply through the official City of Brussels process.
• Check live STIB information before leaving, particularly if you have a flight or timed connection.
• Remember that authorised vehicles still use the roads, so normal road-safety rules continue to apply.

Official information

The main official sources are the City of Brussels Car-Free Sunday page and STIB-MIVB’s Car-Free Sunday service information.

If you regularly use public transport in Belgium, see Babylon’s guide to buying Belgian train tickets before boarding and the 2026 Buzzy Pazz price for 18-24-year-olds.

Last verified: 18 September 2026. Transport plans and exemptions can change, so check the official sources again on the morning of 20 September.