5 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Brussels Taxi

Booking a Brussels taxi might seem like a no-brainer. You pull out your phone, make a call or open an app, and voilà, your ride is on the way. But here’s the catch : a seemingly simple taxi ride can turn into a travel nightmare if you make the wrong moves.

In this guide, we’ll uncover the 5 most common mistakes people make when booking a Brussels taxi and how you can avoid them like a pro. Whether you're a tourist navigating the cobblestone streets or a business traveler heading to a conference, avoiding these pitfalls can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress.

Mistake #1: Not Booking in Advance

The Risk of Last-Minute Hassles

Have you ever tried to hail a taxi in the heart of Brussels during rush hour or after a big football match ? It's like trying to catch a unicorn.

Last-minute bookings can leave you stranded, especially during peak hours or bad weather. Without a reservation, you risk long waits, inflated prices, or, worst of all, no ride at all.

Benefits of Early Booking

Booking in advance is like having a golden ticket. It guarantees :

Availability
Fixed pricing
Peace of mind

Many reputable taxi services allow you to schedule your ride days—or even weeks—in advance, especially for airport transfers or special events.

How to Secure the Best Taxi Deals

Use trusted platforms: Apps like Bolt, Uber, and Taxi.eu let you pre-book rides with transparent pricing.
Look for airport transfer specialists like Mybecab for fixed-rate, professional service.
Always request a confirmation email or text, including driver details and pickup time.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Licensed Taxi Providers

The Dangers of Unauthorized Taxis

Unlicensed taxis are more than just a sketchy choice—they're a real safety risk. They often overcharge, may not be insured, and sometimes aren’t even traceable if something goes wrong.

Would you trust your safety in the hands of someone without credentials or accountability?

How to Identify a Legitimate Taxi in Brussels

Look for:

A blue and yellow license plate (a must in Brussels)
A taximeter on the dashboard
The official taxi logo on the car
A driver ID badge clearly visible

Legal Requirements for Taxi Services

By law, Brussels taxi drivers must:

Pass a background check
Be insured and registered
Use calibrated meters
Follow regulated pricing structures

Avoiding licensed taxis might save you a few euros upfront, but the cost of a scam or unsafe ride isn’t worth it.

Mistake #3: Not Comparing Prices

The Pricing Trap

Fares can vary considerably between taxi services in Brussels, especially between app-based platforms and traditional taxis. Without a preliminary comparison, you risk paying twice the reasonable price.

Tools to Help Compare Fares

Taxi.eu: Great for comparing city taxis
Uber/Bolt: Real-time dynamic pricing models
WayCab or Mybecab: Offer fixed rates for airport and intercity transfers

Avoiding Hidden Charges

Make sure to:

Ask if luggage or late-night surcharges apply
Clarify tolls or additional fees
Request a price estimate before confirming the ride

Pro Tip: Always take a screenshot of the fare shown in the app for reference.

Mistake #4: Not Confirming the Pickup Details

Miscommunications That Lead to Delays

Imagine waiting at one terminal of the airport while your taxi is circling another. Miscommunication about pickup location is one of the most frequent issues travelers report.

Checklist to Confirm Your Ride

Exact pickup address or terminal
Contact number of the driver
Estimated time of arrival
License plate and vehicle make

Airport Pickups vs City Pickups

For airport pickups:

Confirm flight number and arrival time
Ask if the driver offers meet-and-greet service
Specify waiting time policies (some drivers charge after 15–30 minutes)

For city pickups:

Mention landmarks or entrances
Share your live location when using apps

Mistake #5: Overlooking Taxi Reviews and Ratings

The Power of Customer Feedback

Would you eat at a restaurant without any reviews ? Probably not. So why take the risk with a taxi service ? Customer reviews provide valuable information about the quality of service, punctuality, and professionalism of the driver.

Where to Find Reliable Taxi Reviews

Google Maps: Search the taxi company name
TripAdvisor & Yelp: Useful for tourist-heavy routes
Company websites: Look for testimonials or social proof
Facebook Groups: Local expat or travel communities

What to Watch for in Reviews

Complaints about rudeness or unprofessionalism
Reports of overcharging or detours
Praise for cleanliness and punctuality
Comments on driver communication skills

Brussels is a stunning city full of charm, history, and culture, but don’t let a bad taxi experience ruin your ride. Avoiding these 5 mistakes can transform your ride from a chaotic mess into a smooth journey.

By booking in advance, choosing licensed services, comparing prices, confirming details, and reading reviews, you're not just booking a taxi—you're investing in peace of mind.

The next time you land in Brussels or head out for a meeting, take the wheel (figuratively, of course) and make smart taxi choices.