Belgium, being a coastal country with access to the North Sea, has various types of ports for different needs. Here are the main types of ports in Belgium:
- Seaports: Seaports are crucial for maritime trade and passenger transportation. Belgium has several major seaports, including:
- Port of Antwerp: Antwerp is the largest seaport in Belgium and one of the largest in Europe. It handles a wide range of cargo types, including containers, bulk goods, and petroleum products. It also serves as a key hub for European maritime trade.
- Port of Zeebrugge: Zeebrugge is another major seaport in Belgium, located along the North Sea It specializes in containerized cargo, roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) traffic, and ferry services to the United Kingdom.
- Port of Ghent: While primarily an inland port, Ghent also has access to the North Sea via the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal. It handles bulk cargo, such as grains, coal, and chemicals.
- Inland Ports: In addition to seaports, Belgium has inland ports located along its rivers and canals, facilitating inland waterway transportation and trade. Some key inland ports include:
- Port of Brussels: Brussels, the capital city, has an inland port on the Brussels-Scheldt Maritime Canal, handling cargo and providing access to European waterways.
- Port of Liège: Liège is a major inland port on the Meuse River, handling containerized cargo, bulk goods, and industrial products.
- Oil and Gas Terminals: Belgium has specialized terminals for the import and distribution of petroleum products, supporting its energy needs and industrial sector. These terminals are primarily located within seaports like Antwerp and Zeebrugge.
- Cruise Ports: Belgium is a popular destination for cruise tourism, and its seaports accommodate cruise ships, providing facilities for passengers and tourism activities.
List of Largest Ports in Belgium
| Port Name | Type of Cargo Ships | Monthly Arrivals |
|---|---|---|
| Port of Antwerp | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 1000 |
| Port of Zeebrugge | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 800 |
| Port of Ghent | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 600 |
| Port of Brussels | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 500 |
| Port of Bruges | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 400 |
| Port of Ostend | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 300 |
| Port of Namur | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 250 |
| Port of Liege | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 200 |
| Port of Mons | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 150 |
| Port of Charleroi | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 120 |
| Port of Kortrijk | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 100 |
| Port of Genk | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 90 |
| Port of Mechelen | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 80 |
| Port of Aalst | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 70 |
| Port of Seraing | Container, Bulk, Ro-Ro | 60 |
Major Ports of Belgium
These ports collectively play a crucial role in Belgium’s economy, facilitating international trade, transportation, and logistics activities while enhancing the country’s connectivity to global markets.
1. Port of Antwerp
City Location: Antwerp
Latitude: 51.2194° N
Longitude: 4.4025° E
The Port of Antwerp is the largest port in Belgium and ranks among the top in Europe in terms of freight volume. It plays a critical role in international trade, particularly in the transportation of petrochemical products. Antwerp’s extensive dock systems, warehouse facilities, and distribution centers facilitate the efficient transit of goods across the world. Its strategic location in the heart of Europe allows it to serve as a major gateway for cargo destined for the European hinterland, connecting to numerous road, rail, and river transportation routes. Recent expansions and technological upgrades have significantly enhanced its operational efficiency, making it a leading port in terms of logistics and cargo handling capabilities. The port also emphasizes sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impacts and promoting green shipping practices.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 45 | E19 |
| Ghent | 60 | E17 |
| Bruges | 90 | E34 |
| Leuven | 58 | E19 |
| Mechelen | 25 | E19 |
| Hasselt | 85 | E313 |
| Turnhout | 56 | E34 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Antwerp Central Station – 2 km
- Mechelen Railway Station – 27 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 62 km
- Brussels Central Station – 47 km
- Leuven Railway Station – 60 km
2. Port of Zeebrugge
City Location: Zeebrugge
Latitude: 51.3303° N
Longitude: 3.2087° E
The Port of Zeebrugge is a significant maritime gateway in Belgium, particularly known for its roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo services. It handles a large volume of vehicles, both imports and exports, making it one of the leading car handling ports in the world. Besides automobiles, Zeebrugge deals extensively with container cargo, liquid natural gas (LNG), and cruises. The port is also a major fishing port, with a dedicated fish market contributing to the local economy. Its connectivity to major European logistics networks, both via sea and infrastructure like the Scheldt canal, enhances its position as a strategic hub for international trade. Zeebrugge’s commitment to innovation is evident in its adoption of digital tools to streamline operations and improve cargo handling speed and accuracy.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bruges | 15 | N31 |
| Ghent | 50 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 95 | E34 |
| Brussels | 110 | E40 |
| Ostend | 25 | A10 |
| Kortrijk | 65 | E403 |
| Knokke | 20 | N49 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Zeebrugge-Strand Station – 1 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 17 km
- Ostend Railway Station – 27 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 52 km
- Kortrijk Railway Station – 67 km
3. Port of Ghent
City Location: Ghent
Latitude: 51.0567° N
Longitude: 3.7203° E
The Port of Ghent is a versatile port that handles a diverse range of cargo, including bulk commodities, containers, and project cargo. It is particularly noted for its handling of agricultural products, chemicals, and automotive logistics. The port benefits from its advantageous location at the confluence of the Scheldt and Lys Rivers, providing excellent access to the inland waterway network of Western Europe. Ghent’s facilities are continuously being upgraded to accommodate larger vessels and improve logistics and storage solutions. The port is actively involved in sustainable development projects, including renewable energy initiatives like biomass processing and wind energy, underlining its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 56 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 60 | E17 |
| Bruges | 50 | E40 |
| Kortrijk | 49 | E17 |
| Oudenaarde | 40 | N60 |
| Aalst | 35 | N9 |
| Lokeren | 32 | E17 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Ghent-Dampoort Station – 3 km
- Ghent-Sint-Pieters Station – 5 km
- Brussels South Station – 58 km
- Antwerp Central Station – 62 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 52 km
4. Port of Ostend
City Location: Ostend
Latitude: 51.2350° N
Longitude: 2.9214° E
Ostend is a medium-sized port located on the North Sea coast of Belgium, primarily involved in bulk and general cargo handling. It is also active in the fishing industry, cruise ship tourism, and increasingly, in offshore wind energy. The port serves as a base for maintenance and operations of several offshore wind farms, which has led to significant investment in port infrastructure and logistics services. Ostend’s strategic location makes it an ideal gateway for ferry services to the United Kingdom and Scandinavia, with comprehensive facilities for passengers and freight. The port is also known for its robust seafront defenses and is involved in various coastal protection and maritime safety projects.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bruges | 25 | A10 |
| Ghent | 60 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 115 | E34 |
| Brussels | 120 | E40 |
| Knokke | 35 | N34 |
| Zeebrugge | 35 | A10, N31 |
| Kortrijk | 70 | E403 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Ostend Railway Station – 1 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 27 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 62 km
- Antwerp Central Station – 117 km
- Brussels Central Station – 122 km
5. Port of Liege
City Location: Liege
Latitude: 50.6451° N
Longitude: 5.5734° E
The Port of Liege, situated along the Meuse River, is one of the largest inland ports in Belgium and serves as a major logistics and distribution hub for central Europe. It handles a wide variety of goods including steel products, agricultural goods, and petroleum products. The port’s inland location provides excellent connectivity to major industrial areas in Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands via the dense network of rivers and canals. Recent developments in the port include expanding container handling facilities and integrating advanced logistics technology. Liege is also focusing on sustainability, with initiatives aimed at improving the environmental impact of its operations, such as enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 90 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 120 | E313 |
| Aachen (DE) | 60 | E40 |
| Maastricht (NL) | 35 | E25 |
| Namur | 65 | E42 |
| Charleroi | 90 | E42 |
| Hasselt | 50 | E313 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Liege-Guillemins Station – 2 km
- Maastricht Railway Station – 37 km
- Brussels South Station – 92 km
- Antwerp Central Station – 122 km
- Namur Railway Station – 67 km
6. Brussels Port
City Location: Brussels
Latitude: 50.8673° N
Longitude: 4.3487° E
The Port of Brussels is strategically located within the Brussels-Capital Region, serving as a vital commercial and industrial hub. While smaller in scale compared to maritime ports, it handles a considerable volume of cargo, mainly construction materials, automobiles, and consumer goods. The port’s proximity to the administrative and economic heart of Belgium makes it an essential player in the urban supply chain, facilitating the efficient distribution of goods within the region. The Port of Brussels is also a key center for urban logistics projects, including the development of multimodal transport solutions and the integration of sustainable transport practices to reduce city traffic and emissions.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Antwerp | 45 | E19 |
| Ghent | 56 | E40 |
| Leuven | 30 | E40 |
| Mechelen | 30 | E19 |
| Charleroi | 60 | E420 |
| Namur | 65 | E411 |
| Liege | 90 | E40 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Brussels-North Station – 1 km
- Brussels-Central Station – 3 km
- Brussels-South Station – 5 km
- Antwerp Central Station – 47 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 58 km
7. Port of Namur
City Location: Namur
Latitude: 50.4665° N
Longitude: 4.8669° E
Namur, located at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse Rivers, hosts a key inland port in Belgium. It primarily deals with bulk and general cargo, playing a crucial role in the regional economy by supporting industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and construction. The port is a pivotal point for the distribution of goods to southern and eastern Belgium. Its development focuses on enhancing multimodal transport facilities, improving connectivity with major highways and railway lines. The Port of Namur is also committed to sustainability, with efforts aimed at increasing the use of river transport to reduce road traffic and environmental impact.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 65 | E411 |
| Liege | 65 | E42 |
| Charleroi | 40 | N5 |
| Dinant | 30 | N92 |
| Wavre | 40 | N4 |
| Mons | 75 | E42 |
| Tournai | 100 | E42 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Namur Railway Station – 2 km
- Charleroi-South Station – 42 km
- Liege-Guillemins Station – 67 km
- Brussels-Central Station – 66 km
- Mons Railway Station – 77 km
8. Port of Knokke-Heist
City Location: Knokke-Heist
Latitude: 51.3450° N
Longitude: 3.2937° E
Knokke-Heist is not traditionally known for its commercial port activities but has a marina that serves the recreational boating community. It is a popular destination for luxury yachting and water sports along the Belgian coast. The marina at Knokke-Heist offers high-end facilities and services tailored to the needs of yacht owners and tourists, contributing to the local tourism sector. While it handles minimal cargo, its strategic location near the Dutch border makes it a significant point for maritime leisure activities, attracting visitors from Belgium and neighboring countries.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bruges | 18 | N49 |
| Antwerp | 95 | E34 |
| Ghent | 60 | E34, N49 |
| Brussels | 110 | E40 |
| Ostend | 45 | N34 |
| Zeebrugge | 18 | N49 |
| Sluis (NL) | 8 | Local roads |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Knokke Railway Station – 0.5 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 20 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 62 km
- Antwerp Central Station – 97 km
- Ostend Railway Station – 47 km
9. Port of Blankenberge
City Location: Blankenberge
Latitude: 51.3134° N
Longitude: 3.1320° E
The Port of Blankenberge primarily serves as a marina and fishing port on the Belgian coast. It offers a variety of services for recreational boating and is a base for local fishing operations. The port is a focal point for the community, providing essential support for maritime activities and contributing to the regional tourism economy. Facilities include boat repair shops, a sailing school, and a range of hospitality services. Blankenberge Port plays a vital role in promoting nautical tourism in the area, with its annual regattas and sailing events attracting participants and spectators from various regions.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bruges | 15 | N371, N31 |
| Ostend | 20 | N34 |
| Ghent | 55 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 110 | E34 |
| Zeebrugge | 15 | N34 |
| Knokke-Heist | 12 | N371 |
| Kortrijk | 60 | E403 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Blankenberge Railway Station – 1 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 17 km
- Ostend Railway Station – 22 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 57 km
- Kortrijk Railway Station – 62 km
10. Port of Nieuwpoort
City Location: Nieuwpoort
Latitude: 51.1280° N
Longitude: 2.7456° E
Nieuwpoort’s port is renowned for its marina, the largest in Northern Europe, accommodating over a thousand moorings for recreational boating. It is a prime destination for sailing and water sports, with state-of-the-art facilities catering to the needs of maritime tourists and local boat owners. The port is integral to the city’s economy, driving tourism and related commercial activities. Nieuwpoort also focuses on sustainable maritime practices, implementing measures to protect the coastal environment and promote clean boating activities. The marina’s modern amenities and beautiful setting make it a favorite among boating enthusiasts from across Europe.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Ostend | 18 | N355 |
| Bruges | 30 | E40 |
| Ghent | 65 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 120 | E34 |
| Knokke-Heist | 40 | N34 |
| Zeebrugge | 35 | N34 |
| Kortrijk | 55 | E403 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Nieuwpoort City Railway Station – 3 km
- Ostend Railway Station – 20 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 32 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 67 km
- Kortrijk Railway Station – 57 km
11. Port of De Panne
City Location: De Panne
Latitude: 51.1000° N
Longitude: 2.5836° E
The Port of De Panne is a small marina located in the southernmost part of the Belgian coast, near the French border. Primarily catering to recreational activities, the port offers facilities for small boats and yachts, with services that support local and visiting mariners. While it handles limited commercial traffic, its importance lies in its contribution to local tourism, providing a gateway for maritime leisure activities that attract visitors to the region. De Panne’s marina enhances the charm of this coastal town, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a quieter, more scenic maritime experience.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Ostend | 35 | N34 |
| Bruges | 50 | E40 |
| Ghent | 85 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 140 | E34 |
| Dunkirk (FR) | 15 | D947 |
| Kortrijk | 70 | E403 |
| Lille (FR) | 70 | A25 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- De Panne Railway Station – 1 km
- Dunkirk Railway Station (FR) – 16 km
- Ostend Railway Station – 37 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 52 km
- Lille Europe Station (FR) – 72 km
12. Port of Ostend-Bruges International Airport
City Location: Ostend
Latitude: 51.1989° N
Longitude: 2.8622° E
While primarily known as an airport, the facility at Ostend-Bruges also includes a maritime component that supports logistics and cargo operations. The port section of the airport is used for handling specialized cargo that requires quick transfer between sea and air modes of transportation, including perishable goods and high-value items. The integration of port and airport facilities allows for a unique logistical advantage, providing efficient multimodal transport solutions. This dual functionality supports both regional economic activities and international trade, enhancing Ostend’s role as a critical transport hub in Belgium.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bruges | 25 | A10 |
| Ghent | 60 | E40 |
| Antwerp | 115 | E34 |
| Brussels | 120 | E40 |
| Knokke | 35 | N34 |
| Zeebrugge | 35 | A10, N31 |
| Kortrijk | 70 | E403 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Ostend Railway Station – 6 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 27 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 62 km
- Antwerp Central Station – 117 km
- Brussels Central Station – 122 km
13. Port of Roeselare
City Location: Roeselare
Latitude: 50.9445° N
Longitude: 3.1242° E
The Port of Roeselare is an inland port that supports the industrial and agricultural sectors of Western Flanders. The port facilitates the transportation of bulk agricultural products, construction materials, and industrial goods, playing an essential role in the supply chains of the surrounding regions. Its operations are crucial for the local economy, providing an efficient and cost-effective means of transporting large volumes of goods. Roeselare’s port has undergone recent upgrades to improve its cargo handling capabilities and to enhance the sustainability of its operations, including better water management and energy usage practices.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Bruges | 35 | E403 |
| Ghent | 60 | E17 |
| Antwerp | 100 | E34 |
| Brussels | 105 | E40 |
| Kortrijk | 25 | E403 |
| Ostend | 40 | E403 |
| Zeebrugge | 50 | E403, N31 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Roeselare Railway Station – 1 km
- Kortrijk Railway Station – 27 km
- Ghent Railway Station – 62 km
- Bruges Railway Station – 37 km
- Ostend Railway Station – 42 km
14. Port of Hasselt
City Location: Hasselt
Latitude: 50.9307° N
Longitude: 5.3378° E
The Port of Hasselt is another important inland port in Belgium, situated along the Albert Canal. It primarily serves the industrial areas of Limburg and plays a critical role in the local logistics network. The port handles a variety of bulk goods, industrial products, and building materials. Hasselt’s connectivity to major Belgian cities and the European hinterland via the canal network is a significant advantage, promoting the use of water transport as a sustainable alternative to road transport. The port is also involved in several regional development projects aimed at enhancing economic growth and improving transport efficiency in the area.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Antwerp | 85 | E313 |
| Brussels | 75 | E40, E313 |
| Liege | 50 | E313 |
| Maastricht (NL) | 40 | E313, A2 |
| Genk | 15 | N75 |
| Leuven | 60 | E314 |
| Aachen (DE) | 75 | E314, A44 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Hasselt Railway Station – 3 km
- Genk Railway Station – 17 km
- Liege-Guillemins Station – 52 km
- Maastricht Railway Station – 42 km
- Leuven Railway Station – 62 km
15. Port of Tournai
City Location: Tournai
Latitude: 50.6050° N
Longitude: 3.3884° E
Tournai’s port is situated on the Scheldt River, providing essential support for the transportation of bulk goods and facilitating industrial activities in the area. The port is particularly vital for the local construction industry, handling materials such as sand, gravel, and cement. Tournai also focuses on enhancing its logistics services to support regional businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises. The port’s operations contribute significantly to the local economy, with ongoing investments aimed at expanding its capacity and improving the sustainability of its activities.
Nearby Cities:
| City | Distance (km) | Road Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 85 | E429 |
| Ghent | 70 | E17 |
| Lille (FR) | 25 | A27, E42 |
| Charleroi | 90 | E42 |
| Mons | 50 | E42 |
| Namur | 100 | E42 |
| Kortrijk | 45 | E403 |
Nearby Railway Stations:
- Tournai Railway Station – 2 km
- Lille Europe Station (FR) – 27 km
- Brussels South Station – 87 km
- Charleroi-South Station – 92 km
- Mons Railway Station – 52 km