Pukkelpop takes place at Festivalpark Kiewit in Hasselt, about 70 km from Brussels. Most festival-goers arrive by train (around 1 hour from Brussels, free shuttle included with the ticket) or by direct private transfer (60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic). From Brussels Airport (BRU) or Charleroi (CRL), a direct transfer avoids the connection via Brussels-Central that the train requires. Here is an objective comparison of the options, with distances and real times.
Where is Pukkelpop?
The festival is held at Festivalpark Kiewit, Kempische Steenweg, Hasselt (20–23 August 2026). From Brussels, allow about 70 km and 60 to 90 minutes by car — on the festival weekend, plan for the upper end. From Antwerp the trip is shorter (~55 km). From BRU and CRL airports, a direct transfer reaches Hasselt without going through central Brussels.
Comparison: private taxi, train + shuttle, or official shuttle
Three main options to reach Pukkelpop from Brussels, Antwerp or an airport:
Option 1 — Train + free shuttle
The Pukkelpop ticket includes a free 2nd-class train journey from any Belgian station to Hasselt/Kiewit, plus a free shuttle to the site.
- Pros: free, included with the ticket, no parking hassle.
- Cons: connections (often via Brussels or Antwerp), carrying luggage in stations, less practical straight from an airport.
Option 2 — Official « Event Express » shuttle
Dedicated buses link selected cities to the festival entrance.
- Pros: convenient if your departure city matches an existing stop.
- Cons: limited timetables and cities, less flexible than a private transfer from home, hotel or airport.
Option 3 — Taxi or private chauffeur (direct transfer)
A private transfer from BRU, CRL, Brussels or Antwerp goes straight to Kiewit.
- Pros: door-to-door, no connections, ideal with camping gear or in a group (van up to 8 seats), fixed fare upfront.
- Cons: costs more than a free train ticket, but removes connections and waiting time.
Getting back after the festival
Last trains to Brussels and Antwerp usually run until midnight, with replacement buses afterwards. Beyond that, taxis and rideshare around Kiewit are in high demand, with queues after headliners. A pre-booked private transfer avoids the wait and surge pricing risk.