Train World

Belgium's railway museum inside the gorgeous 1887 Schaerbeek station — full-size steam locomotives you can walk under and through, staged with real theatrical flair. One of the best-designed museums in the country and criminally under-visited. €15 adults; note the oddly early last entry at 15:30. Kids and rail nerds are equally well served.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Can you go inside the trains?

Several, yes — cabs, carriages, and a royal-carriage section, plus a walkway under a locomotive. It's hands-on by design rather than roped-off, which is what separates it from older railway museums.

What are the hours, and what's this about early last entry?

Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-17:00, closed Mondays — but last entry is 15:30 because the visit genuinely takes a while. Plan a morning or early-afternoon arrival; showing up at 16:00 means a wasted trip.

Anything worthwhile nearby?

Schaerbeek's Art Nouveau streets around Avenue Louis Bertrand reward a wander, and Josaphat Park is close for a post-museum walk. Otherwise it pairs naturally with an Atomium/Laeken outing on the same northern axis.

How do I get there from central Brussels?

Easiest is a local train to Schaerbeek station — the museum occupies its historic 1887 halls, so you literally arrive inside the attraction. Tram 7 or 92 also work; it's about 20 minutes from the centre.

How long does the visit take?

Two hours minimum to do the route justice; rail enthusiasts should budget three. That's exactly why last entry is at 15:30.

What does it cost?

€15 for adults, €11 for ages 6-17, €5 for ages 4-5, free under 3. The Museum Pass covers it too if you're doing multiple Belgian museums.

Is Train World worth it if I'm not a train person?

Surprisingly yes — it's staged like theatre, with dramatic lighting, sound and full-size locomotives including Belgium's oldest preserved steam engine. People come for the kids and leave raving about the scenography.

Is it good for young children?

One of the best museums in Brussels for kids — climbing into cabs, walking beneath a locomotive on a glass floor, a mini-train atmosphere throughout. Pushchairs are manageable and there's a family-friendly café.

Nearby in Ask Brussels

• Marché de Schaerbeek (Place Colignon)Market1.32 km · 17 min walk
• Royal Greenhouses of LaekenAttraction1.48 km · 19 min walk
• Parc JosaphatPark1.68 km · 21 min walk
• Parc du LaekenPark2.11 km · 26 min walk
• Brasserie de la Senne TaproomBar2.43 km · 30 min walk