Mini station master, you’ll love it
Immerse yourself in Schaerbeek’s old train station: Train World displays 8,000 m² of mythical locomotives, interactive installations and rare railway artefacts, from the “Waasland” of 1844 – the oldest preserved loco in continental Europe – to the most recent TGV cockpits.
Designed as a sensory adventure, the museum takes you aboard royal carriages, crosses a 19th-century railway bridge and even drives a train on a simulator.
We love it!
- Here, little train enthusiasts climb into the carriages, operate the levers (long live locomotive selfies!), follow the “Rail Hunt” route with a free riddle booklet at the reception (FR/NL/EN) and a souvenir stamp at the exit, while children under 6 marvel at the “little train” area.
- Inclusive and soothing, the place also offers “low incentive” days — soft lighting and reduced background noise — so that autistic children can enjoy a course that is as fun as it is educational, at all ages.
Train World in 6 points
- That’s more than 22 locomotives & 1,200 objects to see!
- Immersive 8,000 m² tour in Art Nouveau station + contemporary hall, designed by the designer François Schuiten
- Driving simulator: you can drive virtually between today’s Schaerbeek and the Brussels of the future — and it’s a big hit with teenagers
- Vintage suspension railway bridge : vertigo guaranteed when walking on the original sleepers
- Royal Treasure: King Leopold II’s lounge car and 1st class TGV cabin to test the seats
- Kids areas: Toddler Train (hand-pushed circuit) and “Sultan’s Diamond” treasure hunt included in the entrance
The team’s opinion
Our team left Train World with stars in their eyes: the scenography transforms the old halls of Schaerbeek into a real journey through time, where you climb into mythical locomotives, activate levers and bells, then go to pilot a train on a simulator — a combo that thrills parents and children alike.
Practical information
- AGE: From 4 years old.
- DATES: Closed on Mondays; Closed on 25/12 and 01/01.
- OPENING HOURS: Tue–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m. (box office closes at 3:30 p.m.).
- ADDRESS: Place Princesse Élisabeth 5, 1030 Schaerbeek.
- TRANSPORT: Schaerbeek train (2 min walk); tram 7/92; buses 56, 58, 59, 69.
- PARKING: B-Parking at a reduced rate after validation at the museum.
- FAMILY SERVICES: Changing tables; lockers; mini-locos shop; Free Wi-Fi.
- COFFEE: Filou’Sophe Café: steamed croque-monsieur, waffles and kids’ menus in the old station buffet.
Questions
No. The museum (listed building) does not have space to store suitcases, trolleys, strollers/prams or bicycles and any means of transport (except wheelchairs) is forbidden in the rooms.
Not for large luggage (suitcases/trolleys). Small items that are not allowed in the room (e.g. umbrellas) can be left at the ticket office depending on availability.
Yes: PRM access (EDC accepted), adapted audio guide via ErfgoedApp (FR/NL/DE/EN), texts in Braille (FR/NL/DE/EN), “touch experience” bag, activities adapted for deaf/hard of hearing families.
No picnics in the rooms (see cafes/restaurants in the area). The regulations do not allow indoor consumption; ask at the reception for temporary outings on the day.
Open Tue-Sun 10am–5pm, closed Monday, 1/01 and 25/12. Last admission: 1 hour and 30 minutes before closing.
A stone’s throw away, you will also like…
JOSAPHAT PARK:
A large family park with a large playground for children and several bars with terraces. Ideal for relaxing or picnicking just a 10 minute walk away.
BRUSSELS PLANETARIUM:
Explore the stars under an immersive 23-meter dome. The sessions are adapted from 3 years old. Accessible in 15 minutes by train, Heysel stop, for an educational and fascinating outing.
ATONIUM:
Enjoy a 360° panorama from the upper sphere of the Atomium. An emblematic experience of Brussels since 1958.