Antwerpen-Centraal
Antwerpen-Centraal: A magnificent 'Railway Cathedral' blending neo-Gothic grandeur with multi-level engineering marvels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Antwerpen-Centraal
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Antwerpen-Centraal: A magnificent 'Railway Cathedral' blending neo-Gothic grandeur with multi-level engineering marvels.
"One of the most impressive train stations I have ever seen. It is huge and the architecture is incredible."
📸 Capture the Lines
Use the station's architectural lines for stunning photos. Look for escalators, windows, and walls to guide the eye.
🗺️ Get a Free Map
Grab a free map from the tourism information center near the ground entry for easy sightseeing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Railway Cathedral'
Main Hall
A breathtaking fusion of neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance, and Art Nouveau styles. It's a masterpiece of engineering and design.
Multi-Level Platforms
Platforms -3 to +3
Experience the unique engineering of this station with its impressive vertical layout of train tracks.
Grand Clock
Main Hall
An iconic centerpiece that adds to the station's majestic and timeless appeal.
Planning Your Visit
Arrive in Style: The Grandeur of Antwerpen-Centraal
Navigating the Levels
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Lines
Use the station's architectural lines for stunning photos. Look for escalators, windows, and walls to guide the eye.
🗺️ Get a Free Map
Grab a free map from the tourism information center near the ground entry for easy sightseeing.
🛍️ Thrift Near the Station
Pardaf, a large second-hand store, is conveniently located near Central Station for unique finds.
💰 Affordable Restrooms
Public restrooms are available for a small fee (around €1), keeping the station clean.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Lines
Use the station's architectural lines for stunning photos. Look for escalators, windows, and walls to guide the eye.
🗺️ Get a Free Map
Grab a free map from the tourism information center near the ground entry for easy sightseeing.
🛍️ Thrift Near the Station
Pardaf, a large second-hand store, is conveniently located near Central Station for unique finds.
💰 Affordable Restrooms
Public restrooms are available for a small fee (around €1), keeping the station clean.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond Trains
Even if you're not traveling, the station's beauty makes it worth visiting just to admire.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Antwerpen-Centraal as one of the most beautiful and impressive train stations they've ever encountered, often comparing it to a palace or cathedral. Its stunning architecture, multi-level design, and well-maintained heritage are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it a destination in itself. While generally positive, some minor points of improvement could include clearer signage for international travelers or more diverse dining options.
"It was a great experience, one must visit.. marvelous engineering multi level railway platforms. Heritage and old structure well maintained and a joy to watch..visit will remain in memory forever..At the ground entry gate side tourism information centre is well guided for sight seeing with Free Map..Thanks for their great courtesy and help.."
sankar balaram
"One of the most impressive train stations I have ever seen. It is huge and the architecture is incredible. Staff were also friendly and helpful.
Worth visiting just to look at it, even if you are not travelling!"
Tintin
"It is one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe, it looks like a palace. Easy to navigate , clear sign posts. The art and architecture external and internal is very impressive"
Rajesh Nair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Antwerpen-Centraal is a popular day trip from Amsterdam. Trains run frequently and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Antwerpen-Centraal has excellent connections to Brussels. Trains to Brussels Midi (South) are frequent and take around 30-40 minutes.
While the area around train stations can sometimes be a concern, Antwerpen-Centraal is generally considered safe, especially within the station itself. Many travelers stay in hotels nearby without issue.
Yes, you can travel from Antwerpen-Centraal to Brussels Airport (BRU). You'll typically take a train to Brussels-Midi and then connect to a train or bus service to the airport. The journey can take around 1 hour.
Antwerpen-Centraal is located very close to the city center. You can easily walk to many attractions, or use local trams and buses for shorter distances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a ticket to enter and explore Antwerpen-Centraal station. It's free to wander and admire the architecture.
Antwerpen-Centraal operates as a train station, so it is generally open 24/7 for train services. Specific shop and cafe hours may vary.
Yes, paid luggage storage facilities are available at Antwerpen-Centraal for travelers who need to store their bags.
Absolutely! Simply exploring the magnificent architecture, taking photos, and people-watching are all free activities at Antwerpen-Centraal.
You can purchase train tickets at the ticket counters within the station, or often more conveniently, through the official Belgian Railways (SNCB/NMBS) website or app.
📸 📸 Photography
The main hall with its grand clock and vaulted ceiling is a prime spot. Also, explore the different levels and use the architectural lines for dramatic shots. 
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is allowed. However, large professional shoots might require permits. Always be mindful of other travelers.
Experiment with different angles, use leading lines from the architecture, and try capturing the light filtering through the glass. Consider shooting from the upper levels looking down.
Yes, Antwerpen-Centraal is beautifully lit at night, offering a different, atmospheric perspective for photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the main hall. A versatile zoom lens can help with details. A tripod can be useful for low-light shots, but be mindful of space.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the station offers a variety of dining options, including cafes, bakeries, and a Starbucks, catering to quick bites and coffee breaks.
You'll find a range of options from quick snacks and pastries to coffee and light meals. It's convenient for travelers on the go.
The area surrounding Antwerpen-Centraal has numerous restaurants and eateries, offering diverse cuisines for a more substantial meal.
Prices can be typical for station amenities, so they might be slightly higher than off-site options. However, there are choices to suit different budgets.
Definitely! The shops and cafes within the station are perfect for picking up snacks, drinks, and sandwiches for your train journey.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the station itself doesn't have dedicated play areas, its impressive architecture provides plenty of visual interest. Grabbing a quick snack from one of the cafes can be a good way to keep little ones happy. The tourism information center can also provide maps and tips for family-friendly activities in the wider Antwerp area.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Focus on the grand clock, the vaulted ceilings, and the intricate details of the stonework. Experiment with shooting from different levels to capture the depth and scale of the multi-tiered platforms. Consider visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, for fewer crowds and better light for your shots.
✈️ Day-Trippers from Nearby Cities
Take time to appreciate the station itself before heading out to explore Antwerp's famous diamond district, fashion boutiques, or historic Grote Markt. The station's amenities, like luggage storage and cafes, are very convenient for day visitors who want to travel light and maximize their exploration time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: The Design of Antwerpen-Centraal
The station's most striking feature is its multi-level platform system, a marvel of engineering for its time. With tracks spread across levels ranging from -3 to +3, it efficiently handles a high volume of train traffic. This vertical organization is not only functional but also contributes to the station's unique visual appeal, with different layers of activity visible from various vantage points. The interplay of light filtering through the vast glass and steel roof, combined with the rich materials used throughout, creates a dynamic and visually stunning environment that captivates visitors.
Beyond its aesthetic and engineering prowess, Antwerpen-Centraal is a vibrant hub of activity. It seamlessly integrates modern amenities with its historic charm. Tourists flock to the station not just to catch trains, but to admire its beauty, take photographs, and experience its unique ambiance. The station is a living monument, showcasing how historical architecture can be preserved and adapted for contemporary use, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Antwerp.
A Traveler's Hub: Connectivity and Convenience
The station's multi-level design, while impressive, means travelers should pay close attention to platform numbers and departure times. Navigating between levels is straightforward thanks to escalators and elevators, but it's wise to allow ample time, especially during busy periods. For those heading to Brussels Airport (BRU), connections are readily available, typically involving a train to Brussels-Midi followed by onward transport to the airport.
Beyond train travel, Antwerpen-Centraal is equipped with essential traveler amenities. You'll find public restrooms (for a small fee), paid luggage storage, various cafes, shops, and even a Starbucks, ensuring that travelers have access to necessities and conveniences during their visit or transit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit