Parcours Spectacle | Cité du Train - Patrimoine SNCF | 2019
© Nicolas Muguet - Librecomme
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Cité du Train French Railway Museum

4.7
·7k reviews·Mulhouse, France

Explore Europe's largest railway museum, showcasing a vast collection of historic trains and the evolution of rail travel.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer weekends

Opportunity to drive a locomotive

CrowdHigh
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Parcours Spectacle | Cité du Train - Patrimoine SNCF | 2019
© Nicolas Muguet - Librecomme

Cité du Train French Railway Museum

Best Time

Summer weekends

Opportunity to drive a locomotive

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Europe's largest railway museum, showcasing a vast collection of historic trains and the evolution of rail travel.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"One of the most amazing museums I’ve ever visited! 3 hours went by without noticing and both us parents as well as our 5 year old kid had loads of fun!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book 3-4 Hours for Trains

Train fans, dedicate ample time! Even casual visitors need 2+ hours to see the extensive collection.

💰 Reasonable Entry Fee

At 16 EUR, the admission is considered very reasonable for the vast content offered.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Rolling Stock Collection

Vast Rolling Stock Collection

Explore a huge, diverse collection of steam and electric trains from various eras, including American locomotives.

Interactive Educational Sections

Interactive Educational Sections

Learn how trains work with engaging exhibits suitable for all ages, making history and technology accessible.

Kid Rides & Summer Activities

Kid Rides & Summer Activities

Enjoy special kid rides and, in summer, the unique opportunity to drive a small diesel locomotive.

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Planning Your Visit

Allocate Ample Time

Train enthusiasts should book 3-4 hours, while others can explore key exhibits in at least 2. The museum is vast, housing a diverse collection of rolling stock and historical displays. Don't rush; savor the journey through railway history.

Accessibility & Transport

Easily reachable by public transport, a 20-minute tram ride followed by a short walk gets you there. Consider this when planning your day to avoid last-minute travel stress.

Best Times

When
Summer weekends
Why
Opportunity to drive a locomotive
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Plus en sécurité nul part vraiment.. et le pire dans ces cas là, personne ne bouge pour porter secours ! bon rétablissement à eux ✨ #train #mulhouse #gare #bebe #parents #faitsdivers #pourtoi
@debbbzz19
51.5K likes • 1.5M views

🎯 Book 3-4 Hours for Trains

Train fans, dedicate ample time! Even casual visitors need 2+ hours to see the extensive collection. Reddit

💰 Reasonable Entry Fee

At 16 EUR, the admission is considered very reasonable for the vast content offered. Reddit

Je te donnerais des indices dans ma story insta: lapetitemeuf_off
@lapetitemeuf_off
9.9K likes • 237.9K views
It's our 50th birthday! 🎉 Today marks 50 years of the National Railway Museum as well as 200 years of the modern railway, a truly momentous occasion! Thank you for 50 amazing years of making memories, we look forward to welcoming you to the museum for 50 more ❤
nationalrailwaymuseum
3K likes • 0 views

🚆 Easy Public Transport Access

A 20-min tram ride + short walk makes it simple to reach via public transport. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fun for All Ages

Kids and adults alike enjoy the diverse exhibits, though interactivity could be enhanced for younger children. Reddit

BACK ONCE AGAIN! The @nationalrailwaymuseum station hall is back - after a refit and refurbishment lasting several years. It opens tomorrow but we had a little preview tonight. Everything sparkles in the spotlights: there’s a new dining car to eat in, royal carriages galore to see, a TPO to get inside, freight displays, staff displays, film interactives, posters, clocks, a whole brand new roof AND...
mrtimdunn
1.4K likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book 3-4 Hours for Trains

Train fans, dedicate ample time! Even casual visitors need 2+ hours to see the extensive collection. Reddit

💰 Reasonable Entry Fee

At 16 EUR, the admission is considered very reasonable for the vast content offered. Reddit

🚆 Easy Public Transport Access

A 20-min tram ride + short walk makes it simple to reach via public transport. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Fun for All Ages

Kids and adults alike enjoy the diverse exhibits, though interactivity could be enhanced for younger children. Reddit

☀️ Summer Locomotive Driving

Experience the thrill of driving a small diesel locomotive during summer months! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Cité du Train for its vast and diverse collection of locomotives, making it a must-visit for train enthusiasts and a fun outing for families. While the educational aspects are appreciated, some feel it could be more interactive for very young children. The reasonable entry fee and easy public transport access add to its appeal.

"If you are a train fan, reserve 3-4 hours of your time to see everything. For everyone else: at least 2 hours to just walk the whole thing. Fantastic collection, large and diverse. Great for all ages; there are educational sections, too, to learn how trains work.

Entrance was 16 EUR, which, in my opinion, is absolutely reasonable for the content you are getting.

There is a local restaurant on site where you can eat for 15-20 EUR per adult, drinks included.

Very easy access by public transport: 20-minute tram ride + 450-meter walk."

Alexey Fomin

"One of the most amazing museums I’ve ever visited! 3 hours went by without noticing and both us parents as well as our 5 year old kid had loads of fun! Totally recommend this place!"

Dragos Popescu

"Definitely one of the great Train Museums of the World.
Apart from the normal for Europe rolling stock, they even have three American made Locomotives.
A MUST see if you're interested in History and Technology.

Kid friendly, they have two kid rides."

Hector José Medina Gómez

What People Like

Fantastic, large collection
Great for all ages
Reasonable entry fee

What People Dislike

Could be more interactive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is easily accessible by public transport. Take a tram for about 20 minutes, followed by a short 450-meter walk to the entrance. Reddit

While public transport is recommended, information regarding on-site parking availability should be checked directly with the museum or local transport guides.

The museum is located near the Mulhouse train station, making it a convenient destination for travelers arriving by rail. Reddit

Specific shuttle services are not widely mentioned, but the tram system provides efficient access from the city center and train station. Reddit

Cycling routes may be available in Mulhouse. Check local cycling maps for safe and direct paths to the museum's location.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is approximately 16 EUR per adult, which is considered very reasonable for the extensive collection and exhibits. Reddit

While specific discount details aren't always highlighted, the museum is noted as being great for families and kids, suggesting family-friendly pricing may be available. It's best to check the official website for current rates. Reddit

Purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended for popular attractions to save time, though on-site purchase is also an option. Check the museum's official website for online booking.

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to consult the official Cité du Train website for the most up-to-date information on daily opening and closing times.

Weekday mornings are generally less crowded than weekends or summer periods, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Train enthusiasts should reserve 3-4 hours, while general visitors can explore the main exhibits in at least 2 hours. Reddit

Yes, it's very kid-friendly with educational sections and rides. However, some visitors note it could be more interactive for very young children. Reddit

The museum offers educational sections and specific kid rides. In summer, there's an opportunity to drive a small diesel locomotive. Reddit

You'll find a vast and diverse collection, including steam and electric trains from multiple eras, and even three American-made locomotives. Reddit

Information on accessibility for visitors with mobility issues should be confirmed with the museum directly, but large museums often strive for good accessibility.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a local restaurant on-site where you can dine for approximately 15-20 EUR per adult, including drinks. Reddit

The museum has an on-site restaurant. For other options, you might find eateries near the Mulhouse train station. Reddit

Policies on bringing outside food and drinks can vary. It's best to check the museum's guidelines or inquire upon arrival.

Specific dietary options are not detailed in reviews, but it's common for on-site restaurants to offer a selection. Inquire directly for current menus.

Expect to pay around 15-20 EUR per adult for a meal, including drinks, at the on-site restaurant. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use in most museum settings, but it's always wise to check for any specific restrictions on flash or professional shoots.

The vast collection of locomotives, especially the large steam engines and unique American models, offer excellent photographic opportunities. Reddit

If you visit during summer when the small diesel locomotive is operational, capturing action shots would be a unique photographic opportunity. Reddit

Some museums may have restrictions in certain exhibit areas, particularly if they involve delicate artifacts or temporary displays. Check for signage.

Museum lighting can vary. While some areas might be well-lit, others may be dimmer to preserve exhibits, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be useful.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cité du Train is a fantastic destination for families, especially those with young train enthusiasts. The museum offers kid rides and educational sections that explain how trains work, making it engaging for children. While some visitors suggest more interactive play areas, the sheer volume of real locomotives to explore is a major draw. Reddit

Don't miss the summer opportunity to drive a small diesel locomotive – a truly unique experience for kids (and adults!). Plan for at least 2-3 hours to allow children to explore without feeling rushed. The on-site restaurant also provides a convenient dining option for families. Reddit

🚂 Dedicated Train Enthusiasts

For serious train aficionados, the Cité du Train is a pilgrimage site. The museum boasts an exceptionally large and diverse collection of rolling stock, including rare European and American models. You'll find everything from early steam engines to electric locomotives, spanning multiple eras of railway history. Reddit

Allocate a minimum of 3-4 hours to fully appreciate the breadth of the collection. The detailed exhibits and historical context provided will satisfy even the most knowledgeable enthusiasts. Consider visiting during off-peak times to have more space to admire the trains without crowds. Reddit

🏛️ History & Technology Buffs

This museum is a goldmine for anyone interested in the history and technology of railways. It offers a comprehensive overview of how train technology has evolved and its impact on society. The audiovisual exhibitions and detailed displays provide deep insights into this fascinating field. Reddit

Beyond the impressive collection of locomotives, the museum's educational components are key. Understanding the engineering marvels behind these machines and their historical significance makes for a rich and rewarding visit. It's a place where industrial heritage comes alive. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Railway History

The Cité du Train French Railway Museum is one of the largest railway museums in Europe, offering an unparalleled look into the evolution of train travel. Its extensive collection spans from the earliest steam engines to more modern electric locomotives, showcasing technological advancements and the societal impact of railways. Visitors can marvel at the sheer scale and engineering prowess of these historical machines. Reddit

The museum doesn't just display static models; it aims to immerse visitors in the world of trains. Educational sections explain the mechanics and principles behind how trains operate, making complex concepts accessible to all ages. This focus on learning, combined with the impressive visual display, makes it a compelling destination for both history buffs and curious minds. Reddit

Beyond the typical European rolling stock, the museum boasts a unique collection that includes three American-made locomotives, offering a broader perspective on international railway development. This diversity ensures there's always something new and fascinating to discover, solidifying its reputation as a world-class train museum. Reddit

Family Fun and Interactive Elements

The Cité du Train is a hit with families, providing an engaging experience for children obsessed with trains. The museum features kid rides that add an element of fun and excitement, making the visit memorable for younger guests. Parents often report that their children, even as young as three, have a fantastic time exploring the vast collection. Reddit

While the museum is generally well-received by families, some feedback suggests that more interactive elements could enhance the experience for very young children. Suggestions include a play table with toy trains or more opportunities for kids to 'pretend' to drive a train. However, the opportunity to see and learn about real locomotives, and especially the summer activity of driving a small diesel locomotive, are significant draws for families. Reddit

Overall, the museum successfully blends educational content with entertainment, making it a worthwhile outing for families. The sheer scale of the collection and the historical significance of the trains provide ample opportunities for discovery and wonder for visitors of all ages. Reddit

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