
Cité du Train French Railway Museum
Explore Europe's largest railway museum, showcasing a vast collection of historic trains and the evolution of rail travel.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Opportunity to drive a locomotive

Cité du Train French Railway Museum
Best Time
Opportunity to drive a locomotive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Europe's largest railway museum, showcasing a vast collection of historic trains and the evolution of rail travel.
"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!"

🎯 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Rolling Stock Collection
Explore a huge, diverse collection of steam and electric trains from various eras, including American locomotives.

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

Kid Rides & Summer Activities
Enjoy special kid rides and, in summer, the unique opportunity to drive a small diesel locomotive.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Accessibility & Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🚆 Easy Public Transport Access
A 20-min tram ride + short walk makes it simple to reach via public transport.
👨👩👧👦 Fun for All Ages
Kids and adults alike enjoy the diverse exhibits, though interactivity could be enhanced for younger children.
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.
💰 Reasonable Entry Fee
At 16 EUR, the admission is considered very reasonable for the vast content offered.
🚆 Easy Public Transport Access
A 20-min tram ride + short walk makes it simple to reach via public transport.
👨👩👧👦 Fun for All Ages
Kids and adults alike enjoy the diverse exhibits, though interactivity could be enhanced for younger children.
☀️ Summer Locomotive Driving
Experience the thrill of driving a small diesel locomotive during summer months!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Specific shuttle services are not widely mentioned, but the tram system provides efficient access from the city center and train station.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Train enthusiasts should reserve 3-4 hours, while general visitors can explore the main exhibits in at least 2 hours.
Yes, it's very kid-friendly with educational sections and rides. However, some visitors note it could be more interactive for very young children.
The museum offers educational sections and specific kid rides. In summer, there's an opportunity to drive a small diesel locomotive.
You'll find a vast and diverse collection, including steam and electric trains from multiple eras, and even three American-made locomotives.
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.
The museum has an on-site restaurant. For other options, you might find eateries near the Mulhouse train station.
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.
📸 📸 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.
If you visit during summer when the small diesel locomotive is operational, capturing action shots would be a unique photographic opportunity.
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
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.
🚂 Dedicated Train Enthusiasts
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.
🏛️ History & Technology Buffs
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Railway History
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.
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.
Family Fun and Interactive Elements
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit