Antwerp Central Station, a crown jewel of Belgium’s architectural heritage, stands as a testament to the grandeur and ingenuity of the 19th century. The station is often referred to as the “Railway Cathedral” due to its grand architecture, including a large dome inspired by the Pantheon in Rome.
The Station
Antwerp Central Station was designed by Belgian architect Louis Delacenserie and was built between 1895 and 1905. It is known for its grand architecture, including a 75-meter (246 ft) high glass-and-steel vaulted dome, and constructed in an eclectic style. The station was inaugurated on 11 August 1905 and is often referred to as the “Railway Cathedral” due to its grand architecture, including a large dome inspired by the Pantheon in Rome.
Impressive Architecture
The station’s structure comprises a steel platform canopy, a brick station building, and the iconic vaulted dome, creating a harmonious blend of materials and styles. The stone-clad terminus buildings, with a vast dome above the waiting room hall, were designed by Delacenserie, and the vast iron and glass trainshed by Clement van Bogaert. Delacenserie’s architectural style for the station has been described as “Baroque-medieval eclecticism,” reflecting the economic and artistic theme of the city in the 16th century.
Protected Monument
Recognized for its architectural significance and historical value, Antwerp Central Station proudly holds the designation of a protected monument. Its grandeur has not gone unnoticed, earning it the title of the world’s most beautiful train station in 2014.
The station underwent a thorough renovation and expansion that lasted until 2009, resulting in four levels, including two underground
Trains to Antwerp
Local trains to Antwerp
Antwerp Central Station is the principal train station of Antwerp. The station has excellent connections with other Belgian cities. National trains in Belgium are operated by NMBS/SNCB.
| Destination | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 5 trains / hour | 40-50 mins |
| Ghent | 4 trains / hour | 1 hour |
| Brugge | 3 trains / hour | 1h40 mins |
| Liège | 2 trains / hour | 1h35 mins |
International Trains to Antwerp
Thanks to the InterCity Trains, Eurostar trains and the European Sleeper Trains, Antwerp Central Station is well connected with other European cities.
| Train Type | Destination | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Eurostar | Amsterdam (Direct) | 1h13 |
| IC Train | Amsterdam (Direct) | 1h48 |
| Eurostar | Rotterdam (Direct) | 34 mins |
| IC Train | Rotterdam (Direct) | 1h05 |
| Eurostar | Paris (Direct) | 2h05 |
| IC Train | Cologne (1 change) | 2h30 |
| Eurostar | London (1 change) | 3h16 |
| IC Train | Frankfurt (1 change) | 3h44 |
| European Sleeper Train* | Berlin (direct) | 10h48 |
* Starting from beginning 2024, the European Sleeper Line will be connected from Berlin to Prague as well.
Location
Antwerp Central Station is located in the heart of the city, at the Koningin Astridplein. It borders the Antwerp Zoo on one side and the Antwerp Diamond District on the other.
Plopsa Station Antwerp
Plopsa Station Antwerp is an indoor theme park located in the Central Station of Antwerp, Belgium. It was originally opened in 2017 as Comics Station Antwerp, but was acquired by Plopsa in 2019 and reopened in 2021 as Plopsa Station Antwerp. More info & Prices
