The Railway Museum is the national railway museum of the Netherlands, set in the former Maliebaan station in Utrecht and within walking distance of the city centre. Its collection of historic locomotives, carriages and wagons fills the station and the yard outside, with a signal box, signals and a turntable among the exhibits. Interactive areas include model trains, a train simulator and an Orient Express installation with live performances. Mini train rides and an outdoor playground suit children. Plan at least two to three hours to see the trains properly.
A former station with a long history
The museum was founded in 1927, when the city recognised that old railway material was worth keeping. The collection was moved several times before it found its home in the Maliebaan station, southeast of the city centre.
Once the station was no longer used for its original purpose, it could be converted into museum space. One track still carries hourly services to Utrecht Centraal station, so trains pass the museum during the day. The building dates to 1874 and was renovated recently, and a new building now opens beside the station.
Trains you can walk through
The collection includes steam, diesel and electric locomotives, carriages, wagons and trams. Several coaches from the royal train are displayed on the platform, and you can go inside them. One of them was used by the king and queen as recently as 2024.
The royal waiting room inside the station is part of the visit. One of the first Dutch steam locomotives is on show. Outside, a signal box, signals, a water tower and a turntable stand among the locomotives. Staff give live demonstrations at the signals, the steam locomotive and the turntable.
Interactive areas and rides
The Orient Express installation combines live-action performances in an auditorium with the story of the train. The steam train simulator is called de Vuurproef. In the tech lab, children can experiment with how trains work.
Mini train adventure rides and a mine lift ride add movement to the day. Model trains, virtual reality rides and quizzes help younger visitors learn while they play. The outdoor playground and the 'Railway Animals' area are designed for children.
Cafe, shop and practical notes
The cafe serves hot and cold drinks, and a self-service diner area offers food that is heated when you choose it. The museum shop sells model building kits, wooden toy trains, pins, magnets and old railway tickets.
The entrance, lift and restroom are wheelchair accessible, and so is the parking lot. Some information plates have limited English, so the rolling stock list on the website is useful to prepare in advance. Walking back to the centre from the museum is pleasant, and trains from Utrecht Centraal connect to the station nearby.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, the museum charges admission. Check the museum website for current prices before you go.
How long do you need at the Railway Museum?
Visitors who spent about three hours there found it a good length. A half day suits anyone who wants to see the whole collection and try the rides.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended. One visitor bought tickets on arrival in early April, but booking ahead is safer at busier times of year.
Is the Railway Museum good for children?
Yes. It has model trains, interactive quizzes, mini train rides, an outdoor playground and the 'Railway Animals' area for younger visitors.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, elevator, restroom and parking lot are listed as wheelchair accessible.
