• Spoorwegmuseum Utrecht outside view including train set and building
  • Spoorwegmuseum Utrecht inside view of miniature train set
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Spoorwegmuseum Utrecht

Spoorwegmuseum Utrecht

The Spoorwegmuseum is a captivating museum dedicated to the history and evolution of railways. It brings the world of trains to life through interactive exhibits, historic locomotives, immersive displays, and family-friendly attractions that explore the golden age of train travel.

Opening hours

  • Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM to 17:00 (last entry generally around 16:30)
  • Closed on Mondays

How to get there

Spoorwegmuseum Maliebaanstation 16 3581 XW Utrecht, Netherlands

Prices from

€19.50

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Spoorwegmuseum – All aboard for Dutch railway history

The Spoorwegmuseum is the national railway museum of the Netherlands. It is located in the former Maliebaan Station in Utrecht. The museum brings the history of trains to life through real locomotives, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly fun.

What to See

  • Beautiful old steam trains, wagons, and royal carriages
  • Interactive displays and train simulators
  • Themed rides and attractions like “The Great Discovery”
  • A royal waiting room and historic station interior
  • Changing exhibitions and special events

Why Visit

  • Step inside real trains and engines
  • Perfect for families, children, and train lovers
  • Educational and fun at the same time
  • Located just 10 minutes from Utrecht Central Station

The Museum

The Spoorwegmuseum opened in 1954. It moved into the old Maliebaan Station in 1954 and combines history, technology, and theater. The museum is great for all ages, with hands-on activities and storytelling around every corner.

Visitor Information

  • Address: Maliebaanstation 16, Utrecht
  • Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00
  • Tickets: €19.50 (adults), €16.00 (ages 4–11), free under 4
  • Free with Museumkaart
  • Facilities: Café, gift shop, picnic area, and indoor play zones

Spoorwegmuseum is perfect for visitors who want to explore trains, travel, and Dutch history in a playful way.

Some Highlights of Spoorwegmuseum Utrecht

Steam locomotives

including operational replicas like De Arend (the very first Dutch locomotive from 1839) and historic units such as NS 1600 and NS 3700.

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Electric and diesel locomotives

The Spoorwegmuseum’s collection of electric and diesel locomotives highlights the transformation of railway technology in the 20th century. Visitors can admire iconic models like the powerful NS Class 1200 and streamlined NS Class 1100, which symbolize the modernization of Dutch railways after World War II. Diesel-electric engines, such as the rugged NS 2400 series, illustrate the shift toward more efficient freight and regional transport. These machines showcase not only technical innovation but also the changing face of travel and industry in a rapidly evolving world.

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Passenger and freight carriages

The Spoorwegmuseum features a rich collection of historic passenger and freight carriages that showcase the evolution of rail travel and transport. From wooden third-class coaches with gas lighting and steam heating to luxurious royal saloon cars and Orient Express-style compartments, these carriages reflect changing standards in comfort and design. The freight section includes authentic goods wagons, postal vans, and baggage cars that reveal how cargo and mail were moved across the country. Together, they offer a vivid glimpse into daily life on the rails, from humble journeys to high-class travel.

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