For many wheelchair users the train is a smart alternative to the car: no hunt for parking, no traffic jams and the ability to travel in comfort. Yet practice remains uneven. Not every station has lifts, platform heights still vary from line to line, and the SNCB/NMBS assistance system requires a little preparation. In this guide we go through the most accessible stations in Belgium and give concrete tips for travelling smoothly.
Brussels South: main station with international links
Brussels South Station is Belgium's best-equipped station for wheelchair users. All platforms are reachable via lifts, and there is a permanently staffed SNCB/NMBS assistance desk on the main ground floor. The station serves Thalys, Eurostar and ICE, all of which have wheelchair spaces (book in advance). The adapted car park is on the Fonsnylaan side. Note: the sheer size of the station means that you can easily have to cover 200 to 400 metres from the entrance to your platform.
Brussels Central: compact and central
Brussels Central Station is smaller but well-equipped. All platforms are reachable by lift, and from the central hall you have direct access to Brussels Central metro station (also accessible). It is the ideal choice if you want to visit the Grand Place, the Cinquantenaire Park or the Sablon.
Antwerp Central: the most beautiful accessible railway cathedral
Antwerp Central Station combines architectural grandeur with excellent accessibility. All platforms on the three levels (including the underground high-speed platforms) are reachable by lift. The adapted toilets are on the ground floor, and there is an SNCB/NMBS assistance desk staffed during office hours. The adapted car park is on Kievitstraat.
Ghent-Sint-Pieters: works with challenges
Ghent-Sint-Pieters station has been under renovation for years. All platforms are now reachable by lift, and the new front side is entirely step-free. Because of the works, some routes from the car park or bus stops have been temporarily changed; check the current information boards. De Lijn's tram network has an adapted stop right in front of the station.
Liège-Guillemins: Calatrava architecture at its best
Gare Guillemins in Liège, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is without question the most futuristic and also the best-accessible station in Wallonia. There are no stairs: every platform is reachable via ramps and lifts, and the roof flows freely without obstacles. The adapted car park is right in front of the main entrance. From Guillemins you can easily change for buses to La Boverie or the Aquarium-Museum Liège.
Leuven: small but modern
Leuven station has been substantially upgraded in recent years. All platforms are reachable by lift, and there is direct access to the adapted bus stops. Within walking distance you'll find M Museum Leuven and Arenberg Schouwburg Leuven. The ideal trip for a short car-free city break.
Bruges: access to the historic city
Bruges station is wheelchair-accessible with lifts to every platform. The distance from the station to the historic centre is about 1.5 km over a level route via the Minnewaterpark Brugge. De Lijn buses shuttle with low floors between the station and the Markt. The adapted car park is on the rear side (Baron Ruzettelaan).
Smaller stations: take care
A large part of Belgium's smaller stations is not yet fully accessible. Platforms between 2 and 4 in particular sometimes still require the use of a mobile ramp. Plan your journey via the SNCB/NMBS journey planner and indicate that you are travelling with a wheelchair: the system will then automatically filter out inaccessible connections.
SNCB/NMBS Assistance: how does it work?
The SNCB/NMBS assistance service is free but requires preparation:
- Reserve at least 3 hours in advance via the free number 02 528 28 28 or via the SNCB/NMBS app. Since 2024 the notice period has been reduced from 24 hours to 3 hours — a major improvement.
- Provide your exact itinerary, including any transfers. SNCB/NMBS then coordinates with all stations involved.
- Report on arrival at the information desk or assistance point (often with a clear "Assistance PMR" sign). Thirty minutes ahead is a safe margin.
- Have your passport or ID to hand. On international trains a free companion ticket can be requested.
Practical tips
- Use the official SNCB/NMBS accessibility page to check up-to-date information per station; renovations and temporary works are reported there.
- Check platform height. In many stations the gap between train and platform is still visible; a mobile ramp is then used by the assistant.
- Travel outside peak hours. Between 09:30 and 16:00 trains are quieter, which makes boarding with a wheelchair simpler.
- Combine with accessible restaurants and cafés. Many major stations have step-free brasseries in or near the station hall — handy for a pause before or after your journey.