For anyone travelling by train as a wheelchair user, the difference between a "station" and a "wheelchair-accessible station" is crucial. Some Belgian stations are real gems (Antwerp-Centraal, Liege-Guillemins, Ghent-Sint-Pieters), while others remain limited (smaller local halts without a lift). Below is an overview of the most important Belgian stations with an honest assessment of their accessibility -- and how best to plan your journey through NMBS assistance.
The 24/7 stations with permanent assistance
At a handful of major hubs you can request help on the spot, without a reservation. At other stations you need to book at least 3 hours in advance.
Brussels-Central
The main station in the heart of Brussels. Lift to every platform, wide corridors, an adapted toilet and 24/7 assistance. Central for all international connections (Eurostar via Brussels-South).
Brussels-South (Bruxelles-Midi)
The Belgian terminus for Eurostar, Thalys (now Eurostar International) and TGV. Fully step-free, with lifts everywhere. Allow extra time for international check-in (typically 30-45 minutes before departure).
Antwerp-Centraal
One of the most beautiful stations in the world and one of the most accessible. Three platform levels, all linked by lift and escalator. Adapted public toilets in the main concourse.
Ghent-Sint-Pieters
Completely redesigned in 2024 with adapted platforms and lifts from every quay. Adapted taxi rank right in front of the main entrance.
Liege-Guillemins
A Calatrava masterpiece from 2009. All platforms step-free, wide lifts, an adapted main exit. Architecturally one of the finest station experiences in Europe.
Charleroi-Sud
Recently renovated, with staff on duty 24/7.
Namur
Fully renovated to be step-free, with all platforms reachable by lift. Adapted main exit and taxi rank.
Stations with assistance on reservation
At these stations, help is guaranteed provided you book at least 3 hours in advance through nmbs.be/assistance or the call centre (02 528 28 28).
Bruges
Adapted platforms, spacious lifts and an adapted public toilet right by the exit. Central for anyone heading to the coast.
Leuven
Fully renovated to be step-free during the 2010s. Lift to every platform and adapted facilities.
Hasselt
Recently refurbished, with an adapted main entrance and platform lifts.
Ostend
The terminus of the West Flemish coastal line. Step-free arrival route and an adapted taxi rank. A handy starting point for the Coastal Tram.
What to expect when you travel
At the station
- Arrive 20 minutes before departure
- Report to the assistance desk (often clearly marked with a wheelchair pictogram)
- The assistant uses a mobile ramp or a fixed platform ramp to help you onto the train
- For reservations, see our step-by-step NMBS assistance guide
On the train
- Modern trains (M7, AM08 Desiro) have an integrated wheelchair space with a securing system and an adapted toilet nearby
- On older rolling stock, accessibility is still guaranteed via a mobile ramp, although comfort is slightly lower
When changing trains
- The assistant automatically alerts a colleague at your interchange station
- You do not need to arrange anything yourself
Stations without assistance
Not every Belgian station offers assistance. Second-tier halts (small suburban stations) often have no support staff. Your options:
- Plan an initial taxi or bus to the nearest accessible station
- Check the station page on nmbs.be -- each station lists whether the help service is available
- For journeys between smaller halts: combine with an adapted public-transport app such as VLINDER (Flanders) or Mobib (Brussels/Wallonia)
International connections
For Eurostar (Brussels-London or Brussels-Amsterdam-Paris), TGV and ICE: a separate booking through the international operator is required at least 24 hours in advance. Your NMBS domestic assistant will help you all the way to the international gate.
Tips for your train journey
- Always book in advance: even at 24/7 stations, a reservation gives you more certainty that the right assistant will be there at the right moment
- Combine with our city-trip guides: Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, Mechelen, Diest, Namur, Mons, Liege -- each starts from an accessible station
- For the Belgian coast: Ostend station is your best starting point; from there you catch the Coastal Tram
Final thoughts
NMBS has taken major steps in accessibility over the past 10 years. The main stations are now world class, and the assistance service works reliably. For wheelchair users this means a city trip by train in Belgium is genuinely feasible and enjoyable -- provided you book at least 3 hours in advance.
Have you visited a specific station and can you add to or correct this information? Let us know or click "Have you experienced wheelchair access here?" at the bottom of every station page.