Berchem Railway

Berchem Railway Station (Station Antwerpen-Berchem) is the second most important transport hub in Antwerp, located in the south-eastern part of the city. The station plays a key role in the Belgian railway network, receiving many intercity trains that transit through and do not enter the terminus platforms of the Central Station. It is a popular departure point for local residents and a convenient hub for tourists wishing to quickly reach Brussels or the airport.

It is important for passengers to know that the station has 10 platforms, accessible via a spacious underground tunnel. The main entrance and ticket hall are located on the Burgemeester Edgar Ryckaertsplein side. Navigation at the station is intuitive, electronic schedule boards are installed everywhere, and transfers between trains here often take less time than at the Central Station.

• Official website: belgiantrain.be (SNCB/NMBS)
• Helpline: +32 2 528 28 28 (SNCB contact centre)
• Address: Burgemeester Edgar Ryckaertsplein 1, 2600 Antwerpen, Belgium
• Opening hours: the station is open from 04:30 to 01:00; ticket offices operate daily from 06:00 to 20:00
• Luggage storage info: paid automatic lockers of various sizes are available
• Accessibility information: the station is equipped with elevators and ramps, and an Assistance service operates for passengers with reduced mobility

Getting to Berchem station is very convenient, as it is a major transfer hub. Right in front of the station building, there is a tram stop (lines 4, 9, 11) and a large bus terminal serving city and suburban routes.

The fastest way to get here from central Antwerp is to take any train from the Central Station (Antwerpen-Centraal); the journey time will be just 4–5 minutes. A walk from the historical centre will take about 35–40 minutes. A taxi stand is located directly at the main exit; a trip to the city centre usually costs 15–20 Euros.

Berchem Station offers a wide range of services for a comfortable journey. In the main hall, there are ticket offices and ticket vending machines accepting cards and cash. For waiting for trains, there is a covered hall with seating, protected from wind and rain.

Passengers can use free Wi-Fi, as well as automatic luggage lockers. Paid washrooms are available at the station. A barrier-free environment has been created for people with limited mobility: all platforms are accessible via elevators, and wide passageways are convenient for wheelchair movement.

For a quick snack, the popular bakery chain Panos operates on the station premises, offering fresh sandwiches and pastries, as well as a buffet and coffee points. This is a great option for breakfast or lunch with an average cost of 5–9 Euros.

If you have 30–40 minutes to spare, we recommend leaving the station and walking to Dageraadplaats square in the Zurenborg district (5 minutes on foot). This is the gastronomic heart of the district with many cosy cafes and open-air restaurants where you can enjoy a full meal.

The history of the station dates back to 1865, when it was opened as a simple stop on the line connecting Antwerp with Mechelen. With the development of the city and the growth of passenger traffic, the importance of the station grew steadily.

The modern station building was constructed in the 1970s in a functionalist style. Reconstruction was necessary to service increased traffic and create a convenient transit hub, relieving the historic Central Station. Today, Berchem remains a crucial link in the transport system of Flanders.

Arrive at the station 10–15 minutes before departure to calmly find the right platform and buy a ticket if you haven't done so in advance. During morning peak hours (from 7:30 to 9:00), there are many students and office workers here, so there may be queues at the machines.

The station is safe, but do not leave your belongings unattended. If you have to wait at night, it is better to stay in the illuminated main hall. Remember that tickets with the destination "Antwerp" (Zone Antwerpen) are valid for travel to any station within the city limits, including Berchem, at no extra cost.