Brussels: Autoworld Museum Ticket

Traveling to Brussels and thinking about a day that’s both fun and full of history? The Autoworld Museum offers a unique peek into the world of automobiles, showcasing over 250 vehicles from different eras. Whether you’re a dedicated car enthusiast or just curious about how cars evolved, this museum might just be worth adding to your itinerary.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how accessible it is—thanks to a reasonable admission price of just $18, and the fact that you can explore at your own pace. Plus, the museum’s location in a historic building adds a layer of charm that makes wandering through its halls more than just an automotive display. That said, one thing to consider is that the lack of an audio guide might leave some visitors wanting more contextual info, especially if you’re interested in deepening your knowledge about each vehicle.

This tour is particularly well-suited for auto fans, history buffs, or families with older children who enjoy looking at classic cars. It’s also great for those who prefer a flexible, self-guided visit rather than guided tours. If you love museums with rotating exhibits, you’ll find the temporary exhibitions on themes like racing legends or Italian cars particularly engaging.

Key Points

• Extensive collection: Over 250 vehicles including cars, motorcycles, and coaches.
• Flexible visit: Valid for one day, so you can go at your own pace.
• Themed exhibits: Regular temporary exhibitions that keep things fresh.
• Historic setting: The museum is housed in a building from 1880, adding historical ambiance.
• Cost-effective: At $18, it offers good value considering the size and scope.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly and available in multiple languages, including English, Dutch, and French.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

As you step into Autoworld, you’re greeted by a building with its own story—constructed in 1880 to mark Belgium’s 50th anniversary. The space itself is packed with history, not just in its exhibits but in its architecture. From 1902 to 1936, it hosted motorcar exhibitions, and now it’s home to what many consider a curated automotive treasure trove.

Once inside, you’ll find more than 250 vehicles carefully curated and displayed. These include everything from early models of the 19th century to shiny modern cars. Space is generous, allowing visitors to wander freely, which many reviews highlight as a big plus—“Very large museum, shame there is no audio guide,” says one visitor, emphasizing how easy it is to take your time without feeling rushed.

A standout feature of the museum is its temporary exhibitions. These rotate every year, often centered around a theme like Bugatti’s 100-year history or Belgian racing legends. Past themes have included Ferdinand Porsche and Italian Car Passion, making each visit potentially different from the last if you return. These themed displays are great for those who want a deeper dive into specific automotive stories.

The Vehicles and Exhibits That Steal the Show

The core of Autoworld’s appeal lies in its diversity of vehicles. You’ll see everything from classic horse-drawn carriages to vintage motorcycles, all carefully preserved and displayed. Visitors often mention the “outstanding Corvette collection,” which signifies how the museum keeps its exhibits engaging for fans of specific brands.

Some reviews note that the collection is especially strong for pre-1970 cars, making it ideal for vintage lovers. However, some visitors wish for more iconic models from global brands like Nissan Z or VW buses, which are missing from the curated selection. Still, the focus on European markets provides a unique perspective and allows for a more detailed look at regional automotive history.

The exhibitions dedicated to racing legends have been well-received, with visitors describing them as “mind-blowing” and “well arranged by themes.” The displays are not just about cars but also about the stories behind them, which makes wandering through the exhibits more meaningful.

What’s the Experience Like?

Visitors often comment on how walkable and spacious the museum is, with plenty of room to admire each vehicle. The organization makes it easy to navigate, and the audio guides—available in Dutch, English, and French—are a nice touch, helping you learn more about the exhibits without needing a guide present.

While many reviews praise the value for money, some mention that the layout feels a bit scattered. This is understandable given the size and variety of the collection, but it might mean some people could find it slightly overwhelming if they prefer a more curated or guided experience.

One of the most consistent themes in reviews is how not rushed visitors feel. People can linger over their favorite vehicles, take photos, and enjoy the exhibits at their own pace. For the price, this flexibility is a big plus.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $18 per ticket, Autoworld offers a substantial collection and a self-directed experience that most visitors find worthwhile. It’s especially good value if you’re into cars or if you plan to spend a few hours exploring. Since there’s no guided tour included, you only pay for the entry, which means you can visit as long as you want within the day.

Some reviews note that despite the large collection, the lack of an audio guide can leave you wishing for more contextual storytelling. However, since a multilingual audio guide is included, you can still learn quite a bit about the vehicles that catch your eye.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Tips for Visiting Autoworld

• Check the opening hours and availability ahead of time, as the ticket is valid for just one day.
• Take advantage of the skip-the-line tickets to avoid waiting.
• If you’re interested in specific themes, plan your visit around the temporary exhibitions.
• The museum is wheelchair accessible, so it’s a good choice for visitors with mobility needs.
• Bring your camera—there are plenty of great photo opportunities with classic and modern vehicles.
• Consider bringing a small notebook or using the audio guide to note favorite vehicles or interesting facts.
• Budget some extra time if you want to explore the permanent collection and the special themed exhibits thoroughly.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This visit is perfect for car enthusiasts who enjoy seeing a wide range of vehicles from different eras and regions. It also suits those who appreciate a self-guided, flexible approach—you can spend a couple of hours or longer if you get drawn into certain exhibits. Families with older children or teenagers who love cars will find plenty of eye-catching displays, though younger kids might find the size and scope a bit overwhelming.

If you’re interested in automotive history or design, and you prefer your museums less guided and more exploratory, Autoworld ticks those boxes. It’s also a good option for travelers on a budget, considering the affordability of the ticket and the variety of exhibits you get in return.

Final Thoughts

The Brussels Autoworld Museum offers a surprisingly comprehensive look at automotive history, with its mix of vintage, classic, and modern vehicles. While it could benefit from more contextual storytelling or interactive elements, the large, well-organized space and rotating exhibitions make it a worthwhile stop if you’re interested in cars or regional automotive culture.

The experience truly rewards those willing to explore at their own pace, and the value for money is hard to beat. Whether you’re a hardcore gearhead or just want a unique, laid-back activity in Brussels, this museum could very well be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is the ticket valid for more than one day?
No, the ticket is valid for just one day. Be sure to check the availability for your preferred starting time.

Can I cancel my ticket if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is there an audio guide available in multiple languages?
Yes, an audio guide is included, offered in Dutch, English, and French.

Is the museum accessible for wheelchairs?
Absolutely, it is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs.

Does the museum include guided tours?
No, the experience is self-guided; there are no guided tours included.

Are there special exhibitions during my visit?
The museum mounts temporary exhibitions on various themes, and their availability depends on the time of your visit.

How long should I plan to spend here?
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours, but if you’re a serious enthusiast, you might want to allocate more time.

Is the museum family-friendly?
While great for older children and teens interested in cars, younger kids might find it a bit overwhelming due to the size and scope.

You can check availability for your dates here: