Aerial view of Brussels cityscape with historic buildings and city hall tower

Autoworld

Autoworld Brussels: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: Discover Autoworld Museum Brussels

Autoworld Museum Brussels is a renowned cultural and historical landmark situated in the iconic Parc du Cinquantenaire. Since its establishment in 1986, the museum has provided visitors with an immersive exploration of automotive evolution, housing a remarkable collection of over 250 vehicles ranging from 19th-century pioneers to modern prototypes and motorsport legends. Rooted in the passion of Ghislain Mahy and his family, Autoworld celebrates Belgian and international automotive heritage within a stunning neoclassical glass-and-steel structure that once hosted national exhibitions. Its location and collection weave the story of the automobile into Belgium’s broader narrative of industrial and social progress (Autoworld Museum History; Wikipedia: Autoworld; Amazing Belgium).

This guide details Autoworld’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, collection highlights, thematic zones, and tips for integrating your visit with other notable Brussels historical sites.

Introduction
Historical Background
The Collection: Scope, Highlights, and Historical Range
Thematic Zones: Immersive Experiences and Interactive Displays
Visitor Information
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Visuals and Media Suggestions
Conclusion & Recommendations
References

Historical Background

Origins and Founding Vision

Autoworld owes its existence to Ghislain Mahy, a Belgian mechanic and passionate car collector, who, together with his sons Hans and Ivan, assembled one of the world’s most significant automotive collections. Their efforts, combined with the support of Belgian dignitaries such as then-Prince Albert II, Minister Louis Olivier, and Herman De Croo, transformed the private Mahy collection into a public institution. Their vision was to preserve and showcase Belgium’s automotive achievements and to make automotive history accessible to all (Autoworld Museum History; Wikipedia: Autoworld).

The Historic Setting: Parc du Cinquantenaire

Autoworld is housed in the South Hall of the Parc du Cinquantenaire (Jubelpark), an architectural masterpiece commissioned in 1880 to celebrate Belgian independence. The museum’s hall, with its iconic esplanade, arch, and colonnades, was originally a venue for national exhibitions and played a key role in early motoring events from 1902 to 1936 (Visit Brussels: Autoworld).

The Mahy Collection and Early Years

When Autoworld opened in 1986, it presented around 200 vehicles from the Mahy collection, with the remainder housed at Mahymobiles in Leuze-en-Hainaut. The initial focus was on tracing the technological, social, and cultural evolution of the automobile, emphasizing innovation, safety, and environmental awareness. The collection’s diversity—ranging from Belgian Minervas to royal limousines—continues to distinguish Autoworld today (Wikipedia: Autoworld).

Institutional Development and Expansion

Autoworld has continually evolved, expanding and modernizing its facilities and exhibits. Notable milestones include the introduction of the Sport & Competition zone (2012), the “Belgium at Autoworld” gallery (2014), working automotive workshops (2015), a multimedia room (2017), and the recreation of the first Brussels car show (2019). These efforts have tripled both visitor numbers and revenue over the past decade (Autoworld Museum History).

Thematic and Temporary Exhibitions

The museum regularly hosts major thematic and temporary exhibitions, such as celebrations of the Citroën DS, Le Mans centenary, and Maserati’s anniversary, as well as contemporary topics like Restomods and Art Cars. Interactive displays and simulators make these events engaging for visitors of all ages (Automobile Museums: Autoworld 2025 Program; Family Travel Path: Autoworld Brussels).

Significance in Belgian and European Context

As Belgium’s national automobile museum, Autoworld preserves and celebrates the country’s automotive heritage, while its extensive international collection places it among the world’s leading car museums. Its proximity to other major cultural sites, like the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and the Art & History Museum, situates it at the heart of Brussels’ rich cultural landscape (Introducing Brussels: Autoworld; Automotive Museum Guide: Autoworld Museum Brussels).

Preservation, Education, and Community Engagement

Autoworld is committed to education, offering interactive displays, multilingual audio guides, and special programs for schools and families. Its private status and public mission foster a unique model of cultural stewardship, ensuring the museum’s ongoing relevance and accessibility (Autoworld: Audio Guide; Autoworld Museum History).

The Collection: Scope, Highlights, and Historical Range

Autoworld’s collection spans nearly 250 vehicles, offering a journey from the dawn of motoring to the present:

Early Motoring (late 19th century–1940): Rare models from Bugatti, Peugeot, Opel, and Studebaker, with immersive period showrooms (Autoworld Brussels).
Post-War Icons and Everyday Classics: Citroën 2CV, Renault 4L, VW Beetle, Mini, Fiat 500, and sports cars from Bentley, Porsche, Ferrari, Jaguar, and Corvette.
Belgian Automotive Heritage: Minerva, FN, Imperia, Vivinus, and royal limousines, highlighting the nation’s industrial legacy.
Competition and Motorsport: GT cars and Formula 1 vehicles, including rare Porsches and the Belgian Vertigo.
Motorcycles and Alternative Transport: Extensive motorcycle collection and historical coaches, plus a reconstructed workshop of Marcel Thiry (Autoworld Brussels).

Thematic Zones: Immersive Experiences and Interactive Displays

The museum’s open-plan layout is organized into engaging thematic zones:

American Drive-In & 1950s Culture: Vintage U.S. cars in a nostalgic drive-in cinema setting.
Comic Book and Pop Culture Corners: Featuring Michel Vaillant and Tintin, connecting Belgian comics with car culture.
Workshop Reconstructions: Authentic early 20th-century and modern garages with original tools and equipment.
Cinema and Multimedia Spaces: Short documentaries on automotive history and past exhibitions.
Temporary Exhibitions: Seasonal shows, such as “Citroën DS – An Icon Turns 70” and “Rally Legends,” with rare vehicles and interactive elements (Autoworld Brussels).

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Summer (April 1 – September 30): 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Winter (October 1 – March 31): 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays (except public holidays); last admission 30 minutes before closing. Check the official website for seasonal and holiday changes.

Tickets and Prices

Adults: €12–€13
Seniors (65+), Students: €8
Children (6–12): €5
Children under 6: Free
Family and group tickets: Available
Combi-tickets: For Parc du Cinquantenaire museums or with the Brussels Card (Autoworld FAQ; brussels.info)

Tip: Buy tickets online for fast entry and to avoid queues.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible: Ramps, elevators, and assistance at entry.
Special parking: Announce disabled access at the gate for direct museum entry.
Audio guides: Multilingual, smartphone-compatible, and included in admission (Autoworld Brussels; Holidify).

Guided Tours and Audio Guides

Guided tours: Available on request (90 minutes, customizable for groups).
Audio guides: Free, multilingual, and provide detailed exhibit information.

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

Address: Parc du Cinquantenaire 11, 1000 Brussels.
Metro: Merode and Schuman stations (short walk).
Bus: Lines 22, 27, 80 (Gaulois stop).
Parking: Available around the park and in nearby facilities.

Other attractions in the park include the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces, the Art & History Museum, and the Triumphal Arch (Visit Brussels).

Amenities and Facilities

Restrooms: Accessible and clean.
Cloakroom/lockers: For coats and bags.
Museum shop: Model cars, books, memorabilia.
Café Brasserie Bagnole: Serves drinks and light meals (11:00–15:00), overlooking the museum floor (Autoworld Brussels).

Photography and Media

Personal photography: Allowed throughout the museum (no flash or tripods).
Social media: Visitors encouraged to share and tag Autoworld (Autoworld FAQ).

Best Times to Visit

Peak hours: 12:00–13:00; for a quieter visit, come early or late afternoon (Triphobo).

Safety and Hygiene

Cleanliness: High standards maintained.
COVID-19: Check for updates on timed entry or mask requirements (Autoworld FAQ).

Language and Visitor Support

Languages: English, French, Dutch.
Customer service: Available daily for inquiries and assistance (brussels.info).

Special Events and Group Visits

Events: Autoworld regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, community events, and private functions for up to 1,500 guests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are Autoworld’s opening hours?
A: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (summer) or 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (winter); closed Mondays.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets are available online (official website), via Tiqets, or at the entrance.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with full accessibility and special parking.

Q: Are guided tours and audio guides available?
A: Yes, both are available; audio guides are included, guided tours require advance booking.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Yes, except during some special exhibitions (no flash/tripods).

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The Royal Museum of the Armed Forces, Art & History Museum, and Triumphal Arch in Parc du Cinquantenaire.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

Use images with descriptive alt text:
- “Autoworld Museum Brussels entrance at Parc du Cinquantenaire”
- “Historic Belgian Minerva car on display at Autoworld”
- “Visitors exploring the Sport & Competition zone at Autoworld Museum”
Virtual tours and downloadable maps are available on the official website.

Conclusion & Recommendations

Autoworld Museum Brussels is an essential destination for automotive enthusiasts, families, and cultural travelers alike. Its rich collection, thematic exhibitions, and educational programs offer a comprehensive journey through the history of the automobile within a stunning historic setting. With accessible facilities, multilingual support, and its integration into Brussels’ vibrant museum quarter, Autoworld provides a seamless and rewarding visitor experience.

Plan your visit by checking current opening hours and ticket options on the official website. For enhanced tours, download the audio guide app and consider joining a guided group. Combine your visit with other attractions in Parc du Cinquantenaire for a fulfilling cultural day in Brussels.