About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I’ve seen my fair share of "national museums" that are basically just dusty warehouses designed to pad out a city's RevPAR without actually offering a soul. Usually, the industry just leads you into these tourist traps because the commissions are easy and the occupancy is guaranteed. But Autoworld in Brussels? That's a different beast entirely. It’s housed in the Cinquantenaire, a building that’s arguably more gorgeous than the cars it holds—and that is saying a lot considering the Mahy collection is involved. While most museums feel like a static graveyard of metal, this place actually captures the evolution of design without the usual corporate fluff you'd expect from the "Capital of Europe." It's one of those rare spots where the history of the motorcar feels like a lived experience rather than a boring lecture. Honestly, if you're in Brussels and you skip this for another waffle shop, you're doing it wrong.
About the Tour
Located in the vibrant heart of Brussels, Autoworld isn't just a museum; it’s a time capsule. Housed in a stunning historic hall built in 1880 to celebrate Belgium's 50th anniversary, the venue itself is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. Interestingly, the building has stayed true to its roots, having hosted motor exhibitions as far back as 1902. Since 1986, it has been the proud home of a massive portion of the legendary Ghislain Mahy’s collection.
What to Expect Inside
When you step through the doors, you aren't just looking at cars—you're tracing the lineage of human mobility. The permanent collection boasts over 250 vehicles, including:
- Vintage Classics: Early models from the late 19th century that look more like horse carriages than modern cars.
- Commercial History: A fascinating array of trucks and utility vehicles that built the modern world.
- Two-Wheeled Wonders: A dedicated section for motorbikes that showcases the raw side of engine design.
- Modern Marvels: Contemporary designs that show just how far we have come in terms of aerodynamics and performance.
A Museum on the Move
One thing that sets Autoworld apart from its competitors is its refusal to stay stagnant. They operate on a "Museum on the Move" philosophy, meaning there is almost always something new to see.
Every two years, the museum goes "all out" with a major themed exhibition focusing on specific performance or design milestones. You might catch a deep dive into the elegance of Italian Car Passion, the engineering genius of Ferdinand Porsche, or the local pride of Belgian Racing Legends. These temporary showcases ensure that even if you've visited before, there is always a fresh perspective waiting for you.
Pro Tip: Give yourself at least two hours here. The way the light hits the steel in that 1880s hall is something you’ll want to photograph from every angle.
Highlights
- Learn about the history of the automobile industry
- See more than 250 cars, motorcycles and coaches
- Enjoy the museum’s themed temporary exhibition