Arnhem Central

Notable Building and Train Station in Arnhem

Arnhem Central
Arnhem Central
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Hellendijk81

Arnhem Central (Arnhem Centraal) is the city's main rail and bus hub, and one of the Netherlands' most striking contemporary stations, known for its sweeping, futuristic interior and smooth connections between trains, buses, and the city.

Even if you're not catching a train, it's worth a quick visit on a walking tour of central Arnhem: step inside for the architecture, then walk out toward the city center in minutes for shops, cafés, and riverside strolls.

History and Significance of the Arnhem Central

Arnhem has been a railway city since the 19th century, and its main station has long served as a key junction between the Randstad (Amsterdam/Utrecht area), the eastern Netherlands, and routes continuing into Germany. That role still defines the station today: it's a practical gateway for commuters, day-trippers, and international travelers.

What makes Arnhem Central especially notable is how it pairs that transport importance with design ambition. The station's modern rebuild turned it into a civic “front door” for Arnhem, with a dramatic, flowing hall that feels more like a public building than a purely functional transit stop.

Because it sits right on the edge of the center, Arnhem Central also acts as a natural starting point for exploring on foot: arrive by train, orient yourself in the main hall, and you're quickly in the shopping streets and cultural sights.

Things to See and Do in the Arnhem Central

Start with the architecture. The main hall’s curving lines, bright open space, and layered levels are the reason many travelers call it one of the best-designed stations in the country. A slow lap through the hall and up to the upper level gives you the best sense of the building.

Next, use it as a convenient base for onward connections. Arnhem Central is a strong jumping-off point for cross-border trips toward Germany, and it's also an easy place to switch between train and bus for destinations around the region.

Finally, treat it like a practical pit stop: grab a coffee, pick up snacks for the train, and use the station as a meeting point before walking into town. If you’re being picked up, note that the passenger pick-up area can be on an upper level, which can surprise first-time visitors.

How to Get to the Arnhem Central

The nearest major airports are Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), Eindhoven Airport (EIN), and Düsseldorf Airport (DUS), with straightforward onward travel by rail to Arnhem. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Arnhem on Booking.com.

From elsewhere in the Netherlands, Arnhem is well-connected by frequent intercity and regional trains; once you arrive, Arnhem Central places you within a short walk of the city center. Train tickets and schedules are available directly through NS Dutch Railways and NS International for international services. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.

If you’re driving, follow signs for the station area and use nearby garages around Stationsplein/centrum, then continue on foot for the easiest access.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Arnhem Central

  • Official website: https://www.ns.nl/en/stationsinformatie/ah/arnhem-centraal.html
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: Open 24 hours. Sunday: Open 24 hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go mid-morning or early afternoon for a calmer look at the architecture; weekday rush hours are busiest with commuters.
  • How long to spend: 15–30 minutes is enough for a quick architectural look; add time if you’re grabbing food or waiting for a connection.
  • Accessibility: The station is designed for step-free movement with elevators and escalators between levels, making it manageable with luggage, strollers, or wheelchairs.
  • Facilities: Expect ticketing services, shops and food options, and paid restrooms; signage is generally clear, but allow extra minutes if you need the pick-up level.

Where to Stay Close to the Arnhem Central

If you want the easiest logistics, base yourself in central Arnhem near the station and the main shopping streets so you can walk everywhere.

Holiday Inn Express Arnhem A reliable, modern option that’s convenient for early trains and quick city-center access.

Hotel Haarhuis A classic, well-known choice right by the station, ideal if you want maximum convenience and a more traditional full-service feel.

NH Arnhem Rijnhotel Picked for its riverside setting and quieter atmosphere while still being close enough to reach the station quickly.

CN Hotel Arnhem Centraal A practical base near the station area, good for short stays and travelers prioritizing transport connections.

Hotel Modez A more boutique, design-forward stay in the creative Klarendal/Modekwartier area, great if you want something with local character.

Is the Arnhem Central Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you like modern architecture or you're already passing through. It's one of those stations that feels like a landmark rather than just infrastructure, and it's perfectly positioned to roll straight into a self-guided walk through central Arnhem.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time and not interested in architecture, you can skip lingering here and treat it purely as a transit point—Arnhem’s museums, parks, and river views will likely be a better use of your limited hours.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.3 (450)

Google reviewers are very positive overall, highlighting Arnhem Central's striking modern architecture and the feeling that it's one of the Netherlands' best-designed stations. Travelers also appreciate the station's cleanliness, clear wayfinding, and the convenience of international connections (including routes toward Germany). The most common downsides mentioned are occasional confusion about where to meet or get picked up due to the multi-level layout, and paid restrooms.

Traveler Developer
a year ago
"Very nice and modern architectural station"
Krishnendu Das
6 months ago
"Transit for Germany. Deutschland ticket is accepted from here."
Christian Wietholt
8 years ago
"A very modern looking train station. I just got a bit confused as the passenger pick up is upstairs, which is not very intuitive. Otherwise plenty ofshops around. Using the bathroom costs you EUR 0.70...."

For Different Travelers

Arnhem Central works best as a quick, high-impact stop: it's easy to reach, easy to combine with a city walk, and useful even when you're not “sightseeing.” How much you'll enjoy it depends on whether you value design, convenience, or atmosphere.

Families with Kids

For families, the biggest win is convenience: wide spaces for strollers, clear routes between platforms, and plenty of quick snack options for on-the-go moments. It’s also a good “reset point” if you’re moving between attractions and need a predictable place to regroup.

That said, it’s still a working station, so it’s not a destination where kids can roam freely. Plan a short look at the architecture, then head out to a park or family-friendly attraction once everyone’s fed and settled.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples can enjoy Arnhem Central as a stylish arrival moment—especially if you like contemporary design and want a smooth start to a weekend. It's also handy for spontaneous day trips, including cross-border routes, without needing a car.

For a more romantic vibe, use the station as your launchpad rather than your main stop: walk into town for cafés and evening plans, or head toward the river for a calmer stroll after you’ve taken in the building.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers benefit from how walkable everything is from here: you can arrive by train, skip taxis, and reach central Arnhem quickly on foot. The station's shops can also cover basic needs without detours.

On the flip side, stations can tempt you into pricier convenience purchases. If you’re watching costs, grab only what you need here and do most of your eating and shopping a few streets into town.

FAQs for Visiting Arnhem Central

Getting There

Yes, it’s very close, and most visitors can reach central shopping streets in a short walk. If you have heavy luggage, buses and taxis are also available right outside.
Yes, it’s a common cross-border gateway with international connections. Always check the platform displays before boarding, especially for international services.
Yes, it’s also the main bus hub for city and regional routes. This makes it easy to connect to neighborhoods and nearby towns without changing stations.

Tickets & Entry

No, you can enter the station building freely. You only need a valid ticket or pass for travel beyond ticket gates where applicable.
Yes, there are services for international travelers at Arnhem Centraal. If you need staffed help, go during posted service-desk hours.
Restrooms are typically paid in many Dutch stations, and visitors often mention a small fee. Carry coins or a payment method just in case.

Visiting Experience

Walk through the main hall slowly, then go up a level to see the curves and sightlines from above. It’s a quick stop that still feels memorable.
Most signage is clear, but first-timers can be surprised by the upper-level pick-up areas and layered layout. Give yourself a few extra minutes if meeting someone.
Travelers generally describe it as clean and well-marked. As with any busy station, keep an eye on your belongings during peak times.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s an easy first stop: start at the station, admire the design, then walk into the center for the rest of your route. It also works well as an end point for a loop.
Begin with a station look, walk into the center for cafés and shopping streets, then continue toward a museum or the riverfront. Return to the station easily for onward travel.
Yes, even a 10-minute transfer can be enough to see the main hall. Just stay mindful of platform changes and departure boards.

Photography

Yes, the sweeping interior lines and bright spaces are very photogenic. Wide-angle shots work especially well in the main hall.
Late morning and early afternoon are often calmer than commuter peaks. Weekends can vary depending on events and travel periods.
Rules can vary by location and security needs. If you plan serious photography, keep gear compact and be considerate of passenger flow.

Accessibility & Facilities

Yes, you can generally move between levels using elevators and ramps where needed. This helps with wheelchairs, strollers, and heavy luggage.
Yes, there are waiting areas and seating, including sheltered spots that help on windy days. Seating availability can be tighter at peak times.
Yes, there are multiple shops and quick food options. It’s a convenient place to stock up before a train ride.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, you’ll find grab-and-go options suited to short connections. For a longer meal, walk a few minutes into the center for more variety.
For speed, the station is ideal; for atmosphere and better value, the city center usually wins. If you have time, do a quick walk into town.
Often yes, especially around the station and nearby streets. If you need quiet, consider stepping away from the main hall.

Safety & Timing

Arrive earlier than you would for a domestic hop so you can confirm the correct platform and any last-minute changes. A buffer also helps if you need ticket assistance.
Yes, weekday mornings and late afternoons can be crowded. If you’re sightseeing, aim outside those windows.
Meeting points and pick-up areas can be on different levels, so confirm the exact spot in advance. Also plan for paid restrooms if you need them.

Nearby Attractions to the Arnhem Central

  • Arnhem city center shopping streets: A quick walk from the station for boutiques, cafés, and an easy first taste of Arnhem.
  • Eusebius Church: A major landmark in the center with history and city views that pairs well with a station-to-center walk.
  • Rozet: A modern cultural building with library spaces and architecture that design fans often enjoy.
  • Sonsbeek Park: A beloved green escape near the center, ideal for a longer stroll after arriving by train.
  • Rhine riverfront (Rijnkade area): A pleasant area for walking and relaxing by the water, especially on clear days.

The Arnhem Central appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arnhem!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

Read our full story here

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you!

Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday - Saturday: Open 24 hours.

Sunday: Open 24 hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Renssenstraat 17, 6811 MC Arnhem, Netherlands
Arnhem: 0 km
Official Website

Nearby Attractions

Similar Blogs