- Must visit
Museum Hof van Busleyden
Mechelen’s flagship city museum in a Renaissance palace, presenting art, humanism, and Burgundian history in an impressive setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Charleroi to Mechelen
Showing times and prices for Jul 28
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$13
Fastest journey
1 h 22 m
Average duration
1 h 33 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
68 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Charleroi to Mechelen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Charleroi to Mechelen will cost around $13 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Charleroi for Mechelen on Tue, Jul 28, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jul 28 the direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 1 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 22 m .
On Tue, Jul 28 the slowest trains will take 1 h 56 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
6:25 AM1h22Charleroi7:47 AMMechelen$101One-way0 transfers- 9:51 AM1h56Charleroi11:47 AMMechelen$101One-way0 transfers
- 4:39 PM1h33Charleroi6:12 PMMechelen$161One-way0 transfers
- 7:25 AM1h22Charleroi8:47 AMMechelen$171One-way0 transfers
- 7:25 AM1h22Charleroi8:47 AMMechelen$171One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 AM1h22Charleroi7:47 AMMechelen$101One-way0 transfers
- 4:39 PM1h33Charleroi6:12 PMMechelen$161One-way0 transfers
- 9:51 AM1h56Charleroi11:47 AMMechelen$101One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Charleroi to Mechelen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charleroi to Mechelen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 32m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $9.
Distance: 42 miles (68 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$15 Average price Cheapest | $13 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 2m Average total duration Fastest 1h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Charleroi to Mechelen is a train with an average price of $15 (€15).
The fastest way to travel from Charleroi to Mechelen is by bus with an average journey time of 39m.
Other travel options to Mechelen take longer:
Train takes on average 1h 32m.
Yes, you can take a train between Charleroi and Mechelen.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleroi to Mechelen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $15 (€15) compared to roughly $13 (€13) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-1.85 (€-1.85). The journey takes 1h 32m versus 1h 9m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Charleroi to Mechelen train times
The table below shows live departures for Charleroi to Mechelen trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:25 AM Charleroi | 1h22 | 7:47 AM Mechelen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:25 AM Charleroi | 1h22 | 8:47 AM Mechelen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:51 AM Charleroi | 1h56 | 11:47 AM Mechelen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:39 PM Charleroi | 1h33 | 6:12 PM Mechelen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Charleroi to Mechelen by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Tue
Jul 28
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
Thu
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Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
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Mon
Aug 03
Aug 03
Why should you book Charleroi to Mechelen trains with Omio?
Intercity as well as Regional or SNCB offer trains services from Charleroi to Mechelen.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Intercity tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Intercity?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Intercity, but also compare tickets for the likes of Regional or SNCB to find the best option for your trip from Charleroi to Mechelen.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Charleroi to Mechelen
BelgiumBelgium
Trains from Charleroi to Mechelen run on average 21 times per day, taking around 1h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€9) if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:23, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 1h 22m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 42 miles (68 km) |
Average train duration 1h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€9) |
Trains per day 21 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 1h 22m |
First train 12:23 AM |
Last train 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Intercity, Regional, SNCB from Charleroi to Mechelen trainsIntercity, Regional, SNCB trains will get you between Charleroi and Mechelen from $9 (€9). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Intercity
About
Intercity is a broad classification for express train services that connect cities over longer distances than commuter or regional trains, often with limited stops and comfortable carriages for long-distance travel. The term "InterCity" originated with British Rail in 1966 for its electrified West Coast Main Line services.Today, "Intercity" or "IC" is a brand name used by various railway operators across Europe and other parts of the world, including PKP Intercity in Poland, Trenitalia in Italy, and services in countries like Sweden and Ukraine. These trains typically offer both Standard and First Class seating, with amenities such as power sockets and luggage space. While some Intercity services are modern and high-speed, others may use older rolling stock, with speeds generally up to 160 km/h (100 mph).
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 22m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€9)
Intercity frequency
18 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage up to 30kg total
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with hot meals and snacks, trolley service in some trains. But do not count on the presence of a buffet car. So if having access to food and drink on the train is important to you, it’s best to bring your own refreshments onboard.
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price for most routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Regional
About
The term "Regional" can refer to different train companies and services depending on the country. In Germany, "Regionalbahn" (RB) is a type of local passenger train that typically stops at all stations on a given line, connecting cities to their surrounding areas. Many RB trains are operated by DB Regio, a division of Deutsche Bahn, but other companies also run these services.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€9)
Regional frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type and conditions
Refund
Full refund if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible facilities available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
SNCB
About
SNCB is Belgium’s national railway company and the country’s main train operator, offering First Class and Second Class tickets. It runs a variety of services, including Intercity trains for the fastest domestic connections, Interregio trains with more local stops, and international options such as EuroCity, Thalys, and ICE International. Thalys trains connect Belgium with France, Germany, and the Netherlands at high speed, while EuroCity and ICE International link Belgium to Germany and other European destinations. Onboard facilities typically include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets. Popular routes include Brussels to Antwerp, Brussels to Bruges, Brussels to Ghent, and Brussels to Liège.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 22m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€11)
SNCB frequency
50 a day
Complete guide to Mechelen
Things to do in Mechelen
Discover the best of Mechelen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mechelen trip today.
- Must visit
Kazerne Dossin
A powerful memorial museum about the Holocaust and human rights, internationally respected for its thoughtful permanent exhibition.
- Recommended
Clock and Watch Museum
Interactive museum on clocks, carillons, and bell-ringing traditions, ideal for understanding Mechelen’s renowned musical heritage.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
Mechelen’s central square, framed by monumental buildings and lively terraces, is the natural starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Grand Beguinage
A peaceful UNESCO-listed quarter of cobbled lanes, small houses, and gardens that preserves the atmosphere of historic beguine life.
- Must visit
Skywalk
A scenic tower-top viewpoint with sweeping views over the city and beyond, especially rewarding in clear weather.
- Vegetarian
Gouden Carolus Classic
A dark, malty Belgian strong ale brewed in Mechelen since the 15th century. It is the city’s signature beer and closely tied to local identity.
- Vegetarian
Gouden Carolus Christmas
A richer, spiced Christmas version of Gouden Carolus, released seasonally. It is famous among Belgian beer lovers and strongly linked to Mechelen’s brewery tradition.
- Vegetarian
Maneblusser
A pale, hoppy Belgian ale from Het Anker in Mechelen. It reflects the city’s long brewing heritage and is a staple for visitors exploring local beers.
Tinèlle
Refined fine dining in a historic setting, known for modern Belgian cuisine and polished service. A destination restaurant for special occasions.
Cosma Foodhouse
Well-regarded restaurant focused on seasonal Belgian cuisine with a warm, contemporary atmosphere. Good choice for a polished dinner in Mechelen.
Brasserie Het Anker
Historic brewery restaurant at Het Anker, best for Gouden Carolus beers and hearty Flemish dishes in a traditional, lively atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable. Cheaper than Brussels in many cases, but not a budget destination.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. Small change for cafes is appreciated.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Mechelen Station -> Grote Markt, Mechelen
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can pay contactless on De Lijn buses and trams; the contactless fare is the standard single fare.
- Mechelen local buses are operated by De Lijn. Buy tickets in the De Lijn app or use contactless onboard to avoid higher paper ticket costs.
FAQs: Trains from Charleroi to Mechelen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charleroi to Mechelen by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Mechelen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Charleroi to Mechelen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9 (€9), while the average price is around $15 (€15).
The train from Charleroi to Mechelen takes 1h 22m and runs 21 per day.
The distance by train from Charleroi to Mechelen is 42 miles (68 km).
The first train from Charleroi to Mechelen leaves at 12:23 AM.
The last train from Charleroi to Mechelen leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Charleroi to Mechelen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Charleroi to Mechelen. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Intercity, SNCB.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Charleroi to Mechelen.
The train station in Charleroi that goes to Mechelen is Charleroi-Sud, which connects to Mechelen station.
The cheapest way to get from Charleroi to Mechelen is by train, with a cost of around $9 (€9).
The train journey from Charleroi to Mechelen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of Belgium's quaint villages, lush landscapes, and occasional industrial areas, though it is not typically highlighted as a notably scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Charleroi to Mechelen is feasible as the journey takes 1h 22m with a frequency of 12 trains per day and the distance is 42 miles (68 km).
Two to three days are ideal to explore Mechelen's historical sites, museums, and local cuisine, while also enjoying its charming atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Charleroi to Mechelen.
Since both Charleroi and Mechelen are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Mechelen include Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Paris, Breda.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Charleroi to Mechelen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Mechelen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unauthorized ticket sellers can also occur. Staying vigilant in busy places and using official transportation services helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Charleroi to Mechelen
Most Charleroi to Mechelen trains use the Charleroi-Sud to Mechelen station pair, with some services arriving at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel. Use this guide to compare Charleroi and Mechelen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Charleroi
Arrival train stations in Mechelen
Which Charleroi station do trains to Mechelen leave from?
Trains from Charleroi to Mechelen leave from Charleroi-Sud. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Charleroi city centre at Place Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium.
Charleroi-SudPlace Charles II, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Charleroi-Sud from Charleroi city centre
SubwayM2, M3 · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
Charleroi-Sud train station facilities and services
Charleroi-Sud has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: La Manufacture Urbaine, Le Pain Quotidien
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charleroi-Sud. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charleroi-Sud. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charleroi-Sud: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charleroi-Sud: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charleroi-Sud: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare, Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center, Novotel Charleroi Centre.
Charleroi-OuestPlace de la Digue, 6000 Charleroi, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Charleroi-Ouest from Charleroi city centre
BusCity · 2m · $2 · every ~2 min
Charleroi-Ouest train station facilities and services
Charleroi-Ouest has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant Le Pain Quotidien, La Table de la Manufacture Urbaine
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Charleroi-Ouest. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Charleroi-Ouest. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Charleroi-Ouest: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Charleroi-Ouest: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Charleroi-Ouest: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center, Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare.
Lodelinsart6042 Charleroi, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Lodelinsart from Charleroi city centre
Lodelinsart is 2 km from Charleroi city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainL, S61 · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusBus · 11m
18 · 20m · $2 · every ~5 min
Lodelinsart train station facilities and services
Lodelinsart has practical services for this route, including Dining, Accessibility, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lodelinsart.
Bike and car services
Available at Lodelinsart: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lodelinsart.
Which Mechelen station do trains from Charleroi arrive at?
Trains from Charleroi to Mechelen most often arrive at Mechelen. Some services arrive at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Mechelen arrival station.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 1a · 3m · $3 · every ~12 min
Mechelen train station facilities and services
Mechelen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Graspoort, Il Cardinale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel2800 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen-Nekkerspoel from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1 · 8m · $3 · every ~5 min
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel train station facilities and services
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Muizen2812 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Muizen from Mechelen city centre
Muizen is 3 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS7, L, P · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusBus · 8m
Muizen train station facilities and services
Muizen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Muizen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Muizen: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Muizen: Bike Parking.
Most popular train connections from Charleroi
More options for your journey from Charleroi to Mechelen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Mechelen and Charleroi
Most popular train connections to Mechelen
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