Antwerp metro tunnel renovation: what's the impact and what are my alternatives?
From May 4, 2026 to the end of March 2027, no trams run between Linkeroever and Rechteroever due to renovation work on the Scheldt tunnel. Coming from Linkeroever? Use P+R Luchtbal (tram 6) or P+R Merksem (tram 2 or A3) instead of P+R Linkeroever.
What exactly is happening?
From May 4, 2026 to the end of March 2027, major renovation work is taking place on the Antwerp metro. The tunnel under the Scheldt river is temporarily closed, meaning no trams run between Linkeroever and Rechteroever. During the works, trams also won't run between P+R Melsele and Opera metro station.
Does this affect my visit?
Only if you normally travel to Antwerp via Linkeroever — for example via P+R Linkeroever, or because you live or stay there. If you travel to Antwerp any other way, your usual route stays the same.
What if I'm coming by public transport?
The basic rule stays the same: your event ticket is still valid as your De Lijn transit ticket.
What if I'm driving from Linkeroever?
Stop using P+R Linkeroever. Choose one of these instead:
| Park & Ride | Connecting tram | Direction |
| P+R Luchtbal | Tram 6 | Sport metro stop |
| P+R Merksem | Tram 2 or A3 | Sport metro stop |
From both Park & Rides, you travel directly by tram to AFAS Dome or Lotto Arena, and parking remains free.
Good to know: for P+R Luchtbal, extra shuttle trams are added on top of line 6 to AFAS Dome & Lotto Arena, so you can also get back smoothly after the show.
Is there a toll if I take a detour?
Yes, note that a toll is charged in the Liefkenshoek Tunnel.
Are the tram lines themselves changing?
Yes. Since May 4, 2026, tram lines 3 and 15 have been merged into line A3 (P+R Boechout ↔ P+R Merksem). This means there's now also a direct tram connection between P+R Boechout and AFAS Dome & Lotto Arena.
Are there any other options?
For many events at AFAS Dome, you can also take the Keolis Event-Shuttle, a coach that takes you comfortably to the venue and drops you back off at your boarding location after the show. For a full overview of all alternative mobility options during the renovation works, check the Slim naar Antwerpen website.