travel to antwerp

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Antwerp (Antwerpen/Anvers in Dutch/French) is Belgium’s second city, biggest port and capital of cool. It has long been a powerful magnet for everyone from fashion moguls and club queens to art lovers and diamond dealers. In the mid-16th century it was one of Europe’s most important cities and home to baroque superstar painter Pieter Paul Rubens – as many a museum will regularly remind you. Despite many historical travails thereafter, and severe WWII bombing, Antwerp retains an intriguing medieval heart with plenty of café-filled cobbled lanes, a riverside fortress and a truly impressive cathedral. Today, however, Antwerp’s top drawcards are its vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, along with its startling architectural and cultural contrasts.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museum Plantin-Moretus

The medieval building and 1622 courtyard garden alone would be worth a visit, but it's the world's oldest printing press, priceless manuscripts and…

This delightfully indulgent 1611 mansion was built as a home and studio for celebrated painter Pieter Paul Rubens. It was rescued from ruins in 1937 and…

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal

Belgium’s finest Gothic cathedral was 169 years in the making (1352–1521). Wherever you wander in Antwerp, its gracious, 123m-high spire has a habit of…

Museum Mayer van den Bergh

Styled as a 16th-century town house, this superb place was actually constructed in 1904 as one of the first museums in the world built around a single…

Snijder-Rockoxhuis

Combining the impressive 17th-century houses of artist Frans Snijders and of Antwerp lawyer, mayor and Rubens-patron Nicolaas Rockox, this recently…

Grote Markt

As is the case with every great Flemish city, Antwerp’s medieval heart is a classic Grote Markt (market square). Here the triangular, pedestrianised space…

In a monumental neoclassical building topped with winged charioteer statues, KMSKA holds a world-class collection of artistic masterpieces. However, the…

Opened in 2011, MAS is a 10-storey complex that redefines the idea of a museum-gallery. Floors are designed around big-idea themes using a barrage of…

Latest stories from Antwerp

Festivals & Events

Dec 13, 2019 • 1 min read

Winter in Antwerp is designed to capture the magic of the season. The addition of a fairytale forest this year hopes to enhance visitors' sense of wonder.

Jun 1, 2018 • 4 min read

Jun 1, 2018 • 5 min read

Aug 30, 2017 • 5 min read

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Antwerp

Antwerp is Belgium’s second largest city. It’s a major port and is the centre of life and culture in the Flanders region.

The city is well known for its contrasting mix of old and new, being one of the most historic destinations in Belgium, and also being one of the most modern metropolises in the country.

16th-century buildings stand in the shadow of skyscrapers, creating an eclectic fusion that represents much of the character of Flanders today.

With great transport links, Antwerp makes for an excellent hub to explore northern Belgium and to even branch off into neighbouring Holland, and there are plenty of exciting day trips to be made from the city.

This ultimate travel guide to Antwerp will show you all the most beautiful places in Antwerp, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Antwerp and things to do in Antwerp which will help you in planning a trip to Antwerp.

It’s a great city to visit, and to inspire your visit to Flanders, here’s our ultimate guide to Antwerp.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Antwerp  

Antwerp is found in northern Belgium, on the border with the Netherlands. The city is located on the River Scheldt, which flows into the North Sea and which gave rise to the importance of Antwerp’s harbour over the centuries.

It’s one of the largest ports in Europe, but these days, you’re more likely to be arriving overland, or by air, rather than on the water.

Antwerp’s small airport is located on the outskirts of the city, but only offers flights to a few European destinations, such as London, due to the fact that Brussels Airport is just 45 minutes away to the south.

There are regular buses to the centre of Antwerp, and regular trains direct from Brussels Airport to Antwerp Central Station.

In fact, Antwerp Central Station is used enough by travellers flying into other airports that it has an airport code, allowing you to book tickets on the rail line as part of your flight ticket, and allowing for seamless transfers.

There are direct trains from Amsterdam Schipol Airport, which is one and a half hours away, and even further afield to Paris.

There are great rail connections, and bus connections too, across the rest of Belgium and to most of Western Europe as well.

What to expect in Antwerp

As the largest city in Flanders, Antwerp is the centre of the Flemish community in Belgium. For travellers, that means that the primary language spoken by residents is the Flemish dialect of Dutch.

Belgium is a multilingual country though and you’ll find that many locals also speak French and that these days, the majority of the population also speak English to a high level.

As part of the European Union, Belgium adopted the Euro as their currency, and you’ll find that there are plenty of money changers and ATMs around Antwerp where you can get hold of cash. You’ll also find that credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.

How to get around Antwerp

Antwerp is a large city, with a population reaching to well over 500,000, and there are countless different districts and suburbs within the metropolitan area.

Many of the best attractions are found within the historic city centre, between the river and Antwerp central station, but many are also found further south, in Antwerp Zuid.

It’s very safe to walk through Antwerp, however, for longer journeys, you may want to make use of the local public transport.

There are buses and trams which run set routes across the city, and which offer great fares. If you are using lots of public transport, you can purchase multiple tickets to use at your leisure.

If you are also visiting lots of different tourist attractions though, then you may want to consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card.

For a one-off cost, the card includes entrance to many museums and attractions, as well as giving you unlimited access to public transport. The cards can be valid for a period of 24, 48 or 72 hours, depending on the length of your stay.

The best time to visit Antwerp

Antwerp is very much a city break destination, and for that reason, you can really visit any time of the year.

The busiest times of the year are generally the summer season, between June, July and August, or the winter season, over the Christmas holidays.

Summer brings great weather to Antwerp, with long days and lots of sunshine, and the city comes alive, with parks overflowing with people and bars and restaurants spilling out onto the streets.

Winter, but in particular, the festive period, sees the Christmas markets opening up for business and people travel to Antwerp specifically to shop, eat and drink over the holidays.

It’s a wonderful time of the year to be in the city, but just remember to wrap up warm.

The shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – can be quieter times to explore the city, and you’ll find there are fewer tourists around.

The weather can be unpredictable, however, and at times dreary, but considering many of Antwerp’s best attractions are found inside, this may not be too much of an issue.

Things to do in Antwerp 

Grote markt.

Any Antwerp travel guide will tell you to start your tour through the city at the Grote Markt, or the market square. This is the centre of the historic Old Town, and it’s a marvellous place to get acquainted with Antwerp.

At the Grote Markt, you can find many of the most iconic buildings in the city, including the grand city hall which dates back to the 16th century.

Some of the coolest restaurants in Antwerp are found around the square, as are some of the best cafes and bars too.

Peter Paul Rubens’ House

Peter Paul Rubens is one of the most influential Flemish artists to have ever lived. He was prominent during the 16th century and operated from a studio in the city of Antwerp.

The house where he lived is now a museum, combining both history and art to give visitors an insight into local culture.

Mode Museum

The MoMu, or Mode Museum, is an intriguing museum that focuses on the fashion scene in Antwerp.

The city has a huge legacy when it comes to contemporary fashion, with many famous local designers such as Dries van Noten propelling Belgian fashion onto the international scene in the past few decades. You can learn all about it at the Mode Museum.

Red Star Line Museum  

Antwerp has one of the largest ports on the continent, and during the era of transatlantic passenger ships, the city was a major embarkation point for European emigrants heading to the United States.

One of the most iconic passenger liners in operation from the port was the Red Star Line, which transported several million people across the Atlantic in search of new lives in the USA. 

The Red Star Line Museum is a moving tribute to the ships and the people that travelled from Antwerp, across the Atlantic, from the 1870s until the early 1930s. It’s an insight into emigration, and why so many people left Europe for the Americas.

Cathedral of our Lady

The Cathedral of our Lady is the most iconic church in Antwerp and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the extensive Belfries of Belgium and France submission, which protects 56 churches across the two countries.

Construction of the medieval church began far back in the 14th century, although there had been a place of worship in the same location for hundreds of years prior to this too.

The interior is beautiful to see, and the spires stretch to over one hundred metres in height, ensuring that the cathedral has long been a permanent fixture on the Antwerp skyline.

The MAS Museum, or Museum aan de Strom, is one of the newest, and largest museums in the city.

The distinctive building is found looking over the water, and its aim is to promote the history and culture of the city of Antwerp. The museum focuses on the harbour and the connection of the people to the oceans.

Plantin-Moretus Museum

The Plantin-Moretus Museum takes visitors on a journey through the world of print and through the historic printing presses pioneered in Antwerp by locals Plantin and Moretus in the 16th century.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most intriguing museums in the city, and you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the power of the printed word.

What to eat in Antwerp

Any Antwerp food guide will advise you to try the local Flemish dishes when you are in the city, and you should begin your culinary journey by enjoying a hearty Flemish stew, complete with slow-cooked meat and vegetables.

Many of the best restaurants in Antwerp Old Town will serve up great traditional dishes, and as well as the stew you should indulge in a plate of mussels, garnished with the ubiquitous Belgian fries and mayo, and finished off with a bowl of Flemish mousse for dessert.

Where to stay in Antwerp

Antwerp, as a modern city and popular tourist destination, has a wide range of accommodation for travellers.

Many of the most upmarket establishments are found in the Old Town, and there are some lovely boutique hotel options on offer amongst the historic streets.

One of the best boutique options is the Hotel de Witte Lelie , which dates back to the 17th century.

The centre tends to be pricier, however, and if you are looking for budget hotels or for hostels or Airbnb, then the area outside of the Old Town, towards the central station, has some great value accommodation.

Tours to do in  Antwerp

Hop on hop off tour bus.

Buying a ticket for the Antwerp Hop On Hop Off Tour Bus can be a great way to see the city, particularly if you are pressed for time, and are only on a short getaway.

The tour bus has designated stops at the most popular and important tourist attractions in Antwerp, allowing you to easily travel between all the highlights without getting lost, and while being provided with intriguing information about the city and its history.

There are few things more European than cycling through the city, and Antwerp is perfectly composed for a bike tour. This is a great way to experience the city, while at the same time enjoying the crisp Flanders air and getting a bit of exercise.

You’ll be cycling through the streets of Antwerp, led by a local guide , and stopping off at points of interest both well known and off the beaten track.

Belgium is well known for its excellent beers, and if you are into your brews then why not join a beer tour when you are visiting Antwerp? Learn about the city’s long history as you walk from one location to the next, sampling some of Antwerp’s best beer at each stop.

Beer walks in Antwerp are part drinking and part storytelling, and you’ll learn from the local guides about the city’s relationship with beer, the future for beer and the history of beer. It’s a unique way to see the city and enjoy a few beverages at the same time.

Day trips from Antwerp

Belgium is a small country, and you’re never too far away from other major cities when you stay in Antwerp. The capital, Brussels , is less than one hour away on the train and makes for a great day trip.

Visit the royal palaces, explore the European Parliament, wander through marvellous art galleries and enjoy some great tasting beer and food.

The historic, medieval streets of Ghent are also just an hour away by train from Antwerp and offer you the chance to explore one of the most historic cities in Belgium.

Quite simply, Ghent is stunning. This is historic European architecture at its best, in a supreme riverside location. There are castles, cathedrals, spires and towers, and the city really is straight out of a fairy tale.

Mechelen is a small city that sees few tourists in comparison to Belgium’s other major tourist destinations, but this under visited location boasts one of the finest cathedrals in the country.

Just a twenty-minute train ride from Antwerp, and you can spend the day exploring historic sights and, like everywhere in Belgium, trying the local beers!

Recommend tours in Antwerp

• 3-Hour Private Highlights with Non-Classic Stories Tour in Antwerp
• 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour
• Private Beer Tasting Tour with a Local in Antwerp
• 1 Hour Antwerp Citytour Hop On Hop Off
• Walking Tour: Historic Antwerp
• Legends of Antwerp – Private Tour
• 3-Hour Private Tour with Highlights in Antwerp
• 2 Hour Segway City Tours Antwerp Belgium

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Go from London to Antwerp with a quick change

Travelling to Antwerp with us is simple, smart, and speedy. After a quick change at Brussels-Midi/Zuid, you’ll be there in no time. And whether you’re going for work or play, we’ll get you there feeling relaxed and rested. Read on to discover why taking Eurostar from London to Antwerp is the only way to travel.

Departing from London St Pancras

Arrive at St Pancras International at the recommended arrival time  so you have time for passport and luggage checks, then step straight onto your train, find your seat and settle in for a hassle-free trip to Belgium.

Your Eurostar Any Belgian Station ticket will take you all the way to Antwerp, with a quick platform change in Brussels.

What's on board?

Wherever you sit, you can email, tweet and post all the way with our free onboard wi-fi. You’ll find power sockets at your seat, so you can stay charged up while you relax. If you find yourself feeling peckish, you can enjoy a range of hot and cold drinks and sweet and savoury snacks at Eurostar Café . And if you’re travelling in Standard Premier or Business Premier, you’ll be served a three-course meal at your seat. Find out more about our food on board . Whether you’re travelling for work, a special occasion, or heading away on a budget break, we’ve got the travel class for you. Check out our seats in Standard , Standard Premier and Business Premier .

Connecting from Brussels to Antwerp

When you get to Brussels-Midi/Zuid, take the stairs down to the main station and check the departure boards for the next train to Antwerp. You don’t need a booking, your Eurostar ticket covers the local train to Antwerp, so just hop on a train and find a seat. If you’ve been travelling in Standard Premier, you’ll continue in 1st class on the local train too.

Missed your connection because of a delay or cancellation?

You can hop on the next available train (HOTNAT) when travelling on high-speed services which are part of the Railteam alliance. 

Frequently asked questions

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-2);-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;-webkit-box-pack:end;-ms-flex-pack:end;-webkit-justify-content:flex-end;justify-content:flex-end;} .css-19f252s{-webkit-align-self:center;-ms-flex-item-align:center;align-self:center;padding-top:2px;} .css-16gm2n{margin:0rem 0rem 0rem 1remimportant;width:1.5remimportant;height:1.5remimportant;display:inline-block;background-color:#00286a;-webkit-mask:url(https://static.eurostar.com/ui/design-system/icons/chevronbrandeddown.svg);mask:url(https://static.eurostar.com/ui/design-system/icons/chevronbrandeddown.svg);-webkit-mask-size:contain;mask-size:contain;-webkit-mask-repeat:no-repeat;mask-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-mask-position:center;mask-position:center;-webkit-mask-size:contain;-webkit-mask-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-mask-position:center;}@media (forced-colors: active){.css-16gm2n{background-color:buttontext;}.css-16gm2n:hover{background-color:buttontext;}}.

Typically, the train journey from London to Antwerp takes 3hrs 17mins. When you view the available tickets, you will be able to see the length of the train journey for each departure time.

Are there additional fees when travelling with the Eurostar?

Unlike airlines, there are no hidden costs when travelling by Eurostar. Once you have picked your train tickets, there will be no additional fees for seat selection, advanced booking, or luggage allowance.

How far in advance can you book your Eurostar train ticket?

Eurostar tickets from London to Nantes can be booked up to 180 days before your return travel date, however, there are a few exceptions depending on engineering work or when you book. Have a look at our booking calendar and available days will show in black while the greyed-out dates are not available for sale just yet.

Can you take liquids on the Eurostar train?

You can take liquids on the Eurostar and there is no volume limit, so you can bring all your toiletries and even a bottle of bubbly!

Can you take your own food on the Eurostar train?

There are no food restrictions, so you’re allowed to bring your own food from home on the Eurostar.

How much luggage can I bring with me on the Eurostar?

Standard adult tickets allow you to bring two pieces of luggage that are up to 85cm long, and one small piece of hand luggage such as a handbag or briefcase. Find out more information about luggage allowances .

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A guide to Antwerp, Belgium's striking second city

​An arresting clash of old-world grandeur and industrial power plays out across Belgium’s unpretentious second city, home to historic dockyards, award-winning cuisine, captivating museums and some of the country’s best beer.

Antwerp has long been at the centre of things. Belgium’s handsome northern city grew wealthy on the profits of its port, trading since the 16th century in glittering diamonds, priceless works of art and the spices and spoils of assorted empires. The Port of Antwerp remains extraordinary: a   Blade Runner -esque noirscape of industrial architecture, where the rusted hulks of old trade ships sit side-by-side with space-age modern buildings, presided over by a steel canopy of creaking girders and looming cranes. Nothing encapsulates the port’s double-edged character like the Zaha Hadid-designed Havenhuis, where a futurist, diamond-like building glitters atop a historic former fire station. In the midst of it all are remnants of the port’s pre-industrial life — lonely church towers, frozen windmills and, most charming of all, the village of Lillo: a pocket of Old Flanders marooned among reed beds and duckboard walkways.

Today, most visitors arrive in Antwerp by train, with the city’s heritage on show in the cavernous marble hallways of Antwerpen- Centraal railway station, a masterwork of art nouveau architecture. This style crops up throughout the city, most notably in the fashionable district of Zurenborg, where eye-catching houses are testament to a boom during the late 1800s. Antwerp is no stranger to fortune, of course; before that, in the 16th and 17th centuries, the city was famed for the riches of its citizens. A wealth of grand Flemish buildings survive from this era, including the home of Peter Paul Rubens, the masterly painter whose work remains the pride of Antwerp.

Despite this grand past, the city is a straightforward kind of place, where bustling cosmopolitanism and commercialism can still be felt everywhere. Car-boot traders cheerfully set up shop in the grand squares of the historic core, and the boxy post-war architecture south of the train station makes a humble setting for the world’s most lucrative diamond district.

The character of the city also reveals itself through food: even with a galaxy of Michelin stars, the favoured local dish remains, reassuringly, a steaming pot of moules with a bucket of frites. This unpretentious spirit pervades the city, whether you’re dining by lamplight in the rarefied surrounds of the historic stock exchange or rubbing shoulders with the bright young things of Belgium’s most vibrant nightlife scene.

Antwerp’s broad, leafy boulevards and outdoor cafes might evoke those of Paris, but in the cobbled, 16th-century alleyways, Flemish townhouses and sprawling, retrofuturist port, Antwerp shows its true face: one which is all its own.

Things to see and do

1. Cathedral of Our Lady Among the treasures in Antwerp’s Gothic cathedral are two vast Peter Paul Rubens triptychs — including his masterwork, The Elevation of the Cross. Little chapels branch off from the ambulatory, adorned with kaleidoscopic stained glass that floods the marble in technicolour on sunny days. You can also worship at the altar of Belgian beer at De Plek, the cathedral’s bistro-bar.  

2. Museum Plantin-Moretus For a vivid illustration of the wealth that flowed through Antwerp in the 16th century, visit the former home and workshop of printing magnate Christophe Plantin. Gorgeous rooms, decked out in dark wood, harbour magnificently wellpreserved artifacts of the printing revolution, including the world’s two oldest surviving printing presses, dating from around 1600. There are also priceless manuscripts, including the grandly illuminated Wenceslas Bible.  

3. Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA) Reopening in September 2022 after being closed for over a decade, the neoclassical building that houses the Royal Museum of Fine Arts has had a top-drawer makeover and will once again be the best place in Antwerp to admire the works of the Flemish Masters. Collection highlights include Hans Memling’s Portrait of a Man with a Roman Medal and Jean Fouquet’s Madonna Surrounded by Seraphim and Cherubim.  

4. Rubenshuis The stereotype of the artist starving in a dark garret wasn’t for painter Peter Paul Rubens, as his former home and workplace attests. Buying the grand property in 1610, he transformed it into something akin to an Italian palazzo, with a neoclassical courtyard and even a miniature ‘Pantheon’ room. Rubens’ own works are also exhibited here, of course; meet the artist’s gaze in his self-portrait.  

5. Red Star Line Museum Antwerp’s most captivating human-interest museum chronicles the lives of some of the two million passengers who departed Europe for the US on the Red Star Line ships, including Albert Einstein and Irving Berlin. The museum outlines the struggles and indignities faced by the passengers, who endured stringent medical examinations and rough living conditions on the journey.  

6. Mas Museum This angular, red sandstoneand- glass confection is the city’s largest museum, with its varied exhibitions spanning everything from Antwerp’s food scene to pre-Columbian art. Those interested in the mechanics of museums will be fascinated by ‘A Look at the Collection’, which tells the human stories behind chosen objects, including who made, used and collected them.  

How to explore like a local  

1. Ulminator Hundreds of Belgium’s famous beers can be sampled at this under-the-radar bar, where the elderly proprietors will only deign to let you in if you ring the bell then utter the password, “I am here to taste beer.” Inside are board games and a quiet atmosphere. One for the purists.

2. Exotic Market The rather vaguely named Exotic Market sees locals descend every Saturday on the Oudevaartplaats, not far from the Rubenshuis, for a worldwide street food tour. Alongside Belgian classics (shrimp croquettes and   stroopwafels ) are stalls selling French cheese and charcuterie, Moroccan small plates, Mexican quesadillas and more.

3. De Roma A sumptuous art deco auditorium is the centrepiece of this 1920s former cinema, which now serves as a multipurpose performance venue. Local bands and singers grace the stage along with international acts on tour; indie films are shown; and there are expos and events on issues as diverse as refugees and mental health.  

4. Seef Brewery There are several great brewery tours to choose from in Antwerp (including at the legendary De Koninck), but Seef’s is the best. Owner Johan Van Dyck is a colourful character who will talk you through his revival of Antwerp’s historic Seefbier, a cloudy buckwheat blonde known as ‘working man’s champagne’. The tour is followed by tastings, naturally.  

Where to eat

Fish a'Gogo It’s a crowded field, but this legendary street shack just off the Grote Markt does the best fish and frites in Antwerp. Perch at a tiny sea-blue wooden table and chair and order the house specialities — mussels in white wine sauce or shrimp croquettes, served with that most Belgian of accompaniments: chips and mayonnaise. Oysters, when in season, are also a fantastic choice.  

InVINcible This relaxed restaurant has a reassuringly slim menu: a creamy pancetta pasta, rich bouillabaisse and lamb sausage are the mainstays, alongside what may just be the finest steak in Antwerp. Opt to sit at the bar surrounding the open kitchen for a lively, sociable dining experience.  

Fiera The grand surroundings of Antwerp’s former stock exchange form the backdrop of this elegant city-centre restaurant, all ornately carved stone archways and wood panelling worthy of a cathedral. Just as spectacular as the setting is the food, including mouth-melting kobe beef and truffle pappardelle.

Where to shop

Luddites Books and Wine Urbane travellers will feel right at home in this charming bookshop, which has a decent English-language selection among its cookery books, novels, poetry and assorted non-fiction. Shopping done, head upstairs to the laid-back bar, where you can enjoy a glass of wine while leafing through your purchases.  

The Chocolate Line Self-described ‘shockolatier’ Dominique Persoone puts a modern, vibrant spin on traditional Belgian chocolate. The purple selection boxes offer a rotating medley of Dominique’s creative offerings, which include treats infused with matcha and bergamot, calamansi and pine nuts, and more. They all look and taste like tiny works of art.  

Dries Van Noten The ‘Antwerp Six’ are the most prominent movers and shakers on the city’s world-renowned fashion scene. Among them, Dries van Noten has garnered particular appeal for his colourful threads. His flagship shop is on Nationalestraat, just a few steps from the ModeMuseum, where you’ll find an informative exhibition of the finest work by Antwerp’s designers.  

Where to go for nightlife

Jazzcafe de Muze Hang out with Antwerp’s hepcats at this glorious, cavernous jazz bar, which resounds with live music five nights a week. Pull up a chair at one of the wooden tables, spread across two floors, and soak up the lounge-like atmosphere while sampling a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits.

Davai If you need a break from Belgian beer, look no further than this voguish cocktail bar, decked out with wooden pallets, potted plants and bare bulbs. The menu spans dozens of classic and creative cocktails; try the oriental blossom, with rum, elderflower and ginger.  

Ampere Antwerp’s clubbing scene outperforms that of sedate Brussels, and Ampere is one of the city’s finest institutions. The emphasis is on house and techno, with world-leading international acts such as Nina Kraviz and Joris Voorn appearing alongside Belgian veterans like Marco Bailey. Workshops in music production, video and photography are held here during the day.

Where to stay

Yust Combining sociability with an eye for design, this ultra-stylish hostel has bookcases lined with arty books, plush banquettes bookended with houseplants and a breezy rooftop garden complete with sofas. The dorms are charming, too, with recessed wooden bunks and cosy window seats. Large private rooms are also available.

Hotel Rubens Down a quiet side street off bustling Grote Markt, Hotel Rubens promises the best of both worlds. The rooms and stylish communal areas have an airy, modern feel that belies their historic surroundings, and some overlook the baroque tower of St Paul’s Church.  

Botanic Sanctuary This exquisite hotel, set in a 12th-century monastery and surrounded by botanical gardens, is the epitome of peace and quiet. Rooms feature splendid wooden beams and period windows, but are otherwise modern and understated, with an earthy colour palette and in-room greenery. There are four excellent fine-dining restaurants, including traditional Belgian offerings at 1238.  

Getting there and around

The quickest and most comfortable way to get to Antwerp from the UK is to travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels and then take one of the many regular trains onwards to Antwerp.  

Average journey time:   2h40m.

British Airways , Brussels Airlines , Lufthansa and Ryanair fly from UK airports, including Manchester and Heathrow, to Brussels, but not directly to Antwerp.  

Average flight time: 1h20m.

It’s possible and enjoyable to explore the majority of Antwerp’s attractions on foot. For sights further afield, use the efficient De Lign transit network — tickets, bought online or at stops, can be used on buses and trams — or Antwerp’s waterbus. Bikes can be rented using the Velo network. delijn.be portofantwerpbruges.com velo-antwerpen.be

Summer is pleasant, with plenty of sun and temperatures generally falling between 20C and 25C. Rainfall is a possibility year-round, and in fact is slightly higher in the summer months, so a waterproof layer is always advisable. Spring and autumn are relatively mild, while December is also a good time to visit as the traditional Christmas markets open.

More information

Antwerp Tourism .   The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg , £9.99

How to do it

Eurostar offers three nights in Antwerp at the NH Collection Antwerp Centre hotel B & B, including trains from London, from £310 per person.

Published in the September 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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I took the train to Antwerp, Belgium – here’s my guide to the city

In the final leg of our odyssey to celebrate 50 years of Interrail, we explore a city that’s seriously hip, but also caters for those who are just beer-curious

I s it Colin Farrell’s fault that Antwerp isn’t better known, or loved? Ever since the 2008’s In Bruges, that is the city that has cornered the market as Belgium’s quirky tourist destination, while the country’s actual coolest city flies under the radar. With a historic centre that’s a blend of picturesque streets and shopping heaven, Antwerp ought to be far better known. In size, population and cultural significance, it’s comparable to Edinburgh, and if you’re coming from London the train journey is an hour faster.

Fashion rules here, thanks to the global influence of a breakthrough group of 1980s designers that included Dries van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester. The Antwerp Six, as they became known, cemented the city’s reputation as a happening place, and their legacy manifests today in the hundreds of ateliers, outlets and concept stores among the shopfronts. Many of the streets have their own individual feel: Meir, the most famous thoroughfare, is dominated by high-street brands, Schuttershofstraat offers high-end luxury labels, while Nationalestraat and Kammenstraat are the places to go for new names and local designers, from haute couture to streetwear. The ModeMuseum (or “MoMu”) has been hosting impressive exhibitions of contemporary fashion for 20 years, with a library, bookshop and cafe that have turned it into a spiritual home for fashion students and industry professionals alike. Expect it to be an even more popular hangout when it reopens in October after a major expansion and two-year renovation.

Adjacent to the fashion district, the medieval and renaissance streets of the city centre bustle with nightlife, emanating from the Grote Markt, a square overlooked by the beautiful facades of its 16th- and 17th-century guildhalls. To the north, Europe’s second-largest seaport sits on the banks of the Scheldt river, and its docks and surrounding areas have benefited from considerable investment in the past decade, including a space-age port authority building designed by Zaha Hadid. Like most of the city, it’s an area best explored by bike rather than on foot – the distances are far more comfortable to cover on two wheels, while the trams and buses can be irregular.

There are all sorts of delights to be discovered as you venture away from the centre. In Zurenborg, for instance, is the nexus of Antwerp’s most extraordinary townhouses: fin-de-siècle mansions, built in eclectic and ever more extravagant styles, line Cogels-Osylei and Waterloostraat. Expanding ever southwards is a mix of enjoyably cosy family suburbs and hip, emerging districts such as Berchem, where the locals have taken up the habit of writing inspiring or philosophical quotes on the inside of their windows. The neighbouring “Green Quarter” is a car-free development in the grounds of a former military hospital, whose chapel is now the stunning backdrop to The Jane , chef Nick Bril’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant; in 2019 Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen transformed a nearby Augustinian convent into the August hotel.

Eat and Drink

Antwerp is a great place to visit if you’re beer-curious, and a good start is the De Koninck City Brewery . It makes the city’s popular bolleke beer, named after the goblet-style glasses it is served in, and its visitor centre is an impressive food complex where a baker, a butcher, a cheesemaker and a chocolatier all sell their wares. Within a minute’s walk are some great post-tasting dining options – head to Black Smoke for barbecue, or De Pelgrim for celebrated vol-au-vents.

Craft beers from across Belgium are on offer at the special Belgian taproom in PAKT , the Green Quarter’s hidden gem. Since 2017, food entrepreneurs and urban farmers have filled this warren of warehouses with sustainable businesses, including rooftop diner Racine and coffee roastery Caffènation . For a more traditional beer experience try Cafe Zeezicht , with its wood-panelled rooms and cool clientele. It sits on Dageraadplaats, a charming square handy for a number of neighbourhood restaurants, including the vegetarian Salt & Mint , whose Moroccan cuisine reflects Antwerp’s strong north African community.

The Schipperskwartier and Eilandje districts around Antwerp’s old port boast a buzzy nightlife, and the old town remains a popular place to eat, drink and stay out late: Fiera brings fine dining and a smart crowd to the classily restored stock exchange building, the Handelsbeurs, while at tiny brasserie Invincible diners can sit at the counter and watch the chefs assemble the wine-paired dishes – from lobster sausage to salt-crusted dorade.

Antwerp’s history as a trading town has been rich in all senses. Museums abound here and one of the best is also one of the newest: MAS – the Museum Aan de Stroom – sits in the centre of the docks like a piece of Lego in the middle of a carpet, and its cubic design contains 10 themed floors relating to the art and culture of the city. It’s the kind of place you can return to again and again, and worth the visit alone for the ride up the outward-facing escalators to the long-range view from its roof. Another must is the Rubenshuis , the 17th-century family home of Antwerp’s most famous artist, Peter Paul Rubens. There’s something compellingly transgressive about the way you’re allowed to let yourself into his historic, canvas-covered rooms, as if you’re nosing around while he’s out at the shops.

Art is a major constituent of Antwerp’s cultural capital and KMSKA – the Royal Museum of Fine Arts – whose collection covers seven centuries, will reopen in September after a considerable upgrade. Fomu , in the fashionable “Zuid” or south district, is one of the most important photography museums in Europe, exhibiting works by international names and screening films daily in its two beautiful cinemas (many in their original English). Dutch-language theatre is a popular outing for Antwerpers, and the city has its own vibrant theatre district, the Quartier Latin. In the old town, capacious jazz cafe De Muze is a staple of the music scene, and has been serving live gigs almost every evening since 1964.

Neighbourhood

It’s just over 15 minutes by bike from the town centre to Nachtegalenpark, 90 hectares (220 acres) of green space formed by the erstwhile aristocratic estates of Vogelenzang, Middelheim and Den Brandt. They’ve belonged to the city since 1910, and offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation, from peaceful walks through leafy woods or horticultural gardens to children’s play areas and sports clubs (there’s even an unexpectedly popular cricket club).

The showpiece is the Middelheim museum , an open-air sculpture park displaying more than 200 works in a stunningly varied setting. You could walk around for hours without seeing the same thing twice, stumbling across a Rodin here, a Hepworth there, and the pavilion at its centre contains thousands more artworks in its repository. Quirky postmodern pieces interact with older items, and there are numerous outbuildings dotted around the grounds including a cafe-restaurant at the and residential streets around the park contain a fascinatingly varied selection of Belgian architecture.

Where to stay

On a quiet sidestreet in the creative heart of Berchem is Yust , which opened in 2019 with the aim of being as much a community as a hotel. Its rooms, in a building that housed the city’s telephone and electrical works at the turn of the 20th century, include everything from hostel dorms to deluxe suites and long-term loft rentals, with a lobby that doubles as a co-working space and a restaurant that presents its offerings as a variety of sharing-plate set menus. A busy calendar of talks, events and hangouts encourage guests to connect with each other, and there are normal and electric bikes to rent. Dorm beds from £24, private rooms from £80

Emma John travelled on a pass provided by Interrail ; prices start at £ 155 . Her trip was provided by Visit Antwerp

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24 Best Things To Do in Antwerp (+Insider Tips & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 29, 2024

Visiting Belgium’s second-largest city and wondering what to see and do in Antwerp ? In this article, we share the very best places to see and top things to do in Antwerp, coupled with our insider tips and advice. Find out!

First, let me tell you that it’s a great choice to visit Antwerp! In my opinion, Antwerp is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium and well worth visiting !

We live nearby and I just love Antwerp, so I might be a bit biased. But to me, Antwerp is a perfect mix of history and modern trendy places; it’s a city that has an amazing vibe and keeps on reinventing itself. I’m certain that you’ll love it here as well and I hope that our tips will help you plan a more memorable visit to Antwerp!

In this article, we share the very best things to see and do in Antwerp . It’s an insider’s guide to the best places that you have to see if visiting the city for the first time.

In addition to the most famous landmarks, we also included the best new additions, things to do in Antwerp that you won’t find in the older tourist guides. At the bottom of this article, you can also find the map indicating the best things to do in Antwerp , as well as our suggested walking route. We also share some suggestions on where to stay .

I hope that this will not only inspire you to come to visit Antwerp, spend a bit more time here, and explore deeper but will also help you to get the most out of your trip. Find out!

TIP: If you are short on time and want to experience the best of Antwerp in a nutshell, I recommend joining a city tour with a local. Here are the best-rated 2-3 hour city tours:

• Historic Antwerp walking tour
• The highlights of Antwerp by bike
• Private walking tour

Best things to do in Antwerp – how to use this guide

If you only have limited time in Antwerp, you will probably want to see the most famous landmarks that the city is known for. Below are the main highlights, most popular things to do in Antwerp . I listed them in the same order as you would visit if you start walking or biking from the Central Station.

The tasty additions to the best places to see in Antwerp – Antwerp Chocolate Museum and Antwerp City Brewery – are listed in the end. These are not a must but will make your visit to the city even more memorable.

To help you better plan your time in the city, I also created a map with a sample city walk itinerary to help you get the best out of your time in Antwerp.

Even if you are visiting Antwerp for just one day, you can see most of the best places. However, please note that if you want to actually visit (and not just see the exterior) every place on this list, you will need at least two days.

TIP: Renting a bike or joining a guided bike tour is a great way to see the best of Antwerp, especially if you are short on time and want to cover a lot of ground.

Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Antwerp :

1. Central Station – Antwerpen Centraal

The central station of Antwerp is one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. The building’s exterior is very impressive, but to truly appreciate it, you have to see it from the inside.

The most impressive is the main hall (main entrance on the side of Koningin Astridplein) and also the big hall with a clock as seen from the ground level.

Central Station is one of the places you must see in Antwerp. Don’t miss it! If you arrive in Antwerp by train, you will start your city visit here anyway, so don’t rush outside when you arrive and take some time to look around the building.

2. Antwerp Zoo

Established in 1843, Antwerp Zoo is the oldest animal park in Belgium and one of the oldest in the world. This historic zoo is located in the center of Antwerp, right next to the Antwerpen Centraal railway station.

A visit to the zoo is the perfect way to escape the hustle and the bustle of the city, while at the same time being right in the heart of town.

Antwerp Zoo can be visited the whole year as there are indoor as well as outdoor attractions. There are all kinds of activities and shows and you can easily spend a good couple of hours here. Don’t miss it if you are visiting Antwerp with kids !

Antwerp Zoo is considered one of the best things to do in Antwerp for locals and tourists alike. However, the tickets are quite expensive. So if you only have one day in Antwerp, you may find that other places are worth your time and money more. But if you have 2-3 hours to spare in your itinerary (or if you are traveling with children), this historic zoo is well worth a visit.

3. Diamond District

Antwerp has been known as the diamond capital of the world since 1447 and it still is today.

Right next to Central Station is the famous diamond district of Antwerp , the place where rough and polished diamonds are traded. You can’t really visit the trading markets, but there are plenty of shops selling diamond jewelry… I bet you have never seen so many diamonds and jewelry in one place!

The majority of diamond stores are concentrated in a triangle of three streets to the west of the Central Station: De Keyserlei, Pelikaanstraat, and Vestingstraat. Most diamond shops are open every day except Saturday.

TIP: If you want to buy diamonds, make sure to bargain. Negotiating the price is normally not done in Belgium, but Antwerp’s diamond stores are an exception to the rule.

In fact, it might be worth it to make a trip to Antwerp if you are considering buying diamonds. On a bigger purchase, you can save so much that your whole trip to Belgium will easily pay back for itself.

4. City Park

Antwerp City Park is another great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city life.

It’s a nice place to visit with kids or if you have some time to spare. But, to be completely honest, it’s not an absolute must among the things to do in Antwerp. So – as it often goes – it all depends on how much time you have in the city.

The park isn’t big and it’s quite centrally located, so it’s quite easy to check it out on your way between the station and the old town.

5. Meir Shopping Street

The Meir shopping area encompasses the streets surrounding the area from the Cathedral all the way to the Central Station.

Meir is a prime shopping destination in Belgium , but there is more to it than the shops. Thanks to its historic architecture and prestigious character, the Meir makes shopping feel special.

Not only do the buildings make it worth a visit, but the offerings are also first-rate. You’ll find all the major, international brands here. Don’t miss Antwerp’s Stadsfeestzaal , an exclusive shopping center in the beautifully restored city festival hall. It’s one of the hidden gems of Antwerp that most tourists don’t know about.

6. The Rubens House

If tourists visit just one museum in Antwerp, they usually choose the Rubens House . World-famous Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens lived in this palazzo with his family. He created many of his paintings in this house, in the center of Antwerp.

The museum has an interesting collection of Rubens’ works but also shows how the master lived and worked. It doesn’t require much time and it’s really worth a visit.

Good to know: At the moment of the last update, the Rubens House is undergoing renovation. While the main house of the master will be closed for a few years, the gardens and the interactive Rubens Experience will reopen from 30 August 2024. For practical information, please check the official website of the Rubens House .

TIP: You can also see lots of Rubens’ paintings inside the Antwerp Cathedral (see below). Also the beautifully-renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts also has some of his works. In fact, this museum is a wonderful alternative to the Rubens House while it remains closed. You can find more information about it further below.

7. Belgium’s Best Boutique Shopping

After leaving the Rubenshuis to continue in the direction of the Graanmarkt . It’s a nice little square and it’s usually amazingly quiet compared to the surrounding streets.

If you are interested in (window) shopping, then you will love the Schuttershofstraat and the Huidevettersstraat . Here, you can find some of the world’s most luxury boutique stores like Hermès, Chanel, or Louis Vuitton to name just a few.

Antwerp is also the fashion capital of Belgium and home to one of the best-known fashion designer schools in Europe. Some of the best Belgian designers also have their shops in Antwerp. If you are looking to buy some unique clothing, this is the place to be.

And if you are looking for some really good Belgian chocolate, you’ll also find some of the best brands in this area. Look for Neuhaus, Pierre Marcolini, Godiva, or Leonidas, and pass on the chocolate that you find at the souvenir shops.

8. Plantin – Moretus Museum

If you like history and somewhat unusual museums, you will enjoy a visit to Plantin – Moretus Museum . This is my personal favorite museum in Antwerp and I highly recommend it to everyone.

It’s the only museum on the Unesco World Heritage list and is the only remaining printing workshop and publishing house in the world, dating back to the 16th century. You can admire the beautiful buildings, the richly decorated interior of this mansion, see an impressive library, and the printing house. You also learn so much about the art of book printing. This is such a fascinating place and it exceeded all my expectations.

If you have some time left in between other great things to do in Antwerp, check it out! Platin-Moretus Museum is also a great place to visit in Antwerp when it rains.

Practical information: Platin-Moretus Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. You can easily spend two hours here. More info here .

9. Groenplaats

Antwerp’s Green Square is the perfect place for those who want to laze around on a warm summer’s day under the sun and enjoy watching the city from the comfort of a cozy café.

If you are looking for McDonald’s or Starbucks, you can find them here, together with many local cafes and restaurants. A little tourist train departs from Groenplaats in summer and is fun for adults and children alike.

Antwerp has an old tradition of open markets and you can find the daily flower market on the Groenplaats. The Antwerp Christmas market is also (partially) located on this square.

10. Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady

Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady ( Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal ) is the highest Gothic building in the Low Countries. It’s an iconic building, but also a treasury with an impressive collection of major artworks, including several paintings by Rubens.

You can join the guided tour of the Cathedral or explore it at your own pace. There is an 8 EUR fee to visit the Cathedral for adults (kids are free). If you’re coming for the mass, the entrance is free of course, but you won’t be able to see the best parts. There’s also a mass in English; it’s held on Saturdays at 5 PM.

At the moment, the exterior of the Cathedral is being renovated and you can’t see it in all its glory. However, you can still see all the masterpieces inside.

Good to know: The Cathedral is open daily, usually from 10 AM to 5 PM. Opening hours differ on the weekends. For more info, see their website .

11. Grote Markt

Grote Markt is the main square of Antwerp and is one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. The magnificent 16th-century City Hall (Stadhuis) dominates the square surrounded by the beautiful Guild Houses .

If there is one place you absolutely have to see in Antwerp, it’s the Grote Markt.

You cannot overlook the Brabo Fountain , right in the center of the square. According to the legend, Brabo killed a giant who demanded a high toll for each ship that wanted to enter the city. If the ship’s crew wouldn’t pay the toll, their hands were cut off. The little Brabo fought the giant, cut his hand, and threw it in the river. The fountain’s statue depicts this story that is used to explain the origins of the name of the city – Antwerpen – hand werpen meaning ‘to throw a hand’.

Grote Markt is only empty on cold winter mornings; the rest of the time – it’s always busy here. In summer, it’s buzzing with tourists and locals, and lots of events take place here as well.

Filled with cafes and restaurants, Grote Markt is the place that wakes up around noon. If you come here first thing in the morning, you can often have the whole place to yourself. But its lively atmosphere is part of the charm, so we prefer to visit here in the afternoon.

12. Het Elfde Gebod

The café Het Elfde Gebod (The 11th Commandment) can be found on the Northern side in the shadow of the Cathedral and is worth a short stop for a drink.

It might look strange to include a café in the ‘best things to do in Antwerp’ list, but it’s such a special place that you really should check it out when in Antwerp. The 11th Commandment has a spectacular interior filled with saints, angels, saints, pulpits, etc. and has kept its authenticity for over 40 years.

You will find many traditional Belgian beers here, including the local Antwerp De Koninck beer (‘t Bolleke), the famous Trappist beers, and more. Non-alcoholic drinks are also available, of course.

13. Saint Carolus Borromeus Church & Hendrik Conscience Town Square

Saint Charles Borromeo Church (Carolus Borromeukerk) is one of the most beautiful churches of Antwerp. It’s slightly hidden and out of sight, located on a charming little town square, Hendrik Conscienceplein .

You have to walk through some narrow cobblestoned streets to see the magnificent facade of this 17th-century Jesuit church.

Antwerp is the most distinctive Baroque city of the Low Countries and Saint Carolus Borromeus church is one of the places you really should see in Antwerp. It’s impressive from the outside, but its rich interior is not to be missed either!

Right opposite the church, you can see Hendrik Conscience Library. This library is home to one of the nicest hidden gems of Antwerp – Nottebohmzaal.

14. Vleeshuis

Vleeshuis (literal translation ‘the meat house, also known as the Butcher’s House) is the oldest guildhall in Antwerp. The 500-year-old building is very impressive from the outside and is worth seeing if you are in the area.

Inside, you can find a museum featuring all kinds of musical instruments. This is a great place to learn about the centuries-old history of music and dance in Antwerp. There is also an exhibition where you can see how the church bells are made. It’s quite interesting!

Plus, it’s worth visiting inside to see the interior of this unique building.

For practical information and opening times, consult the official website of the museum .

15. Het Steen Castle & Antwerp Story

Het Steen is Antwerp’s oldest building. It was built at the beginning of the 13th century and served as a city fortress. This impressive castle lies on the Scheldt river and is just a short walk from the Grote Markt.

In the past, Het Steen was home to the Maritime Museum, later – a child-friendly meeting space with all kinds of workshops for kids. Finally, the city has decided to make better use of this beautiful building and it now serves as a visitor center and a nice place to learn more about the history of Antwerp.

Het Steen is now home to one of the newest attractions in Antwerp – the Antwerp Story . I thought that it would be a bit comparable to the Historium in Bruges , but it’s actually a very different concept. You walk through 11 different rooms, each showcasing different facets of Antwerp in original ways.

Antwerp Story is much more focused on the city as it is today and lots of exhibits are videos of the locals telling stories about the city, etc. While it’s interesting to see, I really wonder if it will appeal to many international visitors… To tell the truth, we found it a bit random and disappointing, and much prefer the concept like the Historium in Bruges which showcases the past of the city.

In addition to the interactive museum, you can enjoy nice views from the panoramic roof terrace of Het Steen, and also the building itself is really impressive to see. There is also a nice store inside where you can buy all kinds of local specialties from the city.

All in all, we highly recommend visiting Het Steen – for the building, the views, and the shop – all of which can be visited for free. But I don’t think you’ll be missing that much if you skip the Antwerp Story, the only part that actually requires a ticket.

This is now one of the best places to visit in Antwerp, so be sure to check it out!

Good to know: Het Steen and the visitor center is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. For more information, see here .

16. Antwerp Ferris Wheel ‘The View’

The View Antwerpen, aka Giant Ferris Wheel, is a ‘traveling’ Antwerp attraction. Sometimes you can find it just outside the central station, next to the Zoo, and sometimes next to Het Steen, by the river.

For a few years, it has settled on the Steenplein next to the river, where the views are really nice. However, as I am updating this article, it moved back to the station due to the works that take place next to the river… I indicated both locations on our map, but you can’t really miss it since you’ll likely pass both of these areas when sightseeing in Antwerp.

Either way, a ride on the Antwerp Giant Wheel gives you a different perspective of the city. We prefer it when it’s next to the river as you can see the river on one side, the historic old town right at your feet, and Antwerp harbor in the distance. But it’s also nice in the center, especially because you get a close view of the impressive facade of the Central Railway Station.

The ‘giant’ wheel isn’t actually that high, but because the buildings in Antwerp are quite low as well, you have good far views of the entire city.

While this is not an absolute must-do in Antwerp, it’s actually quite enjoyable. And since a ride only takes a few minutes of your time, I think it’s worth it. Because the cabins are closed, it’s something nice to do in Antwerp in any weather and any season.

Good to know: Antwerp Ferris Wheel is open daily, from 11 AM to 11 PM. At the moment of the latest update, a ticket costs 9 euros (5 euros for kids), and usually, you get 4 rounds.

17. Scheldt River and Antwerp Harbor

The harbor has always been of utmost importance to the city of Antwerp. So make sure to take a short walk next to the river Scheldt and get the feel of what this port-city is truly about. Antwerp is Europe’s second-largest seaport and ranks among the world’s top ten. You can usually see some large container ships in the distance.

The cruise ships visiting Antwerp are also docked at the new cruise terminal next to the Steen fortress, right in the center of the city.

If you have a couple of hours to spare, consider a boat tour in Antwerp harbor , or simply take the waterbus for a short ride to St Anna on the other side of the river – see below. But if you only have a day in the city, this is not a must.

TIP: There are now also great boat connections from Steen Castle to the other side of the river by waterbus . And so if you have more time, you could take a boat to St. Anna Beach on the Left Bank ( Linkeroever ). You can then take a nice walk along the river, and have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants there.

The waterbus runs frequently, the ride to St. Anna takes less than 10 minutes (just one stop), and you don’t have to reserve in advance. It’s something nice to do if you are visiting Antwerp in summer and have at least two days in the city.

18. St. Paul’s Church

St. Paul’s Church is impressive both from the outside as well as from the inside. The 18th-century Calvary with 60 life-sized statues is not to be missed. But also inside the church, there are hundreds of statues and lots of masterpieces by famous Flemish painters such as Rubens, Van Balen, and Van Dyck. Definitely worth a short visit!

We first discovered this hidden gem when exploring some off the beaten path places in Antwerp with kids. But I think it’s one of the unique landmarks that deserves a mention on this list of must-see places in Antwerp as well.

Note that the church is only open in the afternoon from 2 PM to 5 PM, and only in the high season (summer and Christmas).

19. Het Eilandje District and MAS Museum

The modern red building of the MAS museum in the new trendy Het Eilandje district has quickly become one of the landmarks, a must-see place in Antwerp.

MAS has many interesting expositions, but the interior of this modern building is just as impressive. Make sure to also go all the way to the top of the building. The rooftop terrace of MAS has some of the best views of Antwerp.

Practical information: The entrance to the museum building and the rooftop terrace is free of charge; the rest of the museum requires a ticket. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. More info on their website .

20. The Port House

The Port House of Antwerp ( Havenhuis Antwerpen ) is yet another recent addition to Antwerp’s skyline. When it was first opened in 2016, it was called the New Port House. It’s now the head office of the Antwerp Port Authority and is simply called the Port House.

It is one of the most impressive buildings I have ever seen and it’s fascinating to watch this ‘diamond ship’ change in a different light.

Visits inside are possible but require advance reservation and it’s not straightforward (at the moment of the latest update, only group reservations are possible – see here for more info). However, the building is the most impressive from the outside anyway, and therefore easy to visit at any time of day or even at night when it’s nicely lit.

TIP: Because the New Port House is located a bit further away from the city center, it’s easiest to visit with a bike tour or with a rental bike. Some harbor boat tours pass here as well.

21. Red Star Line Museum

Red Star Line Museum is a trip back in time with the stories of people who sailed from here to find a new life in North America. You can also climb to the top of the tower for nice views of ‘t Eilandje district and the harbor.

Together with the Plantin-Moretus Museum (mentioned higher above), this is one of my personal favorite museums in Antwerp, also a good place to visit with kids. A visit here is very touching and eye-opening. Believe me, you’ll never look at emigration with the same eyes after visiting the Red Star Line Museum.

This rather recent museum is, in my opinion, one of the best things to do in Antwerp! Count 1.5-2 hours for a visit.

Practical information: The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. More info on their website .

22. Royal Museum of Fine Arts

The newest addition to the best places to see in Antwerp is the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (or KMSKA – Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten Antwerpen ). I say ‘new’ because it has recently reopened its doors after eleven years of renovations.

This is now one of the best art museums in Antwerp and one that’s definitely worth considering if you have a few hours to spare in the city. It could also be a good alternative for the Rubens House while it remains closed for renovations.

Some of the best pieces not to miss at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts include Rubens’ “The Adoration of the Magi”, a collection of several paintings by James Ensor, Jean Fouquet’s “Madonna Surrounded by Seraphim and Cherubim”, and Jan Van Eyck’s “Saint Barbara”.

But there are many more incredible masterpieces at this museum. And the way it’s been renovated and the artworks are presented, makes it one of the best art museums in Belgium. Recommended!

Good to know: The museum is open daily from 10 AM and has a late opening on Thursday evenings. You can reserve a time slot in advance, but normally, you can just get your tickets there. For more info, see their website . This is one of the few Antwerp attractions that is also open on Monday!

KMSKA is located a bit further away from other main sights and landmarks in Antwerp, so we didn’t indicate a walking route here. But it’s really just a small detour and absolutely worth it.

23. Chocolate Nation

Chocolate Nation is the largest Belgian Chocolate Museum in the world. Opened in 2018, this unique and interactive museum is one of the newest additions to Antwerp’s tourist attractions. It has quickly become one of the most popular places to see in Antwerp.

Interesting fact. The very first Belgian chocolate factory opened in Antwerp in 1831. This new chocolate museum brings history to life and is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Antwerp for all types of visitors, no matter your group size or interests.

Everyone I know who visited Chocolate Nation really enjoyed it, so it’s not just ‘for tourists’. The delicious chocolates that you get to taste (or take home with you) make the visit even better, of course.

We recently took our kids here and the whole family had such a great time! The exhibitions are really well done, with lots of interaction where you can see, feel, smell, and taste chocolate while learning all about it in a fun way.

Good to know: Chocolate Nation is located very close to the Central Station and is open every day (see their website for more practical info). Check it out when in Antwerp!

24. Bolleke Beer & Antwerp City Brewery De Koninck

Belgian beers are world-famous and every city and region has its own special beers that they are proud of. The most famous beer in Antwerp is Bolleke from De Koninck Brewery.

If you like to taste a traditional local beer when visiting Antwerp, be sure to ask for ‘ Bolleke ’ at any café or restaurant. If you prefer light beer (which is actually stronger), you may want to try Tripel d’Anvers – also from the same brewery.

In addition – if you want to know more about these and other Antwerp- and Belgian beers, you can also visit the Antwerp City Brewery De Koninck . Here, you can learn all about the history of Belgian beers, taste Antwerp city beers, and see the entire brewing process.

Here you can find more information and reserve your visit . The interactive tours are self-guided, so you can visit when it suits you. Every tour includes beer tasting as well (two beers).

Good to know: Antwerp City Brewery is open daily except on Mondays. It’s located a bit further from all the other major tourist sights, but still within walking distance from the rest (about 30 minutes walk from the old town). We indicated the location on our map below, but didn’t include a walking route here since there are so many options, depending on where you’re coming from.

TIP: If you don’t want to walk, the easiest way to get here is by taking the metro/tram. You can take line #15 from Groenplaats in the Old Town or line #2 from Antwerpen Astrid Metro near the Central Station.

Best things to do in Antwerp – suggested city walk and map

Below, you can find our custom-made city map featuring the best things to do in Antwerp.

I indicated each location mentioned in this post, as well as the suggested walking route for the main sights and attractions.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to stay in Antwerp

If you want to explore the best that Antwerp has to offer, stay for 2-3 nights. This will give you more time to see the best of Antwerp, visit a few museums, do some shopping, experience some of the best food in Belgium, and maybe also find some hidden gems as well.

If you are looking for the best-located hotels for sightseeing in Antwerp , here are our recommendations.

For the very best location in the heart of Old Town , stay close to Groenplaats/ Antwerp Cathedral. Here are some of the best hotels in this area:

• €€€€€ Gulde Schoen The Suite Hotel – a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the old town.
• €€€€ Hilton on the Groenplaats – one of the best-known, historic hotels in Antwerp.
• €€€ Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt – one of the best price/quality/location 4* hotels in the old town.
• €€ HotelO Kathedral – a very nice 3* hotel.

If you don’t mind walking to the main attractions and rather stay close to where you arrive by train, you may like Radisson BLU Astrid Hotel or NH Collection Antwerp Centre . Both these hotels are located near the central station, the Zoo, and close to many shops and restaurants. Usually, these hotels are cheaper and offer better value than comparable hotels in the old town .

LEARN MORE: Best Areas to Stay in Antwerp

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in Antwerp city center . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals available for your stay. Check it out!

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Antwerp . This is in no way a complete list of everything that Antwerp has to offer, but if you are visiting the city for the first time and looking for must-see places in Antwerp, then this list is a good place to start.

TIP: If you have more time and are looking for more things to do in Antwerp, take a look at our guide to some amazing lesser-known places in the city that most tourists never see (but that are well worth your time). Check it out via the link below!

READ ALSO: Amazing Hidden Gems of Antwerp

Enjoy your trip!

Antwerp FAQ

Antwerp in Belgium is best known as the diamond capital of the world and is the second-largest port in Europe. In the 16th century, Antwerp was one of the biggest and richest cities in the world, and many buildings and art in the city date from Antwerp’s Golden Age. Antwerp is also home to one of the best fashion design schools in Europe and is a great city for culture, shopping, and dining.

Antwerp is a city that truly has something to offer to everyone! With its glorious past reflected in the most beautiful historic buildings and world-famous art, but also modern architecture, interesting museums, and some of the best shopping and dining in Europe, Antwerp is more than worth a trip. It’s one of the most diverse cities in Belgium with a great vibe and fantastic atmosphere. In fact, if you visit just one city in Belgium, Antwerp would be our top recommendation.

If you only have a few hours in Antwerp, be sure to visit the Old Town with the Cathedral and the main town square Grote Markt. Also walk to the Scheldt River and Het Steen castle. If you visit just one museum in Antwerp, most people choose the Rubens House, but we also highly recommend the Plantin-Moretus Museum.

You can see the main landmarks of Antwerp in one day, so if one day is all you’ve got, Antwerp is still worth a trip. However, ideally, you plan at least 2 full days for Antwerp. This will give you more time to explore the city beyond the Old Town, visit a few of the best museums, check out some hidden gems, do some shopping, dine at many great restaurants in town and try local beers.

Antwerp is a year-round destination and you’ll enjoy a visit in any season. For the best weather and fewer crowds, visit in May – June or September – October. July and August tend to be busy, but that’s also when the city really comes to life with various outdoor events, concerts, etc. December is also a nice month to visit Antwerp for Christmas shopping, a great holiday atmosphere at the Christmas market.

In general, Antwerp is a very safe place to visit and we never even think twice before walking around the city center at night. If you stay in the main tourist areas around the Old Town, you’ll feel totally safe. That being said – just as in any other big city – use common sense, watch out for pickpockets in the busy areas, and not wander around areas that you don’t know on your own in the dark.

Antwerp is located in the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium. In general, everyone in Flanders also speaks English, so you will have no difficulties communicating in English in Antwerp. Most museums and tourist attractions have signs and info in four languages: Dutch, French, German, and English. Most restaurants will also have an English menu.

More travel inspiration for visiting Antwerp:

• Why Antwerp is Worth Visiting
• For families: Best of Antwerp with Kids (fun things to do – not just for kids!)
• By bike: Discover Antwerp by Bike
• Winter visit: Antwerp Christmas Market

Belgium travel guides:

• Belgium Itinerary – how to see the best of Belgium in 3-4 days
• Interesting to know: Belgium Facts
• Best Things to Do in Brussels
• Manneken-Pis Story
• Is Brussels Safe
• Where to Stay in Brussels
• Best Things to Do in Bruges
• Bruges Belfry Tower
• Bruges Christmas Market
• Dinant: Best Things to Do in Dinant
• Bastogne: Best Things to Do in Bastogne
• WWI sites: Ypres & WWI Battlefields
• WWII sites: Bastogne War Museum
• Winter: Best Christmas Markets in Belgium & What to Expect if Visiting Belgium in Winter
• Spring: Hallerbos Bluebell Forest
• Summer: Brussels Flower Carpet
• For families: Best Theme Parks in Belgium

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

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Wednesday 29th of November 2023

This info is great! Are the markets you mention on everyday and do you have info on how to get to Antwerp from Brussels by train? :)

Hi Sek, no, there are no daily markets in the center. The best one is on Saturday and Sunday on the Theater Square and there are a few more, also mostly on weekends. In the summer, there are more options. You can find an overview here. As for the train, it's very simple - you can take a direct train to Antwerp from Brussels (South, Central, North Stations, Airport, etc.) and there are at least a few trains every hour.

Sunday 2nd of April 2023

Thank you for this guide.. Found something to visit for me (chocolate museum) and my bf (beer museum) 😃. Gonna be a good 2 days in Antwerp!

Tuesday 4th of April 2023

Have a great trip!

Wednesday 16th of November 2022

Thank you for your guide. We are visiting soon but on a Monday! I am a bit worried as it seems at lot of places are closed on Mondays! Can you recommend places to go?

@Jurga, massive help thank you! I have put the fine arts museum on the itinerary 😁

Hi Heloise, don't worry - many places in Antwerp will be open on Monday too and most landmarks you just see from the outside anyway. I see that the recently reopened and beautifully renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp is also open on Mondays (see their website for more info). I haven't been myself yet, but everyone says it's beautiful. So maybe something for you? I just checked some tours and indeed, many of them don't run at the moment or don't run on Mondays. There's a private walking tour that's available daily. I also see that the Hard Rock Cafe is open daily if that's your thing. But you'll find some local restaurants open on Mondays too. Also, most shops should be open too. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Saturday 16th of July 2022

Thank you so much for the best guide I’ve seen online .. I have been researching places to visit with my family and this was the best(:

Tuesday 19th of July 2022

Glad to help, Manal. Have a great time in Antwerp!

Monday 3rd of January 2022

This is a wonderful guide to Antwerpen! Thank you so much, it’s the best guide I’ve ever seen on the Internet (and I’ve checked far and wide). I’m going to Antwerpen for 3 days for my birthday and I’m sure this guide will help me a lot. Thank you again!

Glad to hear that you found this useful, Arianna. With three days in Antwerp, be sure to visit a few museums (Plantin-Moretus is well worth it, and we also really like the Red Star Line, to mention just a few) and also take a look at our guide to some of the hidden gems in the city. It's a great city to explore deeper, and there are so many nice restaurants and shopping opportunities too. I'm sure you'll have a great time here. Happy travels!

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Antwerp Itinerary

Last Updated on February 22, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

With so much to see and do, you can easily spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Antwerp exploring its trendy neighbourhoods and charming historical centre. This Antwerp itinerary includes everything from amazing museums and architectural gems to glittering jewels, the Grote Markt and its gorgeous central train station.

Home to Europe’s second-largest port, the cosmopolitan city is also famed for its fashion scene and fun nightlife. Although oft-overlooked in favour of Bruges, the ‘Diamond Capital of the World’ is certainly one of the best places to visit in Belgium.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Antwerp?

As the Flemish city has so much going for it, it can be hard to know how many days to spend in Antwerp. While a weekend is probably the perfect amount of time, you can see many of its main sights in just a day. Add an extra one and you can even fit in some fun day trips too!

1 day in Antwerp is just enough for you to see the historic centre, its giant Gothic cathedral and castle. Aside from admiring all its incredible architecture, you could also stop by a museum and experience some pounding nightlife.

With 2 days or a weekend in Antwerp, you can really get a grasp of its different sides by exploring its diamond district, fashion mile and fantastic food options. You can also fit in another museum, some more bars or check out its famous zoo if you fancy it!

As Belgium is quite small and easy to travel about, most people with 3 days head to either Brussels , Ghent or Bruges on their third day. All great options, each city has its own look, feel and identity for you to delve into.

Getting To & Around Antwerp

Located in the north of Belgium , not far from the Dutch border, Antwerp is well connected to the rest of the country and Europe as a whole. Once you arrive, you can walk almost everywhere or cycle and get the bus or tram if you need to.

While its small airport mainly caters to business travellers, a direct train whisks you to Brussels Airport in just half an hour. Set on the outskirts of the capital, it has daily flights to the rest of the EU as well as Africa, Asia and the USA. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is another major transport hub that lies two hours away by train.

Besides being absolutely beautiful, Antwerp Central Station has hourly trains to Brussels, Ghent and Bruges . While the first two take around 45 minutes to an hour to reach, the latter lies almost two hours away. You can view train schedules here.

Other popular day trip options or arrival points by train include Amsterdam and Rotterdam across the border in the Netherlands. These respectively take roughly two hours and one hour to arrive at.

Although most of Antwerp’s main sites are within easy walking distance of one another, you can always hop on a bus or tram if you need to. For these, you can either buy tickets from vending machines at certain stops or in supermarkets and newsagents.

There is also an app you can use on your phone with contactless payments onboard also working if you don’t want to download it.

Another fun option is to rent a bike for the day or for a couple of hours and merrily cycle about its quaint old streets and historic centre!

1, 2 or 3-Day in Antwerp Itinerary

Day 1 – top attractions in antwerp.

On the first day of your trip to Antwerp, you’ll see most of its main sites and sample some of its exciting bars and nightlife! To learn more about the city, you can take a walking tour or this bike tour with a guide.

Antwerpen-Centraal Railway Station

If you arrive in Antwerp by train then you’re straight away in for an architectural treat. If not, then you definitely have to find the time to visit its spectacular station at some point! One of the most beautiful in the world, it exhibits an astounding mix of neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles.

After ogling at its elegant entrance hall and fetching facade, make your way slowly to the Grote Markt, some twenty minutes’ walk away.

The Grote Markt

The city’s central square, the Grote Markt is located right in its historic heart. Lined by sixteenth-century guildhalls with exquisite facades, it also contains Antwerp’s ravishing Renaissance Town Hall.

In its centre is the 1887 Brabo Fountain which depicts the local legend after which the city is possibly named. In any case, its bronze sculpture of Brabo tossing a giant’s hand into the River Scheldt certainly makes for some fabulous photos.

The Cathedral of Our Lady

Towering above the square is the ginormous Gothic-style spire of the Antwerp Cathedral – known as the Cathedral of Our Lady.

The tallest church in the Low Countries, it stands 123 metres in height but has never actually been ‘completed’. Built between 1352 and 1521, its enormous interior hosts a lot of noteworthy tombs and impressive religious artworks.

To see yet more statues and icons, head to the atmospheric Elfde Gebod bar right next to it. It has a great selection of beers, a cool inside and lovely views of the cathedral from its terrace outside.

After your beer break, head down to the riverfront to see Het Steen; the oldest building in all of Antwerp. Lying alongside the Scheldt, the small but sturdy thirteenth-century fortress contains a visitor centre and interactive exhibits on the city’s age-old past.

Very well-preserved, it lies at the start of a scenic riverwalk which takes you down to our next site: the amazing MAS museum.

The MAS Museum

In contrast to the castle, MAS is an arresting feat of modern architecture. Instantly recognisable from its remarkable red sandstone and glass panel exterior, it towers sixty metres over the river and harbour below.

Dedicated to Antwerp and its connection to the world, the museum’s exhibits cover everything from international shipping and trade to art, culture and history around Europe and even further afield. From its observation deck, you can enjoy some of the best views of the city stretching away before you.

Enjoy Antwerp’s Nightlife

As Antwerp is known for its nightlife and has a youthful, dynamic population, and if you have only 24 hours in Antwerp, make sure to hit up some bars or clubs once the sun starts to set.

Two classics are Den Engel and Paters Vaetje as they both boast charming old-style interiors, and have lots of beers to try and lie alongside the Grote Markt. De Vagant is another great option if you want to sip some strong Belgian jenevers.

After a couple of drinks and some live music at De Muze, you can dance the night away at notorious clubs like Ampere and IKON. If you only have this one day in Antwerp, you’ve certainly packed a lot of different things in!

Day 2 – The Diamond District, Museums & Antwerp Zoo

If you have 2 days in Antwerp, you’ll have the time to explore a couple more neighbourhoods, stop by some more museums and maybe visit the zoo if you feel like it! If you’re planning on spending more time than just Antwerp in a day, then you’re sure to love all of these activities on the second day!

The Diamond District

Set right next to the train station are the countless jewellery shops and sparkling windows of the Diamond District. Incredibly enough, 85% of the world’s rough diamonds pass through this area each and every year.

Hundreds of workshops and brokers operate here with the lavish industry mainly being dominated by the city’s Jewish, Jain, Armenian and Lebanese communities.

Aside from gazing at glittering gems and admiring intricately crafted necklaces, rings and earrings, you can take tours to learn more about how diamonds are cut, polished and valued.

One of the most famous shopping streets in all Belgium, Meir stretches all the way from the train station to the town hall. Besides being bordered by tons of chic shops and brand stores, it takes you past some interesting historic sights with plenty of beautiful old buildings lining the route.

An absolute must for fashionistas, its big brands encompass everyone from Nike and Ralph Lauren to Dior and Zara. You can always head inside the Stadsfeestzaal for yet more upscale shops in an opulent old building or to some of the nearby streets which house Chanel and Louis Vuitton.

Midway along Meir is the quaint old Rubenshuis (Rubens House); the former home and workshop of the famous Flemish master. Now open as a museum, it displays numerous paintings by Peter Paul Rubens as well as some sculptures, tapestries and period furniture too.

The look of the 1610 Italian-style villa, courtyard and gardens is almost as impressive as all the arresting artworks themselves. Its well-done exhibits also explain more about his life, times and the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Red Star Line Museum

Another museum that is well worth checking out if you have the time and energy is the Red Star Line Museum. Located near MAS, it shines a light on the more than three million people who passed through Antwerp on their way to new lives in the US.

Through displays, photos and videos, it presents the history of the Belgian shipping company in an enthralling manner.

Antwerpen-Noord

If you want to see a different side of the city entirely, then head to the area directly north of the station. Amazingly diverse, it has everything from Afghan restaurants and Afro-Caribbean stores to Turkish kebab shops, Tibetan cafes and even a small Chinatown.

A fun place to explore, the multicultural neighbourhood is often overlooked, even by visitors who have more than a day or two on their visit to Antwerp.

Unlike the Diamond District and Meir, it is very down-to-earth with each little local Indian, Iraqi or Vietnamese restaurant appearing even more appealing than the last!

Antwerp Zoo

Also located right next to the train station is the historic Antwerp Zoo which is impressively one of the oldest in the world. Visiting this zoo is one of the best things to do in Antwerp.

Founded back in 1843, its spacious enclosures now house over 6,000 animals of more than 1,160 different species. While ambling about, you can therefore see lions and jaguars alongside elephants, giraffes and gorillas.

Its elaborate Art Nouveau buildings also contain an aquarium and restaurant while penguin feeding sessions and sea lion shows are put on daily.

If you want to see as much as possible of Antwerp in 2 days, it is well worth including the zoo on your list of things to do.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Bruges, Brussels or Ghent

As most travellers usually feel they’ve seen enough after spending 2 days during their trip to Antwerp, the third is usually spent exploring some of the enticing destinations nearby.

While Mechelen, Lier and Aalst are all attractive options, the larger and more famous cities of Ghent, Bruges and Brussels have much more to see and do. Some people also like to hop across the nearby border to see Rotterdam’s amazing modern architecture.

Although it takes a bit longer to reach than the other day trip options, Bruges is undoubtedly the most beautiful city in Belgium. After arriving at its station from Antwerp via Ghent, just follow the crowds towards its historic centre, some fifteen minutes’ walk away.

Visible for countless kilometres around, the enormous Belfry of Bruges rises dramatically above the Grote Markt at its foot. Aside from snapping some photos of the 83-metre-tall tower, you can also clamber up it for some lovely views over the city’s rooftops down below.

Other than checking out the pretty townhouses and lively restaurants lining its main square, you can make your way to the Basilica of the Holy Blood nearby. Besides exhibiting some exquisite architecture, it boasts a very important relic that is said to contain the blood of Jesus Christ.

In addition to wandering about its picturesque cobbled streets and canals, many visitors stop by the excellent Groeninge Museum for its many artistic treasures by Flemish masters. Thanks to its arresting aesthetic and ambience, the ‘Venice of the North’ definitely makes for a memorable day trip if you have the time.

Another popular place people fit into their visit to Antwerp is Ghent; a gorgeous university city that has a small but scenic centre. Thanks to its sizeable student population, it also has a much livelier feel with some great nightlife being on offer.

At its heart are three centuries-old towers that are all lined up in a row one after the other. From St. Michael’s Bridge, you can enjoy the best view of their soaring spires rising up before you. The Belfry of Ghent and St. Bavo’s Cathedral also offer epic panoramas over the city from up high.

The latter also houses the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb – an incredible 1432 altarpiece made by Jan van Eyck. More statues and religious artworks can be seen in the cavernous Saint Nicholas’ Church right next to it.

Just a stone’s throw from its three prominent landmarks are the charming Graslei and Korenlei quays down by the canal. As well as admiring the fine old buildings along beside them, you can sit at a cafe’s patio for a coffee or beer or take a romantic boat trip along the river.

These lead to the hulking great Gravensteen Castle which has protected the city since the tenth century.

After all the sightseeing and days spent exploring Antwerp, you can relax with a strong Belgian beer at the Dulle Griet. The traditional bar has more than 500 local brews for you to get through in a cosy setting before heading on to some other fun nightlife spots nearby.

The capital of the country, Brussels is an increasingly attractive city to explore that only lies forty minutes from Antwerp by train. Perhaps most known for housing the European institutions, the multicultural metropolis also has some awesome attractions and neighbourhoods to check out.

Its standout site is without doubt the Grand Place – the absolutely spellbinding square right at its heart. Hemmed in on all sides by gold-clad guild houses, its old cobbles lie just a short walk from another iconic attraction. Known as Manneken Pis, the somewhat unusual yet endearing statue depicts a small boy peeing.

After grabbing a waffle, you can amble around the oldest part of Brussels, Les Marolles, and the chic, expensive Sablon. Located right next to one another, they contain countless antique shops and some impressive old churches. A fun flea market also takes place every day at the former.

Also within walking distance is the regal Royal Palace of Brussels. Here you can take some pics of its fantastic facade and wander around the pretty park in front of it. A couple of superb art and music museums also lie alongside it as does the magnificent Mont des Arts viewpoint.

To finish the day off, head down the hill to the world-famous Delirium Cafe. Always packed with locals and tourists, it remarkably has over 2,000 beers for you to try. An absolute must, its lively ambience is sure to entice you back to Brussels, Antwerp and Belgium again!

Where to Stay in Antwerp

Citybox Antwerp – Mid-range travellers visiting the city of Antwerp will love this centrally-located 3-star hotel. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from and an excellent location for exploring all this Belgian city has to offer.

Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt – If you’re travelling on a bit of a higher budget, then you’re sure to love this luxury hotel in the centre of Antwerp city. There are countless plush rooms on offer along with a number of great amenities to ensure guests want for nothing during their stay.

Yust Antwerp – This hostel is a great choice for budget travellers or for those looking for a great social atmosphere. Highly-rated and centrally-located, they offer both private rooms and dorm beds along with a lot of other perks to ensure you have a great time in this Belgian city!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Antwerp hotels!

So there you have it. Antwerp in 3 days (and a couple of other cities too!). Loads of fun to explore, the cool city has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a fashionista or diamond trader, history lover or hardcore clubber, Antwerp certainly won’t disappoint!

Are you planning to visit Antwerp? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

One Day in Ghent Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

Amsterdam vs Brussels: Which City to Visit?

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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Some 50km north of Brussels, ANTWERP , Belgium’s second city, lays claim to being the de facto capital of Flemish Belgium, boosting its credentials with an animated cultural scene, a burgeoning fashion industry, and more top-ranking cafés and restaurants than you could possibly sample alongside a spirited nightlife – quite enough to keep anyone busy for a few days, if not more. The city fans out carelessly from the east bank of the Scheldt, its centre a rough polygon formed and framed by its enclosing boulevards and the river. Recent efforts to clean and smarten the centre have been tremendously successful, revealing scores of beautiful buildings previously camouflaged by the accumulated grime. On the surface it’s not a wealthy city, and it’s rarely neat and tidy, but it is a hectic and immediately likeable place, with a dense concentration of things to see, not least some fine churches, including a simply wonderful cathedral , and a varied selection of excellent museums.

Eating and drinking

Entertainment and nightlife, fashion shopping in antwerp, the koninklijk museum voor schone kunsten, mercenary mutinies, modenatie and momu, the onze lieve vrouwekathedraal, the rubenshuis.

North of the centre lies Het Eilandje (the Little Isle), where the city’s old docks and wharves have been rejuvenated and deluxe apartments shoehorned into the former warehouses, the whole caboodle overseen by the soaring modernism of the Museum Aan de Stroom , Antwerp’s premier museum. To the east of the centre, the star turns are the Rubenshuis , one-time home and studio of Rubens, and the cathedral-like Centraal Station , which itself abuts the diamond district – the city has long been at the heart of the international diamond trade. The area to the south of the centre, Het Zuid , is of interest too, a long-neglected but now resurgent residential district whose wide boulevards, with their long vistas and geometrical roundabouts, were laid out at the end of the nineteenth century. The obvious targets here are MuHKA (the Museum of Contemporary Art) and the Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten (Fine Art Museum), though this is currently closed for a thoroughgoing revamp.

Antwerp’s bustling centre is the most engaging part of the city, its mazy streets and cobbled lanes studded with fine old churches, mansions and museums. The logical place to start an exploration is the Grote Markt , still the centre of activities and flanked by the elegant Stadhuis . From here, it’s a couple of hundred metres south to the magnificent Gothic Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal , home to a quartet of paintings by Rubens, with the intriguing old printing house of Christopher Plantin, now the Museum Plantin-Moretus , just beyond. Another short hop, this time to the north, brings up the striking medieval Vleeshuis , one-time headquarters of the guild of butchers, with the sinuous Baroque of St-Pauluskerk beckoning beyond. The city centre finishes off with two other excellent attractions, the charming Hendrik Conscienceplein and the Rockoxhuis , which holds a small but superb collection of paintings.

Brief history

In the beginning Antwerp wasn’t much desired: it may have occupied a prime river site, but it was too far east to be important in the cloth trade and too far west to be on the major trade routes connecting Germany and Holland. However, in the late fifteenth century it benefited from both a general movement of trade to the west and the decline of the Anglo-Flemish cloth trade. Within the space of just 25 years, many of the great trading families of western Europe had relocated here, and the tiny old fortified settlement of yesteryear was transformed by a deluge of splendid new mansions and churches, docks and harbours. In addition, the new masters of the region, the Habsburgs , had become frustrated with the turbulent burghers of Flanders and both the emperor Maximilian and his successor Charles V patronized the city at the expense of its Flemish rivals, underwriting its success as the leading port of their expanding empire.

Antwerp’s golden age lasted for less than a hundred years, prematurely stifled by Charles V’s son Philip II , who inherited Spain and the Low Countries in 1555. Fanatically Catholic, Philip viewed the reformist stirrings of the Low Countries with horror, and his sustained attempt to bring his Protestant subjects to heel brought war and pestilence to the region for decades. Protestantism had taken root in Antwerp early on and the city seethed with discontent as Philip’s intentions became all too clear. The spark was the Ommegang of August 18, 1566, when priests carting the image of the Virgin through the city’s streets insisted that all should bend the knee as it passed. The parade itself was peaceful enough, but afterwards, with the battle cry of “Long live the beggars”, the city’s Protestant guildsmen and their apprentices smashed the inside of the cathedral to pieces – the most extreme example of the “ iconoclastic fury ” that then swept the region. Philip responded by sending in an army of occupation, which sought to overawe and intimidate the local citizenry from a brand-new citadel built on the south side of town. Nine years later, it was this same garrison that sat unpaid and underfed in its fortress, surrounded by the wealth of what the soldiers regarded as a “heretical” city. Philip’s mercenaries mutinied , and at dawn on November 4, 1576, they stormed Antwerp, running riot for three long days, plundering public buildings and private mansions, and slaughtering some eight thousand of its inhabitants in the “ Spanish fury ”, a catastrophe that finished the city’s commercial supremacy. More disasters were to follow. Philip’s soldiers were driven out after the massacre, but they were back in 1585 laying siege outside the city walls for seven months, their success leading to Antwerp’s ultimate incorporation within the Spanish Netherlands . Under the terms of the capitulation, Protestants had two years to leave town, and a flood of skilled workers poured north to the relative safety of Holland, further weakening the city’s economy.

In the early seventeenth century there was a modest recovery, but the Dutch, who were now free of Spain, controlled the waterways of the Scheldt and were determined that no neighbouring Catholic port would threaten their trade. Consequently, in 1648, under the Peace of Westphalia , which finally wrapped up the Thirty Years’ War, they forced the closure of the Scheldt to all non-Dutch shipping. This ruined Antwerp, and the city remained firmly in the doldrums until the French army arrived in 1797 – Napoleon declaring it to be “little better than a heap of ruins…scarcely like a European city at all”. The French rebuilt the docks and reopened the Scheldt to shipping, and the city revived to become independent Belgium’s largest port, a role that made it a prime target during both world wars. In 1914, the invading German army overran Antwerp’s outer defences with surprising ease, forcing the Belgian government – which had moved here from Brussels a few weeks before – into a second hasty evacuation along with Winston Churchill and the Royal Marines, who had only just arrived. During World War II , both sides bombed Antwerp, but the worst damage was inflicted after the Liberation when the city was hit by hundreds of Hitler’s V1 and V2 rockets .

After the war, Antwerp quickly picked up the pieces, becoming one of Europe’s major seaports and, more recently, a focus for those Flemish-speakers looking for greater independence within (or without) a federal Belgium. It has also consolidated its position at the heart of the worldwide diamond trade and developed an international reputation for its innovative fashion designers, from the so-called “Antwerp Six” to new and upcoming talent such as Tim Vansteenbergen, A.F. Vandevorst and Stephan Schneider.

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Antwerp has the range of hotels you’d expect of Belgium’s second city, an ever increasing supply of B&B s and several hostels . Consequently, finding accommodation is rarely difficult, although there are surprisingly few places in the centre, which is by far the best spot to soak up the city’s atmosphere. Many medium-priced and budget places are clustered in the humdrum area around Centraal Station, where you should exercise caution at night, particularly if travelling alone.

The tourist office issues a free and comprehensive booklet detailing the city’s hotels, B&Bs and hostels – and excluding the seedier establishments.

Antwerp is an enjoyable place to eat, its busy centre liberally sprinkled with informal cafés and restaurants which excel at combining traditional Flemish dishes with Mediterranean, French and vegetarian cuisines. There is a good range of slightly more formal – and expensive – restaurants too, though generally the distinction between the city’s cafés and restaurants is blurred.

Antwerp is also a fine place to drink . There are lots of bars in the city centre, mostly dark and tiny affairs exuding a cheerful vitality. Some of them regularly feature live music, but most don’t, satisfying themselves – and their customers – with everything from taped chanson to house. Bar opening hours are elastic, with many places only closing when the last customers leave – say 2 or 3am – and, unless otherwise stated in our listings below, all are open daily. The favourite local tipple is De Koninck, a light ale drunk in a bolleke , or small, stemmed glass.

Antwerp has a vibrant and diverse cultural scene , and the best way to get a handle on it is to pick up the very useful, fortnightly Zone 03 ( w www.zone03.be ), a free Dutch-language newssheet which details all up-and-coming events, exhibitions and concerts; it’s available from the tourist office and at newsstands all over the city centre. The city has its own orchestra and opera companies as well as several good Flemish theatre troupes, and there are occasional appearances by touring English-language theatre companies too. English-language films are almost always subtitled – as distinct from dubbed – and Antwerp has a reliable, city-centre art-house cinema.

Antwerp’s fluid club scene is in a rude state of health, with a handful of boisterous places dotted round the peripheries of the city centre. They get going at around midnight and admission fees are typically modest (€10 or so) except for big-name DJs. There’s a flourishing jazz scene too, with a couple of good places in the centre.

As regards festivals , the city hosts a goodly portion of the Festival van Vlaanderen (Flanders Festival; w www.festival.be ), which runs from May to November and features more than one hundred classical concerts performed in cities across the whole of Flemish-speaking Belgium. There’s also SFINKS ( w www.sfinks.be ), Belgium’s best world music festival, held outdoors over the last weekend of July in the suburb of Boechout, about 10km southeast of downtown Antwerp.

Tickets for most concerts and events are on sale at Info Cultuur ( t 03 338 95 85, w www.infocultuur.be ), which shares its premises with the tourist office at Grote Markt 13. A comparable service is provided at the Fnac store, on the Groenplaats.

The success of Antwerp’s fashion designers has spawned dozens of excellent designer shops and stores. To help visitors get a grip on it all, the tourist office produces the Antwerp Fashion Map , which details several city walks that take you past all the most innovative shops. There is, however, a particular concentration of fashion shops around the ModeNatie complex. Recommended places hereabouts kick off with the men’s and women’s wear of Dries van Noten’s Modepaleis , Nationalestraat 16 – at the corner of Kammenstraat – and continue with the imported designer clothes of Alamode , Nationalestraat 25. Neighbouring Kammenstraat weighs in with the contemporary jewellery of Anne Zellien , at no. 47, and the club and streetwear of Fish & Chips , at no. 36, while Lombardenstraat, just to the east, is home to Maison Anna Heylen , at no.16, Original , at no. 10, and Louis , at no. 2, with the last two featuring the clothes of many designers, from Hilfiger to Junk de Luxe. There are a couple of secondhand/vintage clothes shop in the area too, with women’s stuff at Jutka & Riska , Nationalestraat 87, and all sorts of interesting gear at Episode , Steenhouwersvest 34, just west of Nationalestraat. If you’ve wandered over onto Steenhouwersvest, then also pop into the chichi premises of the Belgian-American Diane von Furstenberg , at no. 44.

Occupying an immense Neoclassical edifice dating from the 1880s, Antwerp’s prestigious Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten (KMSKA; Royal Fine Art Museum), overlooking Leopold de Waelplaats, possesses a first-rate collection of Belgian art from the fifteenth century onwards, but it’s closed for a long-term refurbishment until at least 2014. In the meantime, plans are afoot to display highlights of the collection elsewhere in the city – the cathedral and the MAS museum are two likely locations – and the tourist office will have the latest news. Key paintings in the collection include two tiny but especially delicate works by Jan van Eyck (1390–1441), a Madonna at the Fountain and a St Barbara , and Quinten Matsys ’ (1465–1530) triptych of the Lamentation , a profound and moving work portraying the Christ, his forehead flecked with blood, surrounded by grieving followers including Mary Magdalene, who tenderly wipes his feet with her hair as tears roll down her face. The museum also possesses several enormous canvases by Rubens (1577–1640), most notably an inventive Last Communion of St Francis (1619), showing a very sick-looking saint equipped with the marks of the stigmata, a faint halo and a half-smile: despite the sorrowful ministrations of his fellow monks, Francis can’t wait for salvation. Also from 1619 is Christ Crucified Between the Two Thieves which, with its muscular thieves and belligerent Romans, possesses all the high drama you might expect, but is almost overwhelmed by its central image – you can virtually hear the tearing of Christ’s flesh as the soldier’s lance sinks into him.

The Spanish fury was a disaster for Antwerp, but although the savagery of the attack was unusual, mutinies in the Spanish army were not. The Habsburgs often neglected to pay their soldiers for years on end and this failure, combined with harsh conditions and seemingly interminable warfare, provoked at least a couple of mutinies every year. Indeed, mutinies became so commonplace that they began to develop their own rituals, with the tercio (army unit) concerned refusing orders but keeping military discipline and electing representatives to haggle a financial deal with the army authorities. A deal was usually reached, outstanding wages were paid (at least in part), normal military life was resumed and, remarkably enough, punishments were rare.

Spread over several floors at Nationalestraat 28, ModeNatie ( www.modenatie.com ) is a lavish and extraordinarily ambitious fashion complex, which incorporates both the fashion department of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and the Flanders Fashion Institute. As such, it reflects the international success of local designers, beginning in the 1980s with the so-called “ Antwerp Six ” – including Dries van Noten, Dirk Bikkembergs, Marina Yee and Martin Margiela – and continuing with younger designers like A.F. Vandevorst, Stephan Schneider and Tim Vansteenbergen; all are graduates of the academy. Part of the building contains a fashion museum, MoMu ( www.momu.be ), whose adventurous and thought-provoking temporary displays cover a lot of ground – everything from the walking stick as fashion statement through to the evolution of the trench coat.

One of the finest Gothic churches in Belgium, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal (Cathedral of Our Lady; www.dekathedraal.be ) is a forceful, self-confident structure that mostly dates from the middle of the fifteenth century. Its graceful, intricate spire dominated the skyline of the medieval city and was long a favourite with British travellers. William Beckford, for instance, fresh from spending millions on his own house in Wiltshire in the early 1800s, was particularly impressed, writing that he “longed to ascend it that instant, to stretch myself out upon its summit and calculate, from so sublime an elevation, the influence of the planets”. To help guide yourself around, pick up a free diagrammatic plan just beyond the entry desk.

Inside, the seven-aisled nave is breathtaking, if only because of its sense of space, an impression that’s reinforced by the bright, light stonework. The religious troubles of the sixteenth century – primarily the Iconoclastic Fury of 1566 – polished off the cathedral’s early furnishings and fittings, so what you see today are largely Baroque embellishments, most notably four early paintings by Pieter Paul Rubens (1577–1640). Of these, the Descent from the Cross , a triptych painted after the artist’s return from Italy in 1612 and hung just to the right of the central crossing, is without doubt the most beautiful, displaying an uncharacteristically moving realism derived from Caravaggio. Christ languishes in the centre in glowing white, surrounded by mourners tenderly struggling to lower him. As was normal practice at the time, students in Rubens’ studio worked on the painting, among them the young van Dyck , who completed the face of the Virgin and the arm of Mary Magdalene. His work was so masterful that Rubens is supposed to have declared it an improvement on his own, though this story appears to originate from van Dyck himself. Oddly enough, the painting was commissioned by the guild of arquebusiers, who asked for a picture of St Christopher, their patron saint; Rubens’ painting was not at all what they had in mind, and they promptly threatened him with legal action unless he added a picture of the saint to the wings. Rubens obliged, painting in the muscular giant who now dominates the outside of the left panel.

Above the high altar is a second Rubens painting, the Assumption , a swirling Baroque scene painted in 1625, full of cherubs and luxuriant drapery, while on the left-hand side of the central crossing, the same artist’s The Raising of the Cross is a grandiloquent canvas full of straining, muscular soldiers and saints; this triptych was painted in 1610, which makes it the earliest of the four. On the right-hand side of the ambulatory in the second chapel along, there’s the cathedral’s fourth and final Rubens, the Resurrection , painted in 1612 for the tomb of his friend, the printer Jan Moretus, showing a strident, militaristic Christ carrying a red, furled banner. Among the cathedral’s many other paintings, the only other highlight is Maerten de Vos ’ (1531–1603) Marriage at Cana , hung opposite the Descent from the Cross , a typically mannered work completed in 1597.

The Rubenshuis , at Wapper 9, attracts tourists in droves. Not so much a house as a mansion, this was where Rubens lived for most of his adult life, but it was only acquired by the city in 1937, by which time it was little more than a shell. Skilfully restored, it opened as a museum in 1946. On the right is the classical studio, where Rubens worked and taught; on the left is the gabled Flemish house where he lived, to which is attached his art gallery, an Italianate chamber where he entertained the artistic and cultural elite of Europe. Rubens had an enviably successful career, spending the first years of the seventeenth century studying the Renaissance masters in Italy, before settling in this house in 1608. Soon after, he painted two wonderful canvases for the cathedral and his fame spread, both as a painter and diplomat, working for Charles I in England and receiving commissions from all over Europe.

The Rubenshuis is a tad short of the great man’s paintings, but the reconstruction of his old home and studio is very convincing, and a clearly arrowed tour begins by twisting its way through the neatly panelled and attractively furnished domestic interiors of the Flemish half of the building. Beyond, and in contrast to the cramped living quarters, is the elegant art gallery , which, with its pocket-sized sculpture gallery, was where Rubens displayed his favourite pieces to a chosen few – and in a scene comparable to that portrayed in Willem van Haecht’s The Gallery of Cornelis van der Geest , which is displayed here. The arrows then direct you on into the great studio , which is overlooked by a narrow gallery and equipped with a special high door to allow the largest canvases to be brought in and out with ease. Several of Rubens’ paintings are displayed here, including a playful Adam and Eve , an early work in which the couple flirt while the serpent slithers back up the tree. Also in the studio is a more characteristic piece, the Annunciation , where you can sense the drama of the angel Gabriel’s appearance to Mary, who is shown in her living room complete with wicker basket and a sleeping cat.

Behind the house, the garden is laid out in the formal style of Rubens’ day – the Baroque portico might be familiar from the artist’s Medici series, on display in the Louvre.

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Antwerp

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The cultural capital of Flanders, the Dutch-speaking northern area of Belgium, Antwerp is both a bustling industrial port city and an outstanding historic center for Belgian craftwork and artistry.

The city was once home to such famous artists as Rubens, van Dyck, and Jordaens, while centuries of prosperity through trade and commerce have bequeathed an inheritance of architectural beauty, which includes the magnificent cathedral, the town hall, and many other outstanding historical buildings in the old town center.

For art lovers and culture vultures, Antwerp's excellent museums are the main tourist attractions and are a vital stop on any Belgian itinerary.

In particular, the city's paintings – an incomparable collection of 15th- to 17th-century masterpieces from a time when the work of artists of the South Netherlands school attained extraordinary heights – is a highlight of any visit.

Discover the city and the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Antwerp.

See also: Where to Stay in Antwerp

1. Grand Place (Grote Markt)

2. cathedral of our lady, 3. rubens' house (rubenshuis), 4. tour the museum aan de stroom (mas), 5. take the kids to antwerp zoo, 6. learn about chocolate at chocolate nation, 7. plantin-moretus museum, 8. see the collection inside museum mayer van den bergh, 9. royal museum of fine arts (koninklijk museum voor schone kunsten), 10. learn about migration history at the red star line museum, 11. st. paul's church (sint-pauluskerk), 12. the butcher's hall (vleeshuis), 13. check out antwerp-centraal railway station, 14. bike the havenroute (port tour), 15. st. james' church (sint-jacobskerk), 16. diva (the diamond museum), where to stay in antwerp for sightseeing, antwerp, belgium - climate chart.

Antwerp's Grand Place (Grote Markt) with its town hall and numerous guild houses is the heart of the old town. In the middle stands the ornate Brabo Fountain Brabo erected in 1887 by Jef Lambeaux and depicting the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo tossing the severed hand of the giant Antigonus into the Scheldt.

The Town Hall (or Stadhuis) dominates the plaza's western side and was built by Cornelis Floris de Vriendt between 1561 and 1565. Inside, the rooms are hung with 19th-century paintings by H. Leys illustrating the history of Antwerp.

Apart from the Stadhuis, most of the buildings bordering the Grote Markt are former guild houses (gildehuizen), which originally served as headquarters of the city's 16th- and 17th-century guilds.

Among the most interesting guild houses on the north side are the Gildehuis der Kuipers (Coopers' House No. 5), the Huis van de Schutters (Archer's House No. 7), and the Huis van de Kruideniers (Grocers' House No. 11).

Immediately behind the town hall, in the Gildekamersstraat, a former guild house has been turned into a Folk Museum devoted to the many traditional arts and crafts found in the Antwerp area, while nearby is the Ethnography Museum which highlights non-European cultures.

Address: Grand Place, Central Antwerp

The Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwkathedraal), is Belgium's largest Gothic church.

Work was started on the cathedral in 1352, continuing until 1521. Jacob van Thienen, Pieter Appelmans, Jan Tac, Everaert Spoorwater, Hermann and Dominic de Waghemakere, and Rombout Keldermans were among the architects and master-builders who contributed to its construction.

The church has suffered serious damage on a number of occasions over the years, depriving it of many of its most precious works of art. First came a fire in 1533, then despoliation at the hands of dissident iconoclasts in 1566, Calvinists in 1581, and French Republican troops in 1794 and 1800. Sadly, only a few of the lost treasures have since been recovered.

Restoration of the exterior was begun in the 19th century, and all the carved stonework on the outside of the building is therefore recent. Work on the interior began in 1965, starting with the nave where repairs were completed in 1983.

The finest of the remaining works of art are displayed in the nave and aisles as well as in the cathedral treasury.

Address: Groenplaats 21 / Handschoenmarkt, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.dekathedraal.be

Peter Paul Rubens acquired No. 9 in 1610 – a year after his marriage to Isabella Brant – living there until his death in 1640. He arranged the house to his own taste and requirements, making his home to the left of the entrance and turning the right wing into his studio.

Following the French Revolution it was used as a prison, thereafter falling more and more into disrepair. Rubens' House (Rubenshuis) finally came into the possession of the City of Antwerp in 1937 and, between 1939 and 1946, was meticulously restored with the aid of old documents and drawings.

The 10 rooms are furnished in the style of the period and contain a large collection of paintings by both Rubens and his contemporaries. Among the pieces not to miss are Self-portrait , Adam and Eve , and The Annunciation , all by Rubens; Self-portrait by Anthony van Dyke; and Peasant Drinking by Adriaen Brouwer. The large studio contains several works by Rubens and others by his pupils.

Outside, the formal gardens of the house have been restored carefully to try and closely replicate the garden as it was when Rubens was resident at the house. It's a great spot for a stroll after touring the house.

Address: Wapper 9-11, Antwerp

Official site: https://rubenshuis.be/en

Antwerp's municipal museum is housed in a fine example of modern architecture that features a geometric configuration of variegated stone and wave-shaped glass panels. This 10-story building resembles a child's block puzzle, and sits overlooking the harbor on the former site of the Hanseatic warehouse.

The museum's exhibits include a true variety of topics. Local subjects include a gastronomic history of the city on the 5th floor and a look at Antwerp's former role as the largest trade and shipping port in the world.

The rooftop, which is open on top but enclosed with glass walls, affords tourists a full 360-degree view of the city and the port; here is where you will find the Saluting Admiral Couple sculpture created by local artist Guillaume Bijl.

Additional exhibits focus on international topics, including explorations of mankind's approach to death and spirituality throughout various cultures, as well as the ways that cultures around the world celebrate rites of passage.

The 8th floor is dedicated to one of Europe's largest collections of pre-Columbian American art, focusing on the relationship between the native cultures and their gods.

As well as the permanent collection, MAS regularly hosts a program of temporary exhibitions focused on a wide range of subjects.

The museum also has a unique storage area on the second floor, which allows visitors to view the racks filled with over 180,000 items that have yet to be placed into exhibit space. In total, the museum is home to over 500,000 pieces in its collection.

Address: Hanzestedenplaats 1

Official site: https://mas.be/en

Right in the center of the city, Antwerp Zoo was founded in 1843. It is widely regarded as one of the finest zoos in Europe on account of its variety of species; its success in breeding; the care bestowed on the animals, which are kept in the most natural environment possible; and, last but by no means least, its architecture.

While the Art Déco facades of the entrance area are the first features to catch the eye, inside the zoo are several buildings of note, among them the giraffe and elephant house (1855) in the style of an Egyptian temple.

More than 6,000 animals of 950 species live in the zoo, including rare breeds such as the white rhino, okapi, and mountain gorilla.

If you are visiting Antwerp with kids, at trip to the zoo is one of the top things to do.

Address: Kon. Astridplein 26, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.zooantwerpen.be

This museum is a treat for visitors with a sweet tooth. Located just across from Antwerp's Central Railway Station, Chocolate Nation is the largest Belgian Chocolate museum in the world .

Visitors are introduced to every step of the process via a multimedia presentation and interactive exhibits, from the cocoa bean's equatorial origins to the final product - which, of course, you can enjoy to your heart's content via samples and the museum shop.

The museum also explores the special place chocolate has within Belgian culture and tradition, as well as the history of the confection's innovations here and in other countries.

Exhibits look at the many ways that chocolate is used and presented, and visitors can even sign up for a chocolate workshop with take-home goodies.

Address: Koningin Astridplein 7, 2018, Antwerp

Official site: https://www.chocolatenation.be/en/

In 1576, Christophe Plantin the printer who hailed originally from France, moved into a house he christened "De gulden Passer" – the Golden Compasses – south of the Grote Markt Grote . The house, lived in by Plantin and his Moretus family heirs is now a supreme example of Flemish Renaissance architecture.

Today, the building is the Plantin-Moretus Museum incorporating the history of printing as well as showcasing the atmosphere of an Old Flemish patrician house.

The original furnishings, wide-ranging exhibits, and above all, the still tangible atmosphere arising from the proximity of home and workplace make this museum one of Antwerp's most fascinating tourist attractions.

If you're short on time, make a beeline for Room 7, devoted to the history of books and the processes involved in their production, from the earliest forms of writing and development of the alphabet – exhibits include important archaeological finds and manuscripts – to Johannes Gutenberg and the invention of letterpress printing using movable type.

And afterwards, don't miss Room 24 which is a celebration of the art of printing in Europe as a whole, the jewel in the crown being a 36-line Gutenberg Bible on display here.

Address: Vrijdagmarkt 22, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.museumplantinmoretus.be/

In the course of only a short period during the 1890s, a connoisseur of the fine arts, Fritz Mayer van den Bergh, assembled a remarkable collection of more than 3,000 items. These are now displayed on four floors of a Neo-Gothic house at Lange Gasthuisstraat 19 known as the Museum Mayer van den Bergh.

The collection includes some superlative works of art, among them paintings by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, ( Dulle Griet and the earliest of the artist's signed works The Twelve Proverbs , both in Room 26), Rubens, Jordaens, Bouts, van der Weyden, van Ostade, Lucas Cranach, and Quentin Massys.

Also of great interest are the Flemish and French religious statues, the outstanding collection of ivories, and a unique 16th-century Flemish breviary, and in Room 14, a polychrome group Christ with St. John (1300) by Henry of Constance and a Netherlands diptych (ca. 1400).

The second floor features a collection of porcelain, while 17th-century furniture and paintings occupy the third.

Address: Lange Gasthuisstraat 19, Antwerp

The nucleus of the collection inside the Royal Museum of Fine Art (Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten) belonged originally to the Lucas Guild of Painters and Sculptors, founded in 1442.

Following the winding up of the guild in 1773, the works of art accumulated over the years passed into the possession of the Academy of Fine Arts.

In the mid-19th century, however, the collection was swollen by a substantial number of new acquisitions, particularly gifts, mainly of 15th- and 16th-century paintings, from Florent van Ertborn, a former burgomaster of Antwerp.

The academy found itself with insufficient space to accommodate the enlarged collection and the decision was taken to build a new museum.

The collection is housed on two floors. The ground floor is largely devoted to 19th- and 20th-century paintings and sculpture, some 1,500 items in all, providing, among other things, an excellent overview of the development of the plastic arts in Belgium since 1830.

The exhibition of Old Masters on the first floor comprises more than 1,000 works, mostly from the Flemish and Dutch schools.

Address: Plaatsnijdersstraat 2, Antwerp

Official site: www.kmska.be/en/

One of the newer tourist attractions in Antwerp, the Red Star Line Museum was opened in 2013 after over two decades of planning.

The Red Star company's steamers transported emigrants from Belgium and surrounding European countries between 1883 and 1934, bringing them across the ocean to Canada or the United States to escape persecution, poverty, and oppression.

The museum is dedicated to exploring not only the journey and process itself, but the reasons that people chose to leave their home in hopes of a better life.

Among the exhibits are the areas where passengers were selected for passage, some of whom were never given the chance to get aboard a ship. Areas of interest also include personal stories of those who did emigrate, and those who were left behind, and accounts of the passage across the Atlantic.

Address: Montevideostraat 3, 2000 Antwerp

Official site: www.redstarline.be/en

In the central city, the Veemarkt (the plaza that once functioned as a former cattle market) is home to the late Gothic St. Paul's Church (Sint-Pauluskerk), begun in 1517 and not completed until 1639. The Baroque clock tower dates from 1680.

A fire in 1968 badly damaged the church and only the spirited efforts of local people prevented the loss of valuable interior furnishings.

The church is home to paintings by Rubens, Jordaens, and Van Dyck. These include the superb Baroque confessionals by Pieter Verbruggen the Elder and three paintings by Rubens: The Scourging of Christ (1617) in the left aisle and the Adoration of the Shepherds and Disputation on the Blessed Sacrament in the left transept.

Address: Sint Paulusstraat 20/22, Central Antwerp

The elegant rooms of the late Gothic Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis) include the former council chamber of the butchers' guild. The impressive brick building, built in 1501-04, was deliberately sited close to the Scheldt, allowing the blood of slaughtered animals to run off into the river.

The Vleeshuis is now a museum of applied art and archaeology with collections of prehistoric, Egyptian, Roman, and Merovingian artefacts; weapons and armor; ceramics; furniture; sculpture and woodwork; and coins.

Among its most prized possessions are a 16th-century depiction of the conversion of Saul created from Antwerp tiles known as the Averbode Retable by Pieter Coecke van Aelst.

The Vleeshuis is also home to an outstanding collection of musical instruments including the remarkable harpsichord from the workshop of Ruckers the instrument-makers.

Address: Vleeshouwerstraat 38-40, Central Antwerp

Antwerp's railway station (called both Antwerp-Centraal or Antwerpen-Central) is one of the most beautiful railway stations in Europe and is considered to be one of the most impressive train stations in the world .

Its nickname of the Railroad Cathedral is a testament to its grandeur, and even those who are not traveling by rail will appreciate a quick peek at its interior.

Built between 1895 and 1905, it is historically significant as the first station of Belgium's public railway, which was itself, the first of its kind in Europe. Belgian architect Louis Delacenserie cherry-picked from several different architectural forms in his design, resulting in a bold, dramatic building that has a timeless style all of its own.

The entrance hall, with its high brick arches and dome, is the grandest section of the station's interior and a regal introduction to Antwerp if you arrive by train.

The station is an easy two-kilometer walk east from Antwerp's Grand Place in the old town, and just over one kilometer northeast from Ruben's House.

Address: Koningin Astridplein 27

The Havenroute is a sightseeing tour of the port area, marked out by the Antwerp Tourist Office. The central city sections can be easily explored on foot, but if you want to follow more of the route, hire a bike.

The Port of Antwerp is second only to Rotterdam among the major seaports of Europe, fully justifying its claim to be one of the largest in the world.

The harbor installations alone cover an area of more than 10,000 hectares, with a further 3,400 hectares of land in industrial use.

Start the Havenroute tour of the docks area from the Loodsgebouw (Pilot House) on the embankment north of the Steen, from where the route heads northwards, passing almost immediately the two oldest docks, the Bonapartedok and Willemsdok, at the far end, where you can see the massive Koninklijk Stapelhuis.

If you have a car or a bicycle, the Havenroute heads out of the city, past the 17th-century Eenhoorn windmill to Lillo (16 kilometers northwest of Antwerp), one of the few polder villages to have survived engulfment by the port.

At Lillo, there is a choice between driving on to inspect the huge Berendrechtsluis, the world's largest lock, or shortening the tour by turning round and following the Havenroute south again towards Antwerp, via the Frans Tijsmanstunnel beneath the Kanaaldok.

Address: Port house, 1 Entrepotkaai, Antwerp

With its sumptuously ornate Baroque interior, St. James' Church (Sint-Jacobskerk) is one of the richest ecclesiastical buildings in Antwerp, blessed with an exceptional endowment of art treasures.

It was the church at which the city's patrician families worshipped, and they regularly commissioned leading artists to design their private chapels, altars, and tombs.

The Rubens Chapel provides the chief focus of interest for visitors. Located behind the high altar, it contains the tomb of the artist (1640) and those of other members of his family.

Address: Lange Nieuwstraat 73, Antwerp

DIVA (Antwerp's museum of diamonds, silver, and jewelry) explores all the different aspects of the trade in diamonds, including sections on their extraction, processing, and industrial use.

It also focuses on Antwerp's long heritage of silversmithing craftwork and jewelry making and how that heritage led to the city's central role in the global diamond trade.

As well as displays of cut and uncut diamonds (genuine) together with copies of the more famous stones, the museum exhibits include a vast showcase of Belgian silverwork, from intricately embossed tableware to delicate jewelry.

The museum is temporarily closed for renovation until December 2022, but a pop-up DIVA museum, displaying a range of the museum's diamond and silver collection, is open in Antwerp's Grand Place (Grote Markt) for this period.

Address: Suikerrui 17/19

Official site: https://www.divaantwerp.be/en/

If you're visiting Antwerp for the first time, the best area to stay is in the old town, near the Grote Markt or the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady. More affordable hotels tend to cluster around Antwerp Central Station in the Diamond District, about a 20-minute walk away from the old town. This area is especially convenient if you're arriving or departing by train. Below are some highly rated hotels in these central locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• On a quiet street, a few minutes' walk from the old town, the boutique Hotel De Witte Lelie Antwerp occupies a 17th-century building but the flamboyant design within is bold and contemporary.
• Also in a lovely building, with an original 1864 facade, the pet-friendly Hilton Antwerp Old Town , on the historic town square, has elegant guest rooms with marble bathrooms and is right next to the cathedral.
• Not far from here, the hip Hotel Julien is a boutique property with high style and friendly service.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Sleek and contemporary, the Park Inn by Radisson Antwerpen sits steps away from Antwerp Central Station in the Diamond District.
• Also near Central Station, Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel , Antwerp, with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, and fitness center, is a good option for families, who can walk to the adjacent zoo in less than three minutes.
• If you prefer boutique hotels, the contemporary Leopold Hotel Antwerp , overlooking the city park, is a five-minute walk from the Diamond District and Antwerp Central Station.

Budget Hotels:

• At the top end of the budget hotels, the charming Hotel Diamonds And Pearls is only two minutes on foot from the cathedral.
• Right next to its namesake train station Ibis Budget Antwerpen Central Station is good value with clean, modern rooms.
• In a fabulous location, meters from the cathedral, the family-run Postiljon offers clean, comfortable rooms in an evocative Flemish building, a short walk from the old town attractions.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Ghent's Flemish Flair : Home to some of Belgium's most impressive architecture, Ghent can be explored easily on foot or by canal. Less tourist-filled than many other historic Flemish cities, this is a good place to go to get a feel for authentic culture.

Bustling Brussels : Like Antwerp, Belgium's capital city of Brussels is home to several fine museums among its many tourist attractions. Tourists visiting Brussels will find a modern and busy city filled with excellent restaurants and cafés.

Lovely Leuven : Home to one of Europe's most prominent universities, Leuven (Louvain, in French) sits east of Brussels on the banks of the Dijle. Despite damage done during the World Wars, Leuven still has many of its original historic buildings, including fine examples of Gothic architecture.

Day Trips from Antwerp : In addition to the larger cities nearby, those looking for good day trip options from Antwerp have plenty of options to choose from, including the beautiful towns of Mechelen, Lier, and Turnhout.

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Home » Europe » Belgium » 21 Fun Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium

21 Fun Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: April 25, 2023

A vibrant port city with a rich history, Antwerp, Belgium is full of interesting attractions and things to see. From fashion and artwork to a 600-year-old diamond district and standout museums, visitors are never at a loss for ways to keep busy. We’ve been to the city several times and always find something new to love. Here’s a look at some of our favorite things to do in Antwerp.

Explore the Central Station

Visit the cathedral of our lady, see the works of a master at ruben house, walk through history at plantin-moretus museum, explore the diamond district, hang out in grote markt, see het steen castle, take a break in groenplaats, visit mas museum, browse meir shopping street, sample flavors at the chocolate line, see the art at st. paul’s church, visit red star line museum, see the activity at the port of antwerp, descend in saint anna’s tunnel, marvel at the art nouveau buildings, see the exhibits at museum vleeshuis, grab a bite at the saturday exotic market, enjoy the botanical garden, step inside st. andrew’s church, listen to music at de muze jazz cafe.

Among one of the most spectacular places to see in Antwerp is the central railway station, Antwerp Central (Antwerpen-Centraal). The train station is arguably one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s striking from the outside, but to truly appreciate the station, you’ll have to explore the inside.

The building’s interior incorporates iron, steel, and glass in intricate designs that make it truly remarkable. The central station has a main hall located on the entrance side of Koningin Astridplein and a clock that’s the center of attention. It’s a perfectly beautiful welcome and a great place to start an Antwerp visit.

The Cathedral of Our Lady or Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal is a Gothic holy building in the city’s historic center. Thanks to its 123-meter-high north tower, the building is visible from most places around Antwerp.

Completed in 1521, the architectural wonder was under construction for 169 years. Its belltower is included along with other remarkable towers in Belgium–like the belfrys in Bruges and Ghent –as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The cathedral houses outstanding artworks, including paintings by Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. Visitors can either explore the cathedral on their own or opt for a guided tour to see the paintings, incredible stained glass, and other features.

Even if you’re not an art lover, a visit to Ruben House Museum ( Rubenshuis ) in one of the top things to do in Antwerp based on its 400-year history and preservation. The home of Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens is now packed with his masterpieces and works of contemporaries.

Rubens purchased the house in 1610 and later extended and renovated it, making it into his perfect space for living and creating. Here, the renowned artist produced most of his famous paintings that gained global recognition. From the embossed leather wall coverings to the spaces where every inch is covered with art, it’s impossible not to feel the creative energy here.

Another great attraction in Antwerp worth visiting is the Plantin-Moretus Museum . The only UNESCO-listed museum , Plantin-Moretus offers visitors a close look at the importance and history of printing through artifacts stretching back to the 1500s.

Visitors get to explore the old buildings that housed the printing presses as well as the Plantin and Moretus families over the centuries. The rich library features many notable historical books, including the Biblia Polyglotta (1568-1573), a Bible written in five languages. Over three centuries, the printing house was among the top in Europe, distributing scientific discoveries, philosophical theories, and art like Rubens’s portraits around the continent.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see the world’s oldest printing presses, which were built around 1600.

The famous Diamond District right next to the Central Station is one of the more intriguing places to visit in Antwerp. Dating from 1447, it is considered the diamond capital of the world, and over 80% of the world’s rough diamonds pass through the area. Visitors can visit the numerous jewelry shops selling diamonds. However, the diamond trading markets are usually out of bounds.

If you’re interested in getting a deeper appreciation of the diamond world from history to craftsmanship to design, head to nearby DIVA, the diamond museum . Through multimedia and interactive exhibits, guests get immersed in the glittering world of precious jewels.

The Grote Markt, the main square, is among the most beautiful town squares in Europe. With the 16th-century city hall and gleaming guildhouses, you can’t ask for a better backdrop to enjoy.

Grote Markt is a great place for people watching on summer afternoons. On weekends or during certain seasons, it fills with local markets, most notably the famous Antwerp Christmas market . After you’ve had your fill of shopping or simply taking in the views, head to one of the many cafes and restaurants just a few steps away.

Het Steen Castle, established in the early 13th century, once served as the city’s fortress in its prime location right on the river. It’s the oldest building still standing in the city and is a favorite of photographers for the castle itself and for the curious statue just outside.

Over the centuries, “the Steen” has served lots of different purposes from a prison to a museum. It’s now a visitors center with a panoramic rooftop and is home to The Antwerp Story . The exhibit introduces people to the history of the city and provides an overview of its neighborhoods, its people, and what makes Antwerp unique.

Groenplaats, or Green Square, is another of Antwerp’s welcoming squares right in the heart of the city. Ringed with bars and cafes, it’s a fun place to stop for a coffee or to enjoy lunch while watching the activity. There is also a daily flower market to peruse.

A distinctive modern building along the river Scheldt, the MAS Museum is the largest museum in Antwerp. It has a vast and varied collection of over 500,000 items that are featured in permanent and temporary exhibitions with themes relating to Antwerp’s contact with the world. Visitors will find everything from eating utensils to maritime artifacts that chronicle international trade and shipping.

The iconic building is 10 stories high, and its rooftop provides panoramic views of the city, so it’s a great place to visit when the weather is nice.

One of the top places for shopping in Belgium, Meir Shopping Street runs from the Cathedral of Our Lady to the central railway station. It is lined with major European chains and luxury shops, making the street a draw for tourists and locals. One of the best places to shop along the street is the exclusive shopping center known as Stadsfeestzaal in the restored city festival hall.

Beyond the shops they house, the buildings along Meir are also worth a look. The Rococo facades date from the 18th and 19th centuries and are gorgeous to look at.

Any visit to Belgium must include chocolate. The Chocolate Line is a fantastic place to visit in Antwerp, especially if you’re a great fan of chocolate. Located in the city center, it is in a historical building on Meir.

Chocolatier Dominique Persoone is known for innovation and developing unusual flavor combinations, so be prepared to find uncommon offerings, including chocolate lipstick. The Chocolate Line offers everything from raspberry and salted caramel to fried onions, beetroot, and even grass. The shop is accented with plenty of larger-than-life chocolate sculptures.

St. Paul’s Church is a work of art. Built in 1639 as a Dominican monastery church, the Gothic building is ornate inside and outside.

The church has some remarkable Baroque altars and 50 paintings by renowned artists, including Rubens, Van Dyck, and Van Balen. Outside, the Calvary Garden includes 63 life-sized statues made by a group of Belgian sculptors dating back to the 1700s. It’s definitely worth stopping in when you visit Antwerp, especially if you’re an art lover.

From 1873 to 1935, the Red Star Line transported people from Antwerp to New York and Philadelphia in search of a new start and prosperity in North America. The Red Star Line Museum tells the story of these courageous individuals, looking at why they left and what happened on their journey.

In total, more than 2 million people made the transatlantic trip that began in the very buildings where the museum is now. From photographs and luggage to letters and personal testimonials, the museum brings their stories to life.

The second largest seaport in Europe, there’s always something moving through the Port of Antwerp whether it’s container ships in the distance, cruise ships docking, or the frequent water buses that traverse the river Scheldt. Originally constructed in 1811, the port remains a vital part of the city economy.

Visitors can take a walk along the waterfront or rent a bicycle to explore one of the four cycling routes. A free map shows the routes and what can be seen along the way. There are also boat tours of the harbor if you have time to spare, or you can take a water bus to St. Anna on the opposite side of the river.

If you don’t want to wait on the ferry to St. Anna or are simply curious about the passage, take a ride on the escalator in St. Anna’s Tunnel (called the Underpass by locals). As the name indicates, it was designed to connect the new part of town with the historic center.

The unique escalators were made in the 1930s. They were a novelty then and still are (we’ve only seen them at Macy’s Herald Square in Manhattan), and they take users on a ride deep below the river to cross to the other side. On the way down, you’ll see pictures showing the history of the tunnel and its construction.

Antwerp’s Zurenborg neighborhood has numerous stunning examples of Art Nouveau architecture. Characterized by bright exterior paintings, mosaics, large windows, and ornate details, the style evolved in the late 19th century and took hold in cities around Belgium (they’re some of many beautiful places to see in Brussels ).

Zurenborg’s Golden Triangle–the area between Transvaal, Waterloo, and Cogels-Osylei streets is a particularly rich place to find examples of the fanciful style. Lovers of architecture and photography will want to spend some time wandering the streets here to see all the different features

The Museum Vleeshuis is a former guildhall that has been transformed into a museum. At over 500 years old, the building itself is notably historic, but its displays are what command much of the attention today.

The exhibits at Museum Vleeshuis chronicle six centuries of dance, sound, and music in the city of Antwerp. There are lots of rare instruments and musical manuscripts as well as stories about many notable musicians and the importance of music as part of the fabric of the city.

The Saturday Exotic Market at Theaterplein is a perfect stop for lunch on a Saturday afternoon. The food runs the gamut from Turkish and North African specialties to quiche, oysters, and champagne.

There are lots of ingredients and prepared items to take home and plenty to eat at the market with lots of tables available. Not only is the food delicious, but the market is full of locals out shopping and enjoying a social occasion, so the whole atmosphere is fun. Bring your appetite!

With over 2000 plants, the Botanical Garden (Den Botaniek) provides a green oasis in the city. This world-class garden has a wide variety of shrubs, trees, herbs, and exotic plants that make it a paradise for plant enthusiasts.

The Botanical Garden was originally established nearly 200 years ago to grow medicinal plants to supply St Elisabeth hospital. The city started managing the garden in 1926, and it has since become an indispensable part of Antwerp’s landscape. It is free to visit and open year-round, so it functions much like a city park.

From the moment you step into St. Andrew’s Church , it’s hard to look away from the stunning high altar. Made in the early 1700s, it has soaring marble columns and more than 20 figures adorn the sides. But it is only one of many brilliant sculptures and paintings visitors will find in the impressive church.

Built by Augustinian friars, St. Andrew’s Church was consecrated in 1529. The church is predominantly late Gothic in style, but the steeple and upper tiers are characteristic of the late-Baroque era. If you find it open, it’s worth a peek inside to see the sculptures and the beautiful pulpit.

Initially opened in 1964, the De Muze Jazz Café is among the top places for jazz in the city. For decades, it has attracted jazz greats from around the world to play on its stage. With a healthy selection of cocktails and beers and some of the best music around, the cafe draws regulars and visitors to hear live music every night after 10pm.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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One day in Antwerp, Belgium: A Complete Itinerary

This post is also available in: French

Antwerp is a buzzing portside city in the North of Belgium. It might not be the first choice for visitors traveling to Belgium, as some may think Antwerp is a gloomy industrial port city, but that is not the case.

Antwerp is a beautiful city with a picturesque old town, great architecture, lots of art, the best shopping in Belgium, and first-class food.

Figuring out what to do in Antwerp shouldn’t be stressful. Figure out your travel dates, and then check out the things to do in Antwerp below.

If you only have one day in Antwerp, I suggest the following itinerary:

Central Station

• Shopping on Meier Street
• Rubens House (Rubenshuis)

Cathedral of our Lady

Grote markt.

• Het Steen Castle

MAS Museum Aan de Stroom

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. It costs nothing extra to you but helps keep my site running. Thank you for supporting me in this way.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Antwerp in one day

The best way to arrive in Antwerp is by train; it also gives you a chance to admire Antwerp’s central station, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The station operates since 1905 and was transformed to its former glory in the late 19th century by Louis Delacenserie and Clément Van Bogaert.

It cannot be defined to a particular architectural style, as a lot of styles were used in its construction. The station has four levels, 2 of which are underground.

Diamond District

Adjacent to the station is the Diamond district; after all, Antwerp is called the city of diamonds. Diamonds were being traded in Antwerp from the 15th century.

In the 19th century, the city became a hub for the diamond trade. About 84% percent of the world’s rough diamonds pass through Antwerp, and more than 1700 diamond companies are based here.

Meier Street

As you exit the main central station and head towards the city center, you will meet Meier Street, Antwerp’s main shopping street. 

Meier is considered one of the most important shopping streets for Antwerp and the whole of Belgium.

Shoppers from all around Belgium and the neighboring countries come here to shop. Shopping is one of the main things to do in Antwerp.

Antwerp is also called the city of fashion; apart from the many boutiques and designer shops, it is home to the Flanders Fashion Institute (FFI), the Fashion Museum (MOMU), and the Fashion Academy.

Meier street has many impressive buildings besides the shops, like the Royal Palace and the Stadsfeestzaal.

If you love shopping, Antwerp is the best place to shop. Most stores are open from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm.

On Sundays, you will find shops open mostly on Hoogstraat and Kloosterstraat. All the shops are open on the 1st Sunday of the month.

You might also be interested in exploring the Zurenborg neighborhood in Antwerp .

Rubenshuis/ Rubens House

As you walk Meier street, turn left before the Royal Palace, and you will find yourself in Rubens House, one of Antwerp’s highlights.

Here is where Rubens lived and worked from 1616 until he died in 1640. After his death, the new owners made considerable changes to the building until the city of Antwerp obtained it in 1937. The city restored many parts of the house to its former state. 

The museum houses many paintings from Rubens and his pupils, including works of Anthony Van Dyck.  Many furniture and other works of art from the 17th century are also on display. There is also a charming garden worth visiting.

Address: Wapper 9-11

Opening Hours: Daily 10 a.m. until 5 p.m, closed on Mondays

Admission: 12 €  Adults 26-65 yrs, 8 € Visitors 12- 25 yrs and Adults + 65 yrs

More information: http://www.rubenshuis.be/en

Selected Tours in Antwerp

• Antwerp Highlights Bike Tour . Visit the main attractions in Antwerp with this 2-hour bike tour.
• Private walking tour with a local . Become a local in Antwerp with this private guided tour..

Antwerp’s Cathedral is the biggest gothic building in the Dutch-speaking world and has the tallest bell tower (123 m.) in Belgium. It took 169 years for the cathedral to be built, and it’s now a UNESCO heritage site.

The cathedral is very impressive, but what makes it so unique are the seven aisles and the four Ruben masterpieces that can be found inside it, along with other pieces of art.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10:00 – 17:00, Saturdays 10:00 – 15:00, Sundays and public holidays 13:00 – 16:00

Admission: 12 € adults, 10 € students and adults +65, Free children and young adults up to 18yrs.

For more information, click here .

Groenplaats

This buzzing square full of cafes and restaurants is located at Antwerp’s historical center near the Cathedral.

In the middle of the square stands the statue of the city’s most prominent residence Rubens.

The impressive building of the city hall (Stadhuis) built in the Flemish Renaissance style, dominates the square. Other famous buildings are the Houses of the Guilds and even though they were destroyed in a fire, they were restored to their original form.

In the middle of the square is the Brabo fountain. According to the legend, there was a giant in the city that used to cut and throw the hands of the sailors into river Scheldt if they refused to pay a toll until Silvius Brabo killed it and threw his hand into the river.

The fountain depicts Brabo as he throws the giant’s hand into the river. It is said that Antwerp owns its name to that story as Hand werpen means in Dutch “to throw a hand.”

The symbol of the hand can be seen throughout the city. There are even biscuits sold with the hand shape.

Walk down Grote Markt, and you will find yourself at the banks of river Scheldt and the imposing Het Steen, a medieval fortress dating from the 13 th century.

It is the first building made of stone in Antwerp and what stands today is only a small part of what it used to be. 

In the past, the castle was a prison and, until recently, was part of the Maritime Museum.

We walked at the banks of river Scheldt until we arrived at the Mas Museum Aan de Stroom. On the way, we also saw the beautiful Pilotage, a public administration building built in 1895.

The Mas is a new museum that tells the story of Antwerp in connection with the rest of the world. The museum has a collection of more than 470.000 items, but not all are on display.

Some are kept on the second floor in the Visible Storage Area. Before you leave the museum, don’t forget to check the view from the top floor.

In front of the Museums, you will find four very interesting pavilions, the Diamond Pavilion, the Port Pavilion, the Silver Pavilion, and the MASshop.

For opening times and more information, you can check here.

Explore Antwerp’s food scene

Antwerp’s food scene has everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to seafood restaurants, bistros, beer houses, and lively bars. Eating is one of the best things to do in Antwerp.

Indulge in some waffles, Belgian chocolates, Moules Frites, and Belgian Beers, among other specialties. For more inspiration, have a look here .

Another great option is a food tour around the historical town of Antwerp.

Antwerp is such a fascinating city with many things to do and see. Unfortunately, my time there was short, but if I had been there for more days, I would have visited the following:

• The Plantin Moretus Museum is a printing museum. It is also a UNESCO heritage site.
• The Butcher’s Hall
• Vlaeykensgang, a small alley near Grote Mark, still looks how it used to be in the 16th century.
• St. Anna Tunnel is a 572 meters long pedestrian and bicycle tunnel that runs under the river. From the other side of the Scheldt, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Antwerp.

Where to stay in Antwerp

We stayed at the Lindner Hotel and City Lounge , a modern hotel very centrally located next to the train station.

Our room had all the amenities you would expect from a 4-star hotel, including Wi-Fi, air conditioning, safe, and toiletries. Everything was very clean, and the bed was very comfortable. The highlight of our stay was the amazing breakfast buffet and the friendly and helpful staff.

Check out the latest prices and book The Lindner Hotel and City Lounge here.

Other great choices include:

The Hotel Julien is near many attractions like Groenplaats Square, Antwerp Cathedral, and the De Meir shopping street.

Its spa is located in the 16th-century cellar, but the rest of the hotel is delightfully modern. Rooms are spacious and equipped with an ensuite bathroom and various seating options.

Do not forget to enjoy the common spaces, like the library and terrace, or the roof terrace and bar.

Check out the latest prices and book Hotel Julien here.

The Hotel De Witte Lelie is in the same area, 8 minutes from Groenplaats and 5 from the Grote Markt. This small, luxury boutique hotel is tastefully decorated with comfortable, modern furnishings in a historic building.

Check out the latest prices and book Hotel De Witte Lelie here.

The nearby Hotel Rubens , a one-minute walk from the Grote Markt, offers spacious rooms with large windows. The light and airy rooms are great for couples or even families, as the beds are large.

Weather permitting, the hotel breakfast is served on the 16th-century tower.

Check out the latest prices and book Hotel Rubens here.

I had a really hard time choosing the photos for this post as Antwerp is so photogenic, and I took hundreds of photographs in one day.

If you are visiting Belgium, I suggest you put Antwerp on your itinerary.

FAQS About Your One Day in Antwerp

Is antwerp worth visiting.

Absolutely. It’s not only rich in history and culture but there is something to do for everyone. Planning a trip to Antwerp is an experience that everyone needs to have, and spend as much time as possible there.

If you can only spend 24 hours in Antwerp, enjoy that day to the fullest. Find all the unique things to do in Antwerp, and make those memories.

Is Antwerp expensive to visit?

This depends on your budget. It’s not the most expensive place to visit, but it’s not the cheapest, either. Most would say that it’s a medium-budget trip that can have expensive and discount options discovered everywhere.

What are the best things to do in Antwerp at night?

Taking tours is always fun. There are food tours, beer-tasting tours, and even bike tours to join in on.

For the nightlife scene, you will find bars and pubs scattered about that offer a great place to put up your feet and relax and talk to some of the locals.

If you want to have a different nighttime experience than bars and social aspects, some museums are fun to explore and visit as well. Just look up the hours and make sure that things are open before going.

Top Travel Tips for your trip to Antwerp

• Traveling with a friend is always a good idea. Being with a company is a good idea for safety if you’re out at night.
• If you have special diet needs, research restaurants ahead of time and find ones that suit you.
• Book and call ahead for tours. They might be popular, and you don’t want to miss out!
• Check the weather before heading out for the day. Pack a light bag with a jacket, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

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Have you ever been to Antwerp? What did you enjoy the most? What were your favorite things to do in Antwerp?

I was a guest of Visit Antwerp and Visit Flanders. As always, my opinion expressed here is entirely my own.

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8 thoughts on “One day in Antwerp, Belgium: A Complete Itinerary”

i love YOUR comment, pls come back so we can kiss you !!!

A very good review of my hometown. I’m actually going to use it in my English classes, since it has lots of interesting vocabulary. One small remark though. The large shopping street is called “Meir” rather than Meier” and in the intro, in your listing of things to do you refer to the square in front of the cathedral (with Rubens’s statue by the way) as “Groenplatz”, in which “platz” is German, rather than Flemish. In the article you refer to it as “Groenplaats” which would be the correct name. Other than those two tiny typo’s, like I said, a very good relay. Thank you for putting my city in the limelight.

Thank you so much, Luc, for your nice words. I really liked Antwerp and I hope I can return there one day. I am going to correct the mistakes you mentioned.

Hi Chrissy, thank you for sharing your tips. I really like your blog, especially its photos and the tips. It is very useful for people like me when planning to trips. My friend told me the Zurenborg is an attraction I should go, and I found no many posts talked about it , just wonder have you been there before and how do you like it? I want to avoid some unnecessary places since I don’t have many days stay in Antwerp. Thanks!

Thanks for your comment Shila. I was in Antwerp for a day so I didn’t have time to visit Zurenborg but it sounds like a great place if you like architecture.

Thank you for your post. It is very helpful for planning a day trip to Antwerp

Great post! Planning a day trip to Antwerp — this will be a big help!

Thanks. Have fun in Antwerp it’s a great city.

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A Guide to Antwerp, a City of Avant-Garde Fashion and Art Nouveau Architecture

Five locals — including three of Belgium’s most influential designers — share their favorite stores, museums, restaurants and more.

By Gisela Williams

T’s monthly travel series, Flocking To , highlights places you might already have on your wish list, sharing tips from frequent visitors and locals alike. Sign up here to find us in your inbox once a month, and to receive our weekly T List newsletter. Have a question? You can always reach us at [email protected] .

In the 16th century, Antwerp, Belgium, with its busy docks along the river Scheldt, was a booming center of trade and one of Europe’s most influential cities, attracting artists, intellectuals and entrepreneurs. In 1576, Christophe Plantin ran a prestigious printing business (one of the continent’s largest) in the center of the city, a half-mile from where, a few decades later, the painter Peter Paul Rubens would build his own studio and semicircular sculpture hall, modeled after the Pantheon. Over the years, while other long-established port cities like Venice and Barcelona evolved into throbbing tourist centers, Belgium’s second city largely kept far away from the spotlight, yet it’s always quietly maintained a reputation as a place for innovation and creative expression. In the 1980s, it became an important fashion hub with the emergence of the Antwerp Six: a group of young designers, including Ann Demeulemeester, who had been educated at the city’s Royal Academy of Fine Arts.

Even now, despite its relatively small size (the population is about 545,000), Antwerp is still home to a cluster of people at the top of their creative fields, including the visual artist Luc Tuymans and Pieter Mulier, the creative director of the fashion brand Alaïa. “I can see the port from one side of my apartment and Antwerp’s historic center from the other side,” says Mulier. “Those views allow me to understand the richness of this city, not just financially but culturally.” Lately, there has been a renewed sense of dynamism in Antwerp, with a slate of recently opened restaurants, bars and hotels, including Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, a luxury resort housed in a converted monastery, as well as ambitious new architectural projects underway in the southern part of the city led by Tokyo’s Shigeru Ban and others. The art scene is also getting a boost now that KMSKA, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp, has reopened after its decade-long renovation. Here, Mulier and four other notable locals share some of their favorite spots in the city, from beloved relics to new diversions.

The Insiders

The Costa Rican Cuban painter Ileana Moro lived in New York City, Los Angeles and Mexico City before moving to Antwerp in 2022.

The fashion designer Pieter Mulier , the creative director of Alaïa, divides his time between Antwerp and Paris.

Karen Shu , the chef and owner of the plant-based restaurant And/Or and a former chef de cuisine at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s ABC Kitchen in New York, moved to Antwerp in 2021.

The architect and designer Vincent Van Duysen , who founded his firm in Antwerp in 1989, has designed a number of buildings and interiors in the city, including those of the hotel August in 2019.

The interior designer, gallerist and antiques dealer Axel Vervoordt is known for prominent design projects throughout his hometown, as well as international ones.

Illustrations by Richard Pedaline

“For a small city like Antwerp to have something as high-end as the Botanic Sanctuary hotel is quite astonishing. The level of everything here, from the restaurants to the service to the rooms, is unbelievable. They took a very long time to do it and had quite an eye for detail. That’s very Flemish. We take a lot of time for things.” (Rooms from about $590 a night.) — Pieter Mulier

“ August was once a military hospital and Augustinian cloister. The high ceilings and old convent windows have so much charm, and I love the way the garden is set away from the street so it feels completely private. It’s perfect for an aperitif or drinks after dinner.” (Rooms from about $190 a night.) — Karen Shu

“ Hotel Julien is a very welcoming and charming townhouse located in the city center. The aesthetics belong to the culture of Antwerp: minimal, elegant and historic, but also modern.” (Rooms from about $225 a night.) — Vincent Van Duysen

Eat and Drink

“ Osaka is a special place — the people, the atmosphere and the design. Inside the surfaces are all stainless steel, very futuristic. The natural-wine list is exceptional, and the oysters are really good. In the summer, people sit outside on the terrace.” — Ileana Moro

“ Tazu is my favorite cocktail bar. It’s gorgeous, and Julian Youssef, the head bartender, is a master cocktail curator and can make you a drink depending on your mood.” — K.S.

“ Restaurant Veranda is very Antwerp, but it also has a bit of a creative Brooklyn feeling. The interiors are simple and understated, and the chef Davy Schellemans makes great seasonal food with the best ingredients. ’t Fornuis is a rustic Flemish place with heavy wood interiors. It’s [an aesthetic] I wouldn’t normally connect with, but the food is incredible. It’s Belgian cuisine with a slightly Mediterranean touch. Sir Anthony Van Dijck is in the heart of the oldest part of the city, where Axel Vervoordt started his career. You have to ring a bell and someone opens the door for you. And then you enter this beautiful place designed by Axel.” — V.V.D.

“ Houben is one of the most iconic multibrand stores in Antwerp. The couple who own it have a very good eye, and the shop has been going since the ’80s, when they were selling Comme des Garçons and Yohji Yamamoto. I still visit them regularly.” — P.M.

“Antwerp is very much about fashion, from Ann Demeulemeester to Dries Van Noten, but my favorite exclusive place to window shop is Verso . It’s so chic, with a mix of designers, from Dior to Vince.” — K.S. “ Het Modepaleis is the flagship store of Dries Van Noten, one of my favorite Antwerp designers, who’s also a close friend. His collections are inspired by artworks, the fabrics are very original and distinguished (both for men and women).” — Axel Vervoordt

“I’m obsessed with bed linen. Marie-Marie sells luxurious linens, and there’s no end to the options. It has its own line, which is of an unbelievable quality.” — P.M.

“ Graanmarkt 13 [designed by Van Duysen] is a cabinet of wonders. It’s a place to discover things. Everything that the co-founders Ilse Cornelissens and Tim Van Geloven choose, whether accessories or objects or clothing, is one of a kind.” — V.V.D.

“The art park at the Middelheim Museum is one of the most beautiful sculpture parks that I’ve ever seen. It has an excellent, diverse collection — you can find everything from a Rodin sculpture to an Ai Weiwei, and there’s a nice cafe. Located in the harbor neighborhood Het Eilandje, CASSTL functions as a hybrid of an artist-run space and a gallery. It was founded by Luc Tuymans and the artist duo Carla Arocha and Stéphane Schraenen. They promote noncommercial projects, including performances and installations.” — I.M.

“The Kanaal project — an industrial complex with residences, offices and art spaces [including the Axel Vervoordt Gallery] outside Antwerp — was imagined and developed by Axel and his family; you just get absorbed by their personal taste. It’s a complete universe. You go from one space, such as the Anish Kapoor installation, to another, such as a vast gallery of historic sculptures, and all throughout you travel from dark to light. The whole complex plays with the light of Belgium. The Museum Plantin-Moretus is the house and workshop of the 16th-century printer Christophe Plantin. There’s a beautiful library there.” — P.M.

“If you appreciate architecture and want to discover Antwerp from another era, you have to walk through the Zurenborg neighborhood . I love the Art Nouveau buildings.” — K.S.

“Peter Paul Rubens contributed to the decoration at St. Charles Borromeo Church . It’s from the early 1600s, and the interiors are exquisite. Sometimes I go there by myself. It’s walking distance from the city center. You follow small, narrow streets and then suddenly it opens up to a square, one of my favorites in the city. Everything about it is very poetic. KMSKA , or the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp , has an incredible collection of Belgian painters and a very nice grand cafe. Also, I love the water sculpture at the front of the museum that was created by the artist Cristina Iglesias. The bottom of it is a bas-relief of a bed of leaves in cement, and the water goes in and out like a tide.” — V.V.D.

These interviews have been edited and condensed.

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Venice Biennale Highlights:  The art world’s most prestigious exhibition opened to some fanfare, some criticism and a number of protests. Here’s a look at some of the standouts from the 2024 edition .

A Guide to Antwerp:  Five locals — including three of Belgium’s most influential designers — shared their favorite stores, museums, restaurants and more .

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To Antwerp by train

With eurostar and intercity brussels.

Quickly to the city center

• From € 21 one-way trip with Intercity Brussels
• Travel time Amsterdam – Antwerp 1.48 hours with Intercity Brussels
• From € 29 with Eurostar
• Board directly, no check-ins

The earlier you book, the lower the price. The lowest fare from Amsterdam to Antwerp is € 21 with Intercity Brussels. These cheap tickets are for sale up to 3 days before departure, limited availability. If you book just before departure you will pay € 42 from Amsterdam; if you travel from a station closer to the border, you will pay less.

Travel information Antwerp

From the Randstad area you can travel quickly by train to Antwerp. During your trip, you’ll have all you need to able to relax in our comfortable seats. You can choose to make the journey with Intercity Brussels or Eurostar. Choose which train to Antwerp meets your needs the best.

*You can book an Early Bird ticket up until 3 days before departure, limited availability.

© foto's antwerpen toerisme & congres | foto sigridspinnox.com.

For a complete travel itinerary, consult our itinerary planner

Tickets issued from or to Antwerp are also valid in the regular trains from or to the stations in the Antwerp zone. Which stations belong to Antwerp zone?

Frequently asked questions about taking the train to Antwerp

What does a return ticket to antwerp cost, how often does intercity brussels travel to belgium, how long does it take to travel to antwerp by train, from which platform does the train to antwerp depart, until what time does the train to antwerp leave, prices train tickets antwerp.

For Intercity Brussels you can buy tickets from 180 days before departure. Up until 7 days before departure, you are able to buy our Early Bird tickets: tickets with a significant discount, especially when you travel on week days (Monday-Tuesday).

Prices Intercity Brussel route Amsterdam - Antwerp

*Early Bird can be booked up to 3 days before departure, limited availability. Listed from-prices are based on tickets from Amsterdam Central Station. The price of Intercity Brussels is based on kilometres – if you depart form a station that is closer to Brussels, then the trip is cheaper.

The price depends on

• The moment of booking - Early booking means lowest prices
• Travel class - 1st or 2nd class
• Flexibility - Regarding changing or cancelling bookings

Book in advance and save money

Do you want to and can you book far in advance? Then choose the ticket with the lowest fare. The best rate for the price-conscious travellers.

General tips for getting the cheapest tickets

• Book as early as possibly to have the most chance of getting the cheapest tickets.
• Travelling in the evening is often cheaper.
• For a weekend getaway, travel Sat-Sun-Mon instead of Fri-Sat-Sun.
• Book online to avoid booking fee.

Tips to get the best rates

Practical information

Tips antwerp.

Would you like tips for your visit to Antwerp? Check visitantwerp and you can read how you can discover the city. You will find information about all sights, events and you will receive great shopping tips. Read more great Antwerp tips

To make your trip that much easier, we have summed up certain practical issues for you.

Itinerary planner and app

Please keep in mind that there could be delays or engineering works and check your trip with the itinerary planner. That way, you will never get an unpleasant surprise! Download our app  so that you will be kept informed during your trip of the possible changes.

Free access to the lounges

If you have a 1st class ticket, you can enjoy a free drink at the NS International Lounge in Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam.

Facilities on board

We gladly inform you about all the facilities on board Intercity Brussels facilities Eurostar facilities Eurostar facilities

Hotels in Antwerp

Budget accommodation and unique places. We have the best tips for an overnight stay in Antwerp.

Museums in Antwerp

There are more than 40 museums in Antwerp. Read all about the 6 best ones.

Restaurants in Antwerp

Antwerp is bursting with delicious restaurants and there are so many places to choose from.

Walking tours Antwerp

Zigzag through streets like Hopland and Schuttershofstraat, the trendy Kammenstraat and stately squares.

Zoo Antwerp

Antwerp Zoo allows you to discover almost 5,000 animals from all continents in a romantic and majestic zoo.

Shopping in Antwerp

Antwerp has a lot of attractive and authentic shops. You can also find well-known brands in the Fashion District.

Cycling in Antwerp

The big sights are not all in the centre and this way you can see a lot in a short time. Hire a bicycle or bring your own on the train.

Antwerp with children

Make the most of your visit to this child-friendly city with interesting museums, a wonderful zoo and great children's theatres.

Weekend getaway Antwerp

Would you rather not travel very far for a great weekend getaway? Then Antwerp is for you. In the largest city in Flanders there is a broad range of things to do.

This city is full of culture and hospitality: fashion, museums and excellent food and drink.

Early Bird Belgium

Travel cheaply to Belgium with Early Bird! Book in time, tickets are limited in availability.

Train and hotel Antwerp

Antwerp is perfect for shopping, visiting museums and eating delicious cuisine. It's also easy and quick to reach by train! Book train and hotel now.

Book hotel Antwerp on Booking.com

Antwerp central station.

A beautiful station where your day in Antwerp starts. Or where you can change trains for Ghent or Bruges.

Other destinations in Belgium

It takes just three hours to get from the Randstad area to the medieval town centre.

The charming traffic-calmed town is easy to explore on foot.

Wine and dine in the capital of Flemish Brabant.

Great shopping in this French speaking town, 30 km from Maastricht.

Perhaps less well-known, but not less fun!

These Are Going to Be the Most Popular Travel Destinations in 2024

A lready thinking about where you want to travel in 2024 ? If you’re hoping to hit the hottest travel destinations of the year, Expedia Group is here to help. The one-stop travel site—alongside Hotels.com and VRBO—just released Unpack '24 , a travel trends analysis for the coming year. In addition to detailing the projected top 10 most popular international destinations of 2024, the site also revealed 10 “dupes” for travelers looking to perhaps spend a bit less, as well as those hoping to be surrounded by fewer fellow tourists. Additionally, they revealed 10 affordable cities where the world’s biggest musical acts are set to perform, as well as where to travel if you live a sober lifestyle.

“At Expedia Group, we have extensive first-party travel data that we use to enhance and curate experiences for our travelers across Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo,” Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands, says in the report. “These insights shape our travel forecasts, revealed in Unpack '24, enabling our travelers to be the first to discover and book the most desired trips before they become well-beaten paths.”

Ready to ignite your travel bug? Ahead, discover the most popular travel destinations of 2024.

The Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2024

Expedia Group predicts that travelers are most likely to jet set to destinations popularized in fan-favorite TV shows and movies. According to the report, “More than half of travelers say they’ve researched or booked a trip to a destination after seeing it on a TV show or in a movie. In fact, travelers say TV shows influence their travel decisions more than Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts.” With that in mind, they reveal that the top 10 travel destinations of 2024 are as follows:

• Thailand - Featured in White Lotus , Season 3—which has sadly been pushed to premiere in 2025
• Romania - Featured in Wednesday , Season 2—which has not yet set a release date
• Malta - As seen in Gladiator 2 , which is set to premiere on November 22, 2024
• Paris - As seen in Emily in Paris
• Scottish Highlands - Featured in Outlander
• London, Bath, and Windsor, U.K. - As seen in Bridgerton and The Crown
• South Korea - Featured in Squid Game —the Season 2 release date has yet to be announced
• Florida Keys - As seen in the series Bad Monkey
• Australia - Featured in Baz Luhrmann’s Faraway Downs series, as well as the film Furiosa , which is set to premiere on May 24, 2024
• Greece - as seen in the films Argylle (set to release in 2024) and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

The Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes

Dupes have long been lauded in the beauty and fashion categories, and now the concept is making its way to travel. “1 in 3 of those polled say they’ve booked a dupe,” the report reveals. “But what do these less obvious alternatives offer besides potential savings? They’re often less crowded, tend to be a little unexpected, and can be every bit as delightful as the tried-and-true destinations.”

Intrigued by the idea of booking a stellar vacation for a fraction of the price? Check out Expedia Group’s Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes, below, which are listed as the original destination of inspiration and the dupe that mirrors it.

• Seoul —> Taipei
• Bangkok —> Pattaya
• Santorini —> Paros
• Saint Martin —> Curaçao
• Sydney —> Perth
• London —> Liverpool
• Lisbon —> Palermo
• Geneva —> Québec City
• Zermatt —> Sapporo
• Nashville —> Memphis

The Top 10 Tour-Inspired Travel Destinations

Music lovers, this one’s for you! As you well know, traveling to see your favorite artists live is expensive, to say the least. With this in mind, Expedia set out to find the most affordable destinations where the world’s most famous pop and rock stars are set to take the stage in 2024.

Through their research, in which they analyzed the average daily rates of tour locations, they found the top 10 most affordable cities (less than $150/night on average) where travelers can witness the likes of Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Coldplay, Metallica, Madonna, and more. They are as follows:

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - $91
• Edmonton, Canada - $108
• Mexico City, Mexico - $119
• Warsaw, Poland - $119
• Birmingham, U.K. - $127
• Houston, Texas - $130
• Antwerp, Belgium - $140
• Tokyo, Japan - $147
• Perth, Australia - $148
• Detroit, Michigan - $149

For more research-backed travel trends, be sure to check out Expedia’s full Unpack ‘24 Trend Report .

Puzzle solutions for Saturday, April 27, 2024

Note: Most subscribers have some, but not all, of the puzzles that correspond to the following set of solutions for their local newspaper.

USA TODAY crossword

Play the USA TODAY Crossword Puzzle .

Los Angeles Times crossword

Today’s crossword (mcmeel), daily commuter crossword.

Play the USA TODAY Sudoku Game .

Jumbles: FLUKE      CHEER      WHIMSY      CLOSET      

Answer: For the struggling pitcher, being replaced was a − WELCOME RELIEF

(Distributed by Tribune Content Agency)

CRYPTOGRAPHY PUZZLES 

Celebrity cipher.

"I'm all about body positivity and self-love ... I believe that we can save the world if we first save ourselves." − Lizzo

(Distributed by Andrews McMeel)

Cryptoquote

IF THERE'S A HEAVEN FOR ME, I'M SURE IT HAS A BEACH ATTACHED TO IT. − JIMMY BUFFETT

(Distributed by King Features)

THIS AMETHYST SAMPLE ISN'T AMAZING, BUT IT IS OF ACCEPTABLE QUALITY. IT'S PAR FOR THE QUARTZ.

OTHER PUZZLES

PELICAN      OSTRICH      PENGUIN      

BERET, TRIBE, ESTATES, SMARTER, RETRIEVED

Scrabblegrams

7 little words, find the words.

Affordable housing

(Distributed by Creators Syndicate)

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Can’t afford Paris? Head to its ‘destination dupe’ Antwerp. What’s this latest travel trend?

‘Fashion dupes’ took off on social media, offering budget-friendly alternatives to pricey items. Now, the concept’s gone globetrotting as ‘destination dupes’, swapping out popular spots for cheaper, quieter, or more unique alternatives – Antwerp instead of Paris, Pattaya over Bangkok. Think less cost, fewer crowds, and maybe even more charm read more

Popular tourist destinations that are often on the bucket list of most travellers bring with them a major concern — affordability. The more famous the place is, the more one might end up having to spend. However, the latest travel trend for this year points to a surge in ‘destination duping.’

As the term suggests, this is a practice of travelling to off-beat places that fall within the budget while offering an experience somewhat similar to that of tourist hot-spots. The ‘dupes’ have uncanny similarities with the original destinations and offer unique cultural experiences for travellers.

The trend, which is fuelled by social media, comes as a response to overcrowding and overuse of resources. Places like Athens have restricted the number of visitors, while Venice and Amsterdam are now charging tourist taxes. This presents a golden opportunity for the ‘dupes’ to bask in the spotlight.

For example : instead of Paris, one can choose Belgium’s Antwerp and its historic charm. Avoid Venice’s crowded gondolas and opt for Ljubljana’s scenic canals and swap Santorini for Paros’ pristine beaches and cliffs. India is not far behind on the trend, with travellers choosing Gokarna over Goa, Zanskar over Gulmarg and Udaipur over Jaipur.

How did this trend surface?

The phenomenon of “Fashion Dupes” burst onto social media platforms abroad specially TikTok, offering budget-friendly alternatives to high-end products. This same principle swiftly transitioned into the realm of travel, spawning “Destination Dupes.” These swaps occurred for various reasons, aiming to provide travellers with alternatives that are typically cheaper, less crowded, more accessible, or simply more intriguing.

Expedia, a prominent US-based travel group, caught wind of this trend by the end of 2023, unveiling a selection of popular dupes in the Asia-Pacific region. Among these were Taipei as a substitute for Seoul, Perth for Sydney, and Pattaya for Bangkok. The revelation was backed by staggering statistics: Searches for Taipei surged by 2,786 per cent over the year, with Pattaya seeing a 24 per cent increase and Perth a 109 per cent rise.

Also read: Venice is charging an entry fee to tourists. But why are residents angry?

Why is this trend catching on?

Nikkei Asia reported four key drivers behind the surge of this trend. First and foremost is the cost factor. While the original destination often skyrockets in price due to its popularity, the dupe typically offers a comparable experience at a fraction of the cost.

Secondly, it’s all about dodging the crowds, especially during peak seasons.

Then comes accessibility. Dupes are often more conveniently located and easier to reach, catering to travellers looking for hassle-free journeys.

Lastly, there’s the allure of novelty. Whether it’s a unique twist on the original or additional attractions, dupes that offer something fresh make travellers feel like they’re getting the most bang for their buck. When a dupe combines two or more of these factors, people are more inclined to switch gears.

Adding to the four motivations for swapping destinations, a fifth factor is emerging: sustainability. This aspect is gaining traction, particularly among eco-conscious and ethically-minded travellers. The allure lies in opting for alternatives to destinations struggling under the strain of overtourism.

In 2023, a study conducted by Skyscanner unveiled that a staggering 93 per cent of travellers would entertain the idea of visiting a dupe destination. Approximately 64 per cent of respondents admitted that the potential savings played a pivotal role in their decision-making process.

Skyscanner’s roster of dupe recommendations included Belfast as an alternative to London, Girona in lieu of Barcelona, Krakow instead of Rome, and Seville as a substitute for Madrid.

Data from the website of travel company EaseMyTrip revealed that travellers making bookings have shifted from destinations like the Maldives to the Seychelles and Lakshadweep, from Thailand to Vietnam and from Dubai to Saudi Arabia. "

Some destinations to avoid   

In November last year, this trend received a significant boost with Fodor’s, a prominent figure in the travel industry, releasing its latest “No List.” This advisory cautions travellers to steer clear of specific destinations due to issues related to overtourism and its repercussions.

Leading the list are Venice in Italy, Athens in Greece, and Mount Fuji in Japan, all cited for the damages wrought by excessive tourism. Additionally, Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, California’s San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, and Chile’s Atacama Desert are included due to environmental degradation concerns. Furthermore, India’s Ganga River, Thailand’s Koh Samui, and Lake Superior, straddling the US-Canada border, are singled out for water pollution issues.

This release follows an earlier list from 2022, which flagged 10 other destinations, ranging from Antarctica to Maya Bay and Koh Tao Island in Thailand, to Maui in Hawaii, as places to avoid due to similar concerns.

A few challenges on the way

Countries like Slovenia have even embraced the trend as it contributes to sustainable tourism in the long run. However, while destination dupes offer a more relaxing trip and authentic experiences on a lesser budget, there are some challenges to consider.

Transportation can be a hurdle since these are places that are still underdeveloped for tourism. Similarly, planning might also require more effort, given the limited information that is available about these places.

Given how the trend is exploding on social media, travel experts are confident that destination duping is here to stay. It offers a win-win for travellers seeking the real deal on a budget, while these hidden gems benefit from a more sustainable form of tourism.

With inputs from agencies