antwerp tour itinerary

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 Luxembourg Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

Bruges or Ghent: Which Belgian City to Visit?

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Belgium Itinerary

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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

One Day in Antwerp Itinerary – Top Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium

A modern cosmopolitan center whose rich artistic and cultural heritage seeps out of its every pore, Antwerp (Antwerpen in Dutch, i.e. Anvers in French) is the second most populous city in Belgium after Brussels. Located along the Scheldt River, the Antwerp of today is mostly famous as a major fashion capital and diamond trade Mecca. Every era brought something new to Antwerp, and the city developed and grew with the new without discarding the old. Its prime location on the Scheldt allowed it to grow in power and influence during the Middle Ages, eventually becoming a commercial center that could afford to build glorious cathedrals and support a vibrant art scene that produced Peter Paul Rubens, the most influential Belgian artist of his generation. Four centuries later, the spirit of Rubens’ Antwerp is still very much alive and well, in the city’s many museums and galleries, in the charming cobbled alleys, and even in the clubs and cafes, whose liveliness echoes the movement, color, and sensuality of the artist’s greatest works.

Plan your trip to Antwerp

1. WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ANTWERP? 2. A FEW FACTS ABOUT ANTWERP 3. ONE DAY IN ANTWERP ITINERARY 3.1. Start Your Day at the Antwerp Central Station 3.2. Take a Short Walk to the Antwerp Zoo 3.3. Visit the Old Home of Peter Paul Rubens 3.4. Discover Old Antwerp at the Plantin-Moretus Museum 3.5. Check out the Cathedral Before Lunch 3.6. Take a Short Lunch Break 3.7. Visit Grote Markt (Grand Place) 3.8. Spend an Hour or Two at the Museum aan de Stroom 3.9. Go for a Walk Along the Waterfront 3.10. Treat Yourself to a Nice Dinner 3.11. Party On 4. WHERE TO STAY IN ANTWERP? 5. DAY TRIPS FROM ANTWERP 6. EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING ANTWERP

WHAT’S THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ANTWERP?

The weather in Belgium gets a lot of flak, even though a lot of it is undeserved and propagated by the Belgians themselves, who (much like the British) treat complaining about the weather like a national pastime. In reality, Belgium predominately enjoys a temperate maritime climate , marked by cool summers and moderate winters. Generally speaking, the best time to visit Antwerp is anywhere between late spring and early fall , preferably May-September. Unlike some other European destinations, summer is not a bad time to visit.

While there are plenty of tourists in the city, the locals themselves are also on holiday in July and August, making the crowds quite manageable. In case you want to be safe and get the best of both worlds (warm, comfortable weather and as few tourists as possible), then you should opt for September or October . Do keep in mind that the weather can change rather suddenly in Antwerp, so always keep an umbrella and an extra sweater handy, just in case.

A FEW FACTS ABOUT ANTWERP

The Antwerp province is one of Belgium’s Flemish provinces, which means that Dutch is the official language spoken in the city. The city’s name was allegedly derived from a Dutch phrase that literally translates as “to throw a hand”, alluding to a popular legend that a brave young warrior fought a mythical giant and defeated him by cutting off his hand and tossing it into the river where the city of Antwerp is now located. As per usual, there is another, more mundane theory, whereby the city’s name actually means simply “at the wharf” (aan het werf), which makes sense considering the fact that Antwerp is a port city.

The city has numerous claims to fame, but here are some that may not be particularly well-known. The city hosted the first Summer Olympics after World War I, in 1920. It is also home to one of the oldest zoos in the world , founded in 1843. Lastly, the first printed newspaper in the world was published in Antwerp. The Plantin-Moretus Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that celebrates the work of city’s earliest printers.

ONE DAY IN ANTWERP ITINERARY

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do on your one day in Antwerp.

TAKE A TOUR: Take a 2.5-hour historic tour to learn about Antwerp’s history.

Start Your Day at the Antwerp Central Station

Whether you arrive in by train or not, the city’s main railway station should be at the very top of your list of places to visit in Antwerp. Widely celebrated as the finest example of railway architecture in Belgium, the station is so beautiful that the locals call it Spoorwegkathedraal, meaning “Railway Cathedral”. The railway station was designed by famed architect Louis Delacenserie, who was inspired by the Roman Pantheon and the older railway station in Lucerne, Switzerland. The massive dome is a particularly impressive feature, much like the stone station building.

The station underwent a major renovation project between 2000 and 2009, which increased the number of platforms and facilitated a high-speed rail line. The next attraction opens at 10, so there’s no need to rush things. You can get here around 8 or 9 and take your time exploring the railway station. You can even grab a quick bite or a cup of coffee in one of the nearby cafes before moving on.

Take a Short Walk to the Antwerp Zoo

As unusual as that may be, number two on our list of things to do in Antwerp is the Antwerp Zoo , one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Europe. You can get there in under two minutes from the railway station (it is literally next-door). Occupying a huge area, the zoo is home to 5,000 specimens belonging to close to a thousand different species . The zoo’s current focus is on conservation, leveraging some of its most popular attractions to draw attention to pressing environmental challenges.

Most of the animals can walk freely throughout their safe designated spaces, and several enclosures feature animals of different species living together in harmony, as they would in their real ecosystems. The daily sea lion presentations are particularly popular among the zoo’s youngest visitors. A guided tour of the zoo usually takes around one hour. Of course, you are free to stay longer, although there are still other places to visit in Antwerp.

Visit the Old Home of Peter Paul Rubens

The Rubens House (Rubenshuis) is the former home of Peter Paul Rubens , one of Antwerp’s most famous sons. It is located approximately 1 km west of the zoo, mostly in a straight line along De Keyserlei street. Even on the outside, the house looks really special, with an ornate façade covered in gorgeous reliefs.

A work of art in its own right, the house was designed by Rubens himself to resemble an Italian villa -and it shows. The house was restored in the mid-20 th century and opened as a museum in 1946. Apart from artefacts from the painter’s life, the museum displays many of his most famous paintings, including Adam and Eve and a remarkable self-portrait.

Discover Old Antwerp at the Plantin-Moretus Museum

After the Rubens House, continue your one day in Antwerp with a visit to the Plantin-Moretus Museum . Exit Rubenshuis and head west on Jodenstraat, then make your way to Lombardenvest and keep heading west until you reach the museum , located in a beautiful section of the city, surrounded by immaculately preserved colorful old houses.

Located in an old publishing house/printing plant, the Plantin-Moretus Museum was established in 1876 to honor Antwerp’s contribution to typography and exhibit old printing equipment, ancient volumes in the 17th-century library, works by Rubens and Anthony Van Dyck , and several priceless artefacts. Don’t miss the chance to see an original Gutenberg Bible (one of only 49 still existing today), the first printed atlas in the world, and two of the oldest printing presses in the world.

Check out the Cathedral Before Lunch

Once you’ve had your fill of antique books, tapestries, and printing presses, head on over to Hoogstraat , a charming cobblestone street behind the museum. Just walk north past the numerous colorful shops and quaint cafes and restaurants until you reach the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal Antwerpen, i.e. the Cathedral of Our Lady. The cathedral’s impressive 123 meters-high spires have been towering over the city’s skyline ever since the 14 th century, when the building was among the tallest structures in the known world.

Unfortunately, being a Roman Catholic edifice, the cathedral has been plundered , devastated, and set on fire multiple times over the past couple of centuries. Since much of the original interior was lost, most of Gothic structural elements seen inside are the result of a later 19 th -century recreation. If you spend an hour at each of the attractions and aforementioned places to visit in Antwerp, it should be around 2 PM by the time you’re done exploring the cathedral.

Take a Short Lunch Break

As soon as you leave the cathedral, try to find a nice nearby restaurant for lunch. Paters Vaetje is a great “brown bar” in Antwerp old town, sitting in the shadow of the cathedral’s tall spires. The loveable Art Nouveau style provides the setting for trying out some of Belgium’s world-famous beers such as Karmeliet, Trappist and abbey beers, with a ton of delicious food options including Belgian classics and fast-food mainstays such as pizza and spaghetti Bolognese.

Remarkably, the bar succeeded in maintaining its authenticity in spite of its popularity. De Groote Witte Arend is a great alternative set in an old patrician house, with a unique, stylish interior and a gorgeous terrace where you can munch on typical Belgian food and down a couple of excellent Arend Blonds.

Visit Grote Markt (Grand Place)

Luckily, you won’t have to walk for very long after lunch to get to Grote Markt, a magnificent plaza in the center of the city and one of the most important places to visit in Antwerp if you want to experience the true spirit of the city. If you’ve ever seen a postcard of Antwerp, it is likely that the photo was taken at the Grote Markt, surrounded by centuries-old guild houses.

The plaza is also home to the 16 th -century Town Hall , or Stadhuis van Antwerpen. The gorgeous Brabo fountain occupies the center of the square, depicting Silvius Brabo , the young warrior from the aforementioned legend, as he is about to throw the severed hand of the evil giant into the river. The square is particularly impressive in winter, when it hosts a Christmas market and all the surrounding buildings are illuminated by thousands of little lamps.

Spend an Hour or Two at the Museum aan de Stroom

Standing in stark contrast to Antwerp’s other, predominately age-old landmarks, the high-tech Museum aan de Stroom is as impressive on the inside as it is on the inside. To get there, just follow the narrow streets of Antwerp old town north for 10-15 minutes until you reach the waterfront. You will see a large cube-like building with a red sandstone façade . A picturesque sight, the museum houses a massive collection with all kinds of artifacts including sculptures, utensils, and artwork.

The museum is unique in the sense that it doesn’t function like a typical museum we’re otherwise used to. Instead, Museum aan de Stroom explores the universal themes of power, life, death and the metropolis through stories and mini-expositions that are strategically distributed across the museum’s five floors. Seeing everything could easily take more than 2 hours. If you feel like you won’t have enough time, at least climb to the museum’s rooftop terrace for a chance to enjoy some of the best views in town.

Go for a Walk Along the Waterfront

From the museum’s top floor, you should get a good view of the Port of Antwerp, famous for being the second-largest European port. If you feel like it, you can go for a short walk north of the museum to get a closer look. The enormous docks can store almost 3.6 million cubic meters of bulk cargo, a capacity that is often used to the max. The surrounding area is also very popular for recreational activities .

South of the Museum aan de Stroom along the eastern shore of the River Scheldt, past the US Army Monument, you will come across Steen Castle , an impressive medieval fortress locally known as Het Steen or “The Stone”. The castle was completed around 1200-1225, at a time when almost all houses in Antwerp were made of wood exclusively, which is where the castle gets its name from. Today, the castle houses the National Maritime Museum and a youth educational center. It is definitely worth a closer look when you are strolling along the riverbank.

Treat Yourself to a Nice Dinner

After Steen Castle, keep walking south for approx. 150 meters, and then turn left towards the cathedral. You can actually see the cathedral on the other end of the broad, pedestrian-only Suikerrui street. Take your time – feel free to check out the numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants on either side of the street. There are a couple of great eateries nearby in case you decide to sit down and treat yourself to a nice dinner . De Pottekijker is one of them, although you’ll have to return to the Grote Markt to find it.

The charming 16-th century exterior hides real treasures inside, including amazing grill, meat and fish dishes that are well-known throughout Antwerp and beyond. In spite of its enviable reputation, De Pottekijker is still a very humble, calm, and cozy place that will make you feel accepted and welcome as you enjoy some of the best dishes in Antwerp.

If you want to have some more fun after dinner, kick it off with Dogma Cocktails , a snazzy club that mixes great drinks and serves them with a side of attitude that is just the right amount of provocative without being overbearing. While quite classy, Dogma Cocktails is still very welcoming, with a chill vibe, great music, and accommodating service.

WHERE TO STAY IN ANTWERP?

Radisson BLU Astrid Hotel, Antwerp

Koningin Astrid Plein 7, Antwerp District,2018 Antwerp

Located in the heart of the Diamond Area in Antwerp old town, Radisson BLU Astrid Hotel, Antwerp is one of the city’s top properties. The hotel’s convenient location directly across the Antwerp Central Station makes sightseeing a breeze, and the tastefully designed guestrooms provide a welcoming retreat that lives and breathes Antwerp through understated details such as the creative armchairs and the gorgeous old city maps that hang over the headboard. Some of the hotel’s many amenities include free high-speed Wi-Fi and an on-site Health Club with a large indoor pool. Additional highlights include the fresh and delicious breakfast and the friendly, helpful staff that goes above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Hotel ‘T Sandt

Zand 17, Antwerp District, 2000 Antwerp

A charming property where gorgeous, restored period furniture meets modern design solutions and 21 st -century comforts, Hotel ‘T Sandt stands out with its premier central location and luxurious, yet temperate atmosphere. The spacious, homey rooms all have large windows that provide plenty of natural light and offer nice views of the city. You’ll fall in love with the quaint Italian courtyard and the large terrace with a clear line of sight to the cathedral. All of the most important things to see in Antwerp are within easy walking distance .

Hotel Matelote

Haarstraat 11a, Antwerp District, 2000 Antwerp

Like an unpolished diamond, Hotel Matelote beguiles its guests with its rough-hewn 16 th -century exterior, hiding luxurious individually designed guestrooms inside, each uniquely adapted to fit the room’s location, source of light, and other objectively immutable properties. The hotel’s location is excellent, mere steps away from the Antwerp Cathedral and the River Scheldt. In addition to the modern, quirky rooms, guests were thrilled with the hotel’s excellent breakfast, friendly staff , and the peace and quiet ensured by the hotel’s location in a small side street in the city center.

Antwerp City Hostel

Grote Markt 40, Antwerp District, 2000 Antwerp

Located in one of the impressive historic buildings overlooking Grote Markt , Antwerp City Hostel is one of the best youth hostels in Belgium. The property has everything you will need during your stay, whether you are looking to tour Antwerp in a day or spend a whole week discovering all of the places to visit in Antwerp. The cathedral is so close that you almost feel like you can touch it through the bedroom window. A fresh, delicious breakfast is available every morning, with both buffet and continental options – all included in the original price, which is very affordable.

DAY TRIPS FROM ANTWERP

While Antwerp itself has plenty to offer, there aren’t too many spectacular day trips from Antwerp. Instead of adrenaline-fueled mountaineering expeditions and breathtaking helicopter tours, in Antwerp, it is all about the simple pleasures. An interesting example is the Legends of Antwerp – Private Tour , a trip back in time with a professional guide whose job is to show you all of Antwerp’s nooks and crannies hiding the exciting, funny, and creepy legends that will make your imagination run wild. Other options include the Antwerp Food/Beer Tour , which needs no introduction, and the private round-trip transfer to Bruges , which will let you explore the UNESCO–listed medieval marvel on your own. To learn more about each of these, check out this article.

EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING ANTWERP

In Antwerp, one of the best ways to explore the city is on two wheels. So, grab a bike and start pedaling! The city-wide VeloAntwerpen bike rental scheme is a great option, at a price of only €4 a day/€10 a week.

Be careful when trying Belgian beer – it is at least twice as strong as regular beer, especially the lagers that are mostly served elsewhere.

PIN FOR LATER!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Antwerp Itinerary, feel free to share them in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Anca is a travel writer and the founder of One Day Itinerary - the biggest collection of travel itineraries for those who are time-limited or just want to maximize their time while traveling. Although she easily becomes homesick for Croatia, she thinks travel is essential to her happiness. She has traveled to more countries than she is years old and doesn’t plan on changing that fact. In her travel guides she aims to inspire people to travel whenever they have a spare day (or two).

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

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.

Did you like this post? Pin it >>>>>>>>

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.

Sharing is caring!

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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

One perfect day in Antwerp: A self-guided walking tour with the best things to do in Antwerp

October 8, 2018 by Karen Turner 2 Comments

Antwerp is one of my favorite Belgian cities.  As I live nearby, I regularly visit Antwerp just for the sake of it, so this post is a compilation of my favorite things to do in Antwerp, some cafes/restaurants, and beer cafes that you’ll want to stop off at.

• 1 Included in this guide list of things to do in Antwerpen + where to stay 
• 2 Where to stay in Antwerp
• 3 Start off your day at Antwerp Centraal
• 4 Glimpse into the Diamond District
• 5 Breakfast in Antwerpen
• 6 Meir shopping
• 7 Waffle time
• 8 Plantin – Moretus Museum
• 9 Belgian chocolate
• 10 Vlaaikensgang
• 12.1 Het Elfde Gebod 
• 13 Cathedral of Our Lady
• 14 Het Steen
• 15 Views over Antwerp from MAS
• 16.1 Otomat 
• 17.1 Billie’s Bier Kafetaria
• 17.2 Cafe Kulminator
• 18 Have you been to Antwerpen? Let me know your favorite thing to do!

Included in this guide list of things to do in Antwerpen + where to stay 

• Antwerpen Centraal
• Diamond District
• Breakfast at a popular cafe in Antwerp

Meir shopping

• Belgian waffles
• Plantin-Moretus Museum
• Rubens House
• Secret street: Vlaaikensgang

Grote Markt

• Elfde Gebod
• Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp
• Dinner at an Antwerp hotspot
• Belgian beers in Antwerp *Map at the very bottom.*

Where to stay in Antwerp

I’ve visited many times and always paid out of pocket for myself. The best place that I’ve stayed in Antwerp was Catharina at Friday hands down .  This cozy apartment with two bedrooms and amazing views is footsteps from the Plantin Moretus House and walking distance from everything you need: cafes, beer bars, museums, and Grote Markt. 

For somewhere unique, consider staying in a former cathedral  or a modern boutique hotel with a special touch .  For those on a budget, there’s a nice hostel right by Grote Markt with a lovely cafe. Check hotel and hostel prices in Antwerp now!

Start off your day at Antwerp Centraal

The train system in Belgium is actually really great–and I’ve often just taken the train to/from Antwerp.  One of the highlights of visiting Antwerp is the moment that you step into the stunning main hall of Antwerpen Centraal, the train station.   In case you needed a reminder: European trains are amazing.  The train station dates back to the late 1800s and the grand building is considered to be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.

Glimpse into the Diamond District

As soon as you leave Antwerp Centraal, you’ll pass through the Diamond District.  This district of Antwerp is one of the largest diamond districts in the world although it’s actually quite small (one square mile). 

The majority of the world’s diamonds pass through this area at some point as a Belgian was the one who developed one of the best tools to cut diamonds with. If you’re thinking of buying, make sure that your diamond comes from a conflict-free area.

Breakfast in Antwerpen

Esco*Bar is one of the top brunch places in Antwerp.  This cozy coffee bar with a healthy breakfast is right on your way from the station to the city center !

In case you forgot something, Meir is one of the main shopping streets in Antwerp.  After my shoes ended up bothering me, I picked up a new pair here! 

Waffle time

Stop off at the restaurant  Desire de Lille  for a delicious Belgian waffle. Although many associate Brussels with waffles, Antwerp has fantastic waffles too!  Be sure to sit down to enjoy this delicious delicacy, so save a little room at breakfast…

Plantin – Moretus Museum

Depending on which museum you’re more into, be sure to visit one of Antwerp’s fantastic museums.  As a literature and history geek, I’m very partial to the Plantin-Moretus Museum .  This museum with a stunning courtyard is a UNESCO recognized world heritage site for its role in creating early literature using print presses.  It’s really cool seeing the original presses in their original environment.  The actual museum is fairly large and a delight to walk around.

If you only have one day in Antwerp, you need to decide which museum you’re visiting.  Many people also really enjoy visiting the Rubenshuis , the former home of Belgian painter Peter Paul Rubens.  He lived in a sprawling palazzo with a stunning courtyard.  Inside, you can view paintings from the era and imagine his life spent in the house. Personally, I prefer the Plantin-Moretus Museum, but most people I know prefer the Rubens House.

Belgian chocolate

Although most people head to Brussels for chocolate, Antwerp has great chocolate too.  Be sure to step into  Sjokolat,  a cozy little chocolate shop just around the corner from Vlaaikensgang.  

Vlaaikensgang

What is a city without some secrets?  Be sure to visit the Vlaaikensgang, a medieval alleyway dating back to 1591.  This beautiful secret street, which is accessed via a door (Oude Koornmarkt 16) that does not stand out so much, is a quiet hidden place that many tourists don’t know about.

People still live here, so it’s paramount to be considerate.  Be sure to admire the locks, some of which were designed to make it easier to fit the key in after a lot of Belgian beer…

If you’re interested in trying some Belgian specialties at a nicer lunch, head to  Het Nieuwe Palinghuis  for Belgian seafood and fish. The specialty is here is smoked eel, which is surprisingly delicious, although you can’t go wrong with mussels.

For a vegan-friendly meal, head to Greenway Antwerpen  for a delicious veggie burger at a reasonable price.  

How can you miss the Grote Markt in Antwerpen? The buildings, including 16th-century guild houses, are extremely extravagant.  The house with the horse on top dates back to 1580 and is called Het Pand van Spanje although the exterior refers to St. George. Even if you stop here just for a few moments, admire the town hall, which dates back to the 1560s.

Het Elfde Gebod  

…When was the last time you were at church? You might be ready for the confessional or a delicious honey beer after stepping into Elfde Gebod, one of the most  unique cafes that I’ve visited.  Their housemade beers, especially the Elfde Gebod Honing/Honey, are good.  We had snacks, including fries and trappist bitterballen here, which were delicious.

Elfde Gebod was first recommended to me by a friend who considers this one of his favorite places to get a beer in Antwerp.  I usually tell friends who are visiting Antwerp for the first time that you just need to go in–to believe it.  The cafe is full of religious statues and crazy religious art and it’s an experience sitting down for a beer.  Arrive early as it’s popular.

Cathedral of Our Lady

It’s very hard to miss the main cathedral of Antwerpen as it’s one of the best things to see in Antwerp.  The Cathedral of our Lady stands out amidst the skyline of Antwerp and dates back to 1521. Constructing this beautiful building took over 160 years, however, one might say that it was worth it.  The belfry of the church is listed among the UNESCO recognized belfries of Belgium.  It costs six euros to visit although you can admire it for free from the outside.

Walk by Het Steen.  This castle dates back to the early medieval period and it was intended to protect the city from invasions. The castle served as the city port and prison for many years.  We were told to skip touring it, however, it makes a great photo op!

Views over Antwerp from MAS

MAS is one of Antwerp’s main museums, but there’s a secret at the top.  At the top of MAS, you’ll find a free viewpoint over Antwerpen that you’ll want to check out.  I liked it as the walk to MAS involved seeing a neighborhood outside of the city center with a lot of cool cafes and restaurants.  

Otomat 

For a delicious dinner, head to Otomat for great beers and great pizzas (including vegan pizzas!).  They stock quite a few local craft beers for all my beer lovers.

One of the perks of staying in Antwerp is that you can properly experience its amazing nightlife and Belgian beer culture without having to worry about your train back.

Billie’s Bier Kafetaria

For a more modern beer experience, head to Billie’s Beer Kafetaria for a great section of beers, knowledgable bartenders, great music, and all you could want in a Belgian beer bar.  Their sampler (shown above) is a steal and on our recent trip to Antwerp, we spent the entire night until closing . 

Cafe Kulminator

A bit outside of the city center of Antwerp, you’ll find my favorite beer bar, Cafe Kulminator.  It’s far from the typical bar experience although this Belgian beer cafe has been named the best beer cafe in the world and their selection is unparalleled. 

Expect classical music, a thick book full of beers, a charming couple that owns it (and knows every beer), and a sublime experience for any beer lovers.  I encourage you to arrive early as they don’t like to go down to the basement when it’s past a certain hour.

Have you been to Antwerpen? Let me know your favorite thing to do!

More posts about Belgium

• Four days in Belgium
• Doel, an abandoned day trip from Antwerp
• Seafood in Zeeland, the Netherlands (short drive!)
• Brussels chocolate tour
• A week in Belgium
• A weekend in Brussels

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

May 31, 2019 at 8:29 am

Hello, great suggestions from you! I am thinking to make a day trip from Amsterdam to Antwerp in late June as I only have a day for Belgium. What will you recommend the best way to travel there from Amsterdam? If it’s train, just about how long will it take and is it safe?

May 31, 2019 at 1:01 pm

Hi Sean, I have another article about a weekend in Antwerp. I’d recommend taking the train as traffic can be an issue. It’s 2ish (?) hours and safe although best booked in advance!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• The Netherlands
• New York State
• Other European destinations
• Work With Me
• Disclosure and Privacy Policy
• Jeju SEO Tool: Free SEO Writing Tool

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

TreasureHunter USA Inc. 251 Little Falls Drive Wilmington, Delaware 19808 +1 (915) 4632387 EIN 88-2174128

www.wanderlustingk.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also participate in other affiliate programs

www.wanderlustingk.com all rights reserved © 2023 | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy |

One Day in Antwerp, Belgium – The Best 1-Day Antwerp Itinerary

If you’re currently planning your Belgium itinerary and wondering how to spend one day in Antwerp, this detailed one day itinerary for Antwerp has you covered!

After several visits to Antwerp, I created this travel guide to help you maximize your limited time and experience the very best that this enchanting city has to offer.

Spending a day in Belgium’s second largest city will have you wandering through charming streets and marvelling at centuries-old buildings, in between eating frites and drinking beer, of course. 

Nestled in the heart of Belgium, Antwerp is a captivating city that delights visitors with its medieval charm, stunning architecture, and vibrant contemporary scene.

If you’re planning to stay in a nearby city such as Brussels or Bruges , taking a day trip to Antwerp is a great way to see more of Belgium if you’re short on time. If you happen to have more time in the city, I’ve also included a few extra Antwerp attractions that you should add to your itinerary. 

In this guide I share all of my top tips to ensure you make the most of your one day in Antwerp. So keep reading to discover how to plan the perfect 1-day Antwerp itinerary! 

Table of Contents

Important Information to Plan The Perfect Day in Antwerp 

Top rated tours and tickets for one day in antwerp.

If you’re short on time and you’re hoping to see the best highlights of Antwerp in just a few hours, then joining a tour is the best way to go. See a few of Antwerp’s most popular city tours below. 

2 Hour Walking Tour of Antwerp’s Highlights

See the very best of Antwerp on this popular 2 hour walking tour led by an experienced guide in either English or Dutch. Taking a walking tour upon arrival in Antwerp is a great way to familiarize yourself with the city’s landmarks and learn some insider tips and history from a local. 

→Find prices and availability for the 2-hr walking tour here←

Antwerp City Highlights Guided Bike Tour 

 Joining a cycling tour of Antwerp is an exciting way to explore the city and visit its top sights. You’ll be able to cover more ground than a walking tour and discover Antwerp through the eyes of a local. 

During this 2 hour tour, you’ll pass by famous landmarks such as the old port, Het Steen, Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady, the MAS Museum, and of course the iconic train station. 

→Find prices and availability for Antwerp City Bike Tour here←

Exploring the narrow lanes of Antwerp

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Antwerp 

If you’d prefer to see the city of Antwerp at your own pace, then perhaps doing a self-guided audio tour would suit you best. With a choice of 7 different languages, you can follow an app to guide you through each historical landmark of the city, listening to an insightful commentary as you go.

→Find prices and availability for the self-guided tour of Antwerp here←

One Day Antwerp & Ghent Tour from Brussels

If you’re staying in Brussels and looking to explore Antwerp on a day trip, then this tour is for you . This full day trip lasts for 10 hours and includes a tour guide and transportation to and from Brussels. 

After meeting in central Brussels first thing in the morning, you will be whisked away by bus to Antwerp. Starting off with a guided tour of Antwerp’s best attractions followed by some free time to walk around the city on your own. 

The afternoon will be spent in the magical city of Ghent where you’ll take in the stunning sights on an informative guided tour. This day trip offers a convenient way to see two of Belgium’s most beautiful cities if you’re on a tight schedule. 

→Find prices and availability for the Antwerp & Ghent day trip here←

Go shopping on Meir Street

Best Time to Visit Antwerp

Antwerp is a great city to visit year-round with a range of exciting attractions, museums and events on offer. If it happens to be raining during your visit, no worries just head inside a museum or two. If the weather is sunny and warm, spend the day strolling the charming streets, taking a seat for a coffee or a beer at an outdoor patio. 

The most popular time for tourism in Antwerp is of course the summer months of June – August. You’ll have a higher chance of warm weather and sunny days. However, Belgium can see rain and grey skies no matter what time of year you visit so you should always come prepared with a rain jacket and umbrella.

I personally visited Antwerp in October and July, both times were great for sightseeing with a bit of sun and rain in the same day (very typical Belgian weather!)

I can also recommend visiting Antwerp during December to experience the magic of the Christmas Markets. This is when the Grote Markt comes to life with glistening lights, market stalls and festive decorations.

Packing Checklist for Your 1-Day Antwerp Itinerary

• Day pack – A good day pack is a necessity for a full day of sightseeing around Antwerp.
• Good walking shoes – This itinerary involves a fair amount of walking so be sure to have a pair of comfortable shoes.
• Portable charger  – It will be a long day and there will be many beautiful sites to capture so make sure your phone stays fully charged.
• Travel Tripod – If you’re traveling solo (or in a couple), taking a phone tripod is the best way to get great shots in the city without asking a stranger. These are small, quick to set up and ensure that you’ll always get the photos you want without relying on other people!
• Collapsible water bottle  – Bring a water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Sunglasses  – You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors so make sure to protect your eyes from the harsh sun.
• Sunscreen – As mentioned above, keep yourself protected from the sun if you’re visiting Antwerp during summer!
• Umbrella – The weather in Belgium is unpredictable so don’t forget to bring a compact travel umbrella.
• Rain jacket – As stated above, the weather in Belgium can change quickly no matter the season, it’s always best to come prepared.

Where to Stay in Antwerp 

For ease of sightseeing, booking your hotel in a central location of the city is best. This way you will be within walking distance of the best cafes, restaurants and tourist attractions of Antwerp. Find a few of the top-rated Antwerp hotels in each price range below. 

Budget 

Antwerp City Hostel – Visiting Antwerp on a budget? Stay in this popular hostel located right in the heart of the city. You’ll be able to get everywhere by foot and there’s even a nice breakfast included in your stay!

B&B HOTEL Antwerpen Centrum – With comfortable, modern rooms, a terrace and bar, you really can’t go wrong with this top-rated Antwerp Hotel. Located in the centre of Antwerp, staying here will give you a head start to your full day of sightseeing with a handful of main landmarks only steps from the building. 

Hilton Antwerp Old Town – Set within a gorgeous historic building, this luxurious 4-star hotel overlooks the beautiful Groenplaats Square of Antwerp. With cozy rooms and all the amenities you could wish for, a stay at the Hilton will make for a memorable time in Antwerp. 

→Browse more accommodation options in the city centre of Antwerp←

The Hilton is set in the picturesque Groenplaats square

Best Travel Insurance for Europe

Are you travelling to Belgium from overseas? If you are, then you’ll need to get travel insurance before you go.

The last thing you want is to have an unexpected medical emergency occur while you’re in a different country with no insurance to cover the costs!

Even if you don’t end up using it, getting travel insurance is a small investment to make for peace of mind. This allows you to focus on having a memorable, relaxing vacation instead of worrying about what could go wrong. 

I always go with Heymondo . They’re one of the most reliable companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you’d like to protect against medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations, Heymondo has you covered!

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get  5% off  your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

►Get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance◄

Is One Day in Antwerp Enough? 

Whether you take a day trip to Antwerp or spend the night there, one day is enough to cover the main highlights, get an overview of the city and visit the inside of several attractions. 

Of course, if you’re able to spend 2 days in Antwerp then you’ll be able to visit each item on this 1-day itinerary at a more leisurely sightseeing pace.

Spending more time in Antwerp also gives you the chance to delve deeper into the city’s dynamic food scene, visit a few more of the fantastic museums, spend some time shopping and checking out a few of Antwerp’s hidden gems. 

Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? 

Antwerp is the largest city in Flanders and has so much more to offer than its beautiful architecture and rich history. With a diverse culinary scene, a collection of fascinating museums, amazing shopping opportunities and a world-famous arts scene, Antwerp really has something for everyone.

Antwerp is especially great for those looking to get a little more off the beaten path in Europe as I found it to be far less touristy than Brussels and Bruges yet still just as scenic.

To be completely honest, I preferred the vibe in Antwerp as a tourist a lot more than Brussels. I’d highly recommend either taking a day trip to Antwerp or spending a few days there if your schedule allows for it.

Its central location makes it the perfect European city break, Antwerp can be reached in under 1 hour by car or train from Brussels and Ghent as well as 2 hours from Amsterdam. So go ahead and add Antwerp to your Belgium itinerary and thank me later!

Exploring the scenic Grote Markt in Antwerp

Historic Facts and Info About Antwerp

● Antwerp is a global diamond trading hub, handling a significant portion of the world’s rough and polished diamond trade. The city’s diamond district is a bustling hub of diamond dealers, jewelers, and traders, making it an a great destination for anyone interested in shopping for some new jewelry.

● The city boasts a unique blend of architectural styles, from Gothic cathedrals like the Cathedral of Our Lady to contemporary marvels like the eye-catching Port House . The city’s skyline is a testament to its rich history and progressive modernity.

● After the decline of Bruges in the 16th century, Antwerp entered a golden era becoming one of Europe’s most important trading ports. Its prime location along the Schedlt River allowed the city to flourish as its bustling port handled goods from around the world such as spices, textiles, and diamonds.

● The 16th century in Antwerp also saw a rise in artistic talent and was home to famous artists like Peter Paul Rubens. His masterpieces can be seen in various museums across the city, most notably The Rubens House.

● Antwerp is known as one of the fashion capitals of Europe featuring excellent shopping opportunities such as Meir Street and Stadsfeestzaal, a shopping mall in a historic building. The buildings in this shopping district are beautiful and full of character giving you a shopping experience like no other.

Antwerp 1-day Itinerary Map

Below is a map of all the best places to visit in Antwerp in one day. Luckily Antwerp is a very walkable city which means you don’t have to worry about catching trains or buses to travel between attractions.

As you can see on the map below, the total walking time for the day is estimated around 50 minutes which is easy to fit into your day of sightseeing. Simply follow the map below to make the most of your one day in Antwerp.

*Note* The diamond district is closed on Saturdays and Sundays so you can avoid this area if you’re visiting on a weekend.

How to Spend One Day in Antwerp – The Best Places to Visit in Antwerp in One Day 

Central station – antwerpen centraal.

Antwerp Central Station is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and considered one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. I’ve seen some pretty impressive train stations in my time and I have to say, it’s right up there with the Sao Bento Station in Porto . 

The train station was built in the late 19th century and completed in the year 1905. The building’s interior is often compared to a cathedral due to its grandeur, massive dome, and intricate details, it’s extremely photogenic!

Whether you are arriving in Antwerp by train or don’t have a train to catch, this amazing train station is worthy of stopping by to admire the majestic interior and snap a few photos. 

The majestic Antwerp Central Station

Walk Through the Diamond District

Are you in the market for some new diamonds or jewelry? Even if you’re not, you’ll pass by this area anyway as you make your way from Antwerp Central Station to the Rubens House. 

Since the 15th century, Antwerp has been one of the world’s top diamond trading hubs. The city’s diamond district is where you’ll find a huge assortment of diamond and jewelry shops making it the largest concentration in the diamond industry.

It is said that around 80% of the world’s diamonds are traded in Antwerp so there’s really no better place in the world to treat yourself to something sparkly. I found it fun to window shop and admire the beautiful gems as I passed through this iconic part of Antwerp. 

**Note** Many shops in the diamond district are closed on the weekend, so it’s best to confirm the opening hours of a specific shop before you go. Otherwise, avoid the diamond district if you’re visiting Antwerp on a Saturday or Sunday!

Check out a few shops in Antwerp’s diamond district

The Rubens House

Take a step back in time by visiting the former home and studio of the famous Flemish painter, Peter Paul Rubens. This beautiful 16th century house in the centre of Antwerp has been turned into a museum where you can find some of his original paintings and personal belongings on display. 

The museum includes a reconstruction of Rubens’ studio, offering visitors a glimpse into the space where the artist created some of his most famous works. This is easily one of Antwerp’s most popular museums and it won’t take much time out of your day, making it easy to fit into your Antwerp itinerary.

**Update**  The Rubens House is currently closed for renovations until 2026. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp offers a great alternative for those who still wish to see some of his work until Rubens House re-opens its doors to visitors. 

Rubens House, Antwerp

Shop on Meir Street

Next up on this Antwerp itinerary is a walk through the city’s prime shopping hot spot. Meir Street is a bustling pedestrian strip lined with popular shops, restaurants, and cafes.

This is where you can find all the best shopping opportunities in Antwerp from big-name brands such as H&M, Zara, and Primark to independently owned stores. The beautiful architecture and ornate detailing of the buildings on this street makes for a memorable shopping experience.

Be sure to pop into Stadsfeestzaal, a shopping centre just off of Meir Street housed in a gorgeous 19th century building with gold covered domed ceilings. I found this place quite impressive and worthy of a quick stop even if you don’t stay long! 

The beautiful Stadsfeestzaal mall

Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal)

Every city in Europe has an impressive cathedral that dominates its skyline and Antwerp is no different. The Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) towers over the streets of Antwerp with a spire that stands an astonishing 123 metres tall.

This incredible work of art took several centuries to complete, with construction spanning from the 14th to the 16th century. The inside of the cathedral features stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and beautiful vaulted ceilings as well as paintings by famous artists such as Rubens himself.

If you wish to enter the Cathedral of Our Lady, be prepared to pay €8 otherwise you can simply admire its grandeur from the outside and continue on your explorations around Antwerp.

The beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady towers over the streets below

Stop for Lunch 

By this point in the day, you will likely be hungry and ready to sit down for some lunch and give your legs a rest. For a unique dining experience head over to one of Antwerp’s oldest restaurants, Elfde Gebod .

Sitting in the shadows of Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, the pub has a history that stretches back to 1425. Stop in here to enjoy some traditional cuisine alongside a few classic Belgian beers while surrounded by religious statues and eclectic décor. The place is sure to make an impression!

For some snacks to keep you fuelled throughout the day, be sure to stop in at Frituur No 1 to pick up a serving of quintessential Belgian frites. As you wander through the city, you’re bound to come across many stalls selling freshly made Belgian waffles which are a must-try when in Antwerp!

Don’t miss out on trying some Belgian fries!

Grote Markt

When you see pictures of Antwerp it’s likely of the famous Grote Markt, a vibrant square surrounded by stunning 16th century buildings.

The Brabo Fountain is the centrepiece of the square and features a statue of a mythical hero, Silvius Brabo, who is said to have defeated a giant and thrown his hand into the Scheldt River.

The City Hall is another notable landmark that dominates the square with its ornate façade. This awe-inspiring building is adorned with statues and intricate carvings, showcasing the city’s wealth and influence during the Renaissance period.

The Grote Markt really is the beating heart of Antwerp. At any given time of day it’s buzzing with restaurants, cafes and tourists passing through taking in the impressive surroundings. 

The stunning Gote Markt of Antwerp

Plantin-Moretus Museum

A visit to this fascinating museum will take you on a journey through the history of the printing and publishing world. It’s actually the first museum to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Inside the Plantin-Moretus Museum you can explore a collection of historic printing presses, tools, and machinery that were used during the early days of printing. These are in fact the oldest printing presses in the world!

The museum also holds an extensive collection of rare books, documents and artefacts that offer a unique glimpse into 16th-century Antwerp. Allow around 2 hrs to see the entire museum. This makes for a perfect activity if you get stuck with a rainy day in Antwerp.

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm (Tuesday – Sunday, Closed Mondays)

Tickets: €12/adults 26+, €8/adults 18-26, free/visitors under 18

Plantin-Moretus Museum, Antwerp

Het Steen Fortress

Only a short walk away from the Grote Markt, the imposing Het Steen fortress sits on the banks of the Scheldt River. It’s the oldest building in Antwerp dating to the 13th century when it was initially built to defend the city and control access to the waterway.

Nowadays its one of Antwerp’s top tourist attractions where you can find a visitor center, a museum and a viewing terrace at the top of the castle.

You can see the visitor centre and head to the terrace for a panoramic view over Antwerp for free. However it costs €7 per adult and €5 per child to enter the “Antwerp Story”.

This is an relatively new museum that takes you back through the history of Antwerp through a series of interactive displays. Find more info about planning your visit to Het Steen here . 

Visitor Center Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm daily

Het Steen Castle

St Paul’s Church (Sint-Pauluskerk)

If you still have time left in your day trip to Antwerp, consider checking out this lovely hidden gem which is tucked away from the main streets. 

It’s easy to miss this stunning Gothic style church however St. Paul’s Church or Sint-Pauluskerk is one of Antwerp’s most beautiful churches and definitely worthy of a quick stop.

The inside of the church features beautiful artworks by well-known Flemish artists from the Baroque period as well as sculptures and an old organ. Elaborate decorations can be seen on both the inside and outside of St. Paul’s Church.

The most distinguishing feature is the Calvary Monument which consists of impressive rock formations and 63 life-size statues in a garden just outside of the church.

Opening Hours: 2pm – 5pm daily

Tickets: €5

Fascinating features of Sint-Pauluskerk, Antwerp

Try Some Belgian Beers

Once your day of sightseeing comes to an end, there’s still an important thing left on this Antwerp itinerary. You simply can’t leave the city without trying some traditional Belgian beers in a historic bar. 

If you’re not heading back to another city at the end of day in Antwerp, find yourself a nice old pub and enjoy a few Belgian beers and a bite to eat. You don’t have to go far to find nice bars in Antwerp but here are a few of the city’s best to get you started.

Paters Vaetje – A cozy pub with a nice atmosphere and wide selection of beers in a great location next to the Cathedral of Our Lady. 

Quinten Matsijs – Located down an alley, not far from the centre of town, this is another one of Antwerp’s oldest pubs which dates back to the 16th century. 

Cafe Kulminator – An eccentric bar with plenty of beers to choose from. One must ring a bell upon arrival and tell the bar keeper you’re there to “taste beer” to be granted entry to this unique bar which is run by an elderly couple.

Lovely scenery at Quinten Matsijs

Spending More Than One Day in Antwerp?

In addition to the attractions I’ve listed in the one day Antwerp itinerary above, there are plenty more awesome things to see in and around Antwerp that you should check out if you have any extra time.

The biggest highlight for me would have to be taking a day trip to the stunning cities of Bruges and Ghent but I also loved exploring more of Antwerp’s museums and hidden gems.

Day Trip to Bruges

Bruges is an incredibly scenic medieval city and one of Belgium’s top tourist destinations. If you have more than one day to spend in Antwerp, you must include a day trip to Bruges on your Belgium itinerary.

Bruges is easy to reach in 1.5 hrs by train from Antwerp Central Station or 1.5 hrs by car. Spending the day in Bruges will involve cruising along the picturesque canals by boat, indulging in freshly made Belgian waffles and taking a step back in time as you wander the city’s narrow, cobbled streets.

Find more detailed info about planning your Bruges day trip here . 

Take a day trip to the fairy tale city of Bruges, Belgium

Day Trip to Ghent

Ghent is another fairy tale city of Belgium only 1 hour from Antwerp by car or train. The city is full of beautifully preserved medieval buildings, pretty canals and the striking 12th century Gravensteen Castle surrounded by a moat.

The historic center of Ghent is absolutely stunning and offers many great things to see and do. You can easily spend an entire day soaking up the city’s rich history, enjoying a lunch along the canals and admiring the gorgeous architecture.

Ghent is a little more off the beaten path than Bruges but in my opinion, it’s just as beautiful. Read my guide to spending the day in Ghent here.

Explore the charming city of Ghent on a day trip from Antwerp

Antwerp Zoo

Located only steps from Antwerp Central Station, the Antwerp Zoo is the oldest animal park in the country which has been open to the public since 1843.

Home to one of the largest animal collections in Europe, you’ll see a huge range of animals from around the world such as giraffes, lions, elephants, tigers, hippos, koalas and so much more! There’s even an aquarium with blacktip reef sharks and loads of fish. 

Exploring the Antwerp Zoo is a great activity year round and an absolute must-do if you’re travelling with children. However if you only have one day in Antwerp, you won’t have enough time to fit the zoo in the 1-day itinerary above. 

A visit to the Antwerp Zoo can easily take up to 2-3 hours which is why I recommend only visiting if you have more than a day in Antwerp. Spending some time in the zoo allows you to disconnect from the busy city streets without actually leaving the city!

Opening Hours: 10am – 6pm (365 days/year)

Tickets: €32,50/adults, €30,50/children 12-17, €26,50/children 3-11, Free/children under 3

The MAS Museum

This popular museum is located in a striking building on the Schedlt River and showcases Antwerp’s history, culture, and maritime heritage.

The MAS Museum features a large number of permanent and changing exhibitions covering a huge range of topics. One of the highlights is the epic panoramic view that can be seen from the top floor.

It’s free to enter the museum and see the view from the top terrace however to see the exhibits, you will pay an entrance fee. Find more info about planning your visit to the MAS Museum here . 

Tickets: €12

Antwerp BeerWalk 

Taste your way through the colourful history of Antwerp on this half day pub crawl that takes you past some of the city’s famous sites while stopping to taste beers along the way. 

This is a fun intro to Antwerp and a great way to learn stories and historic facts from a local guide as you enjoy beer tastings at a number of iconic Antwerp pubs. 

→Find prices and availability for the Antwerp BeerWalk here←

Chocolate Nation Antwerp

If you’re a fan of Belgian chocolate (who isn’t?!) you’ll want to add this to your list of places to visit in Antwerp! This top-rated museum is located just across from Antwerp Central Station and claims to be the world’s largest Belgian chocolate museum.

Learn all about the chocolate making process and discover the history of Belgian chocolate on an exciting 60-90 minute tour of this interactive museum. The best part is getting to taste the chocolate and bring some home with you!

Opening Hours: 10:15 am–6:30 pm daily

Tickets: €19.90/adult, € 18.50/young people 12-17, €14.50/children 4-11

Taste delicious Belgian chocolates at the chocolate museum

Museum Vleeshuis

This beautiful medieval building in the heart of Antwerp was once a meat market and is now a museum dedicated to showcasing Antwerp’s musical history, from the medieval period to the present day. The word Vleeshuis directly translates to “Meat House.”

The museum takes you back over 600 years in time and features an impressive collection of historical musical instruments, including string instruments, wind instruments, and keyboards. It’s a must-see for music lovers.

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm (Thursday – Sunday, Closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday)

Tickets: €8/adult, €5/visitors aged 18-25, free/visitors under 18

Antwerp Christmas Markets

If you happen to be visiting Belgium during December, you can’t miss the Antwerp Christmas Markets! Every year from December to the beginning of January, the city is decorated with sparkling lights and market stalls, giving a cosy Christmas vibe and a magical atmosphere.

The markets take place over several squares in Antwerp and you’ll find all the typical Belgian treats such as waffles, fries, crepes and mulled wine or glühwein . 

This is such a lovely time of year to stroll through the city and soak up the magic of Christmas while tasting some traditional foods and picking up a few souvenirs along the way. 

Get into the festive spirit at the Antwerp Christmas Markets

Discover More Belgium Travel Guides

• The Ultimate 5 Day Belgium Itinerary – Historic Cities & Hidden Gems
• How to Spend One Day in Ghent, Belgium
• 13 Best Things to do in Dinant, Belgium
• Day Trip to Bruges from Amsterdam – How to Spend a Day in Bruges

Enjoy This One Day Antwerp Itinerary? Pin it for later!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission on purchases made through these links. By making any purchase, you are directly supporting The Road Is Life Travel Blog which allows me to continue providing you with free high-quality travel guides. I only recommend products/services that I have tried/love! 

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

Welcome to my journey 🙂

Join my community! Subscribe to my mailing list for insider travel tips & inspiration, blog updates + more!

You may also like.

One Day Itinerary of Antwerp – With Free Walking Tour Map

Last Updated on February 18, 2024

A Quick Outline

How to Explore Antwerp in One Day?

Antwerp is a very well-planned city seeped in history. It’s best explored through thematic walking tours. For a first-time visitor I recommend you visit the museums and markets in the day and book a free walking tour in the evening .

However, we visited Antwerp on our first trip to Europe and didn’t know much about these free walking tours back then. We picked up an amazing walking map in our hostel and started off to explore on our own.

Where we stayed in Antwerp?

One day in antwerp – the world’s diamond capital.

Our hostel was in a surprisingly peaceful complex near the throbbing fashion district. We loved the hostel. What we cherished the most was the free pocket maps from the UseIt series that were made available on the rack for tourists.

These maps had a host of local tips and some history lesson of the city. Not only did it guide us through our walking tour of the city but it also helped me recollect the tidbits while writing the blog. This is in fact, the only souvenir I could bring from Antwerp (keep reading to know why).

So after taking some time to freshen up, we set off for exploring the city on foot. Here are a few things that are hard to not notice when you walk on the streets of Antwerp.

• Lots of under-construction stuff going on. The skyline full of building cranes, with the roads connecting one construction site to another. According to the map, the construction work included a renovation of old monuments, raising skyscrapers, constructing tram lines and some big plan of building a whole new green district on top of the ringway around the city (“ Ringland “).
• The formal, classy dressing style. When it comes to fashion, we mostly think of Paris, but just a walk down the Fashion District and looking at the well-dressed men and women you’d know Antwerp is not behind. Honestly, I don’t understand fashion, but even for a fashion agnostic person, it was not difficult to appreciate their stylish outfits. If you are into fashion, an Antwerp Fashion shopping tour is a must.
• It is a well-planned city with one dedicated block for each purpose. On our way from hostel to the Stadspark, we walked through the fashion district with the designer boutiques, big brand outlets and then the shopping malls. Then we came to the Cathedral around which there are the souvenir shop and those mouth-watering Belgian Chocolate shops.
• After that, we walked into the world’s largest Diamond District, with diamond shops, the Diamond trade center, and few offices and banks within or adjacent to the diamond district. Then we entered the foodie’s street with lots of pop-up bars, restaurants, pizzeria and cafes.
• You will see pop-up bars and cafes everywhere in the city, but there is this one block where you can just reach and have all the options for food within a small radius.
• Overall, Antwerp seems to be a very walkable city – even without any background we could follow along with the city map and explore the highlights on foot.

Visiting Europe soon? Do check out the best packing list for Europe .

Our Antwerp Itinerary

Our first stop was at the Central Station from where we walked 2km to our hostel. So by the time we started on our self-guided walking tour, we had already got an orientation of the neighborhood.

Antwerp itinerary | Stadspark – The City Park

We had a delicious bacon and prawn pizza at a local pizzeria and then we went to the city park, called Stadspark. The remains of a 16th-century Spanish fortress were re-engineered into this beautiful open park in the 19th century, in a classical English landscape style.

“On summer days it’s full of skaters, girls in bikinis next to women in veils,” said our pocket local guide. But on a relatively cold, somber day it just looked like a page out of Tom Sawyer or Great Expectations. There was a lovely children’s park where parents were watching the kids play after school-time.

The pizza that we had at Del Popolo

Antwerp Central Station

Often ranked among the world’s 10 most beautiful train stations (even at no.1 by some surveys), this grand monument is a masterpiece and could easily be mistaken for a museum. The large dome with beautifully decorated exteriors is just a teaser of what’s inside.

Look up at the glass dome above and the details on the arches with tainted glasses when you go up the escalators. It indeed looks like a cathedral inside but like many historic monuments it has a dark history. According to our pocket guide, the original building was built under the command of Leopard II with blood money from inhumane rubber harvest in the then colonies of Belgium.

Diamond District of Antwerp – The Jews and the Indians

Did you know? 84% of the world’s rough diamond passes through Antwerp!

Antwerp is the heart of diamond trading for over five centuries. With 220 million-dollars-worth of diamonds traded daily in the diamond district of Antwerp, you’d know why there are so many men in uniform around in the city.

The highly secured Diamond quarter is home to the diamond trading center, a large number of jewelry shops, diamond traders, wholesalers, cutters and guess what, a branch of “Bank of India”!

Orthodox Jews have dominated the closed world of diamond trading in Antwerp for centuries, but Indians are taking over steadily. The rising prominence of the (mostly Jain) Indian community is seen in the cuisine as well, with special mention of vegetarian Indian restaurants on our map.

You’d see a large number of formally clad Jain Indians and orthodox Jews identified by the head -wears (kippah) and long beard walking on the street.

There are around 20,000 Jews in Antwerp, most of whom are orthodox and these families have inherited the diamond business from their ancestors from as early as the 15th century. The Jewish neighborhood near the diamond district has beautiful old buildings and synagogues.

You’d find most of my pictures of the city roads are sort of photo-bombed by an unusually large number of wires – I first thought these were only for the tramlines, some of them are, but mostly it is the Eruv – a holy wire that symbolically encloses a certain area (a larger home).

Read up a little about this on the internet and found out that Eruv runs almost throughout the central city enclosing the station and diamond district, to allow the orthodox Jews to move around as usual during a religious observation called Shabbat, in which they are forbidden to leave their home.

Antwerp in one day | Meir Market

I spotted the Scheldt River on our map and decided to go there no matter what. So, we just kept walking from the Diamond District towards the river. On our way, we crossed the Meir shopping center of Antwerp.

We had walked through this place earlier on our way to the hostel. Yes, the place that made me aware of the great sense of fashion in the Antwerpeans.

Meir is the main shopping destination in the city. I also noticed that there was a sale starting in a few days, but we were out of luck. You would love looking at those gorgeous buildings and window-shopping like we did.

While we headed straight to the Grote Market from here, a slight left turn could have taken us to Ruben’s house . As the name suggests, this is the house of the great artist Ruben and it has been transformed into a museum. The museum has a great collection of his paintings. I didn’t know about it then, so we missed it. But you know now, so don’t miss it on your walking tour.

The Grote Markt – The Great Market of Antwerp

This is the central square of Antwerp is famous not only for a large number of shopping options and cafes but also for the architectural wonders around.

Each building- be it a shopping mall or a bank has a medieval design lending the place its old-world charm. The Brabo’s fountain stands at the center, (recall the story I began with?) depicting the city’s hero.

This is where we also saw the chocolate shops I mentioned and the stunning OLV Cathedral.

It has a 123-meter tall tower, which we could see from various parts of the city on our walking tour. This Gothic masterpiece was completed in an early 16th century and has been robbed several times since then.

From here we followed the direction of Brabo’s hand towards the river Scheldt. Just kidding, we followed the map and walked towards the river.

The Steen Castle –  My favorite place of one day in Antwerp

The Antwerp Harbour

Since the castle was closed for restoration activities we spent a great time at the banks of the river taking watching the ships and the windmills. A walk along the Antwerp Harbour is almost a mandatory free thing to do in Antwerp. But we missed something.

The underpass connecting to the left bank of the Scheldt River leads you to the best Panoramic viewpoint of the city. We missed that unknowingly.

Nightlife at Antwerp

Other places to visit in Antwerp in one day

This was our itinerary which comprised only the free things to do in Antwerp. The things we missed? Well, there are some, as always when you have such a short stall in the city. Here are a few which you can add to your list even if you have only one day in Antwerp.

• Plantin – Moretus Museum. This is a museum and a UNESCO world heritage site. It is also a 16th-century printing workshop, the only remaining one in the world.
• Antwerp Zoo. If you are visiting with family don’t forget to peek into the AntwerpZoo, which is right behind the Antwerp Central station.
• New Port House of Antwerp. This is another free attraction in Antwerp’s skyline but we missed it.

However it is 7.2 km away from the Steen castle, so it’s better to take a bus or bike to it. We could not include it on our walking tour.

Roadmap for our one-day Antwerp Itinerary

Here’s another photo you can pin!

Just 1.5 hours from Antwerp (by train) lies the fairytale medieval city of Bruges. I missed it and went to DeHaan instead. You can also check out what to see in Brussels which is less than 1-hour drive from Antwerp.

Read how we planned our first Europe trip here . You can also check out the most walkable cities of Europe in this post .

Here are some handy guides to other European cities well connected with Antwerp.

Amsterdam in 3 days

Paris in 4 days

• Our Euro Trip

Author Alice is a full-time business professional with a penchant for writing and travel planning. She shares her travel stories and exclusive practical tips on Backpack & Explore, that you won't find anywhere else.

16 Comments

Antwerp looks amazing. Now on my bucket list.

Antwerp looks great. The railway station, Jewish Quarter, Diamond district. Will have to get there. Thanks for the post.

Antwerp is awesome place to visit. Your detailed and informative post brought me back my memories of my visit. Thanks for sharing!

I've never actually heard of Antwerp so I enjoyed reading about it. How interesting that they have a different purpose for each street, great idea!

You squeezed in a lot into your time in Antwerp, looks like I could happily spend a couple of nights there I think. We want to see more of Belgium, as we recently spend a wonderful few days in Ghent and loved it. Looks like Antwerp shares the beautiful historical architecture, old town squares and cool tram network of Ghent too! And wow to that central station building!

I've heard about Antwerp before but never thought I will find so many cool things to do here. I loved your pictures of the historical architecture and the old town squares. I definitely have to visit it after reading your article!

What a beautiful post about an equally beautiful city Antwerp and it only makes it better with your tips to visit free places. I must say there is a lot to see in the city with the splendid architecture itself which is free. Would love a visit to the city park, called Stadspark which will be great in the summer. The other one which appeals to me is The Steen. Thinks for sharing this post .

I remember visiting Antwerp many years ago, and it's a great city to do a lot of walking. I also remember the Steen, and it's very cool inside too. I think I went to the Great Market, and probably had a beer there too! Not sure about the bacon and prawn pizza, but then again, I live half the year in Italy and we never eat that here!

I absolutely loved this walking tour seeped in history. I never knew the origin of the name Antwerp, that is so interesting! And the prawn pizza you had sounds so good – I've never had shrimp on pizza before. What was the name of the restaurant you visited?

Antwerp looks amazing as it has lots of beautiful things that can be done for free. I love your hostel location in fashion district, as it must be great to see something new trendy stuff there. Also detailed free maps by Useit series sounds useful as they have many local details. Thanks for sharing.

Antwerp looks really pretty! The central station is stunning and I bet that the Stadspark is a great place to enjoy the sunshine in the warmer months!

You should check out the huge street art scene in Antwerp, with the free Street Art Cities app you can wander in the open air gallery

We visited Antwerp a few years ago and whilst walking around the city popped into Centraal Station. We didn’t know anything about the station so was totally amazed by what we found when we wandered in! In 2009 Newsweek judged the station the world’s fourth greatest train station. Then in 2014 Mashable awarded it the first place for the most beautiful railway station in the world. It’s seriously impressive & grand – you really must visit if you’re ever in Antwerp!

Antwerp sounds great and not somewhere I had considered before. Nice to know how it got its name.

We were due to got to Belgium next week and was confused about whether to go to Ghent or Antwerp after Bruges. I ended up opting for Antwerp and was really looking forward to my stay there, but then we had to leave the EU quickly before travel restrictions came into play. But I’m still planning on going there one day.

What an interesting city. I had no idea there was such a huge diamond market there and that it was run by Orthodox Jews. Funny how they get around the Shabbat restrictions. Thanks for sharing all this great info.

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Copyright Disclaimer

All images and content in the blog Backpack & Explore are copyrighted. Using these anywhere without permission of the blog admin can lead to legal action.

Affiliate Disclaimer

The site is mainly monetized through affiliates. This means when I recommend a hotel or service or any product, they are likely affiliate links. If you buy something by clicking on these links, we get a small commission for referring you, WITHOUT any additional cost to you.

We are affiliate partners of Amazon , Booking.com , and GetYourGuide , among others.   All product or service recommendations on our blog are based on personal experience and research. It is not influenced by any brands or affiliate partnership.

Feature of the Month - Europe Trip Planning

• Is Keukenhof worth visiting? A guide to Holland's Tulip Landscape
• Most Walkable Cities in Europe
• How To Plan a Europe Trip on Budget
• Best of Madrid in 3 Days
• Best of Amsterdam in 3 Days
• Best of Paris in 4 Days

Join India Travel Community

Popular posts on blog.

• 23 Beautiful Hill Stations near Bangalore to visit in 2023
• Road Trip Essentials - Checklist
• Road Trip with Baby- Checklist
• Best Cameras in India - 2023
• Best Resorts for Affordable Luxury

Dig Into Archives

One Day in Antwerp Itinerary: Best Things to do in Antwerp

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 9th March 2023

Categories Belgium , Itineraries

Last Updated on 9th March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Cobbled lanes, 16th-century architecture, modern skyscrapers, and all the beer: if you’re looking for a vibrant destination in Western Europe that’s easy to reach by train or plane, then consider a visit to Anvers , otherwise known as Antwerpen or Antwerp . Here’s the best of Antwerp in one day ; an Antwerp itinerary to make the most of 24 hours in the city and discover the best things to do in Antwerp …

Why you must Visit Antwerp on your next Belgian Adventure

Is one day enough time to visit antwerp, arrive at antwerpen centraal, explore the historic city centre, grote markt, cathedral of our lady, groenplaats, konditori (schermersstraat 8), frituur n°1 (hoogstraat 1), the jane (paradeplein 1), graanmarkt 13, satay (wijngaardbrug 8), visit the best of antwerp museums, plantin-moretus museum, explore the hidden gems of antwerp, visit pauluskerk antwerpen, enjoy the view from mas museum, have a beer at het elfde gebod, enjoy the city lit up by night, day trips from antwerp, budget accommodation in antwerp, mid-range accommodation in antwerp, luxury accommodation in antwerp, meir shopping street, go shopping in the diamond district, tips for visiting antwerp, enjoyed reading about the best things to do in antwerp pin it now, read it again later:.

The bustling and busy port city of Antwerp can be found on the Northern coast of Belgium, a tiny country sandwiched between France to the West The Netherlands to the East, and Germany to the South.

As the birthplace of Paul Rubens, Antwerp has its fair share of cultural destinations and museums worth visiting. And that’s not all. Fries come from Belgium, as does some of the best chocolate and beer in the world (check out our Belgian beer guide here ) !

Another of the best reasons to visit Antwerp is its geographical location; perfect for day trips and cheaper than Brussels, Antwerpen makes the perfect base from which to explore the wider area. Ghent, Breda, and Bruges are all easy to reach.

One day is enough time to see Antwerp if you want a quick overview of the city and visit the top attractions. However, I would personally say that if you want to enjoy everything at a more leisurely pace and have time to relax as well, you’ll want to allocate three days to Anvers. For those planning a trip to Belgium, check out our s uggested Belgium itinerary .

Things to do in Antwerp in the morning

Often said to be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, if you make it your mission to do just one thing during your day in Antwerp, be sure to at least arrive or depart from Antwerp central train station.

Constructed between 1895 and 1905, highlights of this sprawling terminus include an impressively large clock and Art Nouveau ceiling. Even if you don’t travel by train to get to the city, I still recommend heading to the Centraal station to check out the beautiful architecture.

Situated in the Old City Quarter of Antwerp, the market square of Anvers is characterised by its countless 16th-century guildhalls. Must-sees in the square include Antwerp City Hall and the Brabo Fountain. Inaugurated in 1887,  the fountain depicts Antwerp’s founding legend.

Come wintertime, an ice rink is erected in the Grote Markt, transforming the area into a glittering winter wonderland. Much like many other cities in Belgium, Antwerp hosts an annual Christmas market selling traditional Christmas market food and delightful souvenirs.

If you’re looking for further information on Antwerp, then it’s worth noting that the Tourist Information Office is also located a little off the Grote Markt.

If you’re looking to enjoy the best of Antwerp in a day, then you simply need to add the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal (Cathedral of our Lady) to your itinerary.

Located in the very heart of the city, close to the Grote Markt, this ecclesiastical building was consecrated in the 16th-century. Though only one tower exists today, the original plans for the cathedral included two towers of equal height.

Over time, various complications (including a fire!) delayed the completion of the second tower, meaning that it was never realised. Today, you can visit the inside of the cathedral for a fee. Works of note inside include artworks by Rubens, Marten de Vos, and more!

Though ‘Groenplaats’ is quite literally translated into English as ‘Green Place,’ the lively square is far from your typical city centre park. Instead, Groenplaats is a paved convergence of many streets.

Highlights of this area of Antwerp include a statue dedicated to Paul Rubens and a magnificent view of the Cathedral. You can also sit in one of the cafés, order a beer or coffee, and sit and watch the world go by.

What you may not know is that where Groenplaats now stands was actually where Antwerp’s main cemetery stood, right up until the 18th-century. At that time, cemeteries were abolished within the city walls. Now, the square is home to an array of shops and eateries.

Where to eat in Antwerp

During our time in Antwerp, we were lucky to try a number of dishes, and I was especially happy to discover that there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options at various eateries throughout the city. Some of the best places to eat in Antwerp include:

By far the best bakery in town, Konditori is open from Tuesday through to Saturday. Well-reviewed, the quality of their breads and pastries is pretty much unrivalled!

If there’s one food you should try when in Beligum (if only just one fry to say you’ve sampled the local cuisine!) it’s the fries. The chips at Frituur n°1 are fast to get and so good that we ended up going twice! You can easily find somewhere nearby to sit and munch on your fast-food. When ordering, be sure to get the Fritessaus- you won’t regret it!

For a taste of luxury with a side of Belgian cuisine thrown in, check out The Jane. One of the best restaurants in Antwerp, this eatery has two michelin stars.

If you’re travelling with a veggie in tow, then be sure to check out Graanmarkt 13. Although this restaurant still serves meat and fish, there’s a selection of veggie tapas on the menu.

During our three days in Antwerp, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Satay. There are veggie options on the menu in the form of tofu-infused delights and I couldn’t recommend the noodles more!

How to spend an afternoon in Antwerp

By far my favourite museum in Antwerp, you could easily spend hours strolling around the Plantin-Moretus Museum . Part art museum, part history of the printing press, this sprawling complex of buildings easily needs 2-3 hours to fully explore.

If you’re planning to come to Antwerp in order to enjoy the art scene, then you simply must head inside the Rubenshuis (Ruben’s House) . However, I must warn you that the house museum is more of a gallery of sorts, and little of Rubens original furniture survives to this day. Instead, though the furniture is all antique, the things found within the Rubenshuis have been sourced elsewhere.

There’s a place in the city where you’ll find gems such as a location where a Caravaggio was once stolen and a Calvary Mountain complete with dozens of life-sized statues in their own hidden courtyard. Sint-Pauluskerk Antwerpen is easily the most beautiful church in Antwerp.

Free to visit, once there you’ll soon discover breathtaking paintings and a walk-around guidebook to help you discover the treasury and adjacent cloisters.

Another highlight of the St Paul’s Church is the mechanised altar which allows for different paintings to be displayed at different times.

Though the MAS museum is located a little way out of the historic city centre, the cultural space is still easy to reach via a gentle walk alongside the River Scheldt.

En route, be sure to discover Steen Castle, an ancient fortification dating back to the 11th-century. The MAS Museum (Museum Aan de Stroom) itself is housed within a strikingly modern building.

And while you’ll have to pay if you want to enjoy the exhibitions, the very top of the structure boasts a panoramic rooftop offering a bird’s eye view across the city.

How to spend an evening in Antwerp: Things to do in Antwerp at night

The most unusual bar in the city by far has got to be Het Elfde Gebod. Lying in the shadows of Antwerp’s Cathedral, the bar’s name is quite literally translated into English as the ’11th Commandment’. Once inside, you’ll soon discover an array of pulpits, church murals, angels and more.

The works have been collected over the span of our decades and are truly a sight to see. Between stone carvings and ornate crosses, you never know what you’ll spy next, nevermind where you should be looking!

The café serves a wide array of traditional Belgian beers, making it the perfect place to stop for a drink and one of the best hidden gems of Antwerp.

Twinkling and beautiful, there’s nothing like seeing Antwerpen by night, particularly the Grote Markt. Highly rated bars in the area include Den Engel (Grote Markt 3) , The Irish Times Pub (Grote Markt 38) , and Den Brabander Antwerpen (Grote Markt 36) .

If you have a little more time to explore the city, then there are plenty of things to do in Belgium outside of Antwerp. From the city, it couldn’t be easier to hop on a train (and though I don’t recommend it, you could also rent a car!) and take a day trip to a nearby city. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to the best day trips from Antwerp.

Where to stay in Antwerp

The ASH Antwerp

Located close to a tram station, this hostel offers dorm rooms with shared bathrooms and private rooms with their own en-suites. Amenities include Free Wi-Fi while some rooms have fridges.  Check prices and availability here .

Kabas Hostel

This well-reviewed hostel offers dorm rooms, as well as private rooms with shared or private bathrooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and complimentary tea, coffee, and breakfast. Check prices and availability here.

Astoria Hotel Antwerp

Close to several parks and near the Diamond District of Antwerp, this mid-range hotel offers free Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms have their own terraces.   Check prices and availability here .

Hyllit Hotel

Close to Antwerp’s central station, the Hyllit Hotel features contemporary rooms with features like a minibar, free Wi-Fi and TVs.  Check prices and availability here .

Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt

Located in the heart of all the action, this four-star accommodation offers services such as flat-screen TVs, a complimentary breakfast, and free WiFi. Check prices and availability here .

Hotel Julien

Situated close to many of Antwerp’s main attractions, this luxurious place to stay in Antwerp even has a rooftop terrace with views onto the cathedral. For an extra fee, there’s also a spa that has a sauna.  Check prices and availability here . 

If you have more time (further things to do in Antwerp)…

Of course, if you have more time in Antwerp, then there are a myriad of other activities and things to do in the city. Here’s our selection of top attractions in Antwerp if you have more than 24 hours in the city…

If you want to shop, then you simply must head to Meir shopping street, which is one of the top places to go shopping in the Belgian city. The street has all of the typical high street vendors you would expect to find in a modern European city.

Yet another place which is popular for shopping in Antwerp is the Diamond district, which is also known as the   Diamond Quarter   (Diamantkwartier) . Its name derives from when Antwerp was at the peak of the diamond industry during the 19th-century.

Art lovers will likely need no introduction to the name Rubens. The iconic painter lived in Antwerp for years and today his former home has been transformed into a small house museum where you can learn more about Rubens’ life, as well as life in Belgium in the 17th-century.

If you want to avoid the crowds and prices of Brussels but are still looking to visit Belgium, then I highly recommend booking a visit to Antwerp. With that being said, there are still plenty of ways by which you can save money when visiting the city.

For example, if you’re taking public transportation, then purchase your tickets in advance at an official retailer (there are numerous newsagents and the like across the city). This way, you’ll save 20% as opposed to the full price if you were to buy your transport ticket from the driver.

If you want to get to know the city on a local level, from a resident’s perspective, then you might want to book a private walking tour. Lasting anything from 2-6 hours, this walk with a local guide will show you the best things Anvers has to offer.

Check prices and availability here .  If you’d prefer to experience Antwerp through its culinary scene, then book this 3-hour food tour instead.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Best Things to do in Antwerp Day Trip Itinerary

This page may contain  affiliate links which earn us a commission at no extra cost to you to support the site. Thank you!

If you’re planning a day trip to Antwerp and you’re not sure what to do – we’ve got you covered. Here are the best things to do in Antwerp in one day!

Being the biggest city in Flanders and the second biggest in Belgium (after Brussels), Antwerp makes for a great city break destination. Close to the Dutch border and only 50 minutes from Brussels by train, this port city is easy to get to and is one of the best places to visit in Belgium (in my opinion!).

I grew up in a small Dutch village near the Belgium border, with Antwerp only an hour’s drive away. Growing up, I’ve visited Antwerp many times with my parents and my sisters, but usually, those visits were focused around the main shopping areas (especially when I was a teenager). 

During one of my recent visits home, I thought it’d be a great idea to plan a day trip to Antwerp with my mom and one of my sisters. Especially now I have a travel blog and I’ve learned to properly plan city breaks 😉 Doing research for our day trip, I was surprised at how many other amazing things there were to see and do in Antwerp!

So, without further ado, here is my one day Antwerp itinerary if you also want to visit the city. I’ve finaly been able to see the city from a different perspective and I have to agree with my sister, Antwerp is amazing!

Have a Belgium Craft Beer

Best things to do in antwerp in one day.

Here is my Antwerp day trip itinerary:

Antwerp Central Station

Antwerp Central Station is the starting point of this one day Antwerp itinerary. But even if you’re not getting to Antwerp by train, the station makes for a great starting point for your day.

This neo-baroque building was opened in 1905 and it’s considered to be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world – and I couldn’t agree more! It’s magnificent!

Want to see Antwerp on a budget but still see all the highlights? Why not book a free guided tour in Antwerp with Civitatis. There are two tours available per day (at 10:30 and 13:00) and they last around 2 hours. Book them here .

Diamond District

Since 1447, Antwerp has been known as the Diamond Capital of the world. And it has kept this title till this day.

Walking out of the Central Station, you’ll enter the Diamond Quarter. This is where diamonds are polished and traded – with many diamond stores for customers to spend all their money.

While I don’t think it’s really worth spending a lot of time here, it’s nice to have a quick look in the shop window. But, unless you’re in Antwerp specifically to buy diamonds, it makes sense to just walk through it from the station to the next stop on this one day Antwerp itinerary.

Meir Shopping District

Walking through the Diamond Quarter, you’ll end up in Meir Shopping Street. Being one of the prime shopping places in the whole of Belgium, this is where I’ve spent quite a bit of time (and money) on shopping trips as a teenager.

The architecture in this area is quite impressive, especially for a shopping district. But while the buildings themselves make this street stand out, the shops are the typical brands you find in any city. Still, a pretty good place to get some clothes.

Rubens House

If you’re only visiting Antwerp for one day, you won’t be able to fit in a lot of museums. However, Rubens House is one of the most popular ones in the city – so if it’s up your street, make sure to add it to your day trip.

The world-famous Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens, lived here with his family. From it, he created many of his famous works.

It’s best to pre-book tickets if you really want to visit it because time slots do get booked up in advance!

Have a Roll at “Have a Roll”

Ready for a quick break with a cup of coffee and a snack yet? Well, have I got the place for you 😉

Have a Roll make 100% vegan cinnamon rolls with the most delicious toppings (think Caramel Pecan, Biscoff, Cookie Dough and more). And since they’re made fresh every single day, they taste fantastic. They also serve drinks, including coffees, hot chocolate, teas and even matcha lattes.

And, best of all, you can buy boxes with their cinnamon rolls to take home. They are good to eat for two days after you bought them (or even longer if you store them in the freezer!). A little treat for after your Antwerp trip.

Shop in Antwerp’s Independent Shops

And “Have a Roll” isn’t the only independent vendor that’s worth checking out when going on a day trip to Antwerp. The city is filled with them – one of the reasons why I used to go to Antwerp as a teenager. While it has the mainstream H&M and Zara stores on the Meir (which are ideal for getting some basics, especially on a shopping trip), there are some real gems in Antwerp’s alleyways where you can find the most unique items.

Some real gems to check out when shopping in Antwerp are:

• Sincerely Valentine (they’ve seen such success that they have three locations in Antwerp now!)
• The Other Shop
• Wunderkammer .

Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) in Antwerp is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. Not only is it beautiful to look at from the outside, but it is also a treasury that holds a collection of major artworks.

The Cathedral is currently being renovated, so it’s not possible to enjoy its beauty in its full glory – however, it’s still very much worth it to stop by.

Grote Markt

As in most European cities, the main square is a must when visiting for the day. But the one in Antwerp is by far one of the most beautiful squares in the continent. 

The City Hall can be found here, along with stunning Guild Houses. You can also find the Brabo Fountain on the square. Near it, there are lots of bars and restaurants – perfect for a quick lunch.

Did you know that Antwerp also has a castle? You can find this 13th century Het Steen castle lying on the Scheldt river. From the city centre, it’s only a short walk – definitely worth it!

The medieval fortress can be visited for free, but if you want to go inside The Antwerp Story, you’ll have to purchase a ticket. The Antwerp Story is in Het Steen and shows you the history of the city while you walk through 11 different rooms.

And what’s a day trip to Antwerp without a cold Belgium craft beer? Apart from its delicious chocolate, fries and waffles, Belgium is also known for its craft beers. And Antwerp doesn’t have a shortage of bars where you can try some.

If you’re looking for a unique place to grab a beer, check out “Elfde Gebod”, located just behind the cathedral. The name translates to “11th commandment” in English and the bar claims to be the oldest in Antwerp. Whether they are or not, the interior of this bar is definitely unique enough to make it worth a visit. It is filled with Christian art and religious decorations – plus, they serve Trappist beers from local brewers!

Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?

Yes, Antwerp is definitely worth visiting . With beautiful architecture, a lively city centre, a ton of independent shops and a ton of great food, Antwerp makes for one of the best city breaks in Europe. Especially since it’s only a short drive/train ride from both the Netherlands and Brussels, I highly recommend adding Antwerp to your itinerary if you have a few extra days to fill.

Antwerp Day Trip: Conclusion

While not many people have put Antwerp on their travel list yet, they should. The city is filled with stunning architecture, delicious food, some of the best independent shopping scenes in the country and, on top of that, it’s very walkable. Whatever your interest (history, shopping, gastronomy), Antwerp has got something for you.

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

View all posts

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Must-Read Articles

50+ Best Things To Do In Japan

Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth it?

The Perfect Three Week Japan Itinerary

Japan Travel Tips Group

The Japan Travel Newsletter

Sign up to get inspired! Receive insider tips, special discounts and more to plan your perfect Japan trip.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

japan travel Blog

Tokyo Kyoto Osaka Hiroshima Hakone Kobe Nikko Nara Kyushu All Japan Content

Plan Your Trip

Best Things To Do Japan Rail Pass 2 Week Itinerary 3 Week Itinerary Accommodation Japanese Phrases

About The Navigatio Work With Us

Join our Adventure: Get a FREE E-book for traveling Europe on a budget!

Nova on the Road

Visiting Antwerp: 2-day Itinerary Filled with Surprising Activities

Share this post!

Visit Antwerp with this 2-day itinerary and explore these places and unusual activities.

Antwerp is the second-largest city in Belgium and in my opinion one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. With stunning architecture, rich culture, the best Belgian beers, and the tastiest chocolates, this city is all you need for a fun trip! Here’s a complete 2-day itinerary for visiting Antwerp. Enjoy!

A little while ago I visited Antwerp with my friends and it was awesome. The city was much more than I expected from it. We did the most amazing activities and just had a lot of fun throughout the entire weekend. One and a half days was a bit too short to explore the whole city. But everything I didn’t see, I’ll see on my next trip to this gorgeous city.

I am still a bit shocked that I didn’t visit Antwerp earlier because it’s only a 2-hour drive from my house in the Netherlands. But I’m really glad that I finally did visit and I definitely will visit again sometime.

Spoiler alert : I’ve kept the most fun activity for last 😉

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of the product links, we’ll receive a small commission at no cost to you. We only promote products and services we 100% believe in. Thank you so much for supporting us! Read more about it in our  disclosure policy .

Antwerp 2-day itinerary

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Antwerp?

In Antwerp, accommodations aren’t crazy cheap, but they’re not expensive either.

If you’re on a budget, hostels are a wise choice for you. Find the perfect hostel for you below!

If you’re not on a low budget, you should simply go for a hotel. Most hotels are in or near the city center, so it’ll save you a lot of walking!

Antwerp 2-day itinerary starting from the central station

Admire the central station.

One of the first places we visited was the central station. If you’re an architecture lover, you’ll fall in love with this stunning structure; the central station.

The central station was built between 1895 and 1905 and it got renovated after the huge destruction of world war 2. In 2009 it was chosen as the world’s fourth-greatest train station . And in my opinion, the station is a wonderfully beautiful masterpiece. Definitely visit the central station and take a look inside!

The Antwerp zoo

Now I am personally not one for zoos, but if you like going to the zoo, you should visit the one next to the central station in Antwerp. It is said to be a really beautiful zoo.

Visit Chocolate nation

Just skip the whole glammy and expensive diamond district; visit chocolate nation instead! This is the greatest Belgian chocolate museum in the world! It’s a little expensive to get in; 18,90 euros per adult, but definitely worth it! You learn a lot about chocolate, and the history of Belgian ”pralines”, and you can taste some chocolates…

De Keyserlei

On our way to the Meir, we sat down in a cute little beer café on the Keyserlei. Very expensive, but really refreshing. When you are in Antwerp, you must sit down for a tasty Belgian beer. It wasn’t bad at all with a view over the entire Keyserlei and the Central station.

Okay, I must be honest with you for a second. Please don’t hate me, but I didn’t drink any beer during my weekend in Antwerp. All my friends did, but I just don’t like beer. But the beer cafes were really cute and the friendly staff laughed at me when I ordered a red wine… I had it coming.  

Take a stroll down the Meir

The Meir is the most well-known shopping street in Antwerp. If you’re in for a bit of shopping, make sure not to skip the Meir!

Hendrik Conscienceplein

With the Carolus Borromeus church, the Hendrik Conscienceplein is a beautiful sight. It’s a shame that we only found this church on a Sunday and there was service, so we couldn’t go in. So you should visit this church on a Saturday if you want to take a look inside.

Cathedral of Our lady

The biggest church in Antwerp is the Cathedral of our lady. The construction of this massive structure started in 1352 and was finished in 1521. With a tower of 123 meters, this cathedral is quite impressive.

There’s a 12 euros entrance fee for this cathedral.

Sint-Annatunnel

This may be a bit of an unusual thing to visit, but it’s definitely something you should experience. To get from the historic center to the other side of the Schelde (river), there’s a unique tunnel that is being used daily by the citizens of Antwerp.

The Sint-Annatunnel is 572 meters long and it was built between 1931 and 1933 . The cool thing about this tunnel (in my opinion) is the wooden escalators. These authentic escalators are probably some of the oldest in the world!

You don’t have to walk across the entire tunnel, but just make sure to get down using the wooden escalators.

Grote Markt

On your stroll through the historic center, you will – no doubt – find the Grote Markt. This iconic square is surrounded by the most breathtaking buildings with golden statues on them, and a stunning statue in the middle of the square; Brabo’s monument.

And around Christmas, you will find the cutest Christmas market on this square.

We spent new year’s eve in Antwerp , and had the best experience! With many winter activities, this day is unforgettable!

Vlaeykensgang

This is a medieval alley dating back to 1591. It may be a little hard to find, but just take a look when you do. There’s nothing to do here, but it’s a beautiful place to take some pictures and have a beer in t Hofke.

House of Waffles

Another thing you just can’t skip is eating a real Belgian waffle. We sat down at the house of waffles (the best waffles in town) on a little square, overlooking the huge Cathedral. The staff was really friendly and helpful and the waffles are like heaven. A bit expensive, but worth every single bite. The coffee’s really delicious too.

Het Steen Castle

This is Antwerp’s oldest structure , dating back to 1225 as a gateway to a larger castle of the Dukes of Brabant which was demolished in the 19th century.

Take in every bit of beauty of the medieval building and make sure to take some photos.

Here’s a little list of other things to see in the old town of Antwerp:

• The Heritage Library Hendrik Conscience
• Plantin Moretus Museum
• On Stoelstraat 11, you’ll find the oldest house in Antwerp
• St. Paul’s Church
• The Museum Aan de Stroom; for a beautiful view over the city
• Rubens House

These are all things I didn’t get to see because we didn’t have enough time.

Find the best deals on accommodation in Antwerp with Booking.com

Now last but not least…

Visit ghost town Doel

Doel is a ghost town just outside the city of Antwerp. It’s half an hour’s drive from the city. We visited Doel on the way to Antwerp and it was really fascinating. Okay, that’s maybe not the best way to describe a ghost town, but it really was fascinating.

Doel was once a little village with about 1300 inhabitants. There are only less than 30 left, who are fighting to keep their homes and village alive. But how did Doel become such an abandoned ghost town?

The port of Antwerp needed more space, so the government almost forced the residents out of their homes by giving them compensation to leave. In 1999 it became clear that the town could not be saved and was scheduled for complete demolition.

Since 2007 this town has become a true piece of art made by many street artists. People are still fighting for the town to live on, but soon this town will only live on in pictures and videos. There is no exact date for the demolition yet, so I’d recommend visiting while you still can.

Because of this whole story, this town has become a tourist attraction. Many people are visiting Doel before it’s too late. It’s illegal and hardly possible to enter the empty houses and shops, but just wandering through the streets was more than enough.

You cannot enter Doel with a foreign car, although we managed to do it. We went around 9 am and the little pole wasn’t in the way so we just went on and drove into the town. It wasn’t crowded on this beautiful Saturday, so I’d recommend going early in the morning because it can get crowded throughout the day, especially on the weekends.

Practical tips for visiting Doel

Our weekend started early in the morning on Saturday. We drove to Doel, stayed there for an hour or 2, and then drove to Antwerp. Around lunchtime, we got to the city and the next day around 4 pm we had to go home already. In my opinion, this wasn’t enough time to explore the city. I’d have liked a few more hours of exploring.

So if you are going to Antwerp, I’d say go for 2 to 3 days to do most of the activities I wrote above. We hired a little apartment close to the city and this was wonderful because we could go there for breaks. Antwerp is a big city so you’ll be walking a lot. It’s nice to get out of your shoes and rest a few times a day.

Final thoughts on Antwerp 2-day itinerary

Although my weekend in Antwerp was a little short (and expensive), I really enjoyed it. The city is one of the most beautiful in Europe. With the sunny weather, it felt like a little vacation, like we were there longer than we actually were.

If you still have doubts about visiting Antwerp, let me take them away. It’s definitely worth it. Doesn’t matter what you’re looking for in a city, you’ll find everything in Antwerp.

Related posts

• Travel the Netherlands: The Most Unique Activities For You!
• All You Need to Know About Spending New Year’s Eve in Antwerp!
• The Absolute Best Things to Do in Ghent on a Day Trip (in 2023)
• A Thorough Guide for Where to Stay in Ghent in 2023!
• Will a Ghent City Card Actually Save You Money?

Visiting Antwerp: 2-day Itinerary Filled with Surprising Activities (Including a Ghost Town)

Similar Posts

Is Worldpackers Worth It? An Honest Review and Everything You Should Know Before Signing Up!

The 13 Most Genius Space-Saving Packing Hacks for Travel!

Exploring the Magnificent Coast of Slovenia – Piran, Izola, Koper, and more!

18 Magical Things To Do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber (in 2024)

14 Dreamy Things to Do in Lake Bled: Slovenia

Admire Tuscany’s Greatest Wonders with this Itinerary for 10 Days!

One Day in Antwerp: A Day in Antwerp You’ll Always Remember

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: February 11, 2024

Categories Europe

Only have one day in Antwerp ? If so then never fear because that is more than enough time to enjoy some of the best things to do in Antwerp .

Trust me, I have been to Belgium (and Antwerp) loads of times. And many of the best attractions in Antwerp are well-located near one another in this stunning port city.

So, if you only have 24 hours in Antwerp you can still see a ton of Antwerp landmarks in a short amount of time.

And that’s good news for you because with a day in Antwerp, you can still explore the city’s cobblestone streets, historic 16th-century architecture, and amazing Antwerp Central Station.

So, get ready because we’re about to dive into this one-day-in-Antwerp itinerary now!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?

Antwerp, Belgium is an amazing city in Western Europe that seamlessly blends history, modernity, and culture.

Known as Antwerpen in Dutch, and Anvers in French, this vibrant port city features a rich tapestry of experiences that you will enjoy during your 24 hours in Antwerp.

One of the main reasons you should visit Antwerp is so that you can walk down old cobblestone lanes and see stunning, 16th-century architecture.

In fact, some of this historic charm can be enjoyed at Antwerp Central Station, which is a stone and glass marvel that stands as one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world.

You can then head to the Cathedral of Our Lady as you explore the birthplace of Paul Rubens and taste delicious Belgian fries and Belgian chocolate .

Another reason to visit Antwerp for a day is that it makes for a cheap day trip from Brussels .

It can even be a perfect home base from which to explore some of the best cities in Belgium, including Bruges, Ghent, and Breda.

Is One Day Enough in Antwerp?

Yes, one in Antwerp is enough time if you want to take a quick trip to the city and see some of the major highlights.

However, to truly enjoy Anvers and all that it has to offer at a more relaxed pace, I would recommend planning a three-day Antwerp itinerary.

There are a lot of cool free things to do in Antwerp that are worth checking out.

This will give you ample time to take in the city’s vibrant culture, indulge in its culinary delights, and relax while immersing yourself in its tranquil beauty.

The Best Time to Visit Antwerp

The short answer is that any time is the best time to visit Antwerp.

However, the summer (June through August) is peak travel season in Antwerp. That’s mainly because the weather is nice and warm and sunny.

Personally, I hate crowds and love visiting in October. However, December is also a nice time to visit since you can check out the ice rink, holiday lights, and Christmas markets around Grote Markt.

That being said, Belgium’s weather can be very unpredictable. So, always come prepared with a rain jacket and umbrella, no matter the season.

Where to Stay in Antwerp

Even if you only have one day in Antwerp and are on a tight budget, you can still find the perfect Antwerp hotel for you. And some of my fave spots include:

• Antwerp City Hostel (budget) – Well-located in the city center, the staff are friendly and the breakfast is really good (especially for a hostel). The WiFi can be MEH and the rooms are small, but views of Groet Markt are awesome.
• B&B HOTEL Antwerpen Centrum (mid-range) – This well-reviewed, 3-star hotel sits near the train station and has a lovely buffet breakfast to kickstart your one day in Antwerp. You can also hit up the terrace and on-site bar before relaxing inside one of their spacious rooms.
• Hotel Julien (luxury) – This posh hotel is situated near Groenplaats and is home to a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the city. Rooms are also comfortable, with a full bath. Guests can also use a spa in the 16th-century cellars that features a steam bath and a sauna.

Where to Eat in Antwerp

You’ll be delighted to know that Antwerp has a ton of great restaurants. So, be sure to visit some of the spots listed below if you spend the day in Antwerp.

• De Godevaart – I love this place because you get Michelin-caliber food but at a decent price. The plates are also like works of art and I’d 100% get the tasting menu. Good if you’re a foodie who loves fine dining.
• Bourla – This lovely French/Belgian restaurant is affiliated with the theater of the same name. It also has a relaxed vibe with plenty of outdoor seating and old-world charm. I’d personally recommend the truffle spaghetti and beef stew.
• Frituur n°1 – If you want to try some traditional Belgian fries during your one day in Antwerp itinerary then be sure to stop here. You’ll get your fries quickly and can sit down to eat this delicious snack in the surrounding area.
• The Smallest Waffle Shop in the World – This is a great place to enjoy waffles in Antwerp since they serve amazing Liege waffles. Just know that Liege waffles tend to be sweeter since they have sugar inside.
• Falafel Tof – This is THE place to go in Antwerp for falafel. it’s also an ethical cafe where they use ingredients sourced in an eco-friendly way. Get the hummus, falafel, and fresh lemonade.
• Billie’s Bier Kafetaria – This epic gastropub is the place to get delish Belgian craft beer. The interior is also cute, but small. So, grab a table and order some meatballs baked in a cherry sauce for me.
• Simply Marie – A cozy little cafe where the service is great and where you can order awesome comfort food like tomato soup with quiche. The hot chocolate is also really lovely.

One Day in Antwerp Itinerary

1. antwerpen centraal.

Odds are that if you’re spending a day in Antwerp then you’ll be arriving by train.

If you are, then make sure that Antwerp Central Station is your final destination (aka Antwerpen-Centraal) since this building is routinely rated one of the five most beautiful train stations in the world.

Added Bonus? As you pull into the station, you’ll see gobs and gobs of fab street art.

Just be quick when snapping those photos because man does that train move fast (almost as fast as me grabbing food at a buffet).

Upon arrival, take some time to admire the Neo-Gothic facade of the building, which dates back to 1905, and the stunning Art Nouveau ceiling.

Enjoy the spacious main hall, stand beneath the ornately decorated, domed roof, and take as many photos as your camera can handle.

Just be aware that this historic grandeur extends only to this area since Central Station has received a fully modern makeover, with multilevel platforms that make traveling easier.

Pro Tip: Antwerp’s diamond district has been around since the 15th century and is located right next door to the station.

Also, if you’re feeling hungry after you’re journey then stop by Kleinblatt. It’s an old-school, Jewish bakery where everything is homemade and delicious.

My faves are the round raisin bread with powdered sugar, the cheese danishes, and the chocolate croissants.

2. Rubehuis

Rubenhuis is the former home and studio of the acclaimed painter, Pieter Paul Rubens, who lived and worked here from 1616-1640.

Now, when I say home, I mean a baller mansion that dates back to 1611.

However, like with most buildings, this exquisite residence fell into disrepair and was expertly refurbished and redecorated with period-piece furniture and a priceless, 17th-century art collection.

Just be aware that while most of the furniture is antique, it didn’t actual belong to Rubens. So, treat this more like an epic gallery where you can see lots of cool paintings.

Also, grab a free copy of the museum highlights booklet so that you can better appreciate the works on display.

Finally, venture outside and explore the lovely baroque portico that leads out onto a well-manicured garden.

Pro Tip: Meier Street is great place to afterward to do a bit of souvenir shopping. You’ll also find the Flanders Fashion Institute (FFI), the Fashion Museum (MOMU), and the Fashion Academy here.

3. Grote Markt

Nestled in the Old City Quarter of Antwerp, Grote Markt (aka Market Square) is the epitome of old-world charm and architectural grandeur.

After all, this stunning area is adorned with countless 16th-century guild halls and is the place to see top Antwerp attractions like Antwerp City Hall and the iconic Brabo Fountain.

Built in 1887, this magnificent fountain beautifully illustrates Antwerp’s founding legend.

But, when winter comes along, Grote Markt undergoes a whimsical transformation, with an ice rink popping up in the center of the square.

A vibrant annual Christmas market also pops up during the holiday season, featuring a wealth of traditional Christmas foods and fun Belgian souvenirs.

Pro Tip: If you want to learn more about what to do in 24 hours in Antwerp, visit the tourist information center right near Grote Markt.

4. Cathedral of Our Lady

Believe it or not, the Cathedral of Our Lady is the most beautiful Gothic Church in Belgium. In fact, this church is so gorg that it took over 169 years to complete!

Now, before you go inside, snag a lovely shot of the church’s iconic spire as you look up Pelgrimstraat.

From here, head inside and stand in awe of the many treasures that lay before you.

After all, the interior is way more impressive than the exterior, at least in my humble opinion.

Not only is the interior lavishly adorned with late-baroque style decor but there are four intriguing, early Rubens paintings on display.

The church even has stunning, stained glass windows and an assortment of historic/modern statuary with various religious motifs that you’ll love.

Pro Tip: Please note that you’ll need to pay €12.00 per person to enter the cathedral during your 24 hours in Antwerp.

5. Groenplaats

Sure, the word ‘Groenplaats’ literally translates to ‘Green Place’ in English. But, this place is far from a quiet little park.

Instead, this vibrant square is filled with activity since it serves as the meeting point for several main streets in Antwerp.

Now, one of the area’s major highlights is a statue dedicated to the painter, Paul Rubens. It pays homage to the city’s rich artistic heritage and is a must-see during one day in Antwerp.

Next, take in the magnificent view of the Cathedral comes into sight and stop at one of the surrounding bars or cafes so that you can people-watch and take in the view.

PSST… it’s worth noting that Antwerp’s main cemetery once stood here. At least, that was until the 18th century, when laws prohibited cemeteries within the city’s walls were abolished.

6. Plantin-Moretus Museum

Well-located next to the Ruben’s House (more on that next), Plantin-Moretus Museum is a true book lover’s paradise.

Easily one of the best museums in Antwerp, this fantastic place is home to, wait for it, the world’s OLDEST printing press. Yeah, I might have squealed with delight more than once. 

But that’s not all that this medieval UNESCO World Heritage Site has to offer. It also contains priceless manuscripts, original type sets, a library from1640, and a bookshop from 1700! 

There are even some Moretus-published books that are illustrated by Pieter Paul, along with priceless works of art that were created by Rubens, Jan Moretus, etc.

Yup, a perfect stop during your 24 hours in Antwerp for anyone who has the slightest interest in history.

Pro Tip: This facility is pretty big. So, I would plan on spending between 2 and 3 hours here if you can.

7. (Optional) Het Steen Fortress

A short walk away from the Grote Markt, the imposing Het Steen fortress majestically sits on the banks of the Scheldt River.

This is the oldest building in Antwerp. It dates back to the 13th century when it was initially erected to defend the city and control access to local waterways.

Nowadays, it stands as one of the top tourist attractions in Atwerp. So, during your one day in Antwerp you can stop by the visitor center, a museum, and a viewing deck at the top of the castle with epic views.

While admission to the visitor center and viewing terrace is free, you will have to pay to see the “Antwerp Story”, a fascinating museum with interactive displays about the city’s history.

8. Sint-Pauluskerk

In the vibrant city of Antwerp, there lies a hidden gem that houses treasures of great historical and artistic value.

This Antwerp hidden gem is Sint-Pauluskerk Antwerpen. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful churches in the city and is where a painting by Caravaggio was once stolen.

It is even home to Calvary Mountain, which is adorned with dozens of life-sized statues that are nestled in a secluded courtyard.

So, step inside and enjoy your free visit. Also grab a comprehensive walk-around guidebook.

This way you can learn all about the church’s treasury, adjoining cloisters, and a mechanized altar that features a rotating display of paintings.

9. Check out the View from the MAS Museum

The MAS Museum Aan de Stroom, a relatively new museum that gives you a fresh look at and a better understanding of the city of Antwerp.

While exploring the 500,000 artifacts in the museum’s collection (kept in a second-floor repository open to the public), you’ll get a better feel for city’s modern identity, and how it fits into the outside world.

Now, throughout the building’s ten floors, you’ll find impressive and informative, big-theme exhibitions that use the museum’s artifacts to educate the public and tell a story about a particular topic of interest.

But they saved the best for last! Because once you ascend the final escalator to the tenth floor, you’ll be treated to a stunning, panoramic views of the city.

It’s a magical way to end a fantastic day in Antwerp.

10. Grab a Beer at Het Elfde Gebod

Hidden in the shadows of Antwerp’s Cathedral, this is one of the most unusual bars in the city.

I mean, It’s name translates to the ’11th Commandment in English. So, when you step inside you’ll find pulpits, ornate crosses. crazy stone sculptures, church murals, angels, and more.

These works have been expertly collected over many decades and are a sight to behold while drink an authentic Belgian craft beer.

Map of One Day in Antwerp Itinerary

One Day in Antwerp Itinerary FAQs

How to visit antwerp in one day.

To visit Amtwerp in one day try:

• Visiting Antwerp Central Station
• Explore the Diamond District
• Check Out Rubens House
• Go shopping on Meir Street.
• See the Cathedral of Our Lady
• Explore Grote Markt
• Visit Plantin-Moretus Museum

Is Antwerp Nicer than Brussels?

Antwerp and Brussels are equally nice. But, if you prefer to visit a place with hictorical, political, and cultural significance then check out Brussels.

Otherwise, if you like a city with a vibrant atmosphere then visit Antwerp.

Where to Avoid in Antwerp?

In general, Antwerp is very safe. However, nieghborhoods to avoid at night are Seefhoek, Borgerhout, the Schipperskwartier, and the area around De Coninckplein.

Is Antwerp a Walkable City?

Yes, Antwerp is a very walkwable city since the major attractions in Old Town are well within walking distance of one another.

Additional Belgium Resources You’ll Love

• Best brunch in Brussels

There you have it! That just about wraps up my one day in Antwerp itinerary.

Did your picks for the best things to do in antwerp make the list if not then let me know now, and if you found this post useful, be sure to join our email list and our amazing facebook group now .

Thursday 22nd of August 2019

This is amazing, I am looking at a very quick trip to Antwerp just to get a feel of the place. Have limited time, I think you've put it all out very well. Thanks!

girlwiththepassport

Saturday 24th of August 2019

My pleasure! I hope that you enjoy the city as much as I did. Such a cool place.

Maria Frank

Tuesday 9th of October 2018

You really passed a great day. Nice captures also. Thanks a lot.

Thanks for reading and leaving a comment! It's an amazing city.

Privacy Overview

A Complete Guide to Antwerp

Itinerary Contents

Antwerp's central station, antwerp diamond district, antwerp zoo, chocolate nation, st. charles borromeo church, onze-lieve-vrouwekathedraal, grote markt, plantin moretus museum, vogelenmarkt, st anna's tunnel, de koninck antwerp city brewery, mas - museum aan de stroom, red star line museum, theaterbuurt, kloosterstraat, itinerary introduction, antwerp - travel itinerary, day 1: antwerp's city centre.

Getting there

If you travel by train to Antwerp you will automatically arrive at this beautiful station. Otherwise, you can just walk by to visit it.

Travel time

Churches & Art

Discovering tastes

The food market is only on Saturdays. On Sunday the market is open too, but mostly to sell animals.

You can walk, which will take about 40 minutes. You can also rent a city bike to make this tour at Velo Antwerpen for only €5 per day. Going by Metro is also an option.

It's nice to end the day here because there are a lot of nice restaurants in the neighborhood.

The best way to get here is with the city bike or the metro.

Around Antwerp's River Schelde

Ideal to end your day here and to enjoy a nice evening walk next to the water.

Shopping in Antwerp

Please note that the shops are closed on Sundays, only the first Sunday of the month is exceptional.

About the author

Hi everyone! I'm 22 years old and I define myself as a real travel junkie. I like to explore new destinations and I still have a lot of destinations on my bucket list. I like to discover new cultures and routines, since I'm fascinated by history and cultural differences. I like to discover this along with new cuisines and flavors, together with a glass of wine!

Sign in and get started

• Show off your travel writing skills
• Contribute to the community
• Enable likes, reviews and bookmarks
• Follow your favorite contributors
• Promote your business

Related itineraries

Recommended itineraries

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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 27, 2023

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 tours that I found:

• 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, if you only have one day in Antwerp, I think that there are other places that are worth your time more. But if you have 2-3 hours to spare, it’s well worth a visit.

TIP: In winter, Antwerp Zoo hosts a beautiful light festival . It’s amazing, especially in the evenings. So if you visit Antwerp in the winter, I really recommend the light show at the zoo (best visit after it gets dark, of course). Check out this guide for more practical info and things to do in Belgium in winter .

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

Closed for renovation (likely until at least 2026)!

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.

On the other hand, there are other really interesting museums in the city, so if you are only visiting Antwerp for a day, you’ll have to choose. The Rubens House is certainly one of the top choices.

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 seems to have 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 – it’s just another perspective.

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:

• 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

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

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!

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.

Plan your trip?

Avoid hidden fees in the exchange rate while withdrawing from millions of ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights using the Wise Card . You can hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries, and convert them in real time with the free Wise app.

Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Don’t be silly and forget Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

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

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

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.

View all posts

Similar Posts

48 hours in Antwerp – A 2 day Itinerary

If you are looking for a city that is off the beaten path, Antwerp is a must-see destination. This…

Where to Stay in Leuven [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Leuven is just 25 kilometers from Brussels, but offers travelers a different experience than the Belgium capital city. Leuven…

17 Things to do in Ghent – That People Actually Do!

The port city of Ghent is the capital of the East Flanders province and one of Belgium’s most populous…

Where to stay in Bruges [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

This medieval city of West Flanders in Belgium has been drawing tourists on day trips from Brussels for years….

48 hours in Ghent – A 2 day Itinerary

With a picturesque French background, a vibey city life similar to that of Barcelona and architectural wonders reminiscent of…

48 hours in Liège – A 2 day Itinerary

Nestled in the heart of Belgium, the city of Liège boasts a rich history, vibrant culture and warm hospitality….

A Weekend in Antwerp: The Comprehensive 2-Days in Antwerp Guide (Including Map)

Author:  Caroline

The buzzing city of Antwerp is one of the most populous cities in the country. It is home to a very spectacular train station, is the second-largest port in Europe, holds the burial site of the painter Rubens and is the place to be if you are looking for a diamond or the country’s best-dressed hipsters. Time to spend a weekend in Antwerp!

Located in the northern part of Belgium lies the fashion capital of the country, Antwerp. Locals are proud, so much so the popular saying goes “Antwerp is the city, the rest of the country is just parking”. Heads are held high, outfits are on point and international trends are usually quicker to appear in Antwerp than in the rest of the country. Intrigued yet? This 2-days in Antwerp guide will take you through the best of Antwerp: local markets, unbelievable sunset spots, mouth-watering veggie restaurants, a tunnel underneath the river, and even medieval hidden passages.

Please note:  This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).  Learn more .

2 Days in Antwerp Planning Guide

TOP PICKS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS

• Luxury pick: Botanic Sanctuary
• Unique Design: Citybox Antwerpen
• Sustainable Choice: A-Stay

HIGHLY RATED TOURS

• Top Rated: 2-hour walking tour
• Foodie Tour: Guided Beer Walk
• Biking Tour: See the city while biking
• PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION : The Antwerp public transport is run by Delijn (trams & busses). Tickets are not available for purchase on the tram or bus themselves and need to be purchased in advance.  This can be done online by sending the text “DL” to the number 4884 (ticket valid for 60 minutes).
• ANTWERP CITY PASS: The Antwerp City Pass gives access to many of the tourist attractions in Antwerp and allows you to travel free on public transportation. Available n a 24, 48, and 72-hour formula. Find more info and point of sales .
• ANTWERP VISITORS CENTRE: The city has two visitors centers on in the Central Station (Mon-Sun 09.00 am – 05.00 pm) and one in the Steen (Mon-Sun 10.00 am – 06.00 pm)
• READ MORE: Antwerp is but one of the many day trips from Brussels by train . Find more inspiration.

Is Antwerp Worth Visiting?

Antwerp is most definitely worth visiting and has been for the last 500+ years. During the 15th century, Antwerp was one of the most prosperous and influential cities in Europe. Evidence of which can be found all over town in the form of beautifully preserved gabled houses, rivaling the likes of famous Bruges.

Modern-day Antwerp home to one of the largest ports in Europe, it is the fashion capital of the country and the place to be if you are looking to purchase diamonds. The city is vibrant, cosmopolitan and staunchly Flemish. What I love about Antwerp is the wonderful entrepreneurial spirit. Many international trends will find their way to Belgium via Antwerp. There is plenty to do in Antwerp from art galleries to swanky cocktail bars, put on your best pair of shoes and be prepared to be enthralled.

13 Things to Do in Antwerp in Two Days

What is there to do in Antwerp? The answer is, plenty! Antwerp’s history as a trading town has ensured medieval cobblestone streets and ultra-modernist architecture make up the urban fabric of the city. My mother, proudly heralding from the city, transferred her love for Antwerp to her children. As such, I have been visiting Antwerp for over 30 years. In this time the city has reinvented itself multiple times. The Old Port, Het Eilandje as it is now known, previously one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Antwerp today boasts a buzzing nightlife and premium apartments.

The fashional south Antwerp or “Zuid” is unrecognizable, it is the place to be for a night on the town, the beautiful photography museum and a lot of high-quality restaurants. While closer to Berchem Station, old warehouses have been converted into a hub for sustainable startups, vegan restaurants and upscale hipster coffee in Pakt.

There are an abundance of places to see in Antwerp, museums to explore and fusion cuisine to try. In the interest of readability – and feasibility for that matter – I made a small selection, mixing in the main tourist attractions in Antwerp with many lesser-known locations.

Antwerp Itinerary: Day One

READ | Vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Antwerp Day one of your 2-day in Antwerp guide centers around the must-sees in Antwerp: The historical center, the top museums, the prettiest churches, and the option to go shopping . The day ends with a lesser-known sunset spot at the MAS museum . Should you only happen to have one day in Antwerp then utilize the itinerary set out on day one to get the best out of your trip.

1. Take in the beautiful train station in Antwerp

The Antwerp Central Station dates back to the beginning of the 20th century. In true Belgian fashion, the train station is an eclectic mix of architectural styles. The original station consisted of an entrance hall, a ticket counter a small bar where travelers could grab a drink while waiting, and 5 train tracks. After an extensive renovation in 2007, the station now has more than 24 tracks including one for the high-speed train that runs between London and Amsterdam, stopping in Antwerp. Although the renovations have almost quadrupled the size of the station, much of the original character was preserved making it a truly iconic train station.

2. Wander around the gabled houses on the Grote Markt & drink een bolleke

The Grote Markt or main square is at the heart of Antwerpen. Surrounded by gabled 16th-century guild houses and the impressive town hall the square is quite simply stunning. In the middle of the square stands a statue of Bravo the giant slayer. Most Antwerp travel guides will advise you to steer clear of any restaurants and bars on the Grote Markt as they are tourist traps. There is a ring of truth in that assessment, however, ordering a local beer ( een bolleke ) and gazing upon the medieval architecture is unparalleled anywhere else in the city. Worth the (slight) premium you may end up paying. Stick to a beer though, food is better elsewhere in the city.

Not into beer? Why not check out the prolific cocktail scene in Antwerp instead.

TIP FOR BEER LOVERS | The Antwerp City Brewery De Konick, responsible for brewing the famous local beer can be visited on a guided tour . The visit is super fun, and interactive and you get to try tapping your own beer at the end. Includes two tastings.

3. Sneak into the Vlaeyckensgang

On the first day of your weekend in Antwerp while strolling around the historic center of town you might want to take a small peak at the famous Vlaeykensgang. It is one of the best examples of medieval mews in Antwerp. Back in the 16th century, this part of the city was the home of the less wealthy. Ironically these days the alley is home to upscale art galleries and a high-end restaurant!

TIP FOR CULTURE LOVERS | There are plenty of hidden nooks and corners scattered throughout Antwerp. As the city is pretty large, I highly recommend getting yourself some wheels. Consider taking a guided bike tour through the city or rent a bike (starts at €15/day).

4. Learn about the legend of Antwerp

The legend of Antwerp all starts with Silvius Brabo, a Roman soldier. This Roman is known because he killed the ill-tempered giant Druon Antigoon. Prior to his death, the giant exerted excessive tolls on any seafarers wanting to cross the river Schelde. Refusal of payment meant the giant cut off your hands and threw them in the river. One faithful day, Silvius Brabo refused to pay the toll. In the ensuing fight, Silvius bravely killed the giant, cut off his hand, and threw it in the river Schelde, effectively giving the city her name. Hand Werpen translates to throwing of hands which was later shortened to Antwerpen (Antwerp).

Little remnants of the legend can e found all over the city, ready for you to explore during your weekend in Antwerp. Silvius Brabo proudly stands in a fountain on the main square, throwing the hand of the giant. The Meir (the central shopping street) has a statue of a huge hand, and the largest museum of Antwerp (MAS) has little silver hands all over the outside of the building.

FOODIE TIP | Taste the legend of Antwerp through their traditional biscuits: Antwerpse Handjes (Hand of Antwerp). A delicious flaky biscuit in the shape of a hand! If biscuits are not your jam, why not try some Belgian chocolate shaped in a hand instead!

GET THE INSIDE SCOOP | Learn about the medieval legends that did not make it into any traditional Antwerp guide, stroll by the red light district of Antwerp and many “hidden gems” in this evening tour of Antwerp .

5. Shop until either you or your credit card drop in Antwerp

Spending 2-days in Antwerp without a little bit of shopping would almost be akin to not eating pasta in Italy . Antwerp is known as one of the fashion capitals of the world thanks in large part to “ the Antwerp Six ”, a group of influential fashion designers who graduated simultaneously from the Antwerp Royal Academy of Fine Art. This same fashion academy attracts students from all over the world to this day. It is no wonder that the city offers many independent boutiques and local design stores – a shopaholic’s paradise.

Don’t miss the following streets: Nationalestraat, Kammestraat, Lombardenvest, Lombardenstraat, Korte Gasthuisstraat, Schuttershofstraat (high-end shopping) .

6. Take in the most beautiful churches in Antwerp

There are plenty of churches to visit during your 2 days in Antwerp, setting out to visit all of them would take a lot more than 48 hours. To make things easy my suggestion would be to stick to the top 5 that have been classified for their historical heritages. They might not be as ornate as churches in Palermo (Sicily) but they are still very much worth a visit! Dating back to the 16th century, these five churches are a little different to the traditional Gothic-style churches prevalent in that era. While keeping in with the times and building in the Gothic style, what sets these churches apart are the plentiful opulent and ornate baroque elements that were added inside as well as the plethora of beautiful Peter Paul Rubens paintings. Opulence at this scale was possible thanks to the wealth flowing into Antwerp in the 16th century. Antwerp of the 16th  century was one of the most important cultural and economic hubs of the Netherlands – The country to which Belgium pertained at the time. The five churches in Antwerp you will want to visit are the following:

• Saint Paul’s church: Check opening hours
• Saint Carolus Boromeus’s church: Check opening hours
• Saint James’s Church: Check opening hours
• Saint Andrew’s Church: Check opening hours
• Cathedral of Our Lady (main cathedral of Antwerp): Check opening hours

Tip: Download the free Antwerp Museum App to get great offline tours for the churches mentioned above. They are completely free and choc-a-bloc with interesting information.

7. Stroll around the Botanical Gardens

Tucked away, out of sight and far away from the main tourist hotspots, you will find a rare Antwerp hidden gem: The botanical gardens of the city of Antwerp. This seemingly unassuming park houses over 2000 types of plants and trees. The gardens were built 200 years ago and originally served as a garden for medicinal plants, providing herbs to the nearby hospitals.

Address: Leopoldstraat 24, 2000 Antwerp Opening hours: Summer 08:00 AM – 20:00 PM; Winter 08:00 AM – 17:30 PM Entrance fee: free of charge

8. Visit one of the many museums – Perfect if it rains during your weekend in Antwerp

TICKET | Have a look at the Antwerp City Pass . Some of the museums are included, while others receive a heavy discount.

Spending 2 days in Antwerp is so much fun when the weather holds out! But fear not, even when it rains there are plenty of activities to partake in. Why not look into visiting one of the many museums the city has on offer. 

This iconic red brick – slightly odd-shaped – building is the largest museum in Antwerp. It recounts the story of the city and the harbor in the permanent exhibition and has a rotating temporary exhibition. Tip: Aside from a great wealth of knowledge, the museum also has some of the best views of the city. Make your way up to the 10th floor (the panoramic deck) and take in the view! The view can be accessed without paying the entrance fee to the museum.

Address: Hanzestedenplaats 1 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours & Exhibition: Official Website Entrance Fee: Standard €10 ($11), €6 ($7) aged 18 to 25 years, free under 18

Red Star Line Museum

The Red Star Line Museum tells the story of the immigration between Antwerp and North America on the Red Star Line ships. The museum provides a wonderful insight into the life of both the ‘average joe’ and the city of Antwerp in the late 19th century. 

Address: Montevideostraat 3 2000 Antwerp Opening Hours & Exhibition: Official Website Entrance Fee: Standard €10 ($11), €6 ($7) aged 18 to 25 years, free under 18

Photo Museum

Antwerp has an undeniable creative vibe. It would be a pity to spend a weekend in Antwerp and not get a feel for this creativity. What better way than to spend a few hours in the Photo Museum. Exhibitions change on a regular basis so be sure to check out what’s on before going.

Address: Waalsekaai 47 2000 Antwerp Opening Hours & Exhibition: Official Website Entrance Fee: Adults €10.00 ($11), €6.00 ($7) -26 years, free -18 years

Antwerp Travel Guide: Day Two

Your second day in Antwerp is all about visiting many lesser-known spots . A local market, a whole neighborhood filled with Belle Epoque houses, colorful street art, and a spot of good old vintage shopping. Finishing off with a cold beer while catching the sunset from the very best view in all of Antwerp.

9. Grab a bite to eat on the local markt – Vogeltjesmarkt

ADDRESS | Oudevaartplaats, 2000 Antwerpen; OPENING HOURS | Sunday 08.00 AM – 13.00 PM

Start the second day of your Antwerp trip bright and early by heading over to one of the oldest markets in the city De Volgeltjesmarkt . The market dates back to the 16th century when mainly birds (vogeltjes) were traded on this market. These days birds are no longer sold, but the name vogeltjes (bird) markt (market) stuck.

The market contains a variety of different items, unlike the Jeu de Balle market in Brussel this one focuses mainly on food: fresh fruit, waffles, Moroccan pancakes, noodles, and Vietnamese spring rolls. On a sunny day, the market is absolutely packed with locals. A great spot for some quality people-watching!

ALTERNATIVE FOR FOODIES | Looking to learn more about local beers & the various traditional bars in Antwerp? This 3-hour beerwalk might be just what you are looking for.

10. Go house hunting in Zurenborg

No weekend in Antwerp is complete without a visit to the hip neighborhood of Zurenborg and its hup architecture. Make your way over to the Draakplaats, a 19th-century square surrounded by townhouses in Art Nouveau and fin-de-siècle architectural style. Grab a coffee to go and stroll around the various little streets. Be sure to check out the following streets: Cogels-Osylei, Transvaalstraat, Velodroomstraat, Generaal van Merlenstraat.

The houses are an eclectic mixture of different building styles, now and then though they tie in nicely together. Walk over to the Waterloosstraat and keep your eye out for the houses marked Ochtend (Morning), Dag (Day), Avond (Evening), and Nacht (Night). These houses represent the passage of time.

Getting there on foot: It’s an easy 30-minute walk from Antwerp Central Station Getting there by tram:   Tram 8 to Antwerpen Berchem from Antwerp Central Station.

11. Spot the coolest street art (also in Zurenborg)

Right around the corner from the famous Cogels-Osylei in Antwerp, you will find some of the city’s best graffiti. Walk over to the Krugerstraat and the Minkelerstraat and check out the wall art, it will make you feel like you are walking through a veritable open-air museum. These walls have been designated by the city as “official” graffiti walls. Therefore the artwork tends to change on a regular basis as artists come here to practice their skills. Cities like Charleroi (with a large Graffiti and Street Art Community) and Brussels have similar projects to stimulate budding artists.

Tip: Hungry? There are two very good vegetarian restaurants in the Zurenborg area. HUMM on the Dageraadplaats or Racine on Lamorinierestraat 161 (the very hip PAKT area which was once an industrial site and is now a hub for sustainable local eateries and little stores).

12. Walk under the river Schelde to catch the best sunset spot in Antwerp

Antwerp is built on the two banks of the river Schelde. A lesser-known part of the city is located on the left bank (Linkeroever) and to get there you need to cross de river Schelde. Not to worry, this crossing of the river does not require a bathing suit!

The Sint Anna tunnel, or the underpass, was built in 1933 to allow the safe crossing over the river…by means of a tunnel under the river! The tunnel was dug out 33 meters under the ground and is 553 meters long and takes you safely from one side to the other. Original elements of the building have been kept in fact: Old wooden escalators, the original entrance hall, and a few warning signs inside the tunnel. Make your way down the escalator, under the river towards Linkeroever. This part of the river offers the best views of the Antwerp skyline. If you are spending 2 days in Antwerp and looking for a great spot to chill out and watch the sunset then Linkeroever is your best bet! Bring a nice cold beer (try the local beer “ een bolleke ”) and watch the sunset over the Antwerp skyline.

13. Go vintage design shopping in De Kloosterstraat

The Kloosterstraat in Antwerp is brimming with the coolest vintage (design) items, it reminds me ever so slightly of the Marolles in Brussels . The area is one of the most interesting and bustling places to see in Antwerp on Sunday. It is a comfortable 10-minute walk from the Grote Markt, yet in those 10 minutes tourists seem to fade away completely and locals reclaim their ground. Expect to find vintage clothing, vintage design pieces, antique stores and art galleries sprinkled with a few design stores in between. This is a place where the cool kids in town go and do their shopping.

De Kloosterstraat is one of the few places in Antwerp where the stores are open on Sundays, though most of them open only after lunchtime (around 13.00). Happen to arrive early? No problem, sit down for a drink at the cozy bar Take 5 Minutes in Paris (head for their garden) or pop into the very hip Dansing Chocola .

Where to Stay for a Weekend in Antwerp

LUXURY SUSTAINABLE ($$$): BOTANIC SANCTUARY

The Botanic Sanctuary is located in a 15th-century historical monastery right off the Antwerp Botanical gardens. A 10-minute walk will take you to the Grote Markt. The hotel has an on-site spa and pool as well as a mouthwatering fine dining restaurant.

UNIQUE DESIGN ($$): CITYBOX ANTWERPEN

The Antwerp City Hostel is located smack in the middle of Antwerp (5-min walk from the Central Station), yet manages to be a tranquil oasis. Includes a spacious green backyard, lush interior and comfy beds!

BOUTIQUE B&B ($$): B IN ANTWERP

This very stylish B&B is located in the center of town near the buzzing Antwerpen Zuid, filled with hip bars & restaurants. Rooms are spacious and the hotel comes with a shared backyard.

Map of Things to Do During a Weekend in Antwerp

Check out this interactive Google Map which lists all the places mentioned in this two days in Antwerp guide. The hotels are the purple dots on the map, while the activities are bright red.

Things to Do in Antwerp at Night

Antwerp is positively buzzing at night. The city has a seemingly endless supply of cool bars and hip restaurants. Every time I visit, a plethora of new hotspots have opened!

De Dageraadplaats in the bustling Zurenborg neighborhood is surrounded by tons of restaurants & bars out of which locals spill out into the street until the wee hours of the morning. Grab dinner at HUMM before sauntering over to the local bar Zeezicht.

The Leopold de Waelplaatst in the heart of the hippest neighborhood of Antwerp, ‘t Zuid, is another worthy contender for a great night out. In and around this little square you will find a smattering of bars including Chatleroi (for a chilled-out beer) and the swanky Bar Burbure (an upscale cocktail bar)

Want to find something a little closer to the historical center in Antwerp? If you are into quirky bars be sure to pop into Het Elfde Gebode , filled to the rafters with quirky religious statues. Grab dinner at the recently renovated spectacular Handelsbeurs (Bourse of Antwerp) at the Fiera restaurant.

YOU COULD ALSO DO | Explore the city by night with a local Antwerp guide, stroll by the red light district of Antwerp and discover various “hidden gems” in this evening tour of Antwerp .

What to Do in Antwerp on a Monday

If you are spending a long weekend in Antwerp, you might need to take into account that most of the museums, attractions and even restaurants are closed on Monday. Fear not, however, there are still plenty of things to do in the city to keep you more than entertained.

• Visit the UNESCO-classified town hall on a guided tour
• Go church hopping. The five main churches of Antwerp (described above) are all open on Monday.
• Learn about the history & highlights of Antwerp in a private walking tour
• Explore the oldest building in Antwerp: Het Steen
• Take in some culture at the recently renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) which exhibits works by Rubens, Ensor, Rembrandt, Van Dyck and many more.

Places to See Around Antwerp

If it is not your first time visiting Antwerp, you might be interested in exploring some places around the city. All three of the chosen locations are reachable via public transportation, though might require a combination of train/bus to get there.

MIDDELHEIM PARK/MUSEUM: A 15-minute bike ride from the city center lies a large green oasis known as Middelheim Park. This 30-hectare patch of nature is dotted with sculptures, a small castle and a small pavilion where people-watching while nipping coffee is an absolute must.

DE SCHORRE, BOOM: Located 30 km (18 mi) from Antwerp lies De Schorre Domain. While the name might not ring a bell at first, the fact Tomorrowland is organized here might pique your interest. A great place throughout the year for walks, and to spot one of the seven giant wooden trolls dotted around.

KALMTHOUTSE HEIDE: Located 65 km (40 mi) from the city lies one of my favorite places to see around Antwerp. This 60 km2 national has 25 signposted hiking trails ranging from 1.7 km to 24 km. Every year in August the heather ( Heide ) starts to bloom carpeting the underground in a purple carpet.

Antwerp vs. Brussels

READ | A local’s guide to Brussels It surprised me how many visitors planning a trip to Belgium were debating on a visit to Antwerp or Brussels. Having worked and lived in both cities, I highly recommend you do both ! The reason for this is startlingly simple: It will ensure you have a better grasp of Belgian culture and the wide diversity between regions. Antwerp is located in northern Belgium. This part of the country is more affluent, better organized and cleaner. It has the second largest port in Europe, a world-renowned fashion school and there are few places in Belgium where the shopping is this good (or the people as well dressed)! It is a great place to visit if you are looking to get a feel for Flemish culture . Brussels on the other hand is the capital of Europe and as such a true cosmopolitan city. It has an unrivaled culinary scene, the most opulent Grand Place (central square) in Europe and is the birthplace of Art Nouveau. Culture wise it is a true mixture of Flemish and Walloon traditions, with a sprinkling of various elements borrowed from the many international communities in the city.

Antwerp City Guide Travel Tips

How many days in antwerp.

The city has a lot to offer visitors while spending two days in Antwerp is enough to get a feel of the city ideally you spend a solid 3 to 4 days. This will allow you to get acquainted with the historical center, Zurenborg but also venture out a little further and maybe take a trip out to Borrekens Castle or head to the Kalmthoutse Heide for half a day.

Best time to visit Antwerp for a weekend?

Undoubtedly the summer months of June, July, and August. The city comes alive with a ton of pop-up bars and festivals (Laundry day, Jazz Middelheim, Linkerwoofer) giving it a whole different vibe than a dreary winter’s day.  Check out the various events going on in these months on the official website of the city.

What is Antwerp best known for?

Antwerp is first known for its diamonds, serving as the global diamond trade hub since the 15th century. Next up comes the famous Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, who lived and worked in Antwerp. The port of Antwerp is one of Europe’s largest and busiest, playing a pivotal role in international trade and commerce. And finally, Antwerp is the fashion capital of Belgium.

How to Visit Antwerp More Sustainably

PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Getting to Antwerp is best done via train. Antwerp Central Station is a 10-minute walk from the Grote Markt (Main Square). The city is well-serviced by metro, tram, and busses all run by the Flemish company De Lijn . To get tickets simply download the app .

TAP WATER: Tap water is drinkable throughout Belgium. Bring your reusable water bottle.

SUSTAINABLE FASHION: As the fashion capital of Belgium, it stands to reason the city has a fair amount of sustainable fashion stores. Here are a few of my favorites: An Buermans (100% Made in Belgium); Stay Gold (Vegan Clothing) and SAVE THE PARTY (sustainable clothing & accessories).

SECOND-HAND SOUVENIRS: Antwerp has a ton of second-hand stores! De Kloosterstraat is filled with vintage design and furniture stores while the second-hand clothing chain store Think Twice has no less than five different locations in the city ( Kammestraat , Jezusstraat , Lange Klarenstraat , Nationalestraat and Twaalfmaandenstraat .

MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING BELGIUM

BELGIUM: 24 Beautiful places in Belgium for your bucket list MECHELEN: A local’s guide to spending a weekend in Mechelen MECHELEN: Where to go for a delicious lunch in Mechelen BRUSSELS: Best pizza in Brussels BRUSSELS: Spend the perfect 2-days in Brussels BRUSSELS: A local’s overview of the various areas in Brussels to stay, and which ones to avoid

A Weekend in Antwerp: Pin it

RELATED POSTS

Caroline Muller is an award-winning travel blogger. She writes and photographs full-time while oscillating between Sicily and Brussels as a home base.  She has documented over 60 countries across six continents and does not plan to stop any time soon. A staunch vegetarian for over 25 years, she loves exploring local cuisine in search of that perfect (plant-based) mouthful. With this blog, she hopes to help you travel slower, more sustainably and a hella lot more meaningfully. Pack your bags!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Submit Comment

Thanks for dropping in! My name is Caroline , and I am a full-time writer & photographer. With this blog, I hope to harness the power of travel to do good in the world. Think connecting with local cultures, sustainable tourism , and in-depth guides to known and lesser-known adventures. Adventure awaits!

Looking for something?

Kate Abroad

The Ultimate Belgium Itinerary for 5 Days or 7 Days

Belgium is possibly my favourite place to visit in Europe and it’s super accessible, being small enough to see well with only a few days or a week. This post has two Belgium itinerary options that hit the highlights of the country. There is the main 5 days option for those short on time and the full week itinerary which is what I did.

Belgium is a bit of a hidden gem with fewer crowds than neighbouring France. It’s also easier to do on a budget with lots of great hostels that aren’t too expensive. You can find more budget travel tips and recommendations in my Belgium backpacking guide .

5 day Belgium itinerary

Here’s the basic run down of where to go and how long to stay, keep reading for what to do when you get there.

2 days in Brussels

2 days in bruges, 1 day in ghent.

Travel times and costs are at the end.

Brussels is the Belgian capital, the European capital and most importantly in my mind, the chocolate capital.  It’s definitely where you’ll find the most tourists in Belgium but all you need to do is walk a few blocks from the main square and you’ll find awesome hidden laneways and local cafes.

Here are some things to know before visiting Brussels .

Things to do

The top attraction in Brussels is a statue of a small boy taking a piss into a fountain. Weird? Yes, but the Mannekin Pis is iconic. 

There are plenty of more substantive activities in Brussels too. I found a tour of the European Parliament fascinating, although if you weren’t a politics major you might not be as keen.

On the main square, there is the Grand Palace which is a bit like a mini-Versailles and super impressive for its size. Absolutely spend some time there. 

The royal family don’t currently live in the Grand Palace instead, their official home is the Royal Palace which is open for tours as well but only during summer. The Royal Palace looks even more impressive and is fronted by gardens which you can explore on a walk.

When in Belgium it’s almost mandatory to overindulge in Belgian chocolate and the Brussels city layout makes it super easy as the main square is lined with cholate stores and so is nearly every street running off it.

You can’t really go wrong so just wander into a few stores that smell good and grab some pralines to go. Otherwise, you can book one of the many chocolate tours .

If you run out of inspiration for your 2 days in Brussels, consider a day trip from Brussals by train .

Where to stay in Brussels

Brussels can be a bit tricky to find the right balance of accommodation in as you want to be close to the old town centre but not actually inside as it gets crowded and very touristy. Your best bet is closer to the Royal Palace area.

• Hostel – Sleep Well Brussels is in the perfect spot on the fringe of the old centre with free walking tours on offer
• Mid-range hotel – EasyHotel is the Easy Jet of hotels, cheap, convenient and does the job
• Top hotel – Radisson Collection Grand Place is recently renovated with an awesome restaurant on site

The historic centre of Bruges is itself a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a quietly pretty place, full of cobblestoned streets and canals that have earnt the town the name ‘Venice of the North’. Bruges is a small town and it’s the kind of place where you want to slow down and take your time exploring. 

The centrepiece is the Bruges Markt, the main square, which faces the Belfry of Bruges tower. For a couple of euros, you can climb up the Belfry tower and get great views of the town. If you don’t love heights, then grab a table in the square, drink some coffee and while away an afternoon.

In terms of attractions, there is everything from churches and museums to some very cute old windmills. I’d suggest picking two or three to do each day you’re there.

Bruges has some quite quirky museums that are a bit of fun to explore and give you a break from paintings. If you have a stronger stomach, try the Torture Museum, it’s medieval in the worst way. 

Then there’s the very Belgian museum of fries or Frietmuseum and the aspirational diamonds museum (Diamantmuseum).

Finally, as it’s the Venice of the North, a canal tour is a must in Bruges. It’s the most peaceful way to see the town and you might even have some of the local swans join your tour. There are 5 landing spots in the town centre where you can jump on a boat.

Where to stay in Bruges

You can stay anywhere within the old city walls as it’s all within walking distance. Top picks are:

• Hostel – St Christopher’s Inn Bauhaus is the friendliest hostel I’ve ever stayed in and it has a pub downstairs
• Mid-range hotel – Hotel du Theatre is only 250m from Bruges’ main square and while small, it’s very budget-friendly and well-kitted out
• Top hotel – The medieval Duke’s Palace has been converted to a luxury hotel and staying there is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed

Ghent is the most beautiful town in Belgium in my mind. It’s centred around the Lys/Leie river and is full of stunning gothic buildings with plenty of spires and gargoyles.

The region that Ghent is in is Flanders and the dukes and counts of Flanders were very powerful back in medieval times. You can visit their fortress, Gravensteen (meaning Castle of the Counts) in Ghent and see how the knights once lived.

The audio tour there is particularly good for telling you all about how the castle’s inhabitants used to live in a not boring way as it’s voiced by a local comedian. There are also great views of the town from the fortress walls. Tickets (which include the audio guide) cost 12 euros for adults or 7 Euros for youth.

The riverside area is Ghent’s food and drink hotspot, with lots of restaurants and beer gardens with outdoor seating. You can wander along the river walk or settle in and enjoy people-watching.

Like most European cities, Ghent also has an incredible church. Saint Nicholas’s church in the main square is over 800 years old and absolutely stunning. The church also acts as a gallery with several large panel paintings inside.

Where to stay in Ghent

I would suggest staying on the opposite side of the river to the main attractions so that you can get off the tourist drag, see a bit more of the city and pay a bit less. However, aiming to be within 2 or 3 blocks of the river is ideal so that you don’t need to bother with taxis.

• Hostel – Hostel Uppelink , this cosy hostel is right on the river with the best views just outside the front door.
• Mid-range hotel – Novatel Gent Centrum is another chain option that’s more on the budget frindly side and close to the action
• Top hotel – Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel will make you feel like you’re living in the lap of luxury with it’s belnd of historic building and modern facilities

7 days in Belgium itinerary

To extend the Belgium trip out to a one week itinerary, add an extra day in Ghent and a day in Antwerp. Here’s what that 7 day Belgium itinerary looks like:

• 2 days Brussels
• 2 days Bruges
• 2 days Ghent
• 1 day Antwerp

Day 2 in Ghent

For the extra day in Ghent, you could sign up for a beer tour to try Belgium’s most famous product. I’m not a big beer drinker but it’s hard to avoid in Belgium and you’ve got to appreciate how much the Belgians love their beer. There are some fairly cheap options like this one on Viator or this one on Get Your Guide.

Alternatively, there are plenty more, castles, churches and abbeys to explore like the curiously named Gerald the Devil Castle and St Bavo’s Abbey.

For something a bit different, you can visit Ghent’s Graffiti Street and check out some of the other street art in the town, much of which is inspired by historic painters. There is a map of all the art locations  here .

1 Day in Antwerp

Antwerp is Belgium’s second-biggest city and a historic centre of trade dating and the diamond industry. 

To be totally honest, Antwerp was my least favourite spot in Belgium but that was mostly because a big chunk of the city, including the street I was staying on, was under construction. Since most of this has now been completed it should be a lot easier to get around and less noisy and messy. 

Antwerp has the big city feel of Brussels but with more of a commercial feel than the political centre that Brussels is. If you want to do some shopping in Belgium, then Antwerp is definitely the place to go, specifically the Stadsfeestzaal Shopping Centre.

Other than retail therapy, Antwerp has lots of historic and cultural attractions. The top two I would suggest prioritising for one day there are the Cathedral and Rubenshuis.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of Antwerp

The Cathedral of Our Lady also called De Kathedraal, is found in the centre of Handschoenmarkt (Glove Market), a square in the Historic Centre of Antwerp. This stunning Gothic building was completed in 1521, after nearly 170 years of construction and the belfry is a UNESCO world heritage site. 

The Cathedral is open for visitors every day and entry costs 8 Euros for adults. Children can enter for free. In true Belgian style, the Cathedral has an attached bistro where you can try the Cathedral beer, which comes in blonde and dark varieties.

Rubens House

Rubens House or Rubenshuis is the former home of Dutch painter Peter Paul Rubens. Rubens is one of the most famous European artists and was highly influential in the Baroque painting movement. His works are often quite dark and include lots of portraits. You can see some of his paintings at the house, which has been restored into a small museum in honour of the artist.

Rubens House is open from Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am –5 pm and entry is 8 euros per person.

Where to stay in Antwerp

I recommend staying as close as possible to the historic centre of Antwerp as that’s where most of the attractions are and it’s walking distance from the main train station. Some good options are:

• Hostel – The Ash has easily the best location of all the Antwerp hostels although the vibe is a bit average
• Mid-range hotel – Hampton by Hilton is a reliable chain hotel that’s convenient to the station and the centre city
• Top hotel – Hotel FRANQ is a boutique hotel with stunning modern decor super close to the central city

Getting around Belgium

The easiest way to get around Belgium using these itineraries is via trains. The train system in Belgium is great, there are intercity and international trains running super frequently and the stations are generally very close to the town centres. The exception is Bruges where you’ll need to grab a taxi or local bus to get to/from the train station.

The train fares within Belgium are cheap and you can get youth discounts if you’re under 26. However, as soon as you get on an international connection the prices shoot up.  

For this trip, I just bought tickets at each station as I went. You definitely didn’t need to book in advance or show up early as trains run so often.

Multi-trip tickets are available, but they don’t make financial sense if you’re just doing this itinerary. If you are planning to stay longer, the multi-trip tickets get you 10 trips within Belgium for a fixed price of 55 Euro for youth or 87 Euro for adults. 

Travel times and costs 

Costs are based on second-class travel and may change from when I’m writing this.

Happy travelling!

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

Similar Posts

10 Unique Things to Do in Cascais Portugal in 2024 

Looking for some Cascais activities that are a little more off the beaten path? This article has you covered with ten unique things to do in Cascais that you won’t…

10 Affordable Travel Destinations For Millennials In 2024

If you’re a 20/30 something traveller trying to decide where to book your next holiday without blowing your budget this article has you covered. As a late 20s traveller myself,…

2 Days in Dublin Itinerary + Travel Guide [2024]

Are you heading to Ireland and planning to spend 2 days in Dublin? Looking for ideas for things to add to your itinerary? Then look no further. This article has…

1 Day in Madrid Itinerary + Travel Guide for 2024

Are you looking for a complete one day Madrid itinerary? I have you covered with this guide to things to do in Madrid in one day plus the best places…

Ultimate 10 Day UK Itinerary for 2024

Wondering how to spend 10 days in the UK? This itinerary has you covered with all the highlights of England and Scotland you can fit into a 10 day UK…

7 Day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary for 2024

Ready to explore Ireland on your own four wheels? This 7 Day Ireland road trip itinerary has everything you need for the perfect one week Ireland vacation. A road trip…

4-Day Antwerp Itinerary

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

• Antwerp in 4 days
• 1-Day Antwerp Itinerary
• 2-Day Antwerp Itinerary
• 3-Day Antwerp Itinerary
• 5-Day Antwerp Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: east side of town, day 3: off the beaten path, day 4: keep it simple, zoo antwerpen.

Antwerpen-Centraal

Where to eat, ni shifu sichuan, horta grand café & art nouveau zaal.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Sportpaleis

Park spoor noord.

Chocolate Nation

Stadium “ bosuil “ - royal antwerp fc, bistrot du nord, restaurant veranda, bistrot miro.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Museum aan de Stroom

Red star line museum, brabo's monument, saint charles borromeo church, compagnie belge, de godevaart, felix pakhuis.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Cathedral of Our Lady

Plantin-moretus museum, the rubens house, stadsfeestzaal, plantentuin, opera antwerpen, elfde gebod, restaurant graanmarkt 13.

Perfect for road trips

See time and distance between places, and optimize your route to get the most of your day.

Top searches in Antwerp

Popular road trips from antwerp, what's the weather like in antwerp.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Antwerp for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Antwerp in January
• Weather in Antwerp in February
• Weather in Antwerp in March
• Weather in Antwerp in April
• Weather in Antwerp in May
• Weather in Antwerp in June
• Weather in Antwerp in July
• Weather in Antwerp in August
• Weather in Antwerp in September
• Weather in Antwerp in October
• Weather in Antwerp in November
• Weather in Antwerp in December

All road trips from Antwerp

• Antwerp to London drive
• Antwerp to Paris drive
• Antwerp to Amsterdam drive
• Antwerp to Rome drive
• Antwerp to Berlin drive
• Antwerp to Barcelona drive
• Antwerp to Bruges drive
• Antwerp to Prague drive
• Antwerp to Dublin drive
• Antwerp to Edinburgh drive
• Antwerp to Cologne drive
• Antwerp to Milan drive
• Antwerp to Madrid drive
• Antwerp to Florence drive
• Antwerp to Vienna drive
• Antwerp to Budapest drive
• Antwerp to Venice drive
• Antwerp to Munich drive
• Antwerp to Copenhagen drive
• Antwerp to Lisbon drive
• Antwerp to York drive
• Antwerp to Hamburg drive
• Antwerp to The Hague drive
• Antwerp to Istanbul drive
• Antwerp to Liverpool drive
• Antwerp to Brighton drive
• Antwerp to Turin drive
• Antwerp to Birmingham drive
• Antwerp to Bath drive

Explore nearby places

• Oud-Turnhout
• Rijkevorsel
• Grobbendonk
• Baarle-Hertog
• Heist-op-den-Berg
• Hoogstraten

All related maps of Antwerp

• Map of Antwerp
• Map of Meir
• Map of Meersel
• Map of Berlaar
• Map of Wuustwezel
• Map of Wommelgem
• Map of Oud-Turnhout
• Map of Vorselaar
• Map of Rijkevorsel
• Map of Meerhout
• Map of Zoersel
• Map of Lichtaart
• Map of Wijnegem
• Map of Kontich
• Map of Grobbendonk
• Map of Baarle-Hertog
• Map of Kasterlee
• Map of Heist-op-den-Berg
• Map of Kalmthout
• Map of Willebroek
• Map of Hoogstraten
• Map of Schoten
• Map of Herentals
• Map of Brasschaat
• Map of Gierle
• Map of Leest
• Map of Poppel
• Map of Olmen
• Map of Dessel
• Map of Balen
• Map of Brecht

Antwerp throughout the year

• Antwerp in January
• Antwerp in February
• Antwerp in March
• Antwerp in April
• Antwerp in May
• Antwerp in June
• Antwerp in July
• Antwerp in August
• Antwerp in September
• Antwerp in October
• Antwerp in November
• Antwerp in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Antwerp?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 4-Day Lichtaart Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Flocking To

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.

Explore T Magazine

A Party In Milan:  To toast the Salone del Mobile and the 20th anniversary of T Magazine , the designer Ramdane Touhami transformed the Villa Necchi Campiglio into an ode to the letter T.

A Beloved Copenhagen Cafe:  The chef Frederik Bille Brahe has transformed the Apollo Bar & Kantine into his version of a fine dining restaurant , and celebrated with a meal for his family and collaborators.

The Beginners Issue:  From debuts to do-overs, what it means to start an artistic life  — at any age

We Saw at Salone del Mobile:  From an exhibition in a 1940s-era Modernist house to a blood-red sofa , these were the highlights of Milan’s annual design fair.

Hawaii’s Favorite Shave Ice Shops:  Cups of flaky ice topped with flavored syrups are easy to find in the state. But the best shops set themselves apart with fresh ingredients  and old-school charm.

Ellen Gallagher’s Futuristic Archives:  In an interview, the artist discussed marine life  and African American myth from her studio in the Netherlands.

Antwerp: 2-Hour Jewish Quarter Walking Tour

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Explore the way of life of the Jewish community in Antwerp on a 2-hour walking tour. Uncover the history of the Jewish district and the Diamond district with a guide. Meet your guide at the Central Train Station and set off on a journey to unravel the unique history and vibrant present of Antwerp’s Jewish enclave. Learn about the Jewish community in Antwerp, which is estimated to be one of the largest in Europe, with a population ranging from 20,000 to 25,000 individuals. See the Diamond district and learn about the Jewish community's influence on the city.Explore the historical nuances of this community and finish at the Monument to the Deported Citizens of Antwerp.

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

Antwerp: 2-Hour Jewish Quarter Walking Tour: $49

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• Expert Guide

What's not Included

• Bottled water

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!