visit port of antwerp

Port with or without a guide

You can visit the ports with a guide or on your own. Discover what Antwerp and Zeebrugge have to offer.

Visit the ports on your own

In the ports, you explore many remarkable places on your own.

Visit the ports with a guide

You can easily explore the port by bicycle or by boat.

Visit the Port of Antwerp or Zeebrugge on your own

You can discover various unique spots on your own in the port. Did you know that a large part of the port of Antwerp is a nature reserve? For example, you can spot birds in the Kuifeend or the Verrebroek ponds. You can easily combine a visit to Zeebrugge with a day at the coast. Head out by yourself, with friends, with children or with the whole family and experience the port.

Cycling and walking

A holiday in your own country? The port is more than just ships or industry. You can cycle past imposing ships , walk through tranquil nature areas , get a breath of fresh air on the quay or discover cool street art . Or would you prefer to spot a lapwing or a swift ? A perfect way to explore the port by yourself is by bike! Map out your route using connection points or choose one of the specially devised Havenland cycle routes in Antwerp . 

Veelgestelde vragen

Havenland is an initiative by various partners combining all recreational activities specifically in and around Antwerp . 

On the Havenland website, you can find a handy interactive map showing places of interest . You can also find signposted walking or cycling routes , guided tours and a calendar with other fun activities .

Taking photos

Antwerp and Zeebrugge are unique destinations offering plenty of photogenic spots . If you take a trip to the port, don't forget to bring your camera and the map with all the hotspots for ship spotting . However, you can't simply take any photos you like. Look here to see the particular rules that apply when taking photos or filming in the port . 

If you want to film with a drone , you need a licence and permission. You apply for this via the DronePortal .

Did you get some great snapshots? Share them on social media with #portofantwerpbruges . 

You can go fishing in various spots in both and Zeebrugge and Antwerp. Purchase a fishing permit from the Nature and Forest Agency and make sure you only fish where it is permitted .

Want to visit the port of Antwerp or Zeebrugge with a guide?

Would you rather explore the port with a guide? Both in Antwerp and Zeebrugge , the Port Authority plus various private actors offer guided tours, guided bike tours or guided tours. 

Visit the port of Zeebrugge with a guide

• Captain Blue

Bus tour with a guide

• Hello Bruges
• Bruges Guides

Maritime theme park

Tunnel elements oosterweel junction.

• Oosterweel Junction Website (Dutch only)

Visit the Port of Antwerp with a guide

• Experience Antwerp
• Rien Elisabeth
• Discover Antwerp
• Antwerp Port Tours
• Tourism Beveren
• Antwerp by bike
• Guided city walks - Experience Antwerp
• Antwerp Heli Tours
• Forton Events (Dutch only)

Visitor Centers

Useful downloads.

Ship spotting map

BROCHURE_Maak_kennis_met_de_haven_2023

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Passionately guided port visits

A visit to the port of antwerp with our guides: an unseen perspective.

A passionate guide

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You decide how we travel

Quality for quantity

About antwerp port tours.

Laurens founder & guide

Comments from our customers,   reviews from our customers, our offering.

Book Only a Guide

• Our guide will meet you at a location of your choice. A convenient location is Kinepolis Antwerp .
• If you come by bus: on average, we cover 75km and provide a 15-minute break for the driver in the middle of the tour. Our guide will accompany your driver throughout the harbor.
• A harbor visit lasts 2 to 2.5 hours . The duration may vary depending on traffic and conditions in the harbor.
• Our guides provide assistance in Dutch, English, French, or German .
• You can find an indication of a possible route by road or water on this map .
• The cost is €15 per person or €12 per student. Groups with more than 44 people receive a €2 discount per person. The tour can be extended by 1 hour for €75 . We have a minimum cost of €210 for the guide. Prices include 21% VAT.

Our guide + a car or bus

• We distribute your request to local bus companies that are known to provide good service.
• Prices for buses vary due to fluctuating fuel prices and occupancy. We select the most affordable rate for you, and you have the option to cancel the request free of charge.
• Same guidelines as when you reserve only a guide. For the cost of the guide: see 'Book only a guide'.
• A request must be submitted at least 1 month prior to the tour's execution.
• We pass on the cost of the car or bus to you; you will receive one invoice. An indication of the prevailing rates , subject to variations, including 6% VAT:
• Fixed cost: €75
• Car: €120 (+ guide)
• Minibus up to 7 people: €250 (+ guide)
• Bus up to 32 people: €450 (+ guide)
• Bus up to 54 people: €520 (+ guide)
• Double-decker bus up to 84 people: €750 (+ guide)

Our guide + a boat

• Our booking system verifies the availability of a boat with our partner, Waterlimo.
• A harbor visit by boat can easily be combined with a harbor visit by bus.
• Maximum 6 participants per boat , 4 boats can be used simultaneously.
• Our guides accompany in Dutch, English, French, or German.
• The start and end of the trip are at Trappenkade Kempisch Dok .
• An inquiry should be submitted at least 2 weeks before the tour's execution.
• We pass on the cost of the boat to you; you will receive one invoice.
• From 735€ , VAT included

Our guide + Vespa's

• Our booking system verifies the availability of Vespas with our partner Vespa Waasland.
• Helmets are also provided.
• If a few days before the tour the weather seems unfavorable, we will discuss with you the possibilities for an alternative date or means of transportation.
• A port visit by Vespa can easily be combined with a harbor visit by bus.
• Start and end of the tour at Houtdok-Zuidkaai , or at a location of your choice.
• For the cost of the guide: see 'Book only a guide'.
• The area that can be visited by Vespa or bicycle can be seen on this map .
• Drivers must have a valid driver's license B with them on the day of the harbor visit.
• An application must be submitted at least 2 weeks before the tour's execution.
• We pass on the cost price for the Vespas to you; you will receive one invoice.
• From 360€ + 65€ per Vespa , incl. VAT. Each Vespa can accommodate 2 people.

Book your guide

The application is online, afterwards you will be contacted by the guide.

• Follow the steps on our online booking platform and check the availability immediately.
• After submitting your non-binding request, we will verify the availability definitively and then send you a confirmation of your reservation.
• Upon confirmation, our guide will personally contact you to arrange practical details and listen to your specific wishes and expectations.
• Payment is made online through the same booking platform. A reservation is completely non-binding until 1 month before the execution of the harbor visit.
• After the tour, you can request an invoice if desired.

Some images to set the mood

Things to see and do in Antwerp

Navigating the Waterways: A Guide to the Port of Antwerp

THE PORT OF ANTWERP is a bustling hub of trade, commerce, and history. As the second-largest port in Europe, it plays a critical role in the global supply chain, connecting Belgium with the rest of the world. But beyond its functional significance, the port is also a fascinating place to explore, with a rich cultural and architectural heritage that reflects its centuries-long history.

As you approach the port from the city centre, you’ll be struck by the sheer size of the operation. Giant cranes tower above the landscape, while massive cargo ships glide in and out of the docks. The hustle and bustle of the workers and machines create a symphony of movement that is both mesmerizing and awe-inspiring.

But the port is more than just a working harbour. It’s also home to a number of cultural and recreational attractions. One of the most popular is the Museum Aan de Stroom, or MAS , which tells the story of Antwerp and its port through interactive exhibits and multimedia installations. From the top of the MAS tower, you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the port, providing a unique perspective on this dynamic landscape.

For those interested in history, the port has a wealth of stories to tell. The Red Star Line Museum , located in the former shipping offices of the famous transatlantic line, tells the tales of millions of immigrants who passed through Antwerp on their way to the New World. Meanwhile, the Port House (Havenhuis), a stunning contemporary building designed by Zaha Hadid Architects , is a testament to the port’s ongoing commitment to innovation and progress.

Of course, the port is also a vital economic engine for the city and the region. Every day, thousands of containers are loaded and unloaded, bringing goods and products from all over the world. From coffee to cars, from diamonds to fruit, the port is a gateway to the global economy, and a critical link in the supply chain for businesses of all sizes.

Visiting the Port of Antwerp is a must-do for anyone interested in the city’s history, culture, and economy. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a curious local, there’s always something new to discover and explore in this dynamic and fascinating place. So why not take a trip down to the docks and see what the port has to offer?

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Published by Emma

Our podcaster-in-chief, Emma, has lived in Antwerp for over a decade and knows the city inside and out. With her finger on the pulse of Antwerp’s cultural scene, she’s the one to turn to for the latest happenings. View all posts by Emma

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Antwerp

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

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Antwerp

1. Grand Place (Grote Markt)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Grand Place, Central Antwerp

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Groenplaats 21 / Handschoenmarkt, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.dekathedraal.be

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

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

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

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

Address: Wapper 9-11, Antwerp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Hanzestedenplaats 1

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Kon. Astridplein 26, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.zooantwerpen.be

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

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

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

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

Address: Koningin Astridplein 7, 2018, Antwerp

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Vrijdagmarkt 22, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.museumplantinmoretus.be/

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

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

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

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

Address: Lange Gasthuisstraat 19, Antwerp

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Plaatsnijdersstraat 2, Antwerp

Official site: www.kmska.be/en/

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

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

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

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

Address: Montevideostraat 3, 2000 Antwerp

Official site: www.redstarline.be/en

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

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

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

Address: Sint Paulusstraat 20/22, Central Antwerp

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

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

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

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

Address: Vleeshouwerstraat 38-40, Central Antwerp

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Koningin Astridplein 27

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Port house, 1 Entrepotkaai, Antwerp

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

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

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

Address: Lange Nieuwstraat 73, Antwerp

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

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

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

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

Address: Suikerrui 17/19

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

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

Luxury Hotels:

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

Mid-Range Hotels:

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

Budget Hotels:

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

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

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

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

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

More on Belgium

• High contrast
• Plan your visit
• What we preserve
• About the MAS

At the foot of the MAS in Antwerp you will find Portopolis, a free interactive visitor centre. Here you can discover the port of Antwerp in the heart of the city. Put on a VR visor for a 360° tour and feel the port come to life! Walk across the large aeriel photograph and discover all special hotspots on offer in our port. 

Interactive tour

Fun for the whole family. Make a virtual visit to the port: for young and old, there is something for everyone. We offer a free one-hour programme .

Pick up a tablet at the entrance, go with the flow and set out on a voyage of discovery. Would you rather have things explained in person? No problem! Our hosts answer all your questions and are ready to recount exciting stories , incredible anecdotes and surprising facts about the port.

Put on the VR headset and feel the port come to life on a 360° tour. Walk across the large aerial photograph and discover all the special hotspots our port has to offer.

Put yourself behind the controls and steer a ship through a lock , or play the big port quiz . Do you know all the answers?

After a fascinating visit, not only will you go home with a head full of knowledge, but also an original port souvenir .

With children to Portopolis

They can dive right into the world of the port, complete as many tasks as they can and get an official port diploma to take home with them! 

For example, they can interactively follow the journey that a banana, a bike helmet or a car take through the port. Will they move the products to the right warehouse?

Perhaps they want to berth a big ship and load it with containers. Or find the errors in a big consignment of cars? 

Celebrate your birthday in Portopolis

Is one (or two, three...) of your children celebrating their birthday soon? Then invite their friends over for a great party at Portopolis! During an interactive game , the children come into contact with the port in a playful way.

Our captain and sailor are ready with a big bag full of surprises . All children go home with a port diploma to their name. Ahoy!

• For children aged 6 to 12.
• On Wednesdays, Saturdays or Sunday afternoons from 1:30 to 4:30 pm.
• Minimum 6, maximum 10 children.
• €150 all-in (including drink & snack).
• One supervisor (parent or grandparent) must be present.
• Book their birthday party at least two weeks in advance.

Come with your class to Portopolis

Portopolis is the perfect place to discover the port in a playful and interactive way. Immerse your class in the fascinating world of the port. We offer a free one-hour programme for both elementary and high schools .

Any questions once you are there? Our hosts are on hand to offer advice.

Other pavilions:

Enjoy a whole new shopping experience and find many fun gadgets. Feel free to pop in before or after your museum visit.

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Port of Antwerp

Incorrect data? Please notify us at [email protected] .

Travel Tips For Antwerpen

Discover the Architectural Marvel of the Port House in Antwerp

Antwerp, the vibrant city in Belgium, is not only known for its rich history and cultural heritage but also for its impressive Port of Antwerp. As you explore this bustling seaport, one architectural masterpiece that will surely catch your eye is the Port House, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.

A Breathtaking Sight

The Port House serves as the headquarters of the Antwerp Port Authority and is a true gem in the city's skyline. Its unique design and striking appearance make it a must-visit attraction for architecture enthusiasts. The building seamlessly blends the old and the new, with a historic fire station serving as its base and a contemporary glass structure rising above it.

A Fascinating Interior

Step inside the Port House, and you'll be greeted by a mesmerizing line pattern that adorns every floor. The intricate design creates a sense of movement and fluidity, reflecting the dynamic nature of the port itself. As you make your way through the building, don't forget to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the port from the top floors.

Historical Significance

The Port of Antwerp has played a significant role in the city's history and economic development. Its strategic location at the upper end of the tidal estuary of the Scheldt River has made it accessible to capesize ships, making it one of Europe's largest seaports. The port's inland location provides a central hub for trade in Europe, connecting it to the hinterland through rail, road, and waterways.

Fun Facts and Things to Do

• Did you know that the Port of Antwerp is Europe's second-largest seaport, after Rotterdam? It handles a staggering amount of cargo, with millions of tons passing through its docks each year.
• Take a boat tour along the Scheldt River to get a unique perspective of the port and its surroundings. You'll be able to witness the bustling activity of ships and barges as they navigate the waterways.
• Visit the MAS Museum, located near the port, to learn more about the history and significance of the Port of Antwerp. The museum offers fascinating exhibits that delve into the city's maritime heritage.
• Explore the trendy Eilandje neighborhood, which has undergone a transformation in recent years. This former dockland area now boasts trendy bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a perfect place to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

When to Visit

The Port of Antwerp is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant. You can enjoy outdoor activities, take boat tours, and explore the port's surroundings without worrying about the cold.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of a bustling seaport, the Port of Antwerp is a must-visit destination. Don't miss the opportunity to marvel at the architectural masterpiece that is the Port House and explore the rich history and culture that surrounds it.

Want to plan a trip here? Talk to AI travel assistant Maya.

Travel stories around Port of Antwerp

Antwerpen, the city of diamonds

Antwerp, a splendor of a thousand views

The dog of Flanders in Antwerp, Belgium

3 Beautiful Parks near Antwerp

Lier, a perfect romantic getaway

Tomorrowland; Itinari’s checklist & festival guide

Tomorrowland’s theme 2018; The Story Of Planaxis.

Tomorrowland; Belgium’s finest

A dip in the history & greenery of gorgeous Mechelen

A taste of nature and outdoor activities in Belgium

Places to visit around port of antwerp.

Het Eilandje

Het Kerkschip

Axxes café/restaurant

Hollywood Café Antwerpen

Red Star Line Museum

Antwerp Harbour Hotel

Nationaal Museum van Douane en Accijnzen/Belgian Customs & Excise Museum

Out of the Box Escape Games Antwerp

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:

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

Amsterdam vs Brussels: Which City to Visit?

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Brussels 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.

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Port of Antwerp Boat Tour – Jan Plezier Pancake Boat

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 23, 2024

The Port of Antwerp is the second-largest seaport in Europe, after Rotterdam. And there is probably no better way to explore it than by boat.

Update: Please note that this is an old article and the company Jan Plezier that organized boat tours of the port of Antwerp now only offers boat tours for events. So not for tourists willing to explore the harbor in an hour or two. If you are visiting Antwerp and want to see the city and the harbor from the water, we recommend that you look at other boat tours .

One of the easiest ways to do it is to simply take a water bus from Steen Castle. Alternatively, take a look at the boat tours organized by Flandria – they have a nice selection of boat tours in Antwerp, including scenic harbor tours and pancake tours as well.

READ ALSO: * Lesser-known & Cool Places to See in Antwerp * Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? * Best Things to Do in Antwerp * Where to Stay in Antwerp * Antwerp with Kids

When looking for a nice Antwerp harbor tour, we stumbled upon the Jan Plezier’s Antwerp harbor boat tours with pancakes (aka the pancake boat or de pannekoekenboot  in Dutch). We just had to try it! Our boys were really enthusiastic about spending Sunday afternoon on a pancake boat.

Surprisingly, there are just a few port tours in Antwerp. So if you are looking for a nice boat tour, this might be a good place to start!

Antwerp port tour by boat – our experience

We started our Port of Antwerp boat tour at Het Eilandje (‘The Little Island’), the quickly growing new area North of the city centre of Antwerp. Some of the most impressive new landmarks of Antwerp can be found here : The MAS museum, The Red Star Line museum, and probably the most unique building of Belgium – The New Port House of Antwerp.

And while a few years ago all the main highlights of Antwerp were found in the old town, anno 2017 no trip to Antwerp would be complete without visiting this new bustling area, Het Eilandje.

The Port of Antwerp boat trip with Jan Plezier starts at London Bridge, and the very first thing you see is the impressive islet with the New Port House of Antwerp.

The drawing bridge opened as we sailed past the ‘Diamond Ship’ and into the Port of Antwerp.

Some of the world’s largest container ships stop at the harbor of Antwerp. Ships like Madrid Maersk, a 399m (1,309 ft) long and 58,6m (193 ft) wide giant, carrying over 20.000 containers, visit Antwerp harbor. I have difficulties even trying to imagine a ship like that!

Antwerp port tour – what to expect

Almost immediately we saw some huge container ships and the ultra-modern handling of containers. The cranes were unloading heavy containers as if they were Lego bricks. It’s really impressive to see such a big harbour in action!

We passed some large ship repair companies, fruit terminals, and so much more. Antwerp harbour is the main European harbour for fruit and vegetable transport. It also has the world’s largest stock of coffee. Petroleum and tobacco are very important for the port of Antwerp as well.

Around 30,000 people work in the Antwerp harbour. Almost 100,000 people have jobs that are related to the harbour one way or the other. Needless to say that the harbour is extremely important to the city of Antwerp.

Pancake boat

While I spent most of my time on the deck of the ship, the kids couldn’t get enough of the tasty all-you-can-eat pancakes inside.

Belgians love pancakes and they are a popular treat on many occasions, especially for kids. But we had never seen such an interesting pancake baking technology as on this boat!

They have a pancake ‘machine’ that bakes hundreds of pancakes per hour. And I have to say that the pancakes were really good too! As I’m updating this article a few years after we did this trip, our kids are still talking about the pancake boat and how we should do it again.

After we all ate more pancakes than was good for us, we spent the rest of the trip on the deck outside.

On the way back we passed two more drawing bridges; always fun to watch for young and old.

Jan Plezier’s Antwerp harbor tour vs. pancake boat

If you really want to learn a lot more about the port of Antwerp, you should take one of the regular harbour tours with Jan Plezier. They have new interactive guides with iPads and headphones that will give you deeper insight into this fascinating side of Antwerp. Note that these regular cruises have no meals included. And the pancake boat doesn’t include the guided commentary.

In both cases you get to see just as much, but for those who have never been to Antwerp harbour before, I would suggest a regular harbour tour with commentary.

I have to mention that in addition to the harbour cruise and the pancake boat , Jan Plezier also offers other harbour experiences. One of them is a very popular spare ribs boat . But once again, if you really want to learn more about the harbour, just book a harbour tour with commentary. There are plenty of nice restaurants to have lunch or dinner before or after the boat tour.

I would definitely recommend taking a boat tour in the Port of Antwerp – whether you are visiting Antwerp for a longer time or for just a day.

Walking to the boat is a nice experience by itself. You will pass beautiful places that are a bit outside of the main tourist routes. I recommend walking next to the river till you see the MAS museum on your right. From there it’s just a few more minutes.

And if you come on a weekday and take a regular harbor cruise, make sure you have lunch nearby. There are so many good restaurants and cafes in the area.

A boat tour of the Port of Antwerp is also a really nice way to discover more of Antwerp with kids .

Practical Info

Jan Plezier’s Antwerp port tours don’t run anymore. You can find the best alternatives for Antwerp port cruise here .

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Antwerp

More tips for your visit to Belgium:

• Where to go: Belgium Itinerary for 3 – 4 Days
• Must-see: Best Things to Do in Bruges & Best Things to Do in Brussels
• War sites: Ypres and WWI Battlefields and Bastogne War Museum
• In spring: Hallerbos – Belgium’s blue forest
• In winter: Best Christmas markets in Belgium

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Wednesday 26th of July 2017

You had me at pancakes!

:) Did I say you could have as many as you could eat!

Monday 24th of July 2017

I really didn't know how fascinating this place was! Never heard of it before you but you really make wanna visit!

Tuesday 25th of July 2017

Really? Never heard of Antwerp before? You really should come over to Belgium, Ari, and definitely include Antwerp in your itinerary. It's one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium!

Tuesday 18th of July 2017

I have never been to Antwerp before but all your lovely posts on the city makes me want to go more and more. I never knew that it is the second-largest seaport in Europe. Jan Plezier’s Antwerp harbour boat tours with pancakes sound like fun. I meant who wouldn't want to eat yummy pancakes while exploring :-)

Wednesday 19th of July 2017

I will have to take you on a tour when you finally get here, Melissa. Antwerp is one of the most fascinating places in Belgium, there's so much to see and do!

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

21 Fun Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: April 25, 2023

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

Explore the Central Station

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Attention: since August 1st 2023, the parking policy in the City of Antwerp has changed.

Read more on Parking on the street | Smart ways to Antwerp or Transport in and to Antwerp .

A look inside the Port House

The Port House is an architectural jewel and undoubtedly one of the most amazing and high-profile eye-catchers of the Antwerp skyline. It is the head office of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, and the workplace for 500 of its staff.

Available time slots

To see if the desired time slot is available, enter the number of participants under ‘Group size (Group ticket)’, choose the guide language and select the date.

From 07/02/2021 11:00 pm (UTC) until 31/12/2030 10:59 pm (UTC)

• What to expect
• Accessibility

The renowned Zaha Hadid Architects firm delivered this astonishing masterpiece in 2016, as befitting a world port like Antwerp, and a symbolic gateway to the port area. At the Port House, the past and future of the port of Antwerp and Bruges come together.

The lower part used to be a fire station at the far end of the harbour. During the renovation, this beautiful barracks has been preserved and now this place is designated to be the beginning of the extensive port area. There is no clearer symbol of the growth of the port of Antwerp and Bruges. The new part is poised above the historic fire station like a glittering diamond, with its tip pointing towards the Scheldt like the prow of a ship. The glass superstructure reflects the varying shades of port, water and air. The flat and rippling surfaces, alternating between each other, represent the waves of the Scheldt. The glistening diamond is a clear reference to the Antwerp diamond trade. This is a metaphor for the port of the 21st century: a port with a rich past, ready for the future.

As a whole, it delivers a lovely example of spectacle architecture, characteristic of Zaha Hadid, a renowned British architect hailing from Iraq. Zaha Hadid has built striking buildings all over the world, including the Guangzhou opera house in China, the Heydar Aliyev Centre in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the Riverside Museum in Glasgow.

The building is breathtaking on the inside too, thanks to a fascinating interplay of lines to be found on every floor, and gorgeous panoramic views.

Would you like to take a look inside this eye-catcher on the Antwerp skyline? Or would you like to admire the port and city from a breathtaking perspective? Then pay a visit to the Port House and find out all about the daring architecture and how the port works.

During the tour, an expert guide will take you past all of the must-see places at the Port House, in both the old and new areas of the iconic building. In the atrium, you can take in the scale of the port and the city from the large aerial photo. You will be immersed in the architecture from top architect Zaha Hadid and in the role and functioning of the port of Antwerp, both now, in the past and in the future. You will be surprised by the impact this world port – the second-most important in Europe – has on our economy and employment. You will also find out more about what the role of Port of Antwerp is.

This tour through the imposing Port House, the perfect combination of economic port activity based in an architectural jewel, will undoubtedly leave an unforgettable impression on you.

Practical information:

• This guided tour is suitable for groups
• Maximum 20 persons per group
• Duration: 90 minutes

Contact details for visitors

Children must be at least 6 years old for a tour and a great many staircases will be used during the tour. Good physical fitness is required.

There is no possibility to buy drinks. In case of warm weather, make sure to bring your own bottle.

If you wish to visit the Port House with more than 40 people, please contact us via [email protected] .

Only the Atrium, the reception area on the ground floor, is freely accessible during office hours. (Not while the COVID-19 measures are in force) The other parts of the buildings can only be visited if accompanied by a guide.

Due to works for Oosterweel, the parking situation near the Port House will change from the end of March 2023. For parking we would like to refer to the Madrasstraat, behind the Mexico bridge. There is possibility of paid parking in the streets around. Keep in mind that you will still have to walk a bit until you reach the Port House.

• The story of the port’s history, the port of today and the future of our port
• Visiting the Port House, indoor and outdoor

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Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Things to Do in Antwerp (Belgium)

15 Best Things to Do in Antwerp (Belgium)

The second city of Belgium and home to the biggest port in the country, Antwerp is an obvious choice for travellers in the country. The city seems to ooze power and cool and this may be due to its historic status as home of moguls and diamond dealers. Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world and the diamond industry plays an important role in the economy of the city and has done throughout its history.

During the 16th Century the city was one of the most important places, and one of the most important ports in all of Europe. The city suffered greatly in the Second World War but still retains many of its medieval charm and landmarks. Today, the city has a reputation for art and fashion.

Antwerp has everything a traveller should wish for in a European city; world class museums and art, beautiful architecture and great food and drink. Here is our list of 15 Best Things to do in Antwerp :

1. Admire Antwerp Central Station

Looking at a train station may not be one of the best things to do in many cities but in Antwerp, it is an absolute must. The Gothic architecture of the building’s impressive exterior will take your breath away and the main hall is equally splendid.

The station is one of the city’s most treasured landmarks and has been rated as one of the world’s top five most beautiful train stations.

The station is much more than just a pretty face however and has been fully adapted to operate in the 21st Century with its multilevel platforms.

2. Learn about printing at the Museum Plantin-Moretus

This former printing press was once one of the finest in the world. The site has been home to museum since 1876 and is now a UNSECO World Heritage Site.

It may be unusual for a museum to be inducted into World Heritage Site status but once you visit this fascinating place you will see why.

The building itself dates back to medieval times and, along with the courtyard, is alone worthy of a visit. Combine this with a museum exploring the world’s oldest printing press, a 17th Century library and a collection of valuable artwork and you will soon see why the Museum Plantin-Moretus is so highly regarded.

3. Pop into Rubens House

Rubenshuis is the former home of the painter Pieter Paul Rubens. The home was built by Rubens himself as both a place to live and also as a studio for him to work in.

The building was in a bad way prior to restorative work that began in 1937 but with some careful work, the building has now returned to its former glory.

As well as furniture from the period that the painter lived here, the house also shows off many pieces of his artwork.

4. Visit the Red Star Line Museum

The Red Star Line Museum exhibits the stories of many migrants who left Belgium, mainly for America, via the Red Star Line ships. Most of the passengers embarked from the very building in which the museum is housed.

The exhibits are very engaging and use actual photographs and other personal items to vividly tell the story of the crossing from Belgium to the States.

The observation tower, which was formerly the buildings chimney, has great views of the surrounding area.

5. Explore the historic Antwerp Zoo

Antwerp Zoo was founded in 1843 and makes a great day out when you are tired of looking at museums and architecture.

The zoo may be one of the oldest in the world but the facilities are modern and world class with state of the art enclosures and breeding programmes.

Popular attractions at the zoo include a loved up koala couple who live together in a thatched cottage as well as a new reef environment in the zoo’s aquarium.

6. Eat “French” Fries

I don’t want to spark an international conflict with this point but Belgians will argue that they actually invented so-called French Fries.

Regardless of who invented them, Antwerp is a great place to experience the Belgian take on fries.

Forget fast-food, in Belgium they slow the pace and serve fries in frites cafes which specialize in serving the tastiest fries around.

7. Shop in style

Shopping centres don’t come much more stylish than the Stadsfeestzaal Shopping Centre in the centre of Antwerp.

The building was once almost destroyed but due to its status as a listed building it was promptly restored to exactly how it should be. The architecture, marble staircase and mosaic floor will keep even the most reluctant shoppers entertained and if not, there is always the champagne bar to enjoy.

8. Worship the Cathedral of Our Lady

The tallest cathedral in the Low Countries is one that can be appreciated both from outside and inside.

It took 169 years to build before being completed in the year 1521. The spire is visible from many areas of the city and rarely fails to take one’s breath away.

The interior is a striking blend of Baroque decor and Ruben’s artwork. An entry fee to the cathedral applies and guided tours are available.

9. Drink Beer

The Belgians are rightfully proud of their beer and it would be rude to visit Antwerp and not sample a few cold beers.

Visiting the Antwerp Brewery is a good place to learn about Belgian beer as well as sampling a glass of De Koninck beer at the very site it was made.

If this fails to quench your thirst, why not visit Paters Vaetje, located by the cathedral, which serves over 100 beers. You are certain to find at least one that you like.

10. Explore Het Steen

Het Steen is the name of a small but pretty castle just on the side of the river in Antwerp. The castle dates back to the early 13th Century and makes for some great photographs.

Also worth photographing is the odd statue outside the castle of Lange Wapper, a large peeping tom character who is exposing his codpiece to passers by.

There is nothing to be seen inside the castle itself but the nearby maritime museum, with its collection of historic barges, is worth a look while in the area.

11. Visit the unique MAS Museum

If you have had your fill of historic sights within Antwerp (and there are a lot worth seeing) then you should visit the modern MAS museum.

MAS is a museum that does explore the history of Antwerp and its role as an important port city but also features temporary cutting edge exhibits that are regularly changing. Temporary exhibits on display at the time of writing include one exploring different forms of body art.

Whilst visiting the museum it is well worth taking the elevators to the open top roof for breathtaking views of the city. There is no charge for this.

12. Tour the city by bike

Like many great European cities, Antwerp is great to explore on two wheels. Hiring a bike yourself and planning a route is a possibility but the safer option is to take a bike tour with a guide.

Most tours last for a few hours and will take in all of the cities major sights including the cathedral, MAS and central station.

Even if you have already walked around all of the main sights, seeing them again on two wheels is a great experience.

13. Visit the home of Rockoxhuis

Nicolaas Rockox was something of a celebrity in 17th Century Antwerp. He was a lawyer and politician and his house remains beautiful to this day.

The house, complimented by a lovely courtyard and garden, features commissions from Rockoxhuis’ private collection that have not been sold to bigger galleries. Works by Rubens and Van Dyck are still housed here.

The Golden Cabinet art exhibition is also housed here and is both fascinating and varied.

• 14.  Relax in the town square

Antwerp’s Grote Markt or town square dates back to the 16th Century and is a beautiful example of architecture from this period.

The town hall is the centerpiece and is built in Renaissance and Gothic styles. The statue at the centre of the square is of Brabo, a legendary giant slayer, and dates back to 1887.

The nearby street of Hofstraat is where the old stock exchange was located until the 16th Century.

15. Shop for Diamonds

Antwerp is known for its so-called diamond district which is located west of the Central Train Station. Around 85% of the world’s uncut diamonds find their way here and result in the employment of more than 30,000 people.

The diamond museum here is the largest of its kind in the world and will tell you everything you need to know about diamonds and the industry here.

The diamond industry is largely run by orthodox Jews although more and more wealthy Americans and Indians are becoming influential.

15 Best Things to Do in Antwerp (Belgium):

• Admire Antwerp Central Station
• Learn about printing at the Museum Plantin-Moretus
• Pop into Rubens House
• Visit the Red Star Line Museum
• Explore the historic Antwerp Zoo
• Eat "French" Fries
• Shop in style
• Worship the Cathedral of Our Lady
• Explore Het Steen
• Visit the unique MAS Museum
• Tour the city by bike
• Visit the home of Rockoxhuis
• Shop for Diamonds

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

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

By Gisela Williams

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

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

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

The Insiders

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

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

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

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

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

Illustrations by Richard Pedaline

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

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

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

Eat and Drink

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

These interviews have been edited and condensed.

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Port of Antwerp-Bruges Tour

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PORT OF ANTWERP TOUR

Tour programme, 28 november, 13h00 - meet up for for the port of antwerp-bruge tour.

Antwerp Expo, main entrance, Registration area, Jan Van Rijswijcklaan 191, 2020 Antwerp

13H30 - Departure for the guided tour alongside the breakbulk facilities at the Port of Antwerp

A longside the breakbulk facilities at the Port of Antwerp

14h00 - 15h00 - Visit to Zuidnatie

A closer look at one of Antwerp’s key multipurpose, logistics and warehousing specialists

15h00 - 16h00 - Visit to PSA Breakbulk

Tour of the brand new breakbulk equipment & warehousing investments

16h30 - Return to Antwerp Expo for the Opening reception at AntwerpXL

16h30 - end of visit.

practical info

Point of contact for Bus 1: Host, Nadine Marissen +32 477 610977

Point of contact for Bus 2: Marketing Expert, Annick Dekeyser +32 476 727662 Overall Event SPOC: Event Expert Nathalie De Keijser +32 496 564319

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Antwerpxl hosts the breakbulk industry and is the perfect platform that helps your business on a day-to-day basis., contact the team, register now, register now, subscribe to our newsletter, show opening times.

• 08 October 2024
• 17:00 - 20:00
• 09 October 2024
• 10:00 - 20:00
• 10 October 2024
• 10:00 - 15:00
• antwerp expo
• Jan van rijswijcklaan 191
• 2020, antwerpen
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Port of antwerp, smart electronic solutions for transparant logistic flows, find a service, find a stay number or barge, search for stay number.

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What is c-point.

C-point is the platform for efficient digital communication between all players in and around the port. It supports and streamlines the day-to-day administrative and operational activities.

Together with NxtPort - which offers data via the technical platform - C-point offers a complete package of applications to promote digital communication between all those present in and around the port of Antwerp.

The use of international standard messages ensures that messages can be exchanged with business partners throughout the world. Most companies in the port of Antwerp make use of electronic messaging.

Cost effective

This electronic messaging is not only practical but also ensures fewer errors and lower costs, thus raising your productivity and efficiency.

Confidentiality is a priority. You entrust sensitive information to the C-point applications. We therefore make every effort to ensure the confidentiality of this information. You remain its owner at all times.

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Certified Pick up

Certified Pick up provides a safe, transparent and efficient release process for inbound containers and replaces the system of pin codes. Applicable to all chain partners involved in the release process.

What others say

  We were looking for smart, fast customs procedures. We found them in e-Desk. Fiat Industrial

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Efficient communication throughout the supply chain.

Time savings, thanks to simplification of all the administrative steps for import and export of goods.

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Safety in handling of dangerous goods is essential. Discover the services that ensure efficient flow of information.

Consultation and planning of nautical services, and notification of departures and arrivals.