Things To Do
in Antwerp
Antwerp is a vibrant port city in northern Belgium famed for its medieval center, striking cathedral, and thriving art scene. It sits on the Scheldt river and is a global hub for diamonds and fashion. The Grote Markt, Rubenshuis, and the MAS museum anchor a walkable historic core, while the Zuid and Het Eilandje districts buzz with cafes and nightlife.
Expect elegant chocolate shops, beer bars, and mouthwatering Belgian cuisine at every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day in Antwerp's historic center, where the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady awaits. Marvel at the intricate Gothic architecture and the breathtaking art pieces inside, including works by Rubens. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Grote Markt, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and the beautiful guild houses surrounding the square.
In the afternoon, visit the fascinating Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) to learn about Antwerp's rich history and maritime heritage. Explore the diverse exhibitions that showcase everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, and don't forget to head to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city. Later, wander through the picturesque streets of the old town, stopping by local shops and cafes for a taste of Belgian chocolate.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at one of Antwerp's renowned restaurants, sampling traditional Flemish dishes. After dinner, take a relaxed evening stroll along the Scheldt River, where the reflections of the city lights dance on the water's surface. Conclude your night with a visit to a cozy bar, where you can enjoy a local Belgian beer.
Start your day at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, where you can admire masterpieces from the likes of Rubens and Van Dyck. Spend time in the museum's serene atmosphere, contemplating the impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian art. After exploring the museum, take a walk through the nearby Kunstkwartier, an area filled with galleries and street art.
In the afternoon, visit the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens. Discover the stunning architecture and lush gardens, while appreciating his impressive collection of art. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, relishing the flavors of traditional Belgian cuisine.
As night falls, enjoy a performance at the Antwerp Opera, where you can experience world-class music and theater. Dress up for the occasion and immerse yourself in the cultural elegance of the venue. After the show, unwind at a nearby wine bar, sharing your thoughts on the performance over a glass of exquisite wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🚆1-day public transport pass | $8-10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $90-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with easy access to major sights
- World-class art, architecture, and dining options
- Excellent beer, chocolate, and seafood culture
- Efficient public transport and vibrant nightlife
- Beautiful riverfront views and photogenic historic streets
- Tourist crowds in peak seasons can be heavy
- Some neighborhoods require careful navigation at night
- Prices can be higher in central dining spots
- Rain is common; plan for indoor options as backup
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
- "De rekening, alstublieft." - The bill, please.
- "Ik begrijp het niet." - I don’t understand.
- "Ja / Nee" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Antwerp
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic masterpiece with vantage points across the square; interior houses Rubens paintings and soaring architecture.
Iconic central square framed by guild houses, with the Brabo Fountain and City Hall providing classic photo opportunities.
Modern museum with striking red tower and riverfront views; rooftop and terrace shots capture the skyline and harbor activity.
Contemporary architectural landmark on the Scheldt, offering dramatic lines and river reflections for architectural photography.
Medieval castle on the riverbank with water reflections and old-town backdrops for atmospheric photos.
Grand Belle Époque railway hall with ornate ceilings and expansive platforms—great for travel photography and interior shots.
Former home of Peter Paul Rubens with charming interiors and tranquil courtyard views.
Food in Antwerp
Antwerp Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed mussels served with thick-cut fries, often cooked in beer or white wine with herbs. Commonly enjoyed along the harbor and in city brasseries.
Must-Try!
A creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs, a comforting Belgian classic found in many bistros.
Rich beef stew slow-cooked in beer with onions and soft herbs, perfect with crusty bread or fries.
Almond cookies shaped like hands, a sweet nod to the city’s pastry traditions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market square with stalls on market days offering fresh produce, cheeses, and regional bites. A great place to sample street-style Belgian snacks.
A modern market hall with a variety of vendors offering Belgian specialties, prepared foods, and casual dining in a convivial setting.
Casual bites from waterfront stalls and casual cafés—fries, waffles, and crepes—perfect for a sunset snack after a riverside walk.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Goeiemorgen' (good morning) or 'Dag' (hello). Use 'alstublieft' (please) and 'dank u wel' (thank you).
Be polite and punctual; allow personal space and avoid loud public disagreements in busy areas.
Dutch is the local language; many people speak English in tourist areas. Look for 'vegetarisch' on menus.
Safety
Tipping in Antwerp
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common practice if not included.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still handy in smaller cafés and markets. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, warm temperatures, and lively outdoor terraces. Expect crowds around major sights; carry water and plan afternoon indoor breaks in museums.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage in parks and along the river. A good time for walks and canal cruises with fewer crowds than summer.
Cold, often damp weather; Christmas markets in the Grote Markt add festive charm. Warm venues and hearty Flemish dishes are ideal for adaptation.
Mild temperatures and blooming city parks; ideal for outdoor strolling, photography along the Scheldt, and early-season markets.
Antwerp at Night
Hiking in Antwerp
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large heathland nature reserve just north of Antwerp, offering extensive trails through heather, forests, and boardwalks—great for day hikes and photographing landscapes.
Riverside paths along the Scheldt provide scenic, easy-to-moderate hikes with city views and occasional wildlife, best enjoyed in mild seasons.
Airports
How to reach Antwerp by plane.
Small regional airport near the city center, serving domestic and some international routes; easy access by train or taxi.
Major international hub about 30-45 minutes by train or car; provides a wide range of flights and onward connections.
Nearby Dutch airport with several European budget options; convenient for short trips and low-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The city’s primary demographic, with Dutch as the main language in daily life and business.
A diverse mix in universities and international careers, especially in the old town and Zuid.
Significant populations from Morocco, Turkey, and other parts of Europe contributing to cultural flavor and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime and spectator sport; local clubs and matches are common in and around the city.
Extremely popular in Belgium; lots of flat routes around the Scheldt and along river paths for casual riders and cyclists alike.
Active in local clubs and parks; suitable for recreational play and social leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antwerp.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Antwerp’s restaurants typically offer vegetarian options; look for clearly labeled vegetarian menus or ask staff. Many places can adapt existing dishes by omitting meat, and local markets will have vegetable-forward snacks and sides. Communicate dietary needs with phrases like 'vegetarisch alstublieft' (vegetarian please).