Things To Do
in Antwerp
Antwerp, Belgium is a vibrant city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and thriving cultural scene. The city is famous for its diamond district, fashion designers, and world-renowned art galleries, such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. Antwerp's picturesque riverside setting, charming cobblestone streets, and lively markets make it a popular destination for tourists.
With a dynamic food scene encompassing traditional Belgian cuisine and international flavors, Antwerp offers an enticing mix of experiences for visitors.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world. Stroll through the lush gardens and enjoy the diverse array of animals.
Visit the Rubenshuis, the former home of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens, and admire his masterpieces. You can also explore the charming shops nearby for unique souvenirs.
Dine at a local Belgian restaurant and sample traditional dishes like mussels and fries. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk along the River Scheldt.
Start your morning at the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) and take in the stunning views from the rooftop. Discover the city’s maritime history and its connection to art.
Head to the Cathedral of Our Lady to marvel at its gothic architecture and impressive art collections. Don’t miss the works by Rubens housed within the cathedral.
Enjoy a night out in the vibrant Dageraadplaats, where you’ll find various bars and eateries. Experience the local nightlife and maybe catch some live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Vibrant arts scene and numerous museums
- Strong economy with a major port and international trade
- Diverse culinary offerings, including famous Belgian chocolates and beers
- Excellent public transportation and connectivity to other European cities
- Welcoming and international community
- Beautiful architectural landmarks, including the Cathedral of Our Lady
- Higher cost of living compared to other Belgian cities
- Traffic congestion in certain areas, especially during peak hours
- Weather can be rainy and overcast, impacting outdoor activities
- Language barrier for non-Dutch or French speakers
- Some areas may have issues with crime and safety
- Limited green spaces in the city center
- Housing market can be competitive and expensive
Best Activities in Antwerp
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic ride along the river and explore the beautiful surroundings.
Explore the diverse wildlife and beautiful gardens in the heart of the city.
Visit parks like Rivierenhof and Middelheim Park for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Discover the historic charm of the city and its architectural wonders on foot.
Tours
Uncover the best of Antwerp with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Antwerp
Visit one of these nice places.
The view from the top provides panoramic vistas of the city and the Scheldt River.
The rooftop offers panoramic views of the city and the harbor, perfect for photography.
The grand architecture of the station’s interior and exterior provides great photo opportunities.
Food in Antwerp
Antwerp Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Flemish dish of rabbit stewed in beer and prunes, often served with a side of frites. It can be found at local brasseries and traditional Flemish restaurants like De Grote Markt or Den Dyver.
Must-Try!
A creamy Belgian stew typically made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and potatoes. Recommended places to try it include 't Fornuis and De Peerdestal.
A local specialty, these 'Antwerp Hands' are buttery shortbread cookies shaped like a hand and often enjoyed with coffee or tea. Visit the famous local bakery, Burie, to savor this sweet treat.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Antwerp better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Antwerp Market offers a wide array of local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and a vibrant selection of street food stalls. Don't miss the opportunity to sample authentic Belgian waffles, frites, and freshly prepared seafood at this lively market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Antwerp, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when having a conversation.
When meeting someone for the first time or when greeting friends, it is common to shake hands or give a kiss on the cheek in Antwerp as a sign of respect.
Punctuality is valued in Antwerp, so it is important to arrive on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Antwerp with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Antwerp
Ensure a smooth experience
In Antwerp, tipping is not mandatory, but it is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi services.
Credit cards are widely accepted in Antwerp, and it is common to pay with cards for most goods and services. However, it's always good to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case a vendor or establishment does not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Antwerp.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Antwerp, Belgium. enjoy beautiful blooming flowers and moderate temperatures.
Warm and sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals in Antwerp, Belgium.
Mild weather and colorful foliage. Great time for art and cultural events in Antwerp, Belgium.
Cold weather but festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and holiday decorations in Antwerp, Belgium.
Antwerp at Night
Hiking in Antwerp
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic urban forest located in the city of Antwerp, offering several trails for walking and hiking.
A beautiful nature reserve just outside Antwerp, known for its heaths and forests, perfect for longer hikes.
A large public park in Antwerp, featuring walking paths and picnic areas, suitable for leisurely hikes.
A historic forest near Breda, not far from Antwerp, offering a network of hiking trails through picturesque landscapes.
A further option, located around an hour away from Antwerp, featuring extensive trails through diverse nature and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Antwerp through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Antwerp by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 45 kilometers southeast of Antwerp. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
Located just 7 kilometers south of Antwerp city center, this is a smaller airport primarily serving regional flights and some international destinations.
Located about 65 kilometers south of Antwerp, this airport primarily serves charter and low-cost airlines, offering a range of international flights.
Situated approximately 85 kilometers southeast of Antwerp, it is a larger cargo airport that also handles passenger flights mainly for low-cost carriers.
Located around 140 kilometers north of Antwerp, this is one of the largest airports in Europe, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Antwerp, consisting of individuals holding Belgian citizenship.
A significant group consisting of individuals of Moroccan descent, often involved in various sectors including small business and local trade.
A prominent demographic group comprising individuals of Turkish origin, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of Antwerp.
This group includes migrants from countries like Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria, who have moved to Antwerp for work opportunities.
A group with roots in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, contributing to the multicultural makeup of Antwerp.
A historic demographic in Antwerp, particularly noted for its contributions to local cuisine and culture.
This includes various smaller immigrant populations from countries across the globe, adding to the city's diversity.
The Soul of Antwerp
Discover the essence of Antwerp through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Antwerp, with many local clubs and a strong following for the Belgian Pro League's teams.
Field hockey has a significant presence in Antwerp, supported by several clubs and a vibrant youth program.
Cycling enjoys popularity in Antwerp, with many residents using bikes for transportation as well as in organized competitions.
Running is a popular activity in Antwerp, with various running clubs and events, including marathons and fun runs.
Basketball has been gaining popularity in Antwerp, with local leagues and schools promoting the sport.
Tennis is widely played in Antwerp, with numerous clubs and facilities available for enthusiasts of all ages.
Swimming is a popular sport in Antwerp, with many pools available for recreational and competitive purposes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antwerp.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Antwerp has a growing number of restaurants and cafes that cater to vegetarians and vegans. Notable options include Native, a plant-based restaurant with a creative menu, and 't Kastarken, offering vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes in a cozy setting.
Visitors requiring gluten-free options will find accommodating menus at many establishments in Antwerp. Notable gluten-free friendly places include Lombardia, known for its wholesome and organic dishes, and RAS, offering a diverse range of gluten-free options alongside Belgian classics.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Antwerp with these cultural adventures.
