Things To Do
in Wilrijk
Wilrijk is a green, residential district of Antwerp known for its spacious parks and easy access to the city center. It feels calm and family-friendly, with a mix of modern amenities and historic charm. The area is well-connected by tram and bus, making day trips to Antwerp's cultural attractions simple.
While quieter than the city center, Wilrijk offers convenient parks, markets, and quick routes to urban experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Wilrijk, absorbing the charming architecture and serene atmosphere. Stop by a local bakery to savor a fresh Belgian pastry and coffee while watching the world go by. Don't forget to visit the Wilrijk Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that dates back to the 15th century.
After lunch at a nearby bistro, head to the nearby city of Antwerp, just a short tram ride away, to explore the historic center. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire its impressive collection of artworks. Spend some time shopping or browsing the local boutiques in the Meir, Antwerp's main shopping street.
As the sun sets, return to Wilrijk for dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Belgian cuisine. Enjoy a hearty meal of moules-frites (mussels and fries) paired with a local beer. After dinner, take a peaceful walk in the nearby park, reflecting on the day's adventures under the stars.
Begin your day with a visit to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, where you can immerse yourself in a stunning collection of Flemish art. Wander through the halls and marvel at masterpieces from renowned artists like Rubens and Van Dyck. Take your time to appreciate the artwork before heading out for lunch.
After enjoying a delightful lunch at a café nearby, visit the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), where you can explore the history and culture of Antwerp through interactive exhibits. The museum also features panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace, providing a perfect photo opportunity. Spend the afternoon delving into the rich maritime heritage of the region.
For your evening entertainment, catch a performance at the Antwerp Opera House, renowned for its grand architecture and world-class productions. Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant nearby, where you can indulge in innovative dishes inspired by Belgian and international flavors. Wind down your day with a walk along the river, taking in the beautiful night views of the city skyline.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-5 |
| 🧀Grocery staple (1 week) | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transport monthly pass | $70-90 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $110-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Antwerp's culture and nightlife
- Good green spaces and a quiet residential feel
- Strong Belgian cuisine and markets
- Efficient public transport connections to the city center
- Less nightlife directly in Wilrijk; best explored in Antwerp center
- Can feel car-dependent in suburbs; some attractions require transit
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you very much
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ik ben verdwaald" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Wilrijk
Visit one of these nice places.
A large green space with old trees, ponds, and a picturesque castle—great for portraits and nature shots.
Iconic square framed by ornate guild houses and the impressive Cathedral; ideal for architectural and street photography, especially at blue hour.
Harbor district with modern architecture and waterfront views; capture the skyline and reflective water at sunset.
Scenic paths along the river near Wilrijk offering calm composition opportunities and wildlife scenes.
Food in Wilrijk
Wilrijk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked beef in a rich beer gravy, typically served with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
Mussels steamed with white wine, onions and herbs, commonly paired with Belgian fries.
Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs; a comforting Flemish classic.
Light, crisp waffles often topped with fruit, cream or chocolate.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic Friday market in Antwerp center offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat Belgian snacks.
Weekly market in the Wilrijk area with seasonal produce, dairy, baked goods, and street-food bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; greet with 'Goeiedag' or 'Dag' and make eye contact; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Keep noise reasonable in residential areas; avoid loud behavior late at night in quiet neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Wilrijk
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafés.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Parks come alive with blossoms; comfortable temperatures make day trips pleasant; plan to visit markets and outdoor cafés.
Long days and outdoor events; stay hydrated and prepared for occasional rain; outdoor concerts and markets are common.
Wilrijk at Night
Hiking in Wilrijk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive heathland reserve with trails through heather, wetlands and woodlands; great for long walks and birdwatching, about 25-30 minutes drive from Wilrijk.
Extensive urban green spaces in Antwerp with a network of easy walking and cycling paths near Wilrijk.
Airports
How to reach Wilrijk by plane.
Small regional airport serving Antwerp; easy access by tram/bus and taxi; mainly general aviation and charter flights.
Major international airport about 40-50 minutes by train/car from Wilrijk; frequent international connections.
Budget-friendly option farther away; accessible by train and coach transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Wilrijk, thanks to parks, schools, and residential streets.
Significant number of residents commute to Antwerp city center for work.
A multilingual environment with Dutch/Flemish as the main language; English is commonly understood by service staff and younger residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Belgium with local clubs and matches across the region.
Popular cycling routes and events in Flanders; many residents cycle to work or for recreation.
Public courts and clubs throughout Antwerp; suitable for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wilrijk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plant-based options are widely available; look for vegetable quiches, salads, and cheese boards; ask for meat-free broths and sauces when ordering.