Belgium

Antwerp

Antwerp blends diamond trade, grand station, and medieval streets.

Local time: UTC+1
Population: 0.5M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Expensive

Food$$$$$About $83 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $136 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $10.0 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇪🇺 EUR =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

ANRAntwerp International Airport (Deurne)Small airport 5 km from the centre, mostly seasonal leisure flights.

How	Cost	Time
BusCity centre	€3	20-30 min
Regular bus links the airport to the centre.
TaxiCity centre	€10-15	15-20 min
Quick trip; small airport means fast arrivals.

BRUBrussels AirportMain international hub, about 45 km south of Antwerp.

How	Cost	Time
TrainAntwerpen Centraal	€11.30	25-45 min
Hourly direct trains; slower on weekends.
Airport busFranklin Rooseveltplaats / Crowne Plaza	€10	45-60 min
Two stops in Antwerp; check the schedule.
TaxiCity centre	€70-90	40-50 min
Fixed fares vary; agree before riding.

AMSAmsterdam Airport SchipholMajor international hub about 130 km north, with direct rail links.

How	Cost	Time
Train (EuroCity + IC)Antwerpen Centraal	€25	2 hr
Cheapest route; transfer at Rotterdam Centraal.
EuroCity Direct trainAntwerpen Centraal	€21-51	1 hr 13 min
Hourly direct; book early for lower fares.
EurostarAntwerpen Centraal	€40-100	1 hr 3 min
Reservation required; book ahead.
KLM shuttle busAntwerpen Centraal	check locally	2.5 hr
Bookable as a KLM flight segment.
TaxiCity centre	€150-200	1.5-2 hr
Long drive; train is usually better.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Antwerp

Getting around

Walk the compact centre; use trams for longer hops.

MetroPre-metro trams run underground in the centre. Buy a ticket before you ride.
BusDe Lijn buses and trams share tickets. A 10-fare card costs about €21.
Tram ★Trams reach most sights. Single fares last one hour; pay contactless, cash is not accepted.
Taxi / ride appsUber and Bolt work in Antwerp. Taxis wait at the station and main squares.
Rental carNarrow streets and a low-emission zone make driving awkward. Register foreign cars before entering.
Walking ★The centre is compact and walkable. Many streets are narrow and slow for cars.
BikeBikes are popular. Cycle superhighways F1, F4 and F14 reach the city.

Recommended stay★ 1 night (2 days)

One night suits you, fitting Centraal Station, Grote Markt, the cathedral and one museum into a single day.

Best for

ArtRubens, Van Eyck and the MAS museum.
HistoryCathedral, Grote Markt and the old port.
FoodBelgian beer, waffles and Flemish cooking.

Weather by month

7°2°Jan🌧 14d

9°2°Feb🌧 13d

11°3°Mar🌧 14d

14°5°Apr🌧 11d

19°9°May🌧 12d

22°13°Jun🌧 11d

23°14°Jul🌧 12d

23°15°Aug🌧 12d

20°12°Sep🌧 12d

16°9°Oct🌧 13d

10°5°Nov🌧 14d

8°4°Dec🌧 14d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Temperate maritime climate: mild summers, cool winters, and rain in every month.

Best time: May to SeptemberHighs of 19–23°C and long days. Good for walking the centre and the docks.
Rain all yearAbout 11–14 rain days every month. Carry a small umbrella or rain jacket.
Cool wintersDecember to February highs of 7–9°C and lows near 2°C. Dress in layers.
Mild, not hot, summersJuly and August peak near 23°C. Rarely need air-conditioning.
Windy and changeableWeather can shift within a day. Check the forecast each morning.
What to packWaterproof shoes, a rain layer, and a warm jumper for evenings, even in summer.

Landmarks 11

Must-see · 7

1
Antwerp Central Station
Widely ranked among the world's most beautiful railway stations, with a soaring stone concourse and layered platforms that make arriving in Antwerp an event in itself. It is still a working station, so visit outside the morning and evening rush for the best photos, and note that it sits at the end of the main shopping street, a short walk from the old town.
2
Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp
The city's tallest church and its defining spire, home to major Rubens paintings and centuries of history. Go early in the day to avoid queues, and check opening hours before you travel as they vary by season.
3
Grote Markt
The historic square at the heart of the old town, ringed by ornate guild houses and the city hall, and the natural starting point for a first walk. It is free and open at all hours; come in the morning for quieter photos or in the evening for the lit-up facades.
4
Het Steen
Antwerp's medieval castle on the Scheldt, the oldest surviving building in the city and a compact, atmospheric stop. It is close to the Grote Markt, so pair the two on foot, and check current opening times as the site has been redeveloped for visitors.
5
Museum aan de Stroom
A striking modern museum whose rooftop panorama over the port and city is a highlight in its own right. The rooftop is reachable separately from the exhibitions; go late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
6
Rubens House
The preserved home and studio of the painter Peter Paul Rubens, one of the city's essential art stops. Book ahead in peak season, as entry is timed and capacity is limited.
7
Plantin-Moretus Museum
A UNESCO-listed printing house and family home that tells the story of early modern publishing in Antwerp. It is a quieter alternative to the big art museums and rewards a slow visit; check opening days, as many Antwerp museums close on Mondays.

Cultural

Modern Architecture 1

Christian 1

Historical Square 1

Castle 1

Museum 3

Activities

Zoo 1

Brewery 1

Amusement Park 1

Festival 1

Day trips from Antwerp

Bruges · 1 h 11 by train

★★★★★ · Full day · 92 km from Antwerp

Best way: The train takes about 1h 11m with one change, and it is faster and more reliable than the 1h 15m bus or a 81-minute drive.

Take a train from Antwerp-Centraal with a change at Ghent-Sint-Pieters or Brussels, for about 1 to 1.5 hours total; Bruges station is a 10 to 15 minute walk or short bus ride from the Markt.

Train ★1 h 11 · from €12
Bus1 h 15 · from $9-$14
Car1 h 21 · taxi ≈ €240

What to see

Markt and Belfry
Basilica of the Holy Blood
Canals and Minnewater
Groeningemuseum
Church of Our Lady

7 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Change at Ghent-Sint-Pieters or Brussels; the total journey is about 1 to 1.5 hours.
From the station, the Markt is a 10 to 15 minute walk or a short bus ride.

Brussels · 33 min by train

★★★★☆ · Full day · 46 km from Antwerp

Best way: Direct trains take about 33 minutes, far faster than the 1h 20m bus or the 47-minute drive.

Direct trains run from Antwerp-Centraal to Brussels-Central or Brussels-Midi in about 35 to 50 minutes, with no change needed.

Train ★33 min · from €7
Bus1 h 20 · from $5-$8
Car47 min · taxi ≈ €120

What to see

Grand Place
Manneken Pis
Royal Palace of Brussels
Atomium
Belgian chocolate and waffle shops

8 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Trains run to Brussels-Central or Brussels-Midi, both in the city centre.
Trains run about 44 times a day, so frequent service means little need to plan around timetables.

Gent (Ghent) · 41 min by train

★★★★☆ · Half day · 63 km from Antwerp

Best way: A direct train takes about 41 minutes and drops you near the old centre, which is a short walk or tram ride away.

Direct trains run from Antwerp-Centraal to Gent-Sint-Pieters in about 30 to 35 minutes, and the old centre is a short walk or tram ride away.

Train ★41 min · from €8
Bus1 h 00 · from $5-$9
Car54 min · taxi ≈ €160

What to see

Gravensteen castle
Graslei and Korenlei waterfront
Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the Ghent Altarpiece
Belfry of Ghent
Patershol district

6 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Trains arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters, and the historic centre is a short walk or tram ride from there.
Trains run about 35 times a day.

Mechelen · 17 min by train

★★☆☆☆ · Half day · 25 km from Antwerp

Best way: Frequent direct trains take about 17 minutes, so it is the quickest trip and easy to fit into a day.

Frequent direct trains run from Antwerp-Centraal to Mechelen in about 15 minutes, and the historic centre is a short walk from the station.

Train ★17 min · from €4
Bus1 h 15 · from $4
Car28 min · taxi ≈ €70

What to see

Grote Markt and Sint-Rombouts Cathedral
Cloth Hall (Lakenhalle)
Beguinage (Begijnhof)
Hof van Busleyden

Good to know

Direct trains run from Antwerp-Centraal about 38 times a day.
The historic centre is a short walk from the station.

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Antwerp rewards visitors with a stunning station, a lively old town, and a strong fashion and art scene. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · Art

One art-filled day: Rubens' house, the cathedral's paintings and a modern collection.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 46
Taxis: ≈ EUR 80

Day 1

Old Town masters in the morning

Tickets ≈ EUR 36 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 50

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 746 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

10:00–11:30 · About €12 · check on the day

Rubenshuis

Closed Monday. Go early for quiet rooms.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 10:00–17:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 489 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

11:45–12:45 · About €12 adults · under 18 often free · check on the day

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

See the Rubens altarpieces. Short walk from Rubenshuis.

Open Roughly Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 327 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

13:00–13:45 · Free to browse · food paid per item

Theaterplein food market

Lunch from the market stalls. Check market days on the day.

Open Market mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 598 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
4

14:15–15:45 · About €12 · check on the day

Plantin-Moretus Museum

Closed Monday. Old printing house with art and books.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 10:00–17:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 411 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Modern art and the river

Tickets ≈ EUR 10 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 30

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

16:15–17:45 · About €10 · check on the day

M HKA contemporary art museum

Closed Monday. Tram or 20-minute walk to Het Zuid.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 11:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 504 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk · meals paid per venue

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Dinner in the bar streets nearby.

Open Bars and restaurants roughly 12:00–late
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day trip · History

The classic Antwerp day: cathedral, market square, castle and the old docks.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 24
Taxis: ≈ EUR 93

Day 1

Old Town on foot

Tickets ≈ EUR 12 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 50

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 257 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

09:30–10:30 · About €12 adults · under 18 often free · check on the day

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Opens around 10:00 on weekdays. Check times on the day.

Open Roughly Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 219 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

10:45–11:15 · Free

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Right outside the cathedral.

Open Always open
3

11:20–11:35 · Free

Vlaeykensgang alley

Hidden alley near the square. Daytime only, keep quiet for residents.

Open Daytime only · respect residents
Taxi · 406 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
4

11:45–12:15 · Free to view outside · visitor centre free

Het Steen castle

Short walk to the river. Outside always open.

Open Outside always open · visitor centre roughly 10:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 925 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

12:30–13:15 · Free to browse · food paid per item

Theaterplein food market

Lunch stop. Check market mornings on the day.

Open Market mornings · check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 583 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Docks and sunset

Tickets ≈ EUR 12 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 43

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1301 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

14:00–16:00 · About €12 for exhibitions · rooftop free · check on the day

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Walk or tram to Eilandje.

Open Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 257 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

16:15–17:15 · Free

Eilandje docklands walk

Docklands walk, good light late in the day.

Open Always open
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ EUR 13
3

18:00–19:30 · Free to walk · meals paid per venue

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Dinner. Or stay in Eilandje for food.

Open Bars and restaurants roughly 12:00–late
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day trip · Food

A tasting day: market breakfast, brewery tour and Belgian beer in the evening.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 62
Taxis: ≈ EUR 222

Day 1

Market, docks and beer

Tickets ≈ EUR 32 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 192

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 583 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

09:30–10:15 · Free to browse · food paid per item

Theaterplein food market

Breakfast at the food market. Check market mornings on the day.

Open Market mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 543 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

10:30–11:00 · Free

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Short walk, then on to the docks.

Open Always open
Taxi · 28 km · ≈ 1 h 21 min · ≈ EUR 74
3

12:00–14:00 · About €15–25 for a guided tour · booking required · check on the day

Duvel Moortgat Brewery Landmark quest

Tours by reservation only. Book ahead and check times.

Open Tours by reservation only · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 29 km · ≈ 1 h 24 min · ≈ EUR 77
4

14:15–15:15 · Free

Eilandje docklands walk

Walk off lunch around the docks.

Open Always open
Taxi · 257 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

15:30–17:30 · About €12 for exhibitions · rooftop free · check on the day

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Closed Monday. Rooftop is free and has a view.

Open Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 1301 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Old Town evening

Tickets ≈ EUR 30 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 30

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 200 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

18:30–20:30 · About €25–40 per tasting · check on the day

Belgian beer tasting in the Old Town

Belgian beer tasting. Booking advised.

Open Evenings · booking advised
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

21:00–22:00 · Free to walk · meals paid per venue

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Late bite in Het Zuid, or eat in the Old Town.

Open Bars and restaurants roughly 12:00–late
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10

1 night · Art ★ Recommended length

Art lovers with one night: Rubens and the Old Town masters, then modern art on the south side.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 46
Taxis: ≈ EUR 103
Hotel: EUR 90–220

Day 1

Old Town masters and the cathedral

Tickets ≈ EUR 24 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 50

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

09:30–10:00 · Free to enter the concourse

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Start here to see the grand station hall. Walk to the Old Town in about 20 minutes.

Open Station hall roughly 05:00–01:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

10:15–11:15 · About €12 adults · under 18 often free · check on the day

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Rubens altarpieces inside. Closed to tourists during services.

Open Roughly Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 221 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

11:30–11:45 · Free

Vlaeykensgang alley

Tiny medieval alley a few steps away. Keep quiet for residents.

Open Daytime only · respect residents
4

12:00–12:30 · Free

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Guild houses and the Brabo fountain. Good spot for lunch nearby.

Open Always open
Taxi · 696 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

14:00–15:30 · About €12 · check on the day

Rubenshuis

Rubens' own house and studio. Closed Monday. Check on the day.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 10:00–17:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 746 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

South side museums, then home

Tickets ≈ EUR 22 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 52

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

10:00–12:00 · About €12 · check on the day

KMSKA fine arts museum

Fine arts from old masters to modern. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 10:00–17:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 727 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

12:30–14:00 · About €10 · check on the day

M HKA contemporary art museum

Contemporary art, a short walk away. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 11:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 504 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

14:15–15:45 · Free to walk · meals paid per venue

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Late lunch or early dinner in the bar streets.

Open Bars and restaurants roughly 12:00–late
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ EUR 12
4

16:15 · Free to enter the concourse

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Tram or taxi back, about 15 minutes.

Open Station hall roughly 05:00–01:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10

1 night · History ★ Recommended length

First-time visitors who want the classic Antwerp story: cathedral, market square and the old port.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 24
Taxis: ≈ EUR 102
Hotel: EUR 90–220

Day 1

Old Town on foot

Tickets ≈ EUR 12 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 60

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

09:30–10:00 · Free to enter the concourse

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

The station itself is a landmark. Walk down to the centre.

Open Station hall roughly 05:00–01:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

10:15–11:15 · About €12 adults · under 18 often free · check on the day

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Check opening times on the day; Sunday opens later.

Open Roughly Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 219 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

11:30–12:00 · Free

Grote Markt Landmark quest

The main square. Lunch options all around.

Open Always open
Taxi · 383 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
4

12:30–13:00 · Free to view outside · visitor centre free

Het Steen castle

Oldest building in the city, by the river. Visitor centre inside.

Open Outside always open · visitor centre roughly 10:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 509 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

13:15–14:45 · Free · ferry to left bank small fee

Scheldt river walk and Sint-Anna beach

River walk and the ferry to Sint-Anna beach. Check ferry times.

Open Always open · ferry roughly daytime · check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 851 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Docks and museums

Tickets ≈ EUR 12 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 41

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 1326 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

10:00–11:00 · Free

Eilandje docklands walk

Old docklands, now redeveloped. Flat and easy walking.

Open Always open
Taxi · 257 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

11:15–13:15 · About €12 for exhibitions · rooftop free · check on the day

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

City history museum. Rooftop is free and open to all. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 11
3

13:45–14:30 · Free to browse · meals paid per venue

Station District quick eats

Quick lunch before your train.

Open Roughly 08:00–22:00
4

14:45 · Free to enter the concourse

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Trains leave from here.

Open Station hall roughly 05:00–01:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10

1 night · Food ★ Recommended length

One night of eating and drinking: markets and beer in the Old Town, docks and breweries the next day.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 62
Taxis: ≈ EUR 243
Hotel: EUR 90–220

Day 1

Markets, squares and beer

Tickets ≈ EUR 30 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 60

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 583 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

10:00–10:45 · Free to browse · food paid per item

Theaterplein food market

Market mornings only. Check which day on the day.

Open Market mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 543 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

11:00–11:30 · Free

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Walk through the square on the way to lunch.

Open Always open
Taxi · 838 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

12:00–13:00 · Free to walk

Meir shopping street

Main shopping street. Snack stands and cafes along the way.

Open Shops roughly 10:00–18:00 · closed some Sundays
Taxi · 695 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
4

17:00–19:00 · About €25–40 per tasting · check on the day

Belgian beer tasting in the Old Town

Belgian beer tasting. Book ahead.

Open Evenings · booking advised
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

19:30–21:00 · Free to walk · meals paid per venue

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Dinner in the Het Zuid bar streets.

Open Bars and restaurants roughly 12:00–late
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Brewery and docks

Tickets ≈ EUR 32 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 183

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 28 km · ≈ 1 h 20 min · ≈ EUR 74
1

11:00–13:00 · About €15–25 for a guided tour · booking required · check on the day

Duvel Moortgat Brewery Landmark quest

Tours by reservation only. Book before you travel.

Open Tours by reservation only · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 29 km · ≈ 1 h 24 min · ≈ EUR 77
2

13:15–14:15 · Free

Eilandje docklands walk

Walk off lunch around the docks.

Open Always open
Taxi · 257 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

14:30–16:30 · About €12 for exhibitions · rooftop free · check on the day

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Museum and rooftop views. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 11
4

17:00–17:45 · Free to browse · meals paid per venue

Station District quick eats

Quick bite near the station before leaving.

Open Roughly 08:00–22:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10

2 nights · Art

Art lovers: Rubens and old masters first, modern and contemporary art on day two.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 70
Taxis: ≈ EUR 133
Hotel: EUR 180–440

Day 1

Old Town art and the cathedral

Tickets ≈ EUR 36 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 70

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

09:00–09:30 · Free to enter the concourse

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Start under the famous station dome. Trains and trams leave from here.

Open Station hall roughly 05:00–01:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

09:45–10:45 · About €12 adults · under 18 often free · check on the day

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

See the Rubens paintings. Check Sunday hours before you go.

Open Roughly Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 221 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

11:00–11:15 · Free

Vlaeykensgang alley

A tiny medieval alley near the cathedral. Keep quiet for residents.

Open Daytime only · respect residents
Taxi · 709 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
4

11:45–13:15 · About €12 · check on the day

Rubenshuis

Rubens' house and studio. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 10:00–17:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 179 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

13:30–14:15 · Free to browse · food paid per item

Theaterplein food market

Lunch from the food stalls. Market mornings only, so check the day.

Open Market mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 598 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
6

14:45–16:15 · About €12 · check on the day

Plantin-Moretus Museum

A printer's house with old books and art. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 10:00–17:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi back to your hotel · 411 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Het Zuid museums and the docks

Tickets ≈ EUR 34 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 63

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

10:00–12:00 · About €12 · check on the day

KMSKA fine arts museum

Fine arts from old masters to modern. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 10:00–17:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 727 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

12:30–14:00 · About €10 · check on the day

M HKA contemporary art museum

Contemporary art, a short walk away. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Sun roughly 11:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 504 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

14:15–15:15 · Free to walk · meals paid per venue

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Late lunch in the bar streets.

Open Bars and restaurants roughly 12:00–late
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ EUR 13
4

15:45–17:45 · About €12 for exhibitions · rooftop free · check on the day

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Take the tram to Eilandje. The rooftop is free and open late.

Open Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 257 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

18:00–19:00 · Free

Eilandje docklands walk

Walk the old docks at sunset.

Open Always open
Taxi back to your hotel · 1326 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 10

2 nights · History

First-time visitors who want the old city, the castle and the port story.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 39
Taxis: ≈ EUR 106
Hotel: EUR 180–440

Day 1

Old Town on foot

Tickets ≈ EUR 27 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 50

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–11:30 · About €10–20 · tip-based tours also exist · check on the day

Old Town guided walking tour

A guided walk gives you the layout fast. Book ahead.

Open Usually morning and afternoon departures
2

11:45–12:15 · Free

Grote Markt Landmark quest

The main square with the town hall and guild houses.

Open Always open
Taxi · 219 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
3

12:30–13:30 · About €12 adults · under 18 often free · check on the day

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Right next to the square. Check weekend hours.

Open Roughly Mon–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat 10:00–15:00 · Sun 13:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 327 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
4

13:45–14:30 · Free to browse · food paid per item

Theaterplein food market

Lunch at the market if it is a market day.

Open Market mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 925 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

14:45–15:15 · Free to view outside · visitor centre free

Het Steen castle

The old castle by the river. Visitor centre hours vary.

Open Outside always open · visitor centre roughly 10:00–18:00 · check on the day
Taxi · 509 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
6

15:30–17:00 · Free · ferry to left bank small fee

Scheldt river walk and Sint-Anna beach

Walk the river and take the ferry to Sint-Anna beach in good weather.

Open Always open · ferry roughly daytime · check on the day
Taxi back to your hotel · 851 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Docks, station and Zurenborg

Tickets ≈ EUR 12 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 56

Taxi from your hotel · 1301 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

10:00–12:00 · About €12 for exhibitions · rooftop free · check on the day

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

The museum tells the port and city story. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 257 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

12:15–13:15 · Free

Eilandje docklands walk

Walk the docklands around the museum.

Open Always open
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ EUR 11
3

13:30–14:15 · Free to browse · meals paid per venue

Station District quick eats

Quick lunch near the station.

Open Roughly 08:00–22:00
4

14:30–15:00 · Free to enter the concourse

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Look up in the main hall.

Open Station hall roughly 05:00–01:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

15:15–16:15 · Free

Zurenborg neighbourhood walk

Art nouveau streets, best on a weekend morning but fine any dry day.

Open Always open
Taxi back to your hotel · 4 km · ≈ 15 min · ≈ EUR 14

2 nights · Food

Eat and drink your way through markets, beer and Flemish cooking.

Stay: Old Town (Centrum). Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.

Tickets & tours: ≈ EUR 62
Taxis: ≈ EUR 236
Hotel: EUR 180–440

Day 1

Markets, beer and the Old Town

Tickets ≈ EUR 30 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 50

Taxi from your hotel · 583 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

09:30–10:15 · Free to browse · food paid per item

Theaterplein food market

Go early on a market morning. Check the day first.

Open Market mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 543 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ EUR 10
2

10:30–11:00 · Free

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Walk off breakfast on the main square.

Open Always open
3

11:15–11:30 · Free

Vlaeykensgang alley

A short detour through the old alley.

Open Daytime only · respect residents
Taxi · 181 m · ≈ 5 min · ≈ EUR 10
4

14:00–16:00 · About €25–40 per tasting · check on the day

Belgian beer tasting in the Old Town

Book a tasting in the afternoon or evening. Booking advised.

Open Evenings · booking advised
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10
5

19:00–20:30 · Free to walk · meals paid per venue

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Dinner in the Het Zuid bar streets.

Open Bars and restaurants roughly 12:00–late
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ EUR 10

Day 2

Brewery and docks

Tickets ≈ EUR 32 pp · taxis ≈ EUR 186

Taxi from your hotel · 1301 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ EUR 10
1

10:00–11:30 · About €12 for exhibitions · rooftop free · check on the day

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Short museum visit, then the free rooftop. Closed Monday.

Open Tue–Fri 10:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 10:00–18:00 · closed Mon · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 29 km · ≈ 1 h 24 min · ≈ EUR 77
2

12:00–14:00 · About €15–25 for a guided tour · booking required · check on the day

Duvel Moortgat Brewery Landmark quest

Brewery tour by reservation only. Book well ahead.

Open Tours by reservation only · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 29 km · ≈ 1 h 24 min · ≈ EUR 77
3

14:15–15:15 · Free

Eilandje docklands walk

Walk the docks between stops.

Open Always open
Taxi · 3 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ EUR 11
4

16:00–16:45 · Free to browse · meals paid per venue

Station District quick eats

A snack before your train or a rest at the hotel.

Open Roughly 08:00–22:00
Taxi back to your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ EUR 10

Swap in instead

Swap a city afternoon for a short train ride to Mechelen or Ghent; check times on the day.
Add a half-day at the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO-listed printing house.
Take a walk or bike ride along the Scheldt river and the old docks in Eilandje.

Getting around

De Lijn runs trams, buses, and pre-metro trams; a 10-fare card costs about €21.
Single fares last one hour; pay contactless on board, cash is not accepted.
Ride apps like Uber and Bolt work in Antwerp; taxis wait at the station and main squares.
The centre is compact and walkable; many streets are narrow and slow for cars.
Bikes are popular; cycle superhighways F1, F4, and F14 reach the city.
The city centre is a low-emission zone; register foreign cars before entering.

Where to stay

Old Town (Centrum) · ≈ EUR 90–220 a night
Walk to the cathedral, Grote Markt and museums. Best for first-timers.
Het Zuid · ≈ EUR 85–200 a night
Quiet streets with galleries, bars and the Museum of Fine Arts nearby.
Station District · ≈ EUR 70–170 a night
Next to the grand Antwerp Central station; easy train links and good value.
Eilandje · ≈ EUR 95–230 a night
Old docks, the MAS museum and modern waterfront hotels.

Food & drink

Try Flemish classics: stoofvlees (beer-braised beef), vol-au-vent and waterzooi.
Belgian beer is the local drink. Ask for a small tasting glass and try a few.
Waffles and chocolate shops are everywhere in the centre; prices rise near the cathedral.
Look for lunch deals (dagschotel) at cafés away from the Grote Markt for better value.
Book dinner on weekends; popular places in Het Zuid fill up.

Tips

Roughly 80% of the world's rough diamonds pass through Antwerp's Diamond District
Renting a bike is the easiest and most local way to navigate the flat city
Visit the spectacular Centraal Station even if you are not catching a train
Antwerp is the fashion capital of Belgium; explore the boutique shops in the Nationalestraat
Try local Belgian frites with mayonnaise and a traditional Bolleke beer

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

Grote Markt

Het Steen

Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp

Walk through the historic center with a local guide
Enjoy a boat ride and chocolate tasting
7,145 reviews · 4.5 rating

Small groupChocolate included

(7,145)

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.5 (7,145)

$12View tour

Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

Grote Markt

Het Steen

Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp

Guided walking tour of Antwerp's highlights
Optional beer tasting and chocolate treat
5,075 reviews · 4.8 rating

Chocolate stopBeer option

Boat, Chocolate and Guided Walking Tour:small group

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (5,075)

$49View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Het Steen

See Antwerp from the water
Pass by the medieval castle Het Steen
3,450 reviews · 4.7 rating

Canal cruiseGuided commentary

City Canal Cruise

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (3,450)

$19View tour

Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

Grote Markt

Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp

Het Steen

Discover the city's main sights on foot
Learn about Antwerp's history and legends
875 reviews · 4.7 rating

Walking tourLocal guide

City Highlights Walking Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (875)

$22View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Duvel Moortgat

Visit the De Koninck brewery
Taste two local beers
342 reviews · 4.6 rating

Brewery tourTwo beers included

Beer Brewery 'De Koninck' Tour including Two Beers

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.6 (342)

$22View tour

Souvenirs

Antwerpse Handjes (hand-shaped cookies)

EUR 10–20200-300 g box · estimate

These are butter cookies shaped like a hand, a classic Antwerp treat. The name means "Antwerp little hands," linked to the city's legend of the giant Antigoon.

Where: Philip's Biscuits, Korte Gasthuisstraat

The cookie shape makes them easy to pack and carry home.

Dandy Bitters (Dandelion Liqueur)

EUR 20–30500-700 ml bottle · estimate

This is an herbal liqueur that started in Antwerp. It is known for its bitter, herbal taste and is a local favorite.

Where: Antwerp liquor shops and Delhaize supermarkets

Look for bottles sold in local liquor shops for the widest choice of sizes.

Flights

Hotels

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Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

Store your bags in AntwerpDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 11

Must-see · 7

Antwerp Central Station

Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp

Grote Markt

Het Steen

Museum aan de Stroom

Rubens House

Plantin-Moretus Museum

Cultural

Modern Architecture 1

Christian 1

Historical Square 1

Castle 1

Museum 3

Activities

Zoo 1

Brewery 1

Amusement Park 1

Festival 1

Day trips from Antwerp

Bruges · 1 h 11 by train

What to see

Good to know

Brussels · 33 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Gent (Ghent) · 41 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Mechelen · 17 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Rubenshuis

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Theaterplein food market

Plantin-Moretus Museum

M HKA contemporary art museum

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Vlaeykensgang alley

Het Steen castle

Theaterplein food market

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Eilandje docklands walk

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Theaterplein food market

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Duvel Moortgat Brewery Landmark quest

Eilandje docklands walk

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Belgian beer tasting in the Old Town

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Vlaeykensgang alley

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Rubenshuis

KMSKA fine arts museum

M HKA contemporary art museum

Het Zuid food and bar streets

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Cathedral of Our Lady Landmark quest

Grote Markt Landmark quest

Het Steen castle

Scheldt river walk and Sint-Anna beach

Eilandje docklands walk

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) Landmark quest

Station District quick eats

Antwerp Central Station Landmark quest

Theaterplein food market