family visit antwerp

16 Best Things to Do in Antwerp with Kids (+Insider Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 28, 2023

Are you traveling to Antwerp with kids and looking for ideas for the best things to do in Antwerp with children? You came to the right place!

Antwerp is one of our favorite towns in Belgium . We live just outside the city and love exploring Antwerp with our children. This great town never disappoints, and if you are still wondering if Antwerp is worth visiting , yes, it most definitely is!

There are more family-friendly things to do in Antwerp than you might think. With a few recent family-friendly additions, as well as many seasonal events, Antwerp has a lot more to offer to traveling families than ever before.

In this article, we share some of our family’s favorites, top things to see and do in Antwerp with kids.

This list is aimed at tourists who want to discover and explore Antwerp with children. So if you are an expat looking for more regular family-friendly activities like bowling, indoor playgrounds, or movie theatres in Antwerp, you’ll just have to google them. Or leave your question in the comments below and I’ll try to answer as best as I can.

Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Antwerp with kids :

1. Antwerp Zoo

No list of the best things to do in Antwerp would be complete without a visit to the Antwerp Zoo . And this is certainly the case if you are visiting Antwerp with children!

The Zoo of Antwerp is one of the oldest animal parks in Europe and is located right in the middle of the city. So, in addition to animals, you can also see some really nice historic buildings that make the Antwerp Zoo so much more special than any other animal park in Belgium.

And talking about animals, they have gorillas, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, but also lots of smaller animals and birds. There’s also a nice butterfly house that’s really fun for kids. Colorful butterflies often come to sit on your shoulder or even your hand.

Good to know: Count about 2-3 hours for the visit. The zoo is quite big and there are also some keeper talks that you can attend. In the past, they used to have shows and feeding moments, but this seems to have changed and I’m not sure if it’s something they will do again. So you may want to see their daily program here if that’s a deciding factor in whether to visit.

Practical info: The zoo is open daily throughout the year, with opening hours varying per season. For more info, see their website . If you have a day to spare, you may want to check their sister-park Planckendael instead. It’s a much larger animal park located close to Mechelen, with even more animals and lots of playgrounds for kids.

TIP: If you are visiting Antwerp during the winter holiday season (December to mid-January), check if they have the incredible light spectacle China Light. It might be called somewhat differently (e.g. one year it was called Alice in Wonderland Light Festival), but the concept remains amazing.

As I’m updating this article, I have to say that this wonderful light spectacle has moved to Planckendael Animal Park near Mechelen in recent years. Still, it’s highly recommended when visiting Belgium in winter , with or without kids!

One more winter tip: Antwerp also hosts one of the nicest Christmas markets in Belgium . With lots of market stalls selling typical Belgian and holiday specialties, a beautiful ice skating rink, and lots of attractions for the children Antwerp Christmas market is just one more great reason to visit Antwerp with kids in winter.

2. illusion Antwerpen

illusion Antwerpen is the most interactive museum in Antwerp and a great place for families looking to spend some quality time together. Whether you are looking for something fun to do in Antwerp with young children or with teenagers, you are guaranteed to have a great time here.

We have been to a few similar museums in the past, and the one in Antwerp really stands out. Despite its relatively small size, this museum of illusions has a lot more to offer than it looks at first sight. Some exhibits really challenge all your senses and leave you puzzled, while others make for some fun photos with the whole family.

But there is one thing that makes a visit here even more special and that’s their dedicated staff. They’ll give you tips for the best angles and fun ideas for your photos and will help you out if you get intrigued about some of the mind-blowing puzzles. The people working here make all the difference!

Good to know: illusion Antwerpen is open daily, also on public holidays. It’s very centrally located and since you need less than an hour to visit, it’s very easy to add it to any Antwerp itinerary. For more practical info, see here .

3. Chocolate Nation

Chocolate Nation is another great place to visit in Antwerp with kids. The biggest chocolate museum in the world, it’s incredibly well-presented with multimedia exhibits spread out over 14 different rooms that take you on a journey of chocolate-making.

I have to admit that it was so much better than we expected! Every room is totally different and the information is really interesting. Even as locals who snobbishly thought that we know everything there is to know about Belgian chocolate, we learned so much, especially about all the Belgian chocolate icons. At the same time, it’s not overwhelming with too much information and is well thought out so that younger kids will enjoy it as well.

A visit here is a unique experience for all your senses. You smell chocolate when you visit the ‘chocolate factory’ room and at several other exhibits, and you can taste 10 different kinds of warm, freshly-made chocolate at the end of your visit.

As one of our kids said, we took the most interesting trip to learn everything about chocolate and ended in chocolate heaven.

And if you still don’t have enough chocolate, you can find a big variety of all kinds of chocolate products in their gift shop. Plus, if you plan well ahead, you can also attend chocolate-making workshops on certain days.

Good to know: The museum is accessible by wheelchair or stroller. Plan 1 hour for a visit here. A visit is self-guided and they have audio guides in several languages including English. The museum is open daily and is located very close to the central railway station and the Zoo. You can reserve your tickets in advance, but even on a busy weekend, we just got them on the spot and could enter without any delay. For more practical info, see their website .

4. Plopsa Station

Plopsa Station is an indoor theme park and playground for kids. If you are visiting Antwerp with young children and are looking for a few hours of indoor play fun, it’s a great place to be.

This place used to be called Comics Station and was mostly focused on the famous Belgian comic strip heroes, such as Tintin or the Smurfs. It’s been recently taken over by Belgium’s biggest entertainment group Studio 100 which has lots of experience in family entertainment, theme parks, etc.

In addition to the famous comic strip figures, it is now more focused on the heroes that kids will recognize from the Studio 100 shows and kids’ TV series. It also offers lots of fun attractions for the youngest children.

Plopsa Station is like a miniature version of a theme park AND it is indoors – a good place to spend a couple of hours with kids in Antwerp when it rains or on a cold winter’s day.

Located at the far end of the Central Railway Station in the heart of the city center, this family attraction is easy to find and doesn’t require more than a few hours. This makes it easy to combine a visit here with that to the nearby zoo, Chocolate Nation, or a day of shopping and sightseeing.

Good to know: For opening hours and more practical information, see their website .

5. The View Antwerp Ferris Wheel

Antwerp Ferris Wheel is one of the fun things to do in the city for families. However, it changes the location all the time, so the views that you get will also be different.

Sometimes you can find it on Astridplein next to the Central Station, and other years – on Steenplein along the Scheldt River. It’s just next to Het Steen Castle and a really nice place from which to enjoy some of the best views of Antwerp.

Either way, if you are visiting Antwerp with children and are looking for a fun activity for the whole family, I can highly recommend considering The View Antwerp Ferris wheel . The views from the top are really nice, with the historic Old Town and the river at your feet and the entire city stretching in all directions as far as an eye can see.

While the wheel is not very high, neither are the buildings in Antwerp city center. So you have a really good 360° view in all directions. From the top, you can also see the famous Antwerp Harbor, the second-largest seaport in Europe.

Oh, and the cabins are closed, so it’s safe to do with kids and is something that can be enjoyed in all seasons.

Good to know: The View Antwerp is open daily, from morning to late evening. Usually, you get 4 rounds, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the views and identify various landmarks.

Our kids have been on the giant wheel in Antwerp a few times and it remains one of their favorite things to do in the city.

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Antwerp (best areas explained)

6. Antwerp Underground Canals – De Ruien

Now, this might look like an unusual choice – visiting the old sewers and underground canals with children – but our kids loved it! And so did we. De Ruien is one of the lesser-known, secret places in Antwerp that will make your visit to the city so much more special.

The part that you can visit with kids is very small, it’s a 10-15 minute boat ride that can be done with kids from 3 years and older. With older children (from 10 years), you can also go on a short walking tour along the underground canals.

The entrance to De Ruien is centrally located close to Antwerp City Hall. You don’t need to book this short visit (other options are best reserved in advance), so it’s really easy to visit. It’s something that doesn’t take long and only costs a few euros and is a very unique experience. Check it out!

Update: Due to low water levels, the boat tours in the underground canals have been suspended recently. I’m not sure if or when they will be running again. The self-guided walking tours are running as usual. For up-to-date practical info and available tours, see their website .

7. The Rooftop Terrace of MAS

MAS is a modern museum in the new trendy part of Antwerp, ‘t Eilandje. It’s an impressive red building, an architectural masterpiece that cannot be missed when visiting Antwerp.

While a visit to the museum might not interest younger kids, the view from the rooftop terrace is something the whole family will appreciate.

The entrance to the building is free of charge and you can take an escalator staircase all the way to the top. The architecture of this building and the views from various floors and from the top make this one of our kids’ favorite places to visit in Antwerp.

Good to know: The MAS museum is open daily except on Mondays and some public holidays. The rooftop terrace is usually accessible on the days when the museum is open between 9.30 AM and 10 PM unless the weather is exceptionally bad. If you decide to visit the museum, you’ll be glad to know that kids under 12 are free of charge. More info on their website .

TIP: There are many trendy local restaurants nearby. We love De Burgerij – not as much for its delicious hamburgers, but for its children’s play corner . Our kids never want to leave and it gives us a welcoming break as well. A nice alternative – in summer – is the nearby Bar Noord . They have a beach bar with a big (water) playground that is always a big success with kids.

8. Het Steen Castle

Het Steen is the oldest building in Antwerp. Located by the river, this medieval fortress has a long history. Nowadays, it’s a beautifully restored castle with a small interactive museum – Antwerp Story – where you can learn more about the city.

I’m not really sure if the museum is worth it for families with kids (lots of listening to the locals talking about the city today might not really appeal to the children), but the building itself is really impressive and some of the best parts don’t require a ticket.

In addition, there’s a rooftop terrace offering nice city views. And you can also stop by the visitor center/ shop where you’ll find all kinds of local specialties from Antwerp. This is our kids’ favorite place at Het Steen…

All in all, I highly recommend checking it out. It’s located in the city center and doesn’t require much time. For more info about the museum, see their website .

9. Boat Trips

If your kids like boats, you could consider taking a boat trip in the harbor of Antwerp . This is not a must if you are short on time, but it’s something different to do in Antwerp that will give you a more complete picture of what this town is all about.

The harbor itself is a fascinating place to see. You will pass huge cargo ships and container-handling cranes that are always fascinating to watch for young and old.

There are several companies offering these tours. Here you can read more about our visit to the Antwerp harbor with Jan Plezier’s pancake boat (it seems to only run private tours at the moment though).

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.

TIP: You can just hop on the waterbus at ‘t Steen Castle and do a short trip on the Scheldt River. With kids, we recommend taking this boat to Sint Anna on the left bank of the river – just one stop from the city center. There, you’ll find a small sandy beach (swimming is not allowed though), playgrounds, and lots of restaurants.

10. Family-friendly Sightseeing Tours

There are several family-friendly sightseeing tours that you can do in Antwerp with kids. You don’t absolutely have to book them in advance.

• There is a tourist train – touristram – that runs daily in summer and during school holidays (and during the weekends in other periods). It starts at the Groenplaats, close to the Cathedral.
• Another sightseeing option is a horse and carriage that runs from April through October. It starts at the Grote Markt.
• HopNStop bus is another fun way to see the highlights of Antwerp with kids. It runs daily in high season and on the weekends during the rest of the year. It also starts and finishes at the Grote Markt.
• If your kids are a bit older, you could consider renting a bike. We love exploring Antwerp by bike, it’s a great way to see a lot without having to walk too much.

11. Comic Strip Walls and Street Art

Antwerp has a lot of street art and our kids love looking for it.

On top of the ever-changing street art, there are also 14 comic murals spread around the city. Kids will love searching for them! Here you can find the map with the location of the comic strips in Antwerp .

12. St. Anna Tunnel

Antwerp’s pedestrian tunnel, St. Anna Tunnel, dating from the 1930s is often missed by foreign visitors. However, it’s a part of Antwerp’s history and a place that families will love to explore as well.

Original wooden escalators take you more than 30m (100 ft) under the ground and under the river Scheldt. You can walk to the Left Bank ( Linkeroever ) for some nice views over the old city center of Antwerp. Here, you’ll also find a playground for kids and a free open-air museum with all kinds of buoys and other huge artifacts from old ships.

Good to know: The entrance to the tunnel is located in a square art-deco yellowish building just a few blocks South of the Grote Markt (see the exact location on the map ).

13. Hands of Antwerp

Antwerpen city name is said to have originated from ‘ hand werpen ‘ which means ‘to throw a hand’.

The origins of the name of Antwerp ( Antwerpen in Dutch) come from an old legend about a giant called Antigoon and a little guy Brabo. Antigoon demanded a high toll for the ships entering the city and cut off the hands of the sailors if they refused. The little Brabo fought the giant, cut his hand, and threw it in the river.

On the Grote Markt, in front of the City Hall, you can see the statue of Brabo throwing the giant’s hand .

In the main shopping street, Meir, you can find a giant statue of the hand ( map ) that you can see as the featured image on top of this post. It’s an obligatory photo stop in Antwerp, certainly if visiting with kids.

TIP: All over the city you can also buy chocolates and biscuits in the form of little hands. Ask for the Antwerpse handjes . And once you are at it, make sure to try some Cuberdons (traditional cone-shaped Belgian sweets) as well.

14. City Park

Antwerp City Park ( Stadspark ) is a nice green park with a pond and several playgrounds for children. It’s just a bit outside of the main tourist route (but very close by), so you’ll mostly find locals here.

It’s a popular place for people to come for a walk, go jogging, or take a picnic when the weather is nice.

If you are visiting Antwerp with young kids, you may want to spend some time at the playgrounds here. It’s a nice way to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city center. And the park is literally just a stone’s throw from Central Station and the zoo. Check it out!

15. Rivierenhof Park

Rivierenhof Park is the only place on this list of things to do in Antwerp with kids that is located outside the city center. Most tourists never get there, but it’s a beautiful park that is worth a visit if you are in Antwerp for a couple of days, especially during spring and summer.

The best way to get there is by bike ( map ).

TIP: If you have a car and are looking for something more off the beaten path, we really enjoy visiting Liefkenshoek Fort, just outside of the city. However, it’s a place more targeted towards locals and so all the information there is in Dutch. If interested, here you can find our article (in Dutch) about visiting Fort Liefkenshoek .

16. Try some local delicacies

When visiting Antwerp with kids, be sure to try some local delicacies. We already mentioned Antwerpse Handjes – small hand-shaped cookies and chocolates that you’ll only find in Antwerp.

There are also quite a few places selling warm Belgian waffles in the center of Antwerp – no child will be able to resist that! And, of course, you’ll find ice cream all over the city too.

Make sure to take your kids to a local fritkot – a small kiosk where you can buy typical Belgian fries (by the way, here in Belgium we eat them with mayo). There are several places in the city center close to the Cathedral where, despite the touristic location, the fries are usually quite good.

So, this is a local’s guide to the best places to see and things to do when visiting Antwerp with kids. Hope that this will give you some ideas of what to see and do in Antwerp with children.

For more information on the best and lesser-known places to see in Antwerp, see our city guides via the links below.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Antwerp & Antwerp’s Hidden Gems

TIP: If you are visiting Belgium with a family in the summer, don’t miss Belgian theme parks !

More tips for your trip to Belgium:

• Itinerary: Belgium Itinerary – See the Best Towns in 3-4 Days
• Bruges: Best Things to Do in Bruges & Bruges Belfry
• Brussels: Best Things to Do in Brussels & Where to Stay in Brussels
• War sites: Visit WWI Battlefields and Ypres and Bastogne War Museum
• Winter: Best Christmas Markets in Belgium & Antwerp Christmas Market
• Spring: Hallerbos Bluebell Forest
• Summer: Brussels Flower Carpet
• Interesting read: Fun Belgium Facts

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Linda Österberg

Wednesday 17th of July 2019

Hi Jurga! This post really helped us having a nice time in Antwerpen! We visited the Sint Anna tunnel, Bar Nord and the sewer and a couple of other of your tips.

Thursday 25th of July 2019

Glad to hear that, Linda. Thanks for taking the time to come back to our blog and leave this feedback.

Annabel Kirk

Tuesday 2nd of July 2019

Hi Jurga, we're doing a road trip from the UK to Corsica this summer. We're taking the ferry from Harwich to Hook of Holland so I'm looking for somewhere to have a picnic lunch on the first day (a Friday) on route to our first stop at a campsite in northern Luxembourg. I wondered whether Rivierenhof Park might be a good option as Google maps shows we'll be bypassing Antwerp. We don't want to go into the city but the park sounds like a relaxing place to stop without us needing to divert from the route too much. Is there anywhere else you'd recommend? We'll be heading along the E313 after Antwerp towards Liege so if you know of somewhere else which might be relaxing and good for boys aged 7 and 5, let me know! Otherwise, this post has been very handy for bringing Rivierenhof to my attention!

Thursday 4th of July 2019

Hi Annabel, if you have some time to spare, then indeed, Rivierenhof might be a nice place to stretch your legs. It's not too far from the highway, but it can be quite busy around there, so I wouldn't do it if you are in a hurry. On the map, you can see where a playground is. Another nice part of the park is where Sterckshof castle is and there is also a nice garden and a maze nearby. You can use Google Maps to tell you how to best get there and how long it takes. Have a nice trip!

Wednesday 17th of April 2019

Excellent! Planning our trip with 2 boys in the immediate future and your blog is the perfect guide. Thank You

Thursday 18th of April 2019

Good to hear that. Enjoy your trip!

Thursday 13th of September 2018

Hi Jurga, Trying to plan a trip for my family and just wandering how easy it is to find dairy and nut free food in restaurants and shops (for my son) as I wouldn't want him to miss out. Thanks.

Sunday 16th of September 2018

Hi Sonia, I really have no experience with this as our kids don't have any dietary restrictions. In general, I think you can always find some options everywhere you go. Don't be afraid to ask at the restaurant. I'm sure most places will do their best if you explain what you're looking for.

Tuesday 8th of May 2018

Hi Jurga, I’m also a mom of 3 boys! They sure keep me busy. Curious, how stroller friendly are the sites you’ve recommended for Antwerp? I’ve got a 7, 3 and 1.5 year old and the 2 younger ones need a stroller.

Also, I’ve heard how everyone should go to a chocolate shop/factory while in Belgium. Do you know of a place in Antwerp where my boys can get a sugar rush?

Monday 14th of May 2018

Hi Kristine, you'll be fine with a stroller in Antwerp. However, there are some works going on in the city centre and also lots of cobble stones, so ideally you have a stroller with big inflatable wheels. But I know that they aren't easy to pack if traveling far. We often used our MacLaren Twin stroller when traveling with kids; it's so robust and well made that it was ok in all European towns, despite the cobbled streets. As for chocolate shops, you'll find plenty of them in all tourist locations all over Belgium. Look for Leonidas, Godiva, or Neuhaus - they are some of the better ones that aren't crazy expensive. Leonidas is probably best price/quality wise. Try their white Manon pralines with nuts - they're our favourites! There are quite a few Leonidas chocolate stores in Antwerp (see map). I don't really know about any chocolate factories that you could visit in Antwerp, but there are plenty of shops. Also this Chocolate Shop in Antwerp seems to be worth checking out.

11 Fun Things to Do With Kids in Antwerp, Belgium

I have six kids, and my wife and I try to do special things with each of them individually. On a recent trip to Europe, we traveled to six different countries in total, but one of the highlights was finding fun things to do in Antwerp, Belgium with my son.

Antwerp, in central Belgium , is accessible from Brussels by train in less than an hour. And though it may not be as well known as the Belgian capital, families will find plenty to do here.

My son and I only had one full day in Antwerp, so we tried to hit the highlights. But of course, we could not do the city justice in such a short time. Still, Antwerp is a great place to visit with kids and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our European trip.

Things to do in Antwerp

1. antwerp central train station.

Even if you didn't reach Antwerp by train, definitely still visit the Antwerp Central Train Station. The stunning Antwerpen-Centraal train station was built in the 1890s and is regarded as one of the top train stations in Europe — if not the world.

2. Grote Market

If you've never been to Antwerp, head immediately to the City Center after your train arrives. You can visit Grote Markt, City Hall and also the Visit Antwerp tourism office for maps and information.

3. Cathedral of Our Lady

Then, stop by the Cathedral of Our Lady. Its belfries are on the UNESCO World Heritage Site .

4. Museum aan de Stroom

Enter the MAS museum for free to see the panoramic view from the 10th floor, or pay to enter the exhibits. I myself really enjoyed the Port of the World exhibit, but if you're on a budget.

5. Plantin-Moretus Museum

This UNESCO World Heritage site and was featured on Season 30 of "The Amazing Race ." The museum is actually a tour through the house and shops of Christophe Plantin, a 16th-century printer from Antwerp. The tour also details some of the history of printing. (I promise, it's more exciting than it sounds, even for kids — just be sure to ask the front desk for a children's game.)

6. Antwerp Zoo

Located in the middle of the city, right next to the Antwerp Central train station, is the oldest zoo in Belgium. (It opened in 1844.) You get a 25% discount on admission if you have the Antwerp City card.

7. Rubens House

The former home of Pieter Paul Rubens was purchased by the city of Antwerp in 1937, and it now houses many pieces of art from Rubens and his contemporaries. This is one of those things you kind of have to do if you're in Antwerp, even though it may not be a highlight for your child.

8. Antwerp Home of Diamonds

The Home of Diamonds, or DIVA, doesn't really have many actual diamonds on display. Instead, the museum explores how diamonds are mined and processed. My son's favorite part was the vault room. There are several screens featuring different aspects of the industry, but his favorite part was opening the different vault drawers.

9. De Ruien

The old canals and sewer systems of Antwerp are now covered, and referred to as De Ruien. They offer canal boat tours (from €5, or less than $6) as well as an interactive trip with a tablet from €17 ($20) for adults and €11 ($13) for children. We were planning to take the canal boat ride but, due to drought, water in the canal was not deep enough on the day we were there.

10. St. Anna's Tunnel

My son really enjoyed St. Anna's Tunnel, which passes under the Scheldt River. (Locals call it, the Underpass .)The escalators that take you down to the tunnel are made of wood, and it's free to visit. We enjoyed a picnic lunch with a view of the city from across the river. There is also a free passenger ferry that crosses the Scheldt, but it only runs every 30 minutes, so we decided to just walk the tunnel both ways.

11. Comics Station Antwerp

The Smurfs are a Belgian comic creation, and there is a new indoor " theme park " inside the train station where kids can enjoy Smurf-themed rides and attractions, along with other comic book stars born in Belgium. It's perfect for younger kids who need a break from museum.

Things to know before your Antwerp trip

Many of the museums in Antwerp (including DIVA, the Rubens House, MAS Museum and Plantin-Moretus Museum) require you to store large backpacks in lockers before entering the museum. A few of the lockers are free, but several require a €1 or €2 coin deposit that you get back when you exit the museum. If you don't have any coins on you, you can ask at the desk and they will give you a Euro coin-sized slug, which also works the lockers.

Like many European cities, Antwerp also has a large variety of markets. There are several Christmas Markets , for example, travelers can visit during the month of December. You can find these in Groenplaats, Grote Markt, Suikerrui and Steenplein.

There are also a dizzying number of churches and museums, in addition to those we visited during our Antwerp day trip. Drop by Saint James' Church to visit the tomb of Pieter Paul Rubens.

For food and drink, just about every street corner in the central part of Antwerp has shops and restaurants. The Smallest Waffle Shop in the World was on our list of places to visit, but we sadly didn't make it there before we had to leave.

Several of these places to visit and things to do in Antwerp are included or discounted with the Antwerp City Card . Many larger cities offer similar cards or passes, where you pay one price and get free or discounted admission to multiple popular tourist sites. The Antwerp City card costs €27 for 24 hours, €35 for 48 hours and €40 for 72 hours (between $31 and $46). One nice thing about the Antwerp City card is that it also includes public buses and trams in the price, which many city cards do not.

Subscribe to be the first to get new family travel inspiration Sign up today!

MUMMYTRAVELS

Can you really keep travelling with a child in tow?

Subscribe to be the first to get new family travel inspiration

The best things to do in Antwerp with kids

Despite being one of the world’s smallest countries, Belgium isn’t short of tempting city breaks for families – as well as Brussels , Bruges and Ghent , you can find plenty of things to do in Antwerp with kids.

contains affiliate links *

Before I visited, I admit I didn’t know as much about this Flemish city, which sits about half an hour from the Dutch border – Europe’s second biggest port, home to Rubens, a fashion hotspot and at the heart of the world’s diamond trade, there’s lots to discover.

And if your kids aren’t fussed by fine art, precious gems and avant-garde design, there are some great family attractions as well, including the 22 ideas below, my pick of the best things to do in Antwerp for kids.

Check out my guide to Belgium with kids for more ideas for family-friendly breaks

Contents - click to jump to a section

Antwerp Zoo

One of the oldest zoos in the world, Antwerp Zoo sits right next to the train station – in fact, when the station was built, they had to promise to make sure the wall connecting the two was as decorative as the station itself.

You need to keep your animals happy, after all! Keep an eye out for the camel statue on the rooftop as you enter the gates past golden mosaic big cat pictures, with around 1,000 different species to discover inside.

The different areas of the zoo are themed on destinations from around the world, while it also runs various projects to support endangered animals: plus there’s a chance to see big cats, bears, penguins, elephants and more, along with the aquarium.

Het Steen Castle

Het Steen – which translates as the rock – dates back to the start of the 13th century, when the castle was part of an even bigger fortress.

The oldest building in Antwerp, today it houses the tourist information centre and The Antwerp Story ( scroll down for more details ) so unlike the Gravensteen in Ghent , it’s not a castle you can explore to get a taste of medieval Belgium, but it’s still an imposing sight.

Outside, there’s also a statue of a giant, known as Lange Wapper who legend says used to terrorise Antwerp’s inhabitants, and two humans cowering before him.

You can also buy the Antwerp City Pass , including entry to attractions and public transport, at the tourist information centre, as well as picking up maps and cycling trails

The Antwerp Story

Set inside Het Steen, the Antwerp Story is a great introduction to the history of the city for kids.

Moving through time as you pass through 11 different rooms, there are some creative ways to transport you back into Antwerp’s past, including a hologram of a designer and a 360-degree projection of the port, as well as models to climb inside and more.

Allow between 30 and 60 minutes for the main attraction, then save some time to soak up the views from the roof terrace of Het Steen.

Choco Nation

The world’s largest Belgian chocolate museum, Choco Nation is a great mix of background about the history of chocolate, chocolate making displays, and place to try a few yourself.

More than a few, in fact, as you can taste 10 different flavours of chocolate while you explore the 14 different rooms. There’s an audio guide in English and Le Petit Chocolatier experience for kids.

Along the way, you can learn some quirky facts – such as that Antwerp has the world’s largest cocoa storage port – as well as virtually visiting cocoa plantations on the equator.

Located opposite the Central Station, allow around 60-90 minutes for the visit (and keep an eye out for the colourful Chinatown arch nearby as you go in).

Don’t miss at stop at the Chocolate Line shop while you’re in Antwerp – we discovered the unusual flavours during a visit to Bruges but the Antwerp shop is much quieter

Ride the ferris wheel

Not far from Het Steen, there are some fantastic views of the city and river from the 55-metre high Antwerp Ferris Wheel, known as The View.

Located on the central Konigin Astridplein (it has previously moved locations between winter and summer, near Steenplein on the banks of the Scheldt), it’s a perfect spot on a sunny day – and not scarily high for younger kids.

Explore the underground canals

While there’s plenty to see above ground in Antwerp with kids, the city also has a fascinating underground series of tunnels and canals tucked away.

Known as De Ruien , the waterways were once used to get around the city in the Middle Ages, before being covered over – but you can take a special tour of the historic underground passages and learn more about Antwerp along the way.

The most child-friendly way is to take one of the short boat trips, suitable for age 3+, although these have been temporarily suspended while restoration work is going on. In the meantime, kids aged 10+ can join one of the guided walks.

Take a tour

Antwerp is a very walkable city although if you don’t fancy exploring on foot, you can find plenty of other options too.

Walking tour of Antwerp with kids

There are some great family friendly walking tours of Antwerp – this two hour highlights tour is a good place to start, or add some chocolate and fries to your exploring with a fun food tour of Antwerp .

Family-friendly bike tour of Antwerp

Or join a family-friendly bike tour of Antwerp , where you can learn more about the stories and secret of the city from a local during a two-hour cycle around its streets.

Self-guided tour of Antwerp

As an alternative to an organised city walking tour (although you’re spoiled for choice if you do want one of those), try a scavenger hunt of Antwerp , solving clues and riddles as you wander past 10 of the city’s key locations.

Boat tour of Antwerp

If you just want a taste of being out on the water, hop on the water bus which runs along the Scheldt – you can pick it up at Steenplein, near Het Steen, or the Sint Anna tunnels for example.

Alternatively, there are private tours including the electric Sir Tristram from Antwerp by Boat which take you on 50-minute jaunts around the harbour.

Plopsa Station amusement park

This little theme park of Plopsa Station in the centre of Antwerp, also known as Comics Station, is all themed around different cartoon characters, super heroes and comic book stars.

The indoor amusement park in the train station has around 15 separate attractions, and while most won’t be familiar to non-Belgian visitors – except the Smurfs – it’s all still fun for younger kids.

Some attractions have a minimum height requirement so it’s worth doublechecking before you visit.

Spot the street art

If you’re visiting with older kids, keep an eye out for the street art around Antwerp including the Stripmuren comic murals route .

There are currently 13 different sites around the city, with a map to download if you want to tick off all the different sites, or you can easily fit a few into your exploring with a few near the historic Grote Markt square.

Learn the legend of Antwerp’s name

Head to the historic part of Antwerp and the Grote Markt square is home to some of its prettiest old buildings including the 16th century town hall and guildhalls.

But while you’re there, you can see the Brabo fountain, celebrating the legend which gave the city its name. So the story tells, a Roman soldier name Brabo came to the area where a giant was demanding a toll to cross the river.

Anyone who failed to pay had their hand cut off and flung into the water. Brabo, who didn’t want to pay the toll, challenged the giant and defeated him in the fight – before deciding to subject him to the same punishment, flinging his hand into the river Scheldt.

The Dutch words ‘hant’ ‘werpen’ (hand throw) led to the name we still use today.

Eat Antwerpse Handjes

If you’ve got a good legend of giants and hands being thrown into rivers, the next step is a traditional treat to celebrate it.

Antwerpse Handjes are delicious hand-shaped buttery biscuits with flaked almonds in, although you can also find chocolate hands and chocolate-covered marzipan options.

Sint Anna Tunnel

There aren’t many places where crossing a river is a child-friendly attraction… especially when you’re going under the water.

But if you’re visiting Antwerp with kids, don’t miss St Anna’s tunnel, which crossed under the river Scheldt. Created to connect the newer parts of the city with the historic town, the river was too busy for a bridge, so instead of going over, the decision was made to go under.

The main highlight is the 1930s wooden escalators which lead you down into the tunnel: beautifully preserved, it’s one of the most unusual things to do in Antwerp with kids – the white-tiled tunnel itself stretches for 1,876 feet and isn’t hugely exciting but you can easily ride straight back up again.

If you do keep going, head right when you emerge and there’s a small beach around half a mile away.

Find some green space

The biggest public green space in the city, the Stadspark is a lovely spot to escape the bustle or relax in the summer’s heat.

There’s a small lake to enjoy, as well as walking trails in the triangular park and a skate park – if you’re lucky, you can even spot rabbits. Around 10 minutes walk from Centraal station.

As another alternative, head to the botanic gardens with around 2,000 different plants and herbs, in the grounds of the former medieval hospital on Leopoldstraat.

Visit a museum

Antwerp is home to a string of museums, and while some will appeal more to older kids (such as MoMu , the city’s fashion museum), there’s an impressive range to check out.

KMSKA Museum of fine art

With an impressive 13,000 pieces in its collection, Antwerp’s Museum of Fine Art has a big collection of work by Rubens – who spent much of his life in the city – as well as a string of other artworks right through to the Expressionists.

Reopened in late 2022 after a huge 11-year renovation project, there are tips on what to look out for for families , plus kids aged 6-12 get a sketchbook and pencil as a gift with the family trail, along with 10 surprising new works to find.

Plantin-Moretus Museum

The first museum to feature on Unesco’s World Heritage Site list, the Plantin-Moretus Museum housed one of Europe’s most important book printing companies.

It’s still set up as if you were visiting the house as it was 400 years ago, including the preserved printing presses. And as well as being able to see a printing demonstration, there’s also a fun treasure hunt for families, challenging you to spot animals hiding in the museum rooms – suitable for ages 4+.

DIVA Museum

More than 80% of the world’s uncut diamonds pass through Antwerp but most of the gem trade – unsurprisingly – isn’t open to the public.

So to get a real taste of the bling, head to DIVA Museum , which reopened in 2023, and which shares more about the history of diamond trading in the city along with some impressive gems and pieces of jewellery on display.

The Museum aan de Stroom , or MAS, is another good place to learn more about Antwerp’s history – not to mention how its importance as a port forged links to countries around the world.

Keep an eye out for family-friendly exhibitions, including one called ‘Anybody Home’ which features a sewer crocodile, board games and drawing on walls, while another temporarily exhibition covers the legends and stories of Antwerp. Head up to the roof terrace for another great view too.

The Rubens House

The house where Rubens lived during his time in Antwerp is closed until 2030, when you’ll be able to step inside his studio once again, although you can visit the Rubens Experience in the meantime.

Or to discover more of his works, young art-lovers should head to the KMSKA, the Plantin-Moretus Museum and inside the cathedral, among other sites.

Museum de Reede

Another museum that’s best for older kids, the Museum de Reede focuses on graphic art and engravings including work by Edvard Munch and Francisco Goya, as well as contemporary artists. Free for under-13s.

Belgium’s great train net work means it’s easy to explore other cities as a day trip from Antwerp with kids – check out my tips for things to do in Brussels , Bruges and Ghent

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission . My visit to Antwerp was courtesy of Luxair and the tourist board for work with no obligation to share, but I wanted to anyway… All opinions are my own.

Zoo entrance images copyright MummyTravels, St Anna tunnel courtesy AdobeStock, all other images courtesy of Depositphotos

Award-winning family travel blogger and mum to the mini traveller, aka Minnie. Together we've visited Europe, America, the Caribbean, Africa and Asia, tried a cruise and a road trip, and survived countless long-haul trips. London (UK) based. Serious beach habit.

This is such a helpful guide!! We are going to Belgium in August with our kids and taking them to Antwerp for the day. We will certainly be using your list to entertain them 🙂

Pleasure! Really glad it’s useful – have a great time in Belgium

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

13 Things to do in Antwerp with Kids

This article may contain affiliate links. This means we receive a small commission whenever you book or purchase something through our links (at no extra cost to you!). You can find more information in our disclaimer .

10 Exciting Places when in Antwerp with Kids

The Globalization and World Cities Research Network dubbed Antwerp as a Gamma + level Global City.

Known for its big port and burgeoning diamond industry and trade, you might think Antwerp is more business-focused than entertainment and culture.

Contrary to what it seems,  visiting Antwerp with kids is possible. All you need is a helpful guide about where to visit. 

quick guide: things to do in antwerp with kids

Antwerp city card.

Are you visiting this beautiful city with the whole gang? Most cities in Belgium have their city card, and you might think it is an expensive option.

Luckily, when staying in Antwerp hotels for days or wanting to visit several places within the day, the Antwerp City Card is essential.

Here is what a €24 (24 hours) or €40 (72 hours) card can get you:

Free Museum

We will tell you what you can benefit from the card before listing all the elegant, fun, and historical places. Antwerp City Card gets you free access to museums and galleries.

Yes, Antwerp Belgium is a treasure trove of culture, arts, and more. When you avail of the city card, you get free access to over ten museums and galleries than paying around €10 per entry.

Ride Free Transport

You can reach historical and art-related landmarks in Antwerp in just a few steps, but some may need you to ride various transportations.

Another perk of getting Antwerp City Card is you can get free transport on a tram and other public transport and make it just in time to check out other idyllic sights in the city.

Take a Sip of Free Beer

Belgium is known for its unique beers and beer glasses. If you want to try them out, visit De Koninck, an Antwerp brewery, and show your card. Instead of paying €12, you can have free beer tasting and brewery tours perfect for rainy weather.

Incredible Discounts

Getting an Antwerp City Card does not mean you get everything for free, but the discounts may save you a lot on your travel budget and buy more food and book the best Antwerp Belgium hotels and inns.

Antwerp is one of the safest cities for biking . You get a 10% to 25% discount on bike rentals with the card.

The biking paths are all over the city, making it safe and easy to ride even with your kids. You can also witness Belgian movies at 40% off in Cinema Zuid and 10% off on various chocolatiers within Antwerp.

Places to Visit When in Antwerp with Kids

Antwerp offers various sights for the whole family to enjoy. We have uncovered the popular spots, some hidden gems, and the best things to do in Antwerp that both adults and kids can enjoy.

Before checking out your plane tickets or train passes, plan your itinerary for a 24-hour tour or a 3-day stay in this beautiful city.

See Exotic Animals in Antwerp Zoo

A zoo is a fun and learning experience for kids. But Antwerp Zoo is not your ordinary zoo. Adults can also marvel at the historic buildings making up the Antwerp Zoo today.

🦒 Currently, the animal park houses 5000 animals of the 950 species. The animals are spread around the zoo by habitat and living environments.  

It takes adults about 1 to 2 hours to complete the tour within the zoo. When with kids, you can spend most of the day here.

The whole family can witness exotic animals, such as Siberian tigers, polar bears, and more, going about with their everyday activities.

Be surrounded by colourful butterflies at the butterfly house or sign up for an underwater experience without getting wet at the zoo’s giant aquarium.

Witnessing these animals with your own eyes is a one-of-a-kind experience. To make your visit grand, take a trip to the zoo in December for their light shows and nearby Christmas markets. 

Play at Plopsa Station

Plopsa Station is one of the most-visited theme parks in Belgium .

The one in Antwerp is the latest addition to Studio 100’s theme parks with modern rides and other attractions that most kids can enjoy. 

The indoor theme park is not only for the kids. Even adults can have the best time of their lives. Are you looking for a fun and extreme ride?

Enjoy the adrenaline-rushing sudden drop at Wickie’s Falling Tower or ride Storm At Sea’s twister swings. 

Among 13 attractions, you and the kids can have an exciting bonding at Lucky Luke Express interactive shooting adventure. Then, take a quick rest at the Smurfs’ Adventure tour.

Visiting Plopsa Station or any of the Studio 100’s theme parks in Belgium gets you a glimpse of every Belgian’s childhood cartoon and comic characters. This is one of the best things to do with kids in Antwerp.

practical information

🕒 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:30 – 16:30 Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 – 17:30 ⌛ 5-6 hours 📍 3 Pelikaanstraat, 2018, Antwerp 🎟️ Ticket Prices 🧒🏼 (anyone under 85cm) – Free 👴🏻 Senior citizens and anyone over 85cm up to 99cm – € 12,99 👩🏽‍🦳 Anyone over 1m – € 23,50 ⏰ Buy 3 hours before the park closes – € 18,50

Ride The View Antwerp

If the whole family is not afraid of heights, riding the giant Ferris wheel in Antwerp is a must on your itinerary with kids.

At the highest point, you can gaze at the breathtaking 360 views of the old town. You can also get a clear view of Antwerp Harbor.  

To experience the unforgettable ride, ride the Ferris wheel from 11 AM to 11 PM located near Het Steen Castle, Antwerp port, and the Scheldt River.

Are you concerned about safety? Kids can be restless and might walk around the cabin. All cabins are locked securely to let you enjoy a satisfying and safe ride. 

See the Beautiful City at Het Steen Castle

After seeing the beautiful city at The View, just a few steps away is the oldest building in the town: the Het Steen Castle.

Being in a real castle is an experience you should never slip into when you are in Antwerp with kids. 

Anyone can come into the castle, and the best part is another view of the whole city. The rooftop terrace offers a panoramic view of the city and is also the best place to take photos.

With the castle beautifully restored, it feels like you are walking into the past and the present time. You can visit the castle and other attractions during a private tour of the city.

Besides touring around the marvellous building, you can also take the kids to the interactive museum. Antwerp Story is your free tour guide of the city.

The narration tells you about the beautiful history of Antwerp and one of the best castles in Belgium .

Ride a Bike at Rivierenhof Park

If you want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy a bike ride to Rivierenhof Park.

The 130-hectare park welcomes families and kids who like to jog, ride a bicycle, or do just any outdoor activities you can think of with your kids. 

Similar to other sites in Antwerp, there are the best times to visit the park in the city. Enjoy amazing outdoor music and entertainment during good Antwerp Belgium weather in the summer.

You and the kids can relax and listen to musical instruments serenading you through the day. 

💡 Want to go on a bike tour?  For only €30,45 , you get a 2-hour bike ride around Antwerp tourist attractions with other tourists and locals who wish to discover the city. 

Have a Picnic at Antwerp City Park

Besides getting an Antwerp City Card, you and the kids can enjoy free and bonding moments at the Stadspark, one of the known Antwerp attractions among locals.

You can also jog, walk, or even take a break by having a picnic. It is a place where you can be with the locals and see them enjoying the outdoors with the whole family.

The Stadspark is also home to several playgrounds and trees.

It might be a bit far from other tourist attractions, but we promise it is a worth it visit, especially when you want to take a break from your busy itinerary or check out the amazing architecture of nearby Antwerp local schools.

Take a Tour of Chocolate Nation

You are in a country known for Belgian chocolate. Then, you should never miss visiting Chocolate Nation with the whole family.

The world’s largest Belgian chocolate museum offers excellent 14 thematic rooms that will take you on a chocolate journey.

From harvesting to processing Belgian chocolate, Chocolate Nation is a fun and educational trip for everyone.

🍫 Not only will you witness chocolate items, but you can also experience a mix of animations, lights, and sounds.

The 130,000 people from more than 50 countries visiting the museum tell you how famous the museum is. 

After enjoying the tour inside the Chocolate Nation, do not forget to buy some chocolate treats from the shop. With various chocolate brands, the only challenge you have is picking the best chocolate for you. 

Enjoy the Panoramic View at Museum aan de Stroom

Do you have an Antwerp City Card? You can use the card for free entry to the Museum aan de Stroom, or MAS.

MAS is the perfect place for art lovers and kids for people on a tight budget. If you love visiting tall buildings or feel the excitement of heights, then you are free to climb up to the 10th floor.

💡 Besides the View, you can also get a panoramic view of Antwerp from the rooftop terrace. If you do not have your card, you will never have to worry about extra fees, as kids under 12 are free of charge.

Enjoy the fresh air and amazing views of the city and art creations for a price that will not break the bank.

If you don’t have a city card, you can still visit the museum by joining a private tour that takes you to 4 sites including the museum.

Visit the Antwerp Central Train Station

It is always nice to immerse yourself and the kids in the new environment if you stay at a place for a long time. One way of doing that is trying out a city’s public transport.

Whether you arrive from Brussels to Antwerp or from Antwerp Airport, you should never miss out on riding a train at the Antwerp Central Train Station when you are in Antwerp.

You can visit the train station and more attractions on a guided bike tour.

The station has witnessed Antwerp grow since the 1890s. From the V-2 rockets of World War II to the modernization of the train system, the station experienced them all.

Until today, it is still standing and referred to as one of the top train stations in the world.

The whole exterior of the station features intricately carved stones, while the entrance hall is like an entryway to a magical world.

If your kids are fans of Harry Potter, the Antwerp train station’s large hall may seem like a trip to Hogwarts for them.

You will see a flawless combination of modern and past from modern technology and historic Antwerp cathedral architecture.

Other historical details from the station are the wave distortions on the roof from the explosions in World War II. 

Take a train ride from Antwerp Central Train Station, relax with the family, or grab a quick breakfast inside Starbucks. 

If you also plan to visit Paris with the whole family, you can start your journey here.  Read our complete travel guide from Antwerp to Paris and vice versa.

Antwerp from Brussels 🎟️ Regular: €9,50 👨🏻‍🦰 passengers under 26 years old: €6,60 Antwerp to Brussels 🎟️ Regular: € 19 👨🏻‍🦰 passengers under 26 years old: € 13,20 ✏️ One paying adult does not have to pay for at least 4 children under 12 years old

Play in Middelheim Sculpture Museum

Another museum the whole family should check out is the Middelheim Sculpture Museum. But this is not your ordinary museum. The art pieces are outdoors.

This destination for kids is famous for the growing number of quirky and surreal creations that kids will love.

The outdoor museum has over 200 pieces found in different areas, so everyone never runs out of fun things to see and take photos of.

Marvel at Diamonds and Silverware at DIVA

After your educational yet tasty tour of the Chocolate Nation, take your kids on a journey of how the city produces its well-known diamonds.

The multimedia and soundscapes make every guest experience a unique atmosphere at the Antwerp diamond museum. Currently, there are six rooms where you can listen to different stories.

See other jewellery and silverware at the Wunderkammer, Atelier, the International Trading Room, Dining Room, and the Boudoir.

💎 The museum tells kids and adult visitors how people mined diamonds and the process that Antwerp diamonds need to go through.

If the whole family loves a good brain game, DIVA’s the Vault may be the right destination for you. Find clues from the animated films, excerpts, and more to solve the diamond crime behind the Vault.

Are you in Antwerp for a business visit? After meeting with traders at Antwerp diamond district, meet up with your family at DIVA to get that family time you always wanted.

Let Kids be Kids at Nachtegalenpark

As much as we want to immerse our children in an educational tour or art, we have to let them be free and enjoy their years as kids. Nachtegalenpark is a play park where kids can run around and play to their heart’s joy!

Nachtegalenpark is similar to other children’s parks you see in your neighbourhood, but it is way more comprehensive and has more amenities for more kids to enjoy.

The large playground has endless safe equipment for kids like a seesaw, swing set, open slides, and more.

While kids dig their feet under the sand or climb on another slide, parents can take this time to relax at Melkerij, sip a good drink, and eat some snacks to recharge themselves for the next destination.

Join the Theater and Art Programs at Het Paleis

Antwerp is just one of the cities in Belgium that boasts art tourism, but the city has one location not just for adults only.

Het Paleis is mainly for kids’ entertainment through art and immersive theatre activities.

The kids can join several programs such as reading and more. You can also watch impressive and funny plays and concerts with them.

If your kids have a matching name with the director of the play or concert, they get a free entrance!

faqs things to do in antwerp with kids

Is Antwerp child friendly?

Antwerp is child friendly, yes!

Antwerp is a vibrant city that offers plenty of attractions for families with children. From its wide range of museums and galleries to its numerous parks and green spaces, Antwerp has something for everyone.

In addition, there are plenty of activities for children such as playgrounds, amusement parks, and family-friendly restaurants.

What is antwerp best known for?

Antwerp is home to many famous attractions such as the Antwerp Zoo, Royal Museum of Fine Arts and Rubenshuis Museum.

Additionally, it is known for its fashion industry, being home to many high-end designers and boutiques. The city also boasts a thriving art scene with numerous galleries showcasing local and international works of art.

Is Antwerp Belgium a good place to live?

Antwerp, Belgium is a great city for those looking for a vibrant and culturally rich place to live.

With its unique mix of old-world charm and modern sophistication, it offers something for everyone. From its historic architecture to its lively nightlife, Antwerp is a great place to call home.

Its strategic location in the heart of Europe gives easy access to many other countries, making it an ideal base for exploring the

Can you speak English in Antwerp?

English is widely spoken in Antwerp, as the majority of its residents are bilingual.

Antwerp is a city located in the Flemish region of Belgium, and it is a major port city. While most people in Antwerp speak Dutch as their first language, many also speak English fluently and can communicate comfortably with visitors who don’t speak Dutch.

Whether you are visiting for business or pleasure, you can be confident that you will be able to communicate effectively with locals while in Antwerp.

How many days is enough for Antwerp?

Antwerp is a relatively compact city, so two or three days is enough to get a good feel for the town, enjoy delicious food and drink and see some of the top attractions.

Is Antwerp safe to walk around at night?

Yes, Antwerp is safe to walk around at night. The city has a low crime rate and is well-lit in most areas. However, if you’re with your kids taking extra precautions such as staying in well-lit areas and being aware of your surroundings is still advisable.

Final Thoughts on things to do in Antwerp with kids

Some families may have second thoughts about taking the whole family to Antwerp for its popularity in diamond trading. We have been there, and the city is more than just diamond business and art!

We hope our list helps you find out the most affordable or fun options for your kids and yourself. Before you finish wrapping up your itinerary, find the best hotels in Antwerp  too!

BELGIUM TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES  

Getting to Belgium : Fly into one of the main international airports : Brussels Airport (BRU) or Charleroi Brussels South Airport (CRL). Take an international train to Brussels South Station. Or take a ferry to Dover or The Netherlands, then drive or take the train to Belgium.

Getting Around : For the major destinations, the train is by far the best option. You can book your train tickets here . If you’d like to visit smaller places, the most convenient way would be to rent a car. We always use Discover cars , they compare all the rental companies and give you the best rates.

Accommodation : Booking.com is the most popular accommodation platform in Belgium. It’s what I use every single time.

Guided tours : Use Get Your Guide or Viator to find fun tours in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. Or Guruwalk to find free walking tours in multiple destinations.

Babs Rodrigus is a travel addict by heart and loves to explore her home country Belgium ánd the rest of the world – preferably with her wife and daughter. She’s all about showing you the most mesmerising spots in this tiny European country and making you see how great it truly is.

When she’s not travelling, Babs loves to read, write, eat chocolate (hey, Belgian remember) and sing Frozen songs with her daughter.

Babs Rodrigus is a travel addict at heart and loves to explore her home country Belgium and the rest of the world – preferably with her wife and kids. She’s all about showing you the most mesmerising spots in this tiny European country and making you see how great it truly is.

When she’s not travelling, Babs loves to read, write, eat chocolate (hey, Belgian remember) and sing Frozen songs with her daughter.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

THE 10 BEST Antwerp Things to Do with Kids

Things to do in antwerp with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Antwerpen-Centraal

2. Grote Markt

3. MAS - Museum aan de Stroom

4. illusion Antwerpen

5. Red Star Line Museum

6. Chocolate Nation

7. ZOO Antwerpen (Dierentuin)

8. St. Anna's Tunnel / Pedestrians' Tunnel

9. Vlaeykensgang

10. Antwerp's Port

11. Town Hall (Stadhuis)

12. Middelheimpark

13. Middelheim Museum

14. Brabo's Monument

15. Rivierenhof

16. Het Steen

17. Groenplaats

18. Nello & Patrasche Statue

19. Plantentuin

20. Begijnhof

21. Pieter Appelmans Monument

22. Nachtegalen Park

23. Park Spoor Noord

24. Peter Paul Rubens Statue

25. Grand Diamonds Jewelry

26. Stadspark

28. Chocalicious

29. Leonidas Chocolates

30. Legends Tours & Activities

What travelers are saying

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:

One Day in Luxembourg Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

Amsterdam vs Brussels: Which City to Visit?

Brussels or Bruges: Which Belgian City to Visit?

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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

An Antwerp City Break with Kids: Your 2024 Guide

An Antwerp city break is a great idea for a weekend with kids and those who want to explore the second largest city in Belgium . In terms of tourist popularity, it is less visited than Brussels. But it is worth seeing because it is unlike any other European city with its architecture and mixture of cultures.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the  full disclosure   for further information.

Table of Contents

Is Antwerp Child Friendly?

Antwerp with kids is a perfect travel destination since it has a very child-friendly atmosphere and things to do. Belgium, in general, is full of theme parks , child-friendly museums, bike trails, playgrounds, and fairs.

What is Antwerp Famous For?

Antwerp is known globally – primarily as the world’s diamond capital- thanks to the artistic heritage of Rubens, who lived and worked here. Yes, there are plenty of top attractions.

Antwerp city is considered the city of diamonds, and this title was given to it because the diamond exchange is located here, where the cost of the most expensive mineral is determined. It is also a city of fashion, art, and a meeting of cultures: Moroccans and Turks live here, art students and fashion designers from all over the world come and often stay.

Where is Antwerp?

Antwerp is in the north of the country, about 15 km from the border with The Netherlands , in the historical region of Flanders. Antwerp is a port city. It stretches along the banks of the navigable River Scheldt, which flows into the North Sea and is one of the world’s largest trading ports.

How to Get to Antwerp

The best way to get to Antwerp is from Brussels Airport, which is 50 km away. On a high-speed train, this distance can be covered in 30 minutes. Find train tickets for your dates here >>>

You can also get to Antwerp from Paris, Amsterdam , or Rotterdam airports, with which Antwerp is connected by high-speed rail. Find flights for your dates here >>>

If you travel often, why not get a WayAway Plus membership plan , which gives cashback on flights, accommodation, car rentals, tours, and more. Get your membership today. European Cities with Kids readers get a 10% discount!

Additionally, you can come to the Antwerp port via ferry, check if there is any connection from your city here

When is the best time to visit Antwerp, Belgium?

Antwerp has a temperate maritime climate, which is responsible for mild winters and warm summers, as well as regular rainfall at any time of the year. And although the Belgian weather is always equally unpredictable, it is better to spend the summer in Antwerp or at Christmas time.

June in Antwerp

June is one of the most favourable months for visiting the city with children and the most “weather-friendly”. This is a relatively low tourist season when there are no large crowds of people, and you can enjoy the city and attractions in a more comfortable environment.

December in Antwerp

December is another good month for visiting Antwerp with kids. Although the weather can be gloomy and foggy, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere will be a great opportunity for children to enjoy the holiday in this beautiful European city break.

Check out the Christmas markets in December, wander the snow-covered medieval streets, go ice skating and enjoy hot chocolate in one of the street cafes.

Where to Stay in Antwerp with Children

If you’re visiting Antwerp with kids, here are the best accommodation options to suit all budgets:

Budget: Novotel Antwerpen

The Novotel Antwerp is located in the harbour of Antwerp in a 15-minute drive from the historical centre of Antwerp. Its advantage over other hotels is an outdoor swimming pool, a garden with a terrace and a children’s playground. The hotel offers free parking with electric car chargers for travellers with cars.

Mid-Range: Leonardo Hotel Antwerpen

Leonardo is a simple but family-friendly hotel in a convenient location. It is situated in a historical building in the Diamond district, close to the shopping Street Keyserlei, where you can have great Antwerp shopping , and to the Antwerp Central Train Station.

The hotel has recently been renovated, with beautiful modern rooms and suites, with cots available.

Splashing Out: Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp

This amazing hotel is located in a 15th-century historical monastery complex in the city centre. The Botanic Sanctuary has several Michelin star restaurants and a spa centre with sauna and jacuzzi.

It offers kids meals and has a kid-friendly buffet. Also, the hotel has babysitting and child services, baby safety gates, and cots upon request at an additional charge.

Top 10 Things to do in Antwerp with Kids

Buildings of different eras and styles, art and history, old houses and modern structures, past and future, fashion and traditions are wonderfully combined in Antwerp. You can find many museums, art galleries, beautiful houses, cosy cafes and restaurants on the streets. Here you will find the best places to visit and the most interesting things to see and do with children.

1. Visit Antwerp Zoo

Antwerp Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Europe; built in the mid-1800s, it is home to over 5,000 animals. Children will especially enjoy the fur seal show.

There are also cute playgrounds with swings and slides where the kids can play, and adults can watch them sitting on benches in the shade of trees. Antwerp Zoo has built an international reputation for participating in international programs that support endangered species such as the okapi, bonobo chimpanzee, golden marmosets, and Congo peacocks.

There is also a planetarium, a winter garden, and a penguin house. You should set aside at least half a day to visit this park because there are many things to do.

2. Enjoy a walk in Middelheimpark

The open-air museum in Middelheim Park is a complex of landscape compositions that spread over vast areas and an extensive exposition of modern sculpture. Here you can see realistic sculptures and strange abstract structures installed in the most unexpected places.

The park museum owns about 500 sculptures and is a great place for kids to have fun.

3. Learn the story of the Nello Patrache Statue

This touching monument to the boy Nello and his faithful dog  Patrasche is in the centre of Antwerp opposite the cathedral. It was opened in 2016 and is dedicated to the events described in the novel “The Dog of Flanders” by the English writer Marie Louise de la Ramee in 1872 and is especially adored by all the children who come to Antwerp.

4. Visit the Grote Markt

Grote Markt is the main square of Antwerp and, at the same time, its main attraction. Almost all important events in the history of the city took place here. The area is also often called the pearl of the architecture of the XVI century. The architectural dominant of the square is the town hall building, erected in the 16th century.

In its magnificent appearance, Flemish Gothic and Italian Renaissance are whimsically combined. Richly decorated guild houses occupy the square’s north side, but the huge seven-nave Gothic Cathedral makes the strongest impression of the Virgin Mary, which was built for almost 200 years – from 1352 to 1521.

5. Look Round the Red Star Line Museum

The Emigration Museum in Antwerp opened in September 2013. The museum exhibition tells the story of emigration from Antwerp to the New World. People left in search of new opportunities and a better life. The journey to the new world for many began in a warehouse in Antwerp, which still stands next to the port.

It was from here that the Red Star Line company sent its ships with passengers. In honour of the Red Star Line, it was named the Museum of Emigration. The museum staff tried to preserve the atmosphere of great expectations, deep disappointments, sleepless nights, and parents’ worries about their children, who must leave for the New World.

It even contains jars with the smell of emigrants (a mixture of vinegar and benzene) and other things and documents of emigrants.

6. See the Plantin Moretus Museum

In the 16th century, the Plantin-Moretus printing house was the largest in Europe. It was founded by the enlightened publishers of the time. Geographical maps, atlases, scientific works, books, and religious content were printed here. Also, authors could order a translation of their work. Now the museum presents fonts and printing presses of the 16th century, unique editions, and a collection of tapestries.

It is noteworthy that the exhibition is in the same room where books were printed in the 16th century. The museum is listed in the UNESCO catalogue.

7. Check out the Brabo Statue

In the centre of Antwerp, in Grote Markt, an interesting Brabo fountain is located. The fountain is a statue created by the magnificent sculptor Jeff Lumbox in 1887. The statue tells us the legend of the giant Drouon Antigonus, who lived on the banks of the Scheldt River, where Antwerp now stands.

The giant took too high a tribute for the opportunity to sail past his castle. He tore off the hands of sailors who refused to pay tribute each time. And then, one day, the brave soldier Silvius Brabo defeated the giant and, cutting him off, threw his hands into the river.

This is how the name of the city came about: “ant” – hand and “verpen” – to throw. A beautiful legend gave Antwerp a legendary symbol – the hand. Hand-shaped cookies are made in the bakeries here. And the fountain, flaunting on the central square of Antwerp, has become a unique landmark of the city.

You May Also Like: List of Cities in Belgium

8. Visit Chocolate Nation Museum

The museum is a true paradise for children and chocolate lovers of all ages. Here you will learn about how legendary Belgian chocolate was born. In one of the halls, you will see the process of “ripening” of cocoa beans and its storage. In addition, in the museum you can learn how cocoa beans turn into chocolate bars, sweets and other desserts. Multimedia exhibits leave no one indifferent, and tasting chocolate is a special part of visiting the museum .

9. Explore adventurous Sint-Annatunnel

If you are travelling with teenage children, a walk through the Sint Anna tunnel is a great option. It will be slightly adventurous entertainment, and something completely different from other sightseeing points. This ancient tunnel runs under the Scheldt River. Tour participants need to descend into it using a special ladder. After crossing to the other side of the river, a gorgeous panorama of the city opens from the shore. There are also excellent playgrounds for little children, and the beach is open in the warm season.

10. Have fun in Bobbejaanland amusement park

Bobbejaanland is the most popular and the biggest amusement park in Antwerp. It is also a real historical landmark of the city. The park was opened in 1961. Its founder is the famous Belgian singer Bobbejaan Schoepen who won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1957. Today, the park features more than 40 rides, including rollercoasters , high-speed roads, and a small water park with an interesting ride.

Where to Eat in Antwerp with Kids

Belgian cuisine was influenced by three cuisines – German, French, and Dutch. Home cooking is distinguished by simple cooking technology, with the most accessible set of products.

When travelling to Antwerp with kids, it is worth trying local fast-food, Belgian mussels and all kinds of soups, as well as rabbit stew. The kids will love the Belgian waffles and fast-food deep fries. In general, deep-frying potatoes is considered a Belgian invention, and they cook them here according to a special recipe. For potatoes, you can take a sauce of your choice and meat product, fried in oil in the same way.

There are so many restaurants, bars and cafes in the city that it is sometimes difficult to make the right choice. From the most expensive, like Sir Antony Van Dyck 5 stars restaurant, to the simplest fast-food takeout. Here is the list of the most popular ones with good reviews, suitable for families with kids.

Refill is a nice restaurant in the city centre serving delicious traditional dishes in a cosy environment. Here you can try mouth-watering stews, Flemish carbonade, and the kids will love potato croquettes served with green salad. In summer you can stay in a beautiful terrace. View on TripAdvisor Here >>>

Bubble Waffle Café

The café is located next to Saint Charles Borromeo Church. Bubble Waffle serves fantastic savoury and sweet waffles with different toppings. Although this place is rather expensive, it offers high-quality dishes and has great service. A savoury custom-made bubble waffle is a must-try! View on TripAdvisor Here >>>

Frituur L O

Friturr is a well-known fast-food takeaway spot where you can peak the best traditional Belgium fries in Antwerp. They serve it with a piece of meat on the side, and the portions are quite big. There are several choices of sauce to accompany the fries. All will be delish whether you take Andalusia, Barbeque, or anything else. There is also a range of tasty sausages which are worth trying. View on TripAdvisor Here >>>

Hard Rock Café Antwerp

This well-known restaurant chain serves great burgers and other dishes of American cuisine appreciated by kids. Besides that, here you can eat well and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere with your family, you can also buy memorable souvenirs and cool T-shirts for kids with an Antwerp sign.   Book here for priority seating >>>

How to Spend 2 Days in Antwerp with Kids

Antwerp attractions, a historical and, at the same time, modern city, will satisfy the soul and eyes of every tourist. Locals compare Antwerp to a village but don’t jump to conclusions.

The rich past of the northern Belgian port combines with a sharply progressive present – avant-garde fashion, multicultural food, and entertainment for the youngest tourists.

To stay one day in Antwerp is not enough, try to stay at least 2 days, for instance, come for Antwerp weekend, so you can see the most important attractions. Here you’ll find a list of the best things to see for 2 days.

Start your day with a tour of Central Station. Looking at this majestic building and beautiful train stations, the traveller experiences a feeling of DeJa’Vu. Like, already been and seen. Yes, you probably really saw it in the movies. It was built on the site of an old wooden building at the end of the 19th century. Today is a place with the most beautiful stations in the world, an architectural monument and a transport hub.

Afterwards, head towards Antwerp Zoo , one of Europe’s oldest zoos. You don’t need to go far to visit the zoo: it is located 100-200 m from the railway station. There are excellent collections of reptiles, polar animals – Vriesland Park, tropical butterflies, and many more.

Finish your day on the local Grote Markt , built in the 16th century, and today boasts a whole exhibition of old buildings, the facades of which sparkle with restored gilding and surprise with rich stucco. The most enviable place on the square is occupied by the statue of the warrior Brabo, who, according to myth, defeated the giant that threatened Antwerp and its riches. Also, take a look at Nello & Patrache Stature and stay for dinner in one of the nearby restaurants.

Start the second day of your Antwerp tour from Sint-Annatunnel. After leaving the Old Town, go to the tunnel of St. Anna , laid along the bottom of the Scheldt. Take the elevator down to a depth of 31 meters and then walk along the bottom of the Scheldt. At the exit, enjoy the panoramic view overlooking the Cathedral and the first Antwerp skyscraper – until 1952 it was the tallest in the world! Take lunch in one of the nearby cafes.

Finish your day visiting Mas Museum or another name Museum aan de Stroom, decorated with red sandstone which offers high-tech exhibitions. The cherry on the pie is the view of the city from its rooftop.

3 Days in Antwerp with Kids

If you still have more time to spend during your trip, there are many more attractions in Antwerp to see.

Bobbejaanland : When you have seen all the main sights, and learned about the culture, and history of Antwerp, go to the Bobbejaanland for some fun, to the Antwerp amusement park. You can come there by car or public transport, which is also very convenient.

Middelheimpark : For some serenity and relaxation in nature, go to Middelheimpark. It’s a very beautiful English-style park with attractive lawns, shady alleys and beautifully arranged shrubs and trees, it is located to the north of the city. You can spend a few hours there, strolling around and entertaining your kids.

Plantenium (Den Botaniek) : This beautiful oasis in the centre of Antwerp is a great place to take a rest and enjoy a gorgeous garden with the sound of birds. Cacti and a wonderful collection of other tropical plants are in its greenhouse.

Het Steen : An educational centre located in an amazing old castle, with gorgeous architectural details, which in winter hosts a Christmas market.

Diamond District : A special area in Antwerp, where the most important workshops and shops are located in the production and trade of diamonds. The city is known as the diamond capital of Belgium and is famous for its diamond products and jewellery all over the world. And even if you are not going to purchase such valuable gifts, visiting a few boutiques to see the best gemstone items with your own eyes is worth visiting.

Best Day Trips from Antwerp for Families

If you have explored the whole city and its sights, and have some time available, go on day trips outside Antwerp. Bruges, Brussels, and Sterckshof Castle are great places to visit.

Bruges is a city of beautiful tourist attractions, canals and masterpieces of Gothic architecture. This is one of the main places to visit from Antwerp. You will love this amazing little medieval town, where you can easily walk with kids around in half a day and return to Antwerp. 

For your family, you can organize a private trip from Antwerp to Bruges both by train (90 min., 15 €) and by bus (110 min., about 10 €). Find train tickets for your dates here >>>

It’s a pity to visit a country and not to see its capital. There are so many attractions in the Belgian capital that the city can be called an open-air museum, which your kids would be happy to see. It is worth starting walks around the city from the main town square of the country, Grand Place. Next, see the Cathedral of St. Michael and Gudula, proceed to the royal galleries of St. Hubert, and pass from the famous Manneken Pis. Make sure you also visit some of the amazing gardens and parks in Brussels.

It’s very easy to get to Brussels on your own. Numerous trains (44 min., from 10 €) and buses (50 min., from 4 €) are at your disposal. You can read more about travelling to Brussels by train here .

Find train tickets for your dates here >>>

A taxi will cost much more – above 100 € or you could book a private transfer for the best rates. Compare transfer prices for your family here >>>

Sterckshof Castle

Located in the suburbs of Antwerp, Sterkshof is as beautiful like from a fairy tale. It was founded in the 16th century and had an interesting history. A delightful park surrounds the castle. So, a visit to Sterkshof is especially recommended during the warm season.

You can get to Sterkshof from the city centre by tram 10 or 24 (€3) or by bus (€4). The Taxi will cost you around 20 €, so it’s the best option for a family with kids. you could also book a private transfer for the best rates. Compare transfer prices for your family here >>>

How to Get Around Antwerp

The old town is about 1,5 km , and most of the sights are easy to get to on foot. However, with little children that won’t be convenient.

Bus : The bus fare is 3 EUR, but if you are planning to make several Antwerp trips, it is more profitable to take a Lijnkaart card to pay for the fare, it costs 14 EUR and includes 10 trips. Due to heavy traffic, buses do not always follow the schedule, but in the city centre the frequency of routes is quite high, which causes less inconvenience.

Taxi : Payment for taxis is according to the meter. It is almost impossible to catch a taxi passing by, so you need to look for special parking lots marked with an orange “TAXI” sign.

Car : Driving here is not as difficult as in other major cities, but traffic at intersections can seem chaotic. There are free parking lots, but most of them (on the street or covered) are paid. The average price for parking is 2 EUR per hour.

View more on Belgium

The 12 Best Theme Parks in Belgium to Visit in 2024

(Last Updated On: )Looking for theme parks in Belgium? Look no further! Belgium is home to some of the most thrilling, entertaining and magical theme parks in Europe. With a plethora of attractions and activities for kids of all ages, these theme parks offer an unforgettable experience. From heart-stopping roller coasters to enchanting fairy tale…

16 Amazing Gardens and Parks in Brussels to Visit on Your Next Trip

(Last Updated On: )Looking for parks in Brussels? Brussels is a wonderfully diverse city. The gritty neighbourhoods of the South and North, the buzzing city life in the centre, and the relaxed surrounding communities make Brussels a great place to live in or visit. Brussels has many green spaces, including many quiet parks and gardens.…

(Last Updated On: ) An Antwerp city break is a great idea for a weekend with kids and those who want to explore the second largest city in Belgium. In terms of tourist popularity, it is less visited than Brussels. But it is worth seeing because it is unlike any other European city with its…

Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ 55 Inspirational Cruise Quotes
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ Finland’s Nuuksio National Park with Kids
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The 9 Best Switzerland Cities to Visit in 2024 [The Family Edition]
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The BEST Water Parks in Poland to Visit with Kids (2024)

Leave a Comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

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 .

Plan your visit

Planning a city trip to Antwerp? That’s easy with Experience Antwerp! Discover all of the activities our city has to offer, book your favourites and go on a carefree trip to one of Belgium’s most historic cities.

We use cookies to optimize our website and our service.

The Top 10 Things to Do in Antwerp

TripSavvy / Gautier Houba

Antwerp is one of Europe’s relatively unknown gems which visitors immediately fall in love with. It has spectacular historic and modern architecture to look at, the river Scheldt to stroll beside, and museums which could take up your whole vacation. There’s something here for everyone from the fabulous Peter Paul Rubens House to the Red Star Line Museum where the days of the great trans-Atlantic liners come to life. Don’t miss the MoMu Fashion Museum as Antwerp has always been at the cutting edge of fashion design. There’s the extraordinary Museum Plantin-Moretus which is the only museum in the world to have UNESCO World Heritage status… and much more. 

How to Get to Antwerp

If you’re traveling from London, take the Eurostar train from London St. Pancras to Brussels Midi. There are regular Eurostar trains throughout the day taking 2 hours and 1 minute. Book your Eurostar ticket here . Your Eurostar ticket gives you complimentary travel from Brussels to Antwerp, and from Antwerp to Brussels on a return ticket, and the connection is direct from Brussels Midi. The train journey between Brussels and Antwerp takes around 56 minutes.

If you’re traveling from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to Brussels Midi, the direct train takes 1 hour 20 minutes and there are regular trains throughout the day. You will have to buy a separate train ticket from Charles de Gaulle Airport to Brussels Midi.

Step Into the World of Peter Paul Rubens

Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) was not just one of the world’s greatest Old Master artists — he also became an international diplomat in the complex political world of 17th century Europe. His charm and good looks helped him work for the notoriously difficult Marie de Medici (widow of Henry IV of France), and later for Charles I of England (designing the ceiling of the Banqueting House in Whitehall for the King).

From the age of 10, Rubens lived in Antwerp in this gracious house which was turned into a museum in 1946 and recently refurbished. The house was designed as an Italian palazzo with a baroque portico, a semi-circular statue gallery and wood-paneled rooms which run from the kitchen to richly decorated living rooms. There’s a huge studio where the artist and his students produced works for the royal families and nobles of Europe who were his major patrons, and a delightful formal garden enjoyed by the painter and his family.

The house offers a wonderfully intimate look at many of Rubens’s works, but it is also full of what are described as "Distinguished Visitors", a series of paintings by contemporaries like Van Dyck on more or less permanent display from museums and galleries around the world.

If you’re a real fan, go after seeing the house to visit Rubens’ tomb in St. James’ church, the parish church for most of Antwerp’s citizens. More of his works are on display in the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal, the Cathedral of Our Lady.

Visit a 400-Year-Old Printing House

This large, imposing and very grand house is tucked down a side street in central Antwerp. Walk inside and you enter the house and workshops of the Plantin-Moretus publishing firm, the most important and largest printers in Europe at the time.

The house was built around a charming formal 17th-century garden with rooms on four sides. The first rooms you visit are domestic, a splendid series of dining and living rooms that showed off the wealth and power of the family. Some have oak paneled walls; others have walls lined with gilded leather or hung with portraits of the family and their friends.

But the house was more than just a home and the rest of the building was used for the printing firm. You can see rooms full of substantial wooden presses that are the oldest in the world, and can watch demonstrations of how the presses worked. The old bookshop takes you back to the days when wealthy customers came to buy, their silver and gold coins weighed to check their value before they were allowed to take their precious books home.

The Plantin-Moretus firm produced 55 works a year, employing 22 men who worked 14-hour days. They acted as the official printer for Antwerp, and the royal typographer to King Philip II of Spain. Their 8-volume Plantin Polyglot Bible with Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek and Syriac text was the most sophisticated production at the time; others of their publications are shown here in facsimile.

The Plantin-Moretus Museum is a real treasure trove, the only museum in the world to be granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

Learn About the Emigrant Journey From Europe to the New World

The Red Star Line Museum tells the stories of some of the millions of poor emigrants who left Europe via Antwerp to seek a better life in America in the 1800s and 1900s. It tells their stories in the most compelling ways. You see the emigrants’ faces in old photographs; follow their journeys from all over Europe to Antwerp on maps, journeys often taking months of heart-rending effort, and in many cases, you can hear them on headphones that cut off the rest of the world around you and take you into their lives in an extraordinarily powerful way.

You feel real sympathy for little Ita Moëll who was suffering from trachoma when she was examined at Ellis Island for diseases, and was sent back to Europe. Cholera, typhoid and trachoma were the diseases that America feared the most and any outbreak in Europe brought stricter controls in both Antwerp and New York, plus a backlash against immigrants.

There were thousands of immigrants who were absorbed into American life taking the lowliest manual jobs. And there were immigrants who went on to enrich American life, like Israel (‘Izzy’) Berlin. Many were Jewish, fleeing prejudice and real danger particularly in the 1930s from countries like Russia, Germany and Eastern Europe.

The Red Star Line museum, housed in the historic offices of the company, continues telling new stories as visitors, particularly North Americans, visit to find out if their relatives left from here for a new life. Before you leave, climb the stairs to the roof for a view over the Scheldt river quays. Look down and you see plaques pointing out the distances. Kiev is 1826 kilometers away; Odessa is 1989, Warsaw 1137 and Berlin 632. Walk to the other side and you see the distances to the New World: Montreal is 5526 kilometers away; New York 5879 and Philadelphia 6016. It brings home the scale of the life-changing journeys that took the emigrants from everything that was familiar and safe to an uncertain future halfway across the world.

Tour the Unusual MAS (Museum aan de Strom)

You can’t miss MAS : this tall, red brick, asymetric building acts like a beacon on Eilandje, an island that is fast becoming Antwerp’s coolest neighbourhood. The exhibitions are arranged over the 10 floors, each one taking a different theme. One of the most surprising is the first where over 180,000 objects in the museum not on display are kept in storage. Labeled and numbered, they hang on walls or are placed in special cabinets, waiting their turns to be put before the public. It gives a very good idea of how complex organising a museum is. Other exhibitions take on life and death; pre-Columbian art; the story of power and prestige and how it is displayed and used; and Antwerp’s place as one of the major ports of the world.

Then, go up to the top floor for the best 360-degree view over Antwerp. You see domestic homes where householders have made inventive use of their rooves, church spires that punctuate the skyline, the curving river Scheldt and in the distance, the port of Antwerp with its endless industrial clutter of cranes, quays and power stations.

Tip: Go up to the Panorama platform when it’s dark during the summer months (April to October). This free attraction stays open until midnight and gives you a sparkling nighttime view of the city.

Experience Antwerp Fashion at the Mode (MoMu) Fashion Museum

For decades, the ‘Antwerp Six’ group of world influencers highlighted the pre-eminence of Antwerp’s fashion designers, so if you have any interest in the subject, make the Mode Fashion Museum one of your stops. It only holds temporary exhibitions, but these are stunning. The current exhibition — Margiela, the Hermes Years — lasts until August 28th, 2017, and will be followed by one more until Spring 2018 when the museum shuts for a huge refurbishment.

Only Dries Van Noten from the original Antwerp Six still has a stand-alone shop, housed in the fabulous corner site of Het Modepaleis a couple of minutes walk away. The other designers such as Martin Margiela and Ann Demeulemeester sell through their own houses and within other major stores.

Antwerp still produces a formidable crop of young designers, and every May and October, the current designers hold their special sales (including Van Noten, Margiela and Demeulemeester). Check with the tourist office for details of this. Every fashionista should be there!

Visit Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal, the Cathedral of Our Lady

This impressive, vast Gothic cathedral was built between 1352 and 1521 on the site of a smaller church. Its soaring 123-metre high spire stands out like a beacon from anywhere in Antwerp, and was once the magnet for the pilgrims who flocked here in the thousands. Go inside for a look at the early Rubens’ paintings and Old Masters from other painters that are scattered throughout the cathedral, framed in glorious red against the bare white walls.

Marvel at the Great Grote Markt Square

The medieval square that is the heart of the city is every bit as flamboyant as any of the other great Flemish squares like Brussels and Bruges. The Grote Markt, once housing the merchants and the guilds that made the city rich, now hums to a tourist beat. It’s pedestrianised so sit in one of the cafes lining the square and take in the extraordinary Brabo fountain and the wonderful, over-the-top Renaissance style Town Hall which was completed in 1565.

The Antwerp Tourist Office is in the square.

Visit one of the world’s oldest zoos

When you arrive in Antwerp you immediately find two wonderful pieces of architecture. Coming by train, you’ll be overwhelmed by the splendid 1905 Centraal Station, one of the most striking in Europe. Walk out and to your left you see another architectural glory: Antwerp Zoo .

Founded in 1843, it’s one of the world’s oldest zoos with a world-wide reputation for its special breeding programme. It has lovely buildings like the Egyptian temple, built in 1856 and the antelope building built in 1861 in Oriental style. It’s recently been renovated and a reef environment area has been added to the aquarium, making this a must for anyone visiting with a family.

Drink the beer

Like all Belgian cities, beer and beer cellars are a major part of life here. Take the number 9 or 15 tram out to De Koninck , Antwerp’s historic brewery, for a tour of the brewery and the chance to sample some of their products. The brewery is housed in the original early 20th-century industrial building and the tour takes you through interactive exhibitions on brewing and over a walkway where you look down over the brewery hall until you end up in the cosy ‘pub’.

There’s a good shop selling beer and the famous bolleke (bowl) glasses. Also on the premises is a top cheese shop and a very good independent butchers shop.

Try the frites

Frites (fries) are a staple part of the Belgian diet; the Belgians are the greatest consumers of fries in Europe. And the frites they produce are very good indeed, particularly in Antwerp which claims to be the city to have invented the concept of the friterie. While there are lots of places to drop into for a quick frites fix, the one you must try is Frites Atelier at 32 Korte Gasthuisstraat. It’s always busy but you might get lucky and be able to grab a chair at the four or five small tables inside. Otherwise stand outside at a high table.

And the fries? They are quite delicious, but then they should be. The Frites Atelier is a small chain started by Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman. You can get plain frites, then choose your sauce which you get from large stone dispensers. Or go for a real treat and top the fries with Belgian stew, or boudin blanc.

Antwerp in Belgium: a Spellbinding City Where Medieval Meets Tomorrow

20 Best Things to Do in Brussels

How to Travel from Amsterdam to Antwerp by Train, Bus, and Car

Travel Guide to Bruges, Belgium

Brussels Travel Guide

Photo Guide to Bruges, Belgium

The 16 Best Things to Do in Belgium

The Top 15 Things to Do in Bordeaux, France

Best International Day and Weekend Trips from Amsterdam

The Top 23 Things to Do in Munich

20 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy

How to Get Around Belgium Like a Local

20 Top Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

10 Classic Belgian Dishes (and Where to Try Them)

The Best Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia

15 Best Things to Do in Rwanda

Things To Do In Antwerp (Don’t Miss The Best)

This detailed visitor’s guide covers all the top things to do in Antwerp. From stunning landmarks, to must-see museums.

Situated in the northern area of the country, Antwerp is one of the largest cities in Belgium by population and area size. It has a vibrant history regarding trade and emigration and it’s even known as the diamond capital of the world. It’s home to the prettiest train station in the world, impressive historic buildings, and some genuinely excellent museums , and all of those attractions are included in this list of the best things to do in Antwerp!

Traveling to Antwerp and you’re not sure what to do there? This guide to the top things to do in Antwerp is the only one you need to read!

Table of Contents

Red Star Line Museum

The Red Star Line was a shipping company that operated in the 19th and 20th centuries. It connected Antwerp with New York in the United States, and some 3 million people emigrated to America on the company’s ships.

The Red Star Line Museum explores the history of migration through the personal stories of migrants and their families. The museum exhibit mostly consists of photographs and stories of people who traveled with this company, as well as model replicas of Red Star Line’s various ships.

Visitors can also see various memorabilia preserved from the ships and their passengers, including ancient suitcases, cabin furniture, and even ship parts. Albert Einstein was one of Red Star Line’s passengers, and the museum has a few of his letters on exhibit.

Stroll Along Meir Shopping Street

Meir is Antwerp’s main shopping street with dozens of high-street fashion stores. If you need to buy new clothes or you just want to check out brands that you might not have at home, this is the place to be in Antwerp.

I have been shopping in the Meir every time I visit family in Belgium for 20 years. It is the perfect day out in Antwerp as it is right down town, and I always get everything I need in one trip.

The street is in the city center and you can easily reach it by public transport. It’s a rather long street, and it would take you about 10 minutes to just walk from one end of Meir to the other, and that’s without popping into any of the shops or fast food joints along the way.

The stores at Meir are mostly affordable high-street and sports brands, including

• Bershka and more

Meir also has a few places where shoppers can take a break from browsing the stores and grab a bite, but these are mostly just fast food restaurants like Burger King and McDonald’s.

In my experience, the best eating is in the back streets away from the crowds, like in any other city.

Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady is to Antwerp what Sagrada Familia is to Barcelona – an iconic historic cathedral under construction for centuries. It’s situated in the city’s historic center, with metro, bus, and tram stops just minutes away from the cathedral.

The church is open every day of the year except for a few holidays, so you should be able to visit it whenever you’re in town. There’s an entrance fee of 12 Euros for adults, and it’s worth it. The Gothic church is best known for the many Baroque artworks by Rubens that adorn its walls, the mesmerizing stained glass windows, and the imposing organ you can witness in action.

It’s worth noting that churchgoers can attend the Sunday mass as early as 11 AM, and this might be the best way to visit the cathedral if you’d rather not pay the entrance fee.

MAS Museum (Museum aan de Stroom) is the largest museum in Antwerp. It opened in 2011, and its collection was created by pooling the collections of several other museums (Maritime Museum, Ethnographic Museum, etc.) in Antwerp, which permanently closed their doors following the opening of the MAS Museum.

The focus of the museum’s collection is the city of Antwerp, Belgium, and its connections to other places throughout the world. Everything about this museum is special, from the unique architecture of the building to the diverse collection of objects that tell stories of Antwerp throughout history.

Museum aan de Stroom is a huge museum spanning ten stories of exhibits. The total amount of objects in the museum’s collection is nearly half a million, although most of them are kept in storage. It will take you at least 2 hours to explore the bulk of the museum’s exhibits, and you can easily spend even more time here if you pay close attention to all the different objects and the stories behind them.

The tickets for the MAS Museum are 12 Euros for adults, and the observation deck on the 9th floor can be visited for free by anyone.

Grote Markt

Grote Markt is Antwerp’s largest city square. It’s lined by some of the prettiest buildings (called guild houses) in the city, most of which were reconstructed in the 19th and 20th centuries. Antwerp City Hall is the most prominent building at Grote Markt, but it’s certainly not the only interesting sight.

The square is lined with cafes and restaurants, so feel free to sit down for a cup of coffee and do some people-watching. Take in all the details of the intricate facades, from the ornate balconies to the stunning statues.

If you visit Antwerp in December, this is where you will find the city’s Christmas Market. The square hosts the primary market events every year, plus it features an open-air ice skating rink. It’s one of the best things to do at night in the winter because all the decorations on these historic buildings look absolutely incredible.

Diamond District

Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world, so if you’re on the prowl for some unique gems, there’s no better place to buy them. Head to the city’s Diamond Quartier, where you will find dozens of jewelry stores.

The district is just a short walk away from Antwerp’s central station, so it’s very easily accessible by public transport. This is certainly not a shopping experience for everyone, but more so, one of the unique things to do in the Belgian city. Even if you can’t afford to purchase an actual diamond, it’s worth visiting the Diamond District just to get a sense of the importance of the industry for the city.

Antwerp’s history with diamonds draws roots from the 15th century, and more than 80% of the world’s rough diamonds eventually pass through this district.

Antwerp Central Station

Antwerpen Centraal Station is one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. It was constructed between 1895 and 1905, replacing the original station made from wood that stood in its place. The station building was designed by Louis Delacenserie , one of Belgium’s most prominent architects.

The first time I entered the station after getting off the train from Sint Niklass, I could not believe I was in a station in the center of such a big city. The building is worth its own museum and is stunning to experience, both inside and out.

The architecture of the station is phenomenal and there’s lots to admire. The vast dome above the station’s waiting hall earned it the nickname Railroad Cathedral. The main train hall is adorned with a lot of iron and glass, many columns, and detailed floor tiles.

In addition to the impressive architecture, the train station is also a good place to do some shopping and people-watching. The four levels of the station’s atrium are home to many stores and cafes, where you can find anything from groceries to jewelry.

The Antwerp Zoo

Visiting the zoo isn’t for everyone but if you love animals or travel with kids it’s one of the top places to visit in every new city. The entrance to the zoo is right next to the Central Station, so it’s one of the easiest Antwerp attractions to find.

Tickets to the Antwerp Zoo are costly at 32 Euros for adults, so if you decide to visit it plan to spend at least half a day here and thoroughly explore the place to get your money’s worth. My inlaws said they only went once as a kid, so it seems prices have not improved much over the years either!

If you’re an animal lover, you’ll find that the tickets are almost worth it since you can see some rare and exotic species at this zoo, including koalas, flamingos, penguins, kangaroos, and many others.

This top Belgian zoo also boasts an aquarium, a reptile house, interesting architectural elements throughout the grounds, and some beautifully landscaped parks.

Het Steen Castle

Het Steen Castle is the oldest building in Antwerp, so it’s a special place worth visiting while you’re in the city. The waterfront medieval castle was built in the early 13th century and it’s one of the best attractions in the city for people who want to get acquainted adequately with Antwerp and its history.

The castle is open every day from 10 AM to 6 PM except for a couple of holidays, and the entrance fee is just 7 Euros. That’s pretty affordable compared to other attractions in Antwerp, so if you’re trying to do the Belgian city on a budget, this is still an attraction you could fit into your itinerary.

Het Steen Castle features a visitor’s center where you can buy some unique souvenirs, a museum exhibit on Antwerp through the decades, and a roof terrace with one of the best 360° views of the city.

Chocolate Nation

Belgian chocolate is known around the world for its premium quality and delicious taste, so why not visit a museum that will walk you through the history of Belgian chocolate? It’s one of the best things to do on a Sunday, mostly because chocolate tastings are included in the price of museum tickets.

Tickets for adults are approximately 20 Euros and there are discounts for everyone under the age of 25. It’s a pricey museum ticket, but it’s worth it if you genuinely want to learn about how chocolate is manufactured and try some delicious treats.

The museum spans 14 different rooms, each of which tells a part of the story of how chocolate comes to be, from the equator plantations to the counters of chocolate shops. The story of manufacturing chocolate from cacao plant to finished product is covered in a multimedia exhibit, while the rest of the museum’s collection includes products used in the manufacturing process like molds for truffles and pralines, but also some impressive chocolate sculptures.

There’s a replica bank vault entirely made out of chocolate, a chocolate train, a giant chocolate bar, and so much more at Chocolate Nation Antwerp !

Visit Rubenshuis

Rubenshuis is a popular museum in Antwerp, but once upon a time, it was the home and workshop of Peter Paul Rubens. The famous artist purchased the house in 1610 and then had it extended and renovated according to his designs. The townhouse has been preserved incredibly well, and many of his original designs are present to this day.

Everything about the house is impressive – the vast courtyard with the beautiful garden, the impressive statues that adorn the facade, and most of all the many artworks created by Rubens himself centuries ago.

The Rubens House Museum is being renovated and expanded in 2023, so it is temporarily closed to visitors. It’s expected that the new museum building, which is supposed to be twice as large as the original one, will be open for visitors in 2024. A renovated original Rubens House should be incorporated into the museum eventually, but it won’t be open for visitors until at least 2027.

Note: As of the time of writing (early 2023) the Rubenhuis is closed and undergoing extensive renovation and it is planned to be reopened in early 2024.

Park Spoor Noord

Park Spoor Noord is situated in the northern part of Antwerp and it’s a great place to visit when you just want to relax and unwind for a little while. Maybe you’ve just been to the Museum aan de Stroom and you need a few moments to take in all the impressions and collect your thoughts – the park is just a 15-minute walk from the museum.

The park was created on former railway grounds and you can still see the remnants of terminals and railway tracks. Now it boasts a vast open area perfect for picnics and lounging, an artificial lake that locals use to cool down on hot summer days, and a skate park. There are also a few cafes on the park grounds if you’d rather sit in a chair than on the grass.

This Antwerp park also boasts a terrace used for concerts and a dedicated playground for kids. It’s one of the best attractions in the city, and definitely worth a visit if you need a break from the crowds of the city center.

Museum Plantin-Moretus

Museum Plantin-Moretus is hands down one of the best museums in Antwerp if not the best museum in the entire city. If you can visit only one museum while you’re in town, I would recommend you choose this one because it’s incredibly special.

The museum is situated inside a mansion which is actually the office containing the world’s oldest printing press that belonged to the Plantin-Moretus family. The museum and its grounds are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and there’s a 12 Euro fee for anyone who wants to visit the museum. I’m of the opinion that it’s the best 12 Euros you’ll spend in Antwerp.

The museum collection consists of objects related to printing that are hundreds of years old. It also includes many authentic old documents, which are available for consultation in the museum’s dedicated reading room. This museum also has online exhibitions that showcase a part of its vast collection to all visitors on their website.

Groenplaats

Groenplaats is a large city square in the heart of historic Antwerp. This square is one of the central areas of Antwerp, and you can often see many locals and tourists just hanging out and taking in the views. Groenplaats is lined with many cafes and restaurants, which are pricier than in other parts of the city, thanks to the fabulous views of historic Antwerp.

The Cathedral of Our Lady is visible from the city square, and it’s one of the top sights here. A statue of Peter Paul Rubens sits at the center of Groenplaats, and it’s perhaps the defining landmark of the area. This is one of those parts of the city that you will inevitably visit even if you’re just walking around and taking in the sights, and it’s one of the prettiest parts of historic Antwerp without a doubt.

Eat Belgian Waffles

Does it count that you were in Belgium if you didn’t eat at least a pound of authentic Belgian waffles during your stay? I’m afraid not, so be sure to consume as many waffles as you can to really make your trip count!

Jokes aside, Belgian waffles are a specialty known all over the world, but they taste the best right at the source. You’ll find dozens of shops and restaurants in Antwerp that serve delicious waffles hot and fresh, and you’ll never want to have them any other way once you’ve had them the Belgian way.

Wafelhuis Van Hecke has some of the best waffles in Antwerp, according to reviewers on TripAdvisor and Google Maps. It has the highest number of 5-star reviews with a total rating of more than 4.5, and people are raving about their delicious waffles. Quetzal is a close second, but it’s worth noting that they don’t have quite as much variety as Waflehuis Van Hecke. Or you can just grab one from a food truck vendor on the side of the Meir, it’s up to you!

Map Of Things To Do In Antwerp

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a visit to antwerp worthwhile.

Yes, it’s worth it to visit Antwerp. It’s one of the largest cities in Belgium both by area size and population, and it has an incredibly rich history. The architecture, the museums, the food, and the shopping opportunities are all amazing, so visiting Antwerp is an absolute must if you’re planning a trip through Belgium. 

How much time should I allocate for a trip to Antwerp?

Aim to spend 3-4 days in Antwerp if you want to explore the city thoroughly and discover all of its best spots. You can see most of the top sights in about two days, but having more time in Antwerp would allow you to really discover the city without rushing from one tourist attraction to the other. 

Related Posts

Brussels Landmarks: A Fascinating Journey Through the Heart of Europe

21 Amazing Things to Do in Brussels

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Nederlands ( Dutch )
• Français ( French )

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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

• Best Time to Visit Antwerp
• Events & Festivals in Antwerp
• How To Reach Antwerp
• Restaurants in Antwerp
• Antwerp Map
• Things To Do in Antwerp
• Antwerp Itineraries
• Antwerp Tours
• Antwerp Hotels

Travel to Antwerp with Kids

• Things To Do In Antwerp
• Family And Kids

Family and Kids in Antwerp

Looking out for what can you do with kids and family in Antwerp? Here are the things that you should not miss out on a family vacation with kids, toddlers, or babies. Discover the ultimate places for kids in Antwerp, be it water parks, theme parks, or playgrounds. Children will have fun, learn new things, get good food and will not get bored in long queues. Keep reading to know about awesome places and activities to enjoy with your kids in Antwerp. Plan a marvelous family trip at the budget you are looking without missing the fun!

Let's explore our list of kid-friendly attractions in Antwerp for perfect family outings and getaways.

1. Antwerp Central Station

Family and Kids

2. Mas - Museum Aan De Stroom

3. Cathedral Of Our Lady

4. Grote Markt

5. Rubens House

6. Antwerp Zoo

Garden, Zoo, Picnic Spot

7. Da Giovanni

8. Plantin-moretus Museum

9. Carolus Boromeus Church

10. Museum Mayer Van Den Bergh

11. St Anna Tunnel

12. Middelheim Sculpture Museum

14. Rockox House

15. Zurenborg

Kids-friendly Tours

• Bus & Minivan Tours in Antwerp
• Self-guided Tours & Rentals in Antwerp
• Half-day Tours in Antwerp
• Night Tours in Antwerp
• Audio Guide Rentals in Antwerp

22 Unique and Fun Things to do in Antwerp, Belgium

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

When it comes to places to frolic in Belgium, often visitors are quick to dash off to the likes of Brussels , Bruges , or Ghent …

But today, I’d like to vouch for Antwerp, a fun and beautiful city that has everything from a grandiose train station and main square to museums and art galore. Plus, a strange abundance of hand-themed curiosities… but more on that later!

If you’re wondering what to do in Antwerp, this list will cover all the essentials, whether you’re shopping for chocolate, diamonds or rich cultural experiences. So, read on for a list of the best things to do and see in beautiful Antwerp, Belgium.

Save this list of Things to Do in Antwerp for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Antwerp Central Station

Let’s start with one of my personal favourite things to do in Antwerp, as a shameless train and architecture nerd. Yes, I’m listing the city’s train station as #1, which to some might seem like an unhinged move, but hear me out…

Hailed by many as THE most beautiful train station in the world, the Grand Hall of the  Antwerpen-Centraal  is a stone-clad masterpiece of archways, columns, and lovely Art Nouveau flourishes. Little wonder why it’s locally known as the Spoorwegkathedraal, AKA the Railway Cathedral.

And while such a grand title feels a bit… dramatic for a transport hub, one look at its 75m monumental dome and you’ll see why it has been considered a place of worship for train geeks and starry-eyed travel bloggers alike since its inauguration year of 1905.

2. Grote Markt

Another must-see in Antwerp is the city’s stunning main square, Grote Markt.

Maybe it was the lack of crowds but I actually prefer it to Brussels’ Grand Place. Here, you’ll find stacks of glorious 16th century guildhalls squeezed together like dominos, Antwerp’s illustrious city hall, and the fascinating Brabo Fountain, which depicts a local legend about Silvius Brabo, the mythical Roman soldier who (allegedly) founded Antwerp (more on him in the next section).

While many of the guildhalls are actually reconstructions based on Flemish paintings, the Guildhall of Sint-Joris at Grote Markt 7 and De Valk Guildhall at Grote Markt 11 are both originals. The impressive Town Hall is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth having a little look inside.

The Grote Markt is ringed by cafés where you can enjoy some people-watching, plus this is where one of the city’s best Christmas markets is held each year, along with an ice-skating rink. If you visit in summer then you might get to enjoy carillon concerts instead.

3. Unique Chocolate Shopping

Well, it certainly didn’t take me long to mention one of Belgium’s most popular exports: chocolate.

That’s because it’s important, and Antwerp is full of amazing options. One unique offering? A delicious take on a not-so-delicious object: severed hands!

These chocolate hands are an Antwerp staple thanks to the tale of Brabo (the delightful naked guy seen in the fountain) who, according to local legend, saved dwellers of the Schledt River by defeating an evil giant who used to cut off the hands of sailors that refused to pay his toll.

In defeating the giant, Brabo (poetically) sliced off its hand and hurled it into the river, a legend immortalized in this bizarre statue (which I like to call ‘Naked man yeeting dismembered hand into abyss’), along with the hand-shaped chocolates now sold in every shop of the city.

Apart from hands, you can also head to Chocolatier and Confiserie Burie , where every month they display a new chocolate sculpture in their window for customers to gape at. During my visit, there was a giant chocolate snowman! FYI, their hot chocolate is also excellent.

And for more unique creations, don’t miss The Chocolate Line, the prettiest chocolate shop in Antwerp, where you’ll find pretty floral wallpaper, chandeliers, etc. all touting the products of Belgium’s chief choco-bad boy, Dominique Persoone.

Wacky flavours are a starring attraction at the Chocolate Line, whether you want some almond praline with deep fried onions (the “Cebolla”), ganache and marzipan with wasabi (the “Green Tokyo”) or of course, a praline with hemp seeds and a cute lil marijuana leaf decoration (the “Hennep”).

4. The Plantin Moretus Museum

As mentioned in my roundup of unique things you can only do in Belgium , a visit to the Plantin Moretus Museum is another popular Antwerp must-do.

This creaky UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the world’s oldest printing presses and offers insight into the lives and work of legendary 16th-century printers Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus.

Anyone interested in printing will love exploring this nerdy treasure trove of equipment used to print books, along with an extensive library. The building is also gorgeous, with an interior courtyard garden and richly decorated rooms.

Parts of the museum are set up so you can see what it would have looked like while being used in the 16th century, enabling you to step back in time to see both the home and printing office of the Plantin-Moretus family. There are also rotating temporary exhibitions so you never know what else you might see!

5. Heritage Library Hendrik Conscience, specifically the Nottebohm Room

A delightful hidden gem of Antwerp must-dos can be found in the Hendrik Conscienceplein, one of the prettiest libraries I’ve ever set foot in.

Again, visiting might be tough because the room is only open for special exhibitions and events, but I happened to be in town for one so I threw 5 euros at the woman and enthusiastically leaped up the stairs to one of the best kept secrets of Antwerp:  the Nottebohm Room , a book-sniffer’s dream stacked with old books, dark wood and celestial globes.

Originally built in 1936, today this room houses 150,000 items from the deepest depths of the library’s archive. Seriously, if you have the chance, go inside!

6. Saint Carolus Borromeus Church

This might be tough because the church has very random opening hours, but if it’s open, be sure to scope it out. Visiting is free, and wow does this place have a story.

The year was 1718, and Antwerp’s Carolus Borromeus Church was the talk of the town.

About a hundred years prior, local Jesuits had begun work on this effortlessly grand Baroque church, which was built quickly and with grandiose contributions from some seriously famous names… specifically 39 ceiling paintings from Peter Paul Rubens himself, only THE most influential artist of the period.  People were stoked.

And while for decades, people came from near and far to admire the work of Rubens (and the beautiful church itself), everything changed on a fateful day in 1718, when a blaze of  lightning struck  struck the church, creating a devastating fire that resulted in the loss of Rubens’ glorious paintings.

Meaning yes, they are sadly gone.

Nonetheless, the church is a worthwhile sight to behold (if you manage to catch it open to the public). After all, it still does look like this:

7. Vlaaikensgang

This medieval alley dates back to 1591 and granted, there’s not much to do here, but it’s a pretty escape and one of the most photogenic spots in the city.

8. Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)

The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) is a modern riverside museum that houses hundreds of thousands of artifacts related to Antwerp… spread across ten floors.

Besides being Antwerp’s largest museum, it’s also uniquely covered in… you guessed it: hands!  Tiny little silver hands  that pay tribute to the legend of Brabo, and also patrons of the museum during its construction phase.

Highlights of the museum collection include the Antwerp á la Carte exhibit, which traces the city’s relationship with food from the 16th century to the future, and the Freight section where you stop at different docks to learn how Antwerp is connected to the rest of the world via shipping.

But honestly, even if you don’t have time to admire the exhibits inside, taking 10 floors worth of escalators up to the top is more than worth it for this (free!) view:

9. The oldest house in Antwerp

On Stoelstraat 11, you’ll find the oldest house in Antwerp, a cool, wooden façade that you can easily visit en route to the MAS. Built in 1500, this wooden house is a truly badass sight when you consider it has survived the horrors of six major wars. Not bad for a simple wooden house.

10. St Paul’s Church

From here, you’re not far from another one of Antwerp’s most iconic churches, so be sure to schedule a stop at Saint Paul’s Church if you want to peek at dozens of paintings and hundreds of statues from some of the country’s most renowned masters.

Completed in 1639, this church is known best for its splendid Baroque altars. Sadly, I can’t tell you more than that as it was closed during my visit, but please take a look inside so I can live vicariously through you. I’ve heard it’s beautiful!

11. St Anna’s Pedestrian Tunnel

The St Anna’s Pedestrian Tunnel is a fun old-school underpass below the Scheldt River (again, giant and toll free thanks to Brabo and his choppy chop ways).

It was built in 1933 as a way to traverse the river without needing a ferry. While the tunnel is largely (and monotonously) covered in plain tiles, what makes it unique and interesting is that it transports you underground via a series of wooden escalators.

The walk across to the other side is a bit spooky and takes just under 10 minutes, with ‘accidental Wes Anderson vibes’ guaranteed.

And while the tunnel itself isn’t anything special, once you get to the other side, there’s a wonderful view of the Antwerp skyline that awaits.

12. Het Steen Castle

If it’s not completely covered in scaffolding for restorations (like it was during my visit), a short walk from the St Anna’s tunnel is the Het Steen Castle, which is mostly just a nice spot for a photo.

At the moment, you can’t tour the castle nor is there something inside, but it’s quite pretty to look at… while letting your imagination run wild.

After all, this is Antwerp’s oldest structure, an epic stone fortress that has over the years been all of the following: protection from intruders, an actual prison, a museum of archaeology, a museum of maritime history and today, a photo stop on Christina’s Antwerp Walking Tour.

Fun fact:  Het Steen is Flemish for “The Rock”, as in Dwayne “Het Steen” Johnson.

13. Begijnhof Antwerpen

The Begijnhof Antwerpen is one of the most peaceful pockets of the city, originally built centuries ago for Beguines, devout women who lived in semi-monastic communities (but never took official religious vows).

Today, the space is still residential, but open to the public, and oh so pretty to see:

14. The only officially recognized Chinatown in Belgium

Antwerp’s Chinatown is a bustling piece of the city near the Central Station packed with Chinese restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets, and even kung fu schools. It’s the only officially recognized Chinatown in all of Belgium, and even has its entrance gate flanked with marble lions.

Luckily, the lions’ hands are all intact.

15. Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady, located in the heart of Antwerp, is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

With its towering spires and intricate lace-like stonework, the Cathedral of Our Lady is a prime example of Brabantine Gothic design. Its tallest spire reaches an impressive 123 meters, earning it the title “Giant of Antwerp.” Inside, visitors are greeted by a richly decorated interior adorned with stunning stained glass windows, some dating back to the 16th century.

The cathedral also houses a remarkable collection of art, including masterpieces by the renowned Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. The cathedral’s crypt also serves as the final resting place of Rubens, along with other notable individuals.

16. Rubenshuis (Rubens House)

The Rubenshuis, or the Rubens House, is the former home and studio of the legendary Flemish Baroque artist, Peter Paul Rubens. In this museum, you can literally step into the world of the 17th-century creative genius!

Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) was a Flemish Baroque painter who is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists of his time and one of the great masters of European art history. Rubens was born in Siegen, a city in present-day Germany, but he spent most of his life in Antwerp. He had the home that is now the Rubenshuis renovated after getting married to his first wife and these renovations were greatly influenced by Italian architecture.

As you explore the beautifully preserved rooms and gardens of Rubenshuis, you’ll get a peek into the daily life and creative process of Rubens himself. You’ll find his masterpieces adorning the walls, and you might even stumble upon his paint-splattered easel. The house itself is a work of art, showcasing stunning architecture from the period. The tranquil courtyard garden is a hidden gem, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

17. The Middelheim Museum

The Middelheim Open Air Sculpture Museum offers an open-air experience like no other, where art seamlessly blends with nature.

Strolling through Middelheim Park, you’ll be captivated by the diverse range of sculptures on display, from classic and contemporary works to thought-provoking pieces that challenge the boundaries of art. The setting itself is an integral part of the experience, as sculptures are carefully placed amidst the park’s scenic landscapes.

Beyond the art, the Middelheim Museum frequently hosts exhibitions, events, and workshops, making it an engaging destination for all ages. Visitors can participate in guided tours to gain deeper insights into the sculptures and the artists behind them, or simply enjoy a leisurely picnic in the park’s serene surroundings.

18. Red Star Line Museum

Housed in the historic Red Star Line shipping company’s former warehouses, this museum enables visitors to step back in time to an era when Antwerp was a pivotal departure point for millions of emigrants from Europe seeking passage to North America.

Inside the museum, you’ll discover a wealth of immersive exhibits, personal stories, and authentic artifacts that vividly depict the arduous yet hopeful voyage undertaken by these travelers. The museum brings to life the entire journey, from the initial decision to leave one’s homeland to the rigorous medical and administrative processes at the Red Star Line terminal, and finally, the transatlantic voyage itself.

Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace or opt for guided tours to gain a more in-depth understanding of the historical context and individual experiences. The Red Star Line Museum not only educates but also encourages reflection on themes of migration, identity, and the universal desire for a better life so it’s sure to be interesting to most of us living in this increasingly globalised world.

19. De Koninck Brewery

Buy Tickets

Beer snobs who enjoy a Belgian ale should definitely check out Antwerp’s city brewery De Koninck, which has a popular interactive brewery tour.

De Koninck Brewery was founded in 1833 and is most famous for its flagship pale ale of the same name, but they also make other types of beers using traditional Belgian brewing methods (like open fermentation and ageing the beer in oak casks). Visitors can enjoy fancy beer and food tastings on Sundays as well as the very fun self-guided tour of the brewery any day of the week except Monday.

Of course, you can also just visit the on-site bar if all you really want to do is try their beers, without going through a tour first. The terrace is a lovely spot to relax with a drink if you’ve been doing lots of sightseeing.

20. Het Eilandje

Het Eilandje (which means The Island) is a neighborhood in Antwerp which used to be part of the main port but is now more of a hip and trendy area completely enclosed by docks. This is also where Museum aan de Stroom and the Red Star Line Museum are located.

While most visitors to Antwerp tend to stay in the Old Town area, this part of the city is gaining more popularity since it’s filled with street art, museums, cool cafés, bars and restaurants. Keep an eye out for places like De Konincklijke Snor , which means The Royal Mustache, a fun bar where a yearly award for best mustache is presented and No Worries, a cute café which does all-day breakfast.

And since this is a port city, if you’re looking for good seafood then you have to visit Fiskeskur, a ‘rock & roll fish bar’ in a glass pavilion with outdoor seating looking over the port.

21. Shopping Stadsfeestzaal

Yes, it’s a mall but it’s a ridiculously pretty one that’s all golden and majestic, a big step up from the malls I grew up with, where the most cultured thing was a Jamba Juice.

This former festival hall is a striking piece of neoclassical architecture to behold… especially when you consider much of it was destroyed in a fiery blaze in the year 2000.

Nonetheless, extensive restorations came to the rescue and today, the Shopping Stadsfeestzaal is looking just as fine as in her glory days…. except now there’s an Urban Outfitters.

22. Diamond Shopping

Finally, it has to be said: diamonds are to Antwerp as waffles are to Liège… If you haven’t had a Liège waffle before, what I’m trying to say is they’re delicious. Sorry – I meant important.

Antwerp is the undisputed diamond capital of the world, a status it has rocked for centuries, dating back to when the world’s first stock exchange was created here.

It is  said that  84% of all rough diamonds and half of all cut diamonds in the world are traded here, so yes, diamond shopping is an actual Antwerp activity that people enjoy. That said, while the Antwerp ‘Diamond District’ is often hailed as a must-see, from my own personal experience, it’s much less glamorous than it sounds, with stall after stall of not-fancy-looking jewelry shops.

But hey, if your goal is to ball out and shower yourself with diamonds, then it might be worth checking out.

Did I miss any of your favourite things to do in Antwerp?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more unique Antwerp must-dos to the list! Safe and happy travels 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Antwerp (Antwerpen/Anvers in Dutch/French) is Belgium’s second city, biggest port and capital of cool. It has long been a powerful magnet for everyone from fashion moguls and club queens to art lovers and diamond dealers. In the mid-16th century it was one of Europe’s most important cities and home to baroque superstar painter Pieter Paul Rubens – as many a museum will regularly remind you. Despite many historical travails thereafter, and severe WWII bombing, Antwerp retains an intriguing medieval heart with plenty of café-filled cobbled lanes, a riverside fortress and a truly impressive cathedral. Today, however, Antwerp’s top drawcards are its vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, along with its startling architectural and cultural contrasts.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museum Plantin-Moretus

The medieval building and 1622 courtyard garden alone would be worth a visit, but it's the world's oldest printing press, priceless manuscripts and…

This delightfully indulgent 1611 mansion was built as a home and studio for celebrated painter Pieter Paul Rubens. It was rescued from ruins in 1937 and…

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal

Belgium’s finest Gothic cathedral was 169 years in the making (1352–1521). Wherever you wander in Antwerp, its gracious, 123m-high spire has a habit of…

Museum Mayer van den Bergh

Styled as a 16th-century town house, this superb place was actually constructed in 1904 as one of the first museums in the world built around a single…

Snijder-Rockoxhuis

Combining the impressive 17th-century houses of artist Frans Snijders and of Antwerp lawyer, mayor and Rubens-patron Nicolaas Rockox, this recently…

Grote Markt

As is the case with every great Flemish city, Antwerp’s medieval heart is a classic Grote Markt (market square). Here the triangular, pedestrianised space…

In a monumental neoclassical building topped with winged charioteer statues, KMSKA holds a world-class collection of artistic masterpieces. However, the…

Opened in 2011, MAS is a 10-storey complex that redefines the idea of a museum-gallery. Floors are designed around big-idea themes using a barrage of…

Latest stories from Antwerp

Festivals & Events

Dec 13, 2019 • 1 min read

Winter in Antwerp is designed to capture the magic of the season. The addition of a fairytale forest this year hopes to enhance visitors' sense of wonder.

Jun 1, 2018 • 4 min read

Jun 1, 2018 • 5 min read

Aug 30, 2017 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Antwerp

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Antwerp with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

19 Must-Visit Attractions in Antwerp

Known as the cool kid on the block in Belgium, Antwerp combines all the charms of a historic port city with all the joys of a fashionable frontrunner. Its 20 must-visit attractions include grand artist residences, architectural masterpieces—both old and new—and a bunch of exciting museums.

2. Red Star Line Museum

Het Eilandje

Both the MAS and the Red Star Line have become large attractions in Het Eilandje , an abandoned port district until a decade ago. As the news and the excitement about the MAS project spread, coffee bars, artist ateliers and repurposed warehouses flowered to comfortably overtake Het Zuid as the hippest district in the city.

Het Eilandje, Antwerp, Belgium

Even without a specific restaurant in mind, a stroll down Het Zuid ’s terraces at dinner time has the mouth watering in seconds. Trendy restaurants and cafés dot the historic neighborhood’s wide boulevards and squares. The afternoon running up to the meal is well spent exploring the FoMu photo museum, the stately Museum of Contemporary Art, or a couple of its many art galleries.

Het Zuid, Antwerp, Belgium

3. The Port House

Vintage hunting in the Kloosterstraat

Antiques and vintage are the Kloosterstraat’s forte. Visitors will find the oldest and oddest objects in the shops lining this street, from wooden rocking horses to winged designer lamps and seas of retro chairs.

Kloosterstraat, Antwerp, Belgium

4. Cogels-Osylei

5. Rubenshuis

6. Plantin-Moretus Museum

Museum, Library

7. Park Spoor Noord

8. The Grote Markt

9. The Brabo Fountain

10. Central Station

Train Station

11. Middelheim's sculpture park

Museum, Park

Vlaeykensgang alley

Antwerp’s eminent medieval alley has to be the idyllic Vlaeykensgang. It’s a beloved spot to listen to the city’s carillons chime away during a concert and to dream about simpler times.

Vlaeykensgang, Oude Koornmarkt 16, Antwerp, Belgium

12. Cathedral of Our Lady

13. St. Anna’s Tunnel

14. City Brewery De Koninck

15. Vrijdagmarkt

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

See & Do

Things you didn't know about antwerp, belgium.

Restaurants

The best restaurants in antwerp's old town.

Places to Stay

The best hotels in antwerp old city, belgium.

KMSKA Finally Reopens – Antwerp is Back as a Top Tier European Art City

Bars & Cafes

The 10 best coffee bars in antwerp, belgium, culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1341971
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

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

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

I took the train to Antwerp, Belgium – here’s my guide to the city

In the final leg of our odyssey to celebrate 50 years of Interrail, we explore a city that’s seriously hip, but also caters for those who are just beer-curious

I s it Colin Farrell’s fault that Antwerp isn’t better known, or loved? Ever since the 2008’s In Bruges, that is the city that has cornered the market as Belgium’s quirky tourist destination, while the country’s actual coolest city flies under the radar. With a historic centre that’s a blend of picturesque streets and shopping heaven, Antwerp ought to be far better known. In size, population and cultural significance, it’s comparable to Edinburgh, and if you’re coming from London the train journey is an hour faster.

Fashion rules here, thanks to the global influence of a breakthrough group of 1980s designers that included Dries van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester. The Antwerp Six, as they became known, cemented the city’s reputation as a happening place, and their legacy manifests today in the hundreds of ateliers, outlets and concept stores among the shopfronts. Many of the streets have their own individual feel: Meir, the most famous thoroughfare, is dominated by high-street brands, Schuttershofstraat offers high-end luxury labels, while Nationalestraat and Kammenstraat are the places to go for new names and local designers, from haute couture to streetwear. The ModeMuseum (or “MoMu”) has been hosting impressive exhibitions of contemporary fashion for 20 years, with a library, bookshop and cafe that have turned it into a spiritual home for fashion students and industry professionals alike. Expect it to be an even more popular hangout when it reopens in October after a major expansion and two-year renovation.

Adjacent to the fashion district, the medieval and renaissance streets of the city centre bustle with nightlife, emanating from the Grote Markt, a square overlooked by the beautiful facades of its 16th- and 17th-century guildhalls. To the north, Europe’s second-largest seaport sits on the banks of the Scheldt river, and its docks and surrounding areas have benefited from considerable investment in the past decade, including a space-age port authority building designed by Zaha Hadid. Like most of the city, it’s an area best explored by bike rather than on foot – the distances are far more comfortable to cover on two wheels, while the trams and buses can be irregular.

There are all sorts of delights to be discovered as you venture away from the centre. In Zurenborg, for instance, is the nexus of Antwerp’s most extraordinary townhouses: fin-de-siècle mansions, built in eclectic and ever more extravagant styles, line Cogels-Osylei and Waterloostraat. Expanding ever southwards is a mix of enjoyably cosy family suburbs and hip, emerging districts such as Berchem, where the locals have taken up the habit of writing inspiring or philosophical quotes on the inside of their windows. The neighbouring “Green Quarter” is a car-free development in the grounds of a former military hospital, whose chapel is now the stunning backdrop to The Jane , chef Nick Bril’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant; in 2019 Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen transformed a nearby Augustinian convent into the August hotel.

Eat and Drink

Antwerp is a great place to visit if you’re beer-curious, and a good start is the De Koninck City Brewery . It makes the city’s popular bolleke beer, named after the goblet-style glasses it is served in, and its visitor centre is an impressive food complex where a baker, a butcher, a cheesemaker and a chocolatier all sell their wares. Within a minute’s walk are some great post-tasting dining options – head to Black Smoke for barbecue, or De Pelgrim for celebrated vol-au-vents.

Craft beers from across Belgium are on offer at the special Belgian taproom in PAKT , the Green Quarter’s hidden gem. Since 2017, food entrepreneurs and urban farmers have filled this warren of warehouses with sustainable businesses, including rooftop diner Racine and coffee roastery Caffènation . For a more traditional beer experience try Cafe Zeezicht , with its wood-panelled rooms and cool clientele. It sits on Dageraadplaats, a charming square handy for a number of neighbourhood restaurants, including the vegetarian Salt & Mint , whose Moroccan cuisine reflects Antwerp’s strong north African community.

The Schipperskwartier and Eilandje districts around Antwerp’s old port boast a buzzy nightlife, and the old town remains a popular place to eat, drink and stay out late: Fiera brings fine dining and a smart crowd to the classily restored stock exchange building, the Handelsbeurs, while at tiny brasserie Invincible diners can sit at the counter and watch the chefs assemble the wine-paired dishes – from lobster sausage to salt-crusted dorade.

Antwerp’s history as a trading town has been rich in all senses. Museums abound here and one of the best is also one of the newest: MAS – the Museum Aan de Stroom – sits in the centre of the docks like a piece of Lego in the middle of a carpet, and its cubic design contains 10 themed floors relating to the art and culture of the city. It’s the kind of place you can return to again and again, and worth the visit alone for the ride up the outward-facing escalators to the long-range view from its roof. Another must is the Rubenshuis , the 17th-century family home of Antwerp’s most famous artist, Peter Paul Rubens. There’s something compellingly transgressive about the way you’re allowed to let yourself into his historic, canvas-covered rooms, as if you’re nosing around while he’s out at the shops.

Art is a major constituent of Antwerp’s cultural capital and KMSKA – the Royal Museum of Fine Arts – whose collection covers seven centuries, will reopen in September after a considerable upgrade. Fomu , in the fashionable “Zuid” or south district, is one of the most important photography museums in Europe, exhibiting works by international names and screening films daily in its two beautiful cinemas (many in their original English). Dutch-language theatre is a popular outing for Antwerpers, and the city has its own vibrant theatre district, the Quartier Latin. In the old town, capacious jazz cafe De Muze is a staple of the music scene, and has been serving live gigs almost every evening since 1964.

Neighbourhood

It’s just over 15 minutes by bike from the town centre to Nachtegalenpark, 90 hectares (220 acres) of green space formed by the erstwhile aristocratic estates of Vogelenzang, Middelheim and Den Brandt. They’ve belonged to the city since 1910, and offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation, from peaceful walks through leafy woods or horticultural gardens to children’s play areas and sports clubs (there’s even an unexpectedly popular cricket club).

The showpiece is the Middelheim museum , an open-air sculpture park displaying more than 200 works in a stunningly varied setting. You could walk around for hours without seeing the same thing twice, stumbling across a Rodin here, a Hepworth there, and the pavilion at its centre contains thousands more artworks in its repository. Quirky postmodern pieces interact with older items, and there are numerous outbuildings dotted around the grounds including a cafe-restaurant at the and residential streets around the park contain a fascinatingly varied selection of Belgian architecture.

Where to stay

On a quiet sidestreet in the creative heart of Berchem is Yust , which opened in 2019 with the aim of being as much a community as a hotel. Its rooms, in a building that housed the city’s telephone and electrical works at the turn of the 20th century, include everything from hostel dorms to deluxe suites and long-term loft rentals, with a lobby that doubles as a co-working space and a restaurant that presents its offerings as a variety of sharing-plate set menus. A busy calendar of talks, events and hangouts encourage guests to connect with each other, and there are normal and electric bikes to rent. Dorm beds from £24, private rooms from £80

Emma John travelled on a pass provided by Interrail ; prices start at £ 155 . Her trip was provided by Visit Antwerp

• Antwerp holidays
• Interrail at 50
• Belgium holidays
• Europe holidays
• Rail travel

Most viewed