The best tips for Belgium |  Plan your Belgium trip

Antwerp: A Gem of Art, History, and Diamonds

LBM1948, Amberes; vistas MAS 2, CC BY-SA 4.0
small photo of the author of the site
Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Antwerp? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Antwerp.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Belgium, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Belgium here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Antwerp is a vibrant city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously. Visitors can expect to encounter a rich tapestry of cultural influences reflected in its architecture, art, and traditions. The city has a storied past as a major port and center of trade, which has shaped its diverse cultural landscape. From medieval streets to contemporary art scenes, Antwerp offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Rubens House, Antwerp: ⭐ The former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, now a museum dedicated to his life and work, showcasing his paintings and personal items. Distance in km: 0.49
2. Antwerp Central Station: ⭐ ⭐ Considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, this stunning piece of architecture is a must-see for its intricate details and grandeur. Distance in km: 0.55
3. The Antwerp Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in the world, offering a mix of historic architecture with modern exhibits for over 7,000 animals. Distance in km: 0.72
4. Cathedral of Our Lady: This stunning Gothic cathedral houses several masterpieces by the famous artist Peter Paul Rubens and offers breathtaking views of the city from its tower. Distance in km: 0.94
5. Historic Old Town: The charming old town of Antwerp is a treasure trove of historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes, perfect for exploring on foot and soaking in the city's timeless atmosphere. Distance in km: 0.98
6. The Grote Markt of Antwerp: The main square in Antwerp, surrounded by the Town Hall and beautiful guildhalls. It's a vibrant place of historical significance. Distance in km: 1.06
7. The Plantin-Moretus Museum, Antwerp, UNESCO World Heritage: A printing museum focused on the work of the 16th-century printers Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Distance in km: 1.2
8. The Museum Aan de Stroom (MAS), Antwerp: A museum located along the river in Antwerp, focusing on the city, the river, and the port. Its building is an architectural landmark. Distance in km: 1.23
9. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Antwerp: Home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Distance in km: 1.9
10. Rivierenhof Park: A picturesque park with lakes, gardens, and woodlands, offering a serene escape from the city and ideal for outdoor activities. Distance in km: 3.91
11. Middelheim Park: A peaceful sculpture park with a vast collection of outdoor art, surrounded by lush greenery and perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Distance in km: 4.36
12. The Fort of Breendonk: A military fortification used as a concentration camp during World War II. Today, it serves as a national memorial and museum. Distance in km: 18.94
13. Atomium, Brussels: ⭐ ⭐ An iconic building and museum shaped like a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It provides panoramic views of Brussels. Distance in km: 36.55
14. The Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion, Brussels: Part of the Royal Greenhouses, these exotic buildings reflect King Leopold II's fascination with the Far East, showcasing collections of Chinese and Japanese art. Distance in km: 36.59
15. Mini-Europe, Brussels: ⭐ An outdoor miniature park located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini-Europe features reproductions of monuments in the European Union on a scale of 1:25. Distance in km: 36.66
16. Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: ⭐ ⭐ A vast complex of monumental heated greenhouses in the park of the Royal Castle of Laeken, showcasing a wide variety of plants and flowers. Distance in km: 36.85
17. The Comics Art Museum, Brussels: Dedicated to Belgian comics, it showcases the history of comic strips and its famous characters like Tintin and The Smurfs. Distance in km: 41.25
18. The St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, Brussels: A Roman Catholic church in Gothic style, serving as the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels. Distance in km: 41.59
19. Grand Place, Brussels, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ Known for its remarkable architecture, including the Town Hall and the King's House. The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and hosts numerous events and floral displays. Distance in km: 41.8
20. Horta Museum, Brussels, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ Dedicated to the work of the architect Victor Horta, this museum is housed in his former home and studio, showcasing Art Nouveau design. Distance in km: 41.8
21. Manneken Pis, Brussels: ⭐ A famous small bronze sculpture depicting a naked little boy urinating into a fountain's basin. It is a symbol of the city's irreverent spirit. Distance in km: 41.98
22. The Royal Palace of Brussels: ⭐ The official palace of the King and Queen of the Belgians in the center of the nation's capital, not to be confused with the royal family's residence. Distance in km: 42.23
23. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: Located in Brussels, this group of art museums includes the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Magritte Museum, Wiertz Museum, and Meunier Museum. Distance in km: 42.3
24. The Autoworld Museum, Brussels: A vintage car museum housed in the Cinquantenaire Park, showcasing over 250 vehicles from various time periods. Distance in km: 42.39
25. The Royal Conservatory of Brussels: A prestigious music and drama school offering performances in an elegant 19th-century building. Distance in km: 42.6
26. The Museum of Natural Sciences, Brussels: Famous for its Gallery of Evolution, Dinosaur Gallery, and collections of natural history. Distance in km: 42.75
27. The Museum of Ixelles: Located in Brussels, this museum features a rich collection of Belgian and international art, including works by the Impressionists. Distance in km: 43.32
28. The Halle Gate, Brussels: A medieval fortified city gate of Brussels. It is the last remaining gate of the second walls of Brussels, serving now as a museum. Distance in km: 43.35
29. The Royal Museum for Central Africa, Tervuren: A museum focusing on the Congo, a former Belgian colony. Its exhibits cover African culture, art, history, and natural science. Distance in km: 43.9

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Antwerp offers a harmonious blend of urban life and tranquil retreats, providing visitors with a variety of options to unwind. The city is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, yet it also boasts numerous green spaces and serene spots where one can escape the hustle and bustle. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls, meditative environments, or wellness experiences, Antwerp caters to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

1. Antwerp Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in the world, located in the heart of Antwerp.

Antwerp Zoo, established in 1843, is a historic and beautifully landscaped zoo offering visitors a chance to see a wide variety of animals in a lush, green setting. The zoo features over 5,000 animals and 950 species, including elephants, lions, and gorillas. It also has beautiful gardens and historic architecture, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture.

Type: green_area | Fee: 25 EUR for adults
2. Stadspark: A tranquil city park with a pond and walking paths.

Stadspark is a peaceful green oasis in the bustling city of Antwerp. It features a large pond, winding walking paths, and plenty of benches to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The park is ideal for picnics, leisurely strolls, and bird watching. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to unwind and enjoy nature.

Type: park | Fee: free
3. Middelheim Park: A unique open-air sculpture museum set in a beautiful park.

Middelheim Park is not only a lush green space but also an open-air museum featuring an impressive collection of modern and contemporary sculptures. Visitors can enjoy the serene park environment while exploring artworks by renowned artists. The park is perfect for art lovers and those looking to enjoy a cultural experience in a natural setting.

Type: park | Fee: free
4. Rivierenhof: A large park offering a variety of recreational activities.

Rivierenhof is a vast park located just outside the city center of Antwerp. It offers a wide range of activities including walking, cycling, and fishing. The park is home to beautiful gardens, a lake, and even an open-air theater. It's a great place for families and nature enthusiasts to explore and enjoy a day out.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Botanical Garden: A small but charming botanical garden in the city center.

The Botanical Garden of Antwerp, also known as Den Botaniek, is a small yet delightful garden located in the heart of the city. It features a diverse collection of plants, herbs, and trees, offering a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle. The garden is perfect for a quiet walk or a moment of relaxation amidst the greenery.

Type: garden | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Toeristische Dienst - Visit Antwerpen

Tourist information center

Address: Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
2. Visit Antwerpen

Tourist information center

Address: Koningin Astridplein 27, 2018 Antwerpen, Belgium
3. Antwerpgids

Tourist information center

Address: Belgiƫ, Grote Markt, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
4. Antwerp Guides

Tourist information center

Address: Kleine Beer Straat 7, 2018 Antwerpen, Belgium

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Antwerp?

Antwerp is a city where getting around is quite convenient due to its compact size and well-organized infrastructure. Walking is a popular choice in the city center, where many streets are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transportation, including buses and trams, is efficient and covers most areas of the city, providing a reliable way to travel longer distances. Cycling is also a favored mode of transport, with numerous bike lanes and cycling paths available.

The heart of Antwerp features pedestrian-only zones, particularly around the historic center, allowing for leisurely exploration without the hassle of traffic. The city's public transportation is managed by De Lijn, offering an extensive network of buses and trams. Tickets can be purchased via mobile apps or at kiosks. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. For cyclists, Antwerp offers Velo, a bike-sharing program with stations throughout the city, making it easy to rent and return bicycles. When cycling, be mindful of dedicated bike lanes and always lock your bike securely. Additionally, Antwerp's central train station connects to other major cities, making it a convenient hub for regional travel.