Ultimate Travel Guide with 30 Things to do in Antwerp

Antwerp is a city that keeps on engaging me endlessly. In 2023 alone, I visited it eight times – WOW! I’m already planning my next trip because I love it that much. You might wonder what keeps drawing me back, so I’ve compiled my ultimate travel guide with 30 Things to Do in Antwerp for you.

A few years ago, Antwerp meant chaotic ring roads and stress-inducing traffic to me. Thankfully, living temporarily in Belgium changed my perception, allowing me to explore Antwerp thoroughly and fall deeply in love with the city.

Antwerp is exciting, but not overwhelming. Antwerp is buzzing but also values a laid-back lifestyle. It is effortlessly manicured with its neat and quaint squares and quiet neighbourhoods. One can easily get lost in its history, wandering from one cool corner to another within walking distance. 

The wealth of its historic houses rivals Brussels, and the city thrives on a rich cultural scene. Art is everywhere, not just in galleries and in the streets, but also in countless design and fashion shops. Plus, the coffee here is excellent, and the overall friendly and positive atmosphere of Antwerp is truly infectious. 

All prices and costs are correct as of March 2024.

Things to do in Antwerp: Insights

• Similar size to Leipzig, Bristol, Lyon, Vilnius
• Easy train connections to nearby Ghent, Brussels, Amsterdam and Rotterdam
• Touristic offering is constantly evolving
• Friendlier and more relaxed vibe in comparison to Brussels
• City efforts to constantly evolve and develop Antwerp
• Unique atmosphere and international feel, without being overwhelming
• Regularly recognised by international press, e.g. Micheline guide, luxury hotels ect
• Many activities in Antwerp are free. In my ultimate Things to Do in Antwerp Guide, 22 out of 30 listed activities have no cost

30 Things to do in Antwerp

While Antwerp is renowned for its jewellery trade, I believe the true gems are the numerous free activities and endless things to do that keep you coming back for more. Here are my favourites.

Arrive at Antwerp Train Station

See it, because: impressive building, setting the tone for everything to come

Commissioned in 1899 and festively inaugurated in 1905, the Antwerp Central station has become an iconic landmark of the city. Not only is its baroque-mediaeval eclecticism style captivating, its height of 75 metres and design as a cathedral contribute to the wow effect. The station obtained protected status in 1975 and was extensively restored from 1986-1998. It has won several architectural awards and the title of “most beautiful station in the world”. 

Did You Know: in 1835, the first railway connection between Brussels and Mechelen opened which was also the first train link on the European continent. This connection was extended a year later to Antwerp.

Antwerp Art Nouveau Self-Guided Walking Tour

Do it, because: free activity that takes you to areas you probably never would have explored

Antwerp’s architectural wealth is just as rich and interesting as Brussels. Horta, as well as Hankar and Couchie, were actively designing and leaving their mark on Belgium’s second largest city. It is fun to seek out these special houses and admire their creative facades and craftsmanship. Most of these are residential or institutional buildings and therefore not open to the public. The best examples are scattered around the South by the Museum of Fine Arts, or in the Zurenborg area known as the “Belle Epoque” triangle having the highest concentration of impressive art nouveau buildings.

A self-guided walking tour to Antwerp’s art nouveau houses requires some planning on your end, but fear not, I’ve already done the work and I am happy to share my route with you. Get in touch if you need more info! 

Flanere on the Meir

Do it, because: refined boulevard with quality shops and historic sights

The Meir is Antwerp’s central shopping mile, leading from the station into the heart of the city. The earliest mention of this important street dates back to 1257, when it was called Hout Mere (referring to swamp land or a small lake). Throughout the Middle Ages, the city expanded continuously, and the Meir has always been within the city walls. By 1500, Antwerp had become the largest city north of the Alps, second only to Paris with many wealthy merchants and financiers from Italy and Portugal opening shops along the Meir.

In the 18th century, wars increased commercial risks, prompting many merchants to secure their capital in real estate. This led to the construction of numerous Patrician Houses, of which only two still exist today: the Palais op de Meir and the private mansion Osterrieth House at No. 85. Much of the Meir was destroyed during World War I, and during its reconstruction, the Boeren Toren, the tallest apartment building in Europe at the time, was built.

The Meir became a pedestrian zone in the 1990s and continues to develop until today. The city is actively seeking to redesign the iconic boulevard with architects invited to submit their ideas until the end of the year, and execution planned for 2027.

Top Tip: one of my favourite street performers is a young lad playing the piano outside the Stadsfeestzaal. You can also follow him on IG, Andreas Clemens Music.

Feel the Grandeur of Stadsfeestzaal

See it, because: it is a grand building of Antwerp’s past exuding style and luxury

Alexis van Mechelen designed the Stadsfeestzaal as an exhibition and events venue at the end of the 19th century, and it opened in 1908. The building was listed as a national heritage in 1983. In the early 2000s, plans for redesigning the Stadsfeestzaal into a shopping mall began, but a devastating fire hindered and complicated the process, leaving only the monumental staircases, historic façade, and steel roof structure intact. A lengthy permit application process delayed the property’s revival further. Workers carefully restored the building within three years, spending half of the time on applying the gold pleating. During renovations, whale bones were discovered in the former vaults. Today, the Stadsfeestzaal stands as the pride of the city, attracting 6.5 million visitors per year.

Rubens House

Visit it, because: Rubens is Antwerp’s most famous local and his works are an integral part of Flemish culture

Baroque grandmaster Paul Peter Rubens was born in Antwerp in 1577 and spent most of his childhood living at No 54 on The Meir. After his studies in Italy, he returned to Antwerp in 1608 and bought a handsome property in a quiet side street not far from his original home. The new residence in Hopland 13 became his home and main workshop. The Rubens House is one of the top things to do in Antwerp and currently undergoes major reconstruction. New highlights include a restoration of the historic gardens, his residential building as well as a brand new Rubens experience, all to open in August 2024.

Stock Exchange, Handelsbeurs

See it, because: another iconic historic building on the Meir, which can take you back in time

In 1531, the Stock Exchange replaced the old exchange on Hofstraat. Antwerp architect Domien De Waghemakere (1460-1542) designed the building, which burned down twice, in 1583 and 1858. After the second fire, the city rebuilt the Stock Exchange, or Handelsbeurs, in an opulent neo-Gothic style. Known as “the mother of all stock exchanges in the world,” the Antwerp bourse served as a model for those in London, Paris, and New York.

The stock exchange sits in a small alleyway on the Meir, but it is not well signposted, hence why you can easily miss it. Keep an eye out for the entrance between Hunkemöller and Bell Chicken, right by the Meir Metro Station.

Notice the Hand Reference (Primark Statue)

See it , because: recurring ties to Antwerp’s name and identity

While walking around the Old Town, you may notice a recurring theme of a right hand. This hand is a significant symbol of Antwerp, deeply tied to its name and identity. According to legend, the city’s foundation story involves the Roman Silvio Brabo who defeated the greedy giant Druon Antigoon. The giant controlled the river Scheldt and charged exorbitant fees for anyone wanting to enter the city, cutting off the hands of those who refused to pay. One day, Brabo challenged the giant, cut off his hand, and threw it into the river. This act led to the name “Antwerpen,” derived from the Germanic phrase “Hand werfen” (hand throwing) in Flemish (Dutch). 

Hand biscuits are still a popular souvenir for tourists and often served with your coffee. Unfortunately, due to commercial reasons, you cannot buy an original cookie cutter but I found a 3D design similar to the Antwerp hand. 

Grote Markt & Brabo Fountain

See it, because: Grote Markt is the beating heart of the city

Grote Markt is home to the Town Hall and the Brabo Fountain, which commemorates Antwerp’s legendary origin. The square is as just as impressive as the Grote Markt in Brussels, surrounded by striking guild houses. However, these guild houses are not 100% authentic as they aren’t historic originals; the 18th-century expansion plans for the market square led to their demolition. The current buildings are 19th-century reconstructions in neo-Renaissance and Gothic styles. Despite this, traditional Antwerpian architecture and elements from the Middle Ages are still prevalent throughout the city centre, and I will be sure to share these with you. 

Top Tip: You can visit the Town Hall on a guided tour. Dates are not regularly and best to book in advance of your visit to Antwerp.

Find the Oldest Residential House in Antwerp

See it, because: it is a quirky thing to do in Antwerp

The oldest residential house of the city is in Stoelstraat. Built around 1480 it is the last example of a quintessential mediaeval Antwerpian house. It survived six wars and 500 years of urban planning. Today, it is in private hands and still used as a residence.

Dine out in a Historic Setting at Bateau Perdu

Do it, because: this cosy restaurant delivers top quality in a historic setting

Antwerp is a gastronomic hotspot with more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than Copenhagen or Lyon. The city has an extensive fine dining scene and hosts regular culinary award ceremonies, securing the attention of the international food elite. It’s also remarkable that Antwerp is one of the most affordable cities in Europe in which to enjoy a Michelin-starred meal. 

Whilst I haven’t dined at one of the 17 Michelin restaurants yet, my go-to place in Antwerp comes very close with its high quality food, gorgeous ambience and attentive service.

Bateau Perdu is a local restaurant in an atmospheric setting typical of Antwerp. The owners are lovely and welcoming, making sure the highest quality is served to you at their charming restaurant. None of my visits were complete without having dined here. I can highly recommend the filling sandwiches as well as the pasta. All meals are fresh, innovative and tasty. There is no rush and you can enjoy your meal for as long as you please. For dessert I recommend choosing the warm apple pie with a scoop of ice cream.

Visit The Nottebohm Zaal

See it, because: this is an underrated thing to do in Antwerp that not many visitors know of 

Antwerp’s best-kept secret is the Nottebohm Zaal, a historic part of the Hendrik Conscience Heritage library from 1936 that houses 150,000 books. It is named after Oscar Nottebohm, an Antwerpian patron of the arts from a wealthy German merchant family who gifted the library to the city. Today it remains well-preserved with support from Nottebohm’s descendants. The library is usually only open during exhibitions, but has extended summer openings, which makes it the best time to see it. There are guided tours but these are aimed at larger groups rather than for individuals. The tourist information at Het Steen, however, has some comprehensive material on The Nottebohm Zaal. 

For 2024, the Nottebohm Zaal opens its doors to individual explorers and can be visited daily until 15th September.

Did You Know? Nottebohm also contributed the Brabos statue to the city of Antwerp. For more German ties and links to Antwerp, I can highly recommend the free self-guided walking tour “The German Quarter of Antwerp” available on the izi travel app.

Cry at the Nello & Patrasch Story

See it, because: a moving children’s story with worldwide recognition

The story of Nello and Patrasche, originating from the 1872 novel “A Dog of Flanders” by British author Marie Louise de la Ramée (pen name “Ouida”), has become a cherished tale, especially in Belgium and Japan. It tells the heart-breaking story of the friendship between orphan Nello and his faithful dog Patrasch who navigate the difficulties of life together and seek shelter at the Church of our Lady on Christmas eve. Not giving away too much but I urge you to explore this Antwerpian story and immerse yourself into its comic book adaptation. 

The comic book makes for a special souvenir and is available at the Tourist Information (Het Steen) or at BaiAntwerp on Hoogstraat. Costs: 25€

Travel back in Time in Vlaaikensgang

See it, because: Antwerp’s only historic alleyway from 1600

The Vlaaikensgang, dating back to 1591, is the oldest part of the city. This atmospheric narrow alleyway lies between 11 back houses and was originally occupied by the Rockox family. It later became a neighbourhood for the poor and local shoemakers. In the 1960s, there were plans to demolish the Vlaaikensgang to make room for inner-city parking. Fortunately, a young antique dealer purchased the alleyway, ensuring its preservation.

Today, the Vlaaikensgang offers a peaceful escape from the lively Old Town. A notable feature is the medieval “Drunk Man’s Lock,” a V-shaped metal guide around the keyhole, allowing inebriated homeowners to easily insert their keys even in the dark.

Don’t Skip Het Steen

See it, because: Het Steen is the oldest building in Antwerp and the Tourist Info is good, too

Visit the Tourist Information located at Antwerp’s oldest building, the castle Het Steen. The castle dates back to the 9th century and is now used as a tourist centre with an events & exhibition space and a free viewing platform (don’t expect too much). The staff are knowledgeable locals who are interested in bringing their city closer to visitors, beyond selling tours. I was impressed by the comprehensive information provided on all of my niche travel topics plus local recommendations. Their souvenir offering is also of good quality with all of their books sold wrapped in foil. 

Red Star Line Museum

See it, because: a moving exhibition and well-curated museum 

Emmigration was a profound part of European history from 1815 to 1940. More than 60 million people left Europe to travel to America, hoping for a better life. Antwerp was one of the busiest ports that processed migrants and sent them to the US. 

The Red Star Line was one of the many shipping lines that operated ocean steam liners across the Atlantic and provided a direct passage to New York and Philadelphia. The migrants, usually from Eastern Europe, travelled on the Via Regia to Antwerp. At the Red Star Line warehouse, the passengers, mostly from steerage (3rd class) would undergo several extensive health and safety checks before boarding a ship. Today, the warehouse is a converted museum that pays tribute to these passengers. 

This experience is well-curated and fascinating. The authentic stories of migrants range from all societal classes and even include familiar faces, such as Albert Einstein. Many artefacts are on display to showcase the procedure migrants had to go through when they arrived at the control station in Antwerp. Original glass & tableware, reconstructions of onboard cabins, promotional posters or original suitcases bring this mass movement of the 19th century alive. 

See Local Art & Edvard Munch at Museum de Reede

See it, because: interesting paintings from international and local artists 

The museum secured one of the 50 lithographs of Munch’s famous “The Scream” and has this masterpiece on permanent display. Keep in mind this is a lithograph version of the well-known painting with the actual work on display in Oslo. Other pieces in the Munch collection include some of his earlier works which were partially very disturbing and do hint that Munch was potentially problematic and misogynistic.  

There are also local Flemish artists on display in a rotating exhibition. Their intense work was captivating and I loved discovering new artists. 

Adult ticket: 15€

Cross the Sint-Annatunnel

See it, because: free activity to enjoy another historic part of the town

Similar to the Greenwich foot tunnel and the Elbtunnel in Hamburg, Antwerp has a passageway under the river Scheldt. The exquisite art deco design from 1933 features the 8 original wooden escalators still intact. The city decided to build a tunnel underneath the river to avoid hindering the busy traffic. The tunnel lies 32 metres under the river and covers a length of 572 metres. Still an important link between the left and right embankment of the city for foot passengers and cyclists, a record of 300,000 lift trips were recorded in summer 2023. Another highlight of the tunnel are the six restored frescoes which briefly vanished in the 1990’s and now celebrate a comeback. These colourful heritage works depict Neptune, mermaids and old-skool advertising. 

Drink Quality Coffee

Do it, because: coffee

Antwerp is well-known for its “brown cafés” named after the cigarette smoke in cafes which stained the walls brown. A classic example is Den Engel Café which comes closest to the definition of a traditional European coffee house. It’s important to note that in Belgium, cafés are often synonymous with beer bars, distinguishing them from coffee-focused establishments. Personally, I prefer modern cafés over the traditional brown ones, as the latter tend to have a strong pub-like ambiance that doesn’t quite match my style. 

Most of the popular modern cafes tend to be very small and are often really busy. Bigger spaces are usually found in local chains such as Lloyds and Izy. There is also an annual coffee week celebration in late March/April with several events and a loyalty card programme of participating cafes. 

Count around 3.80€ for a cappuccino, brunch is yet to be explored.

READ MORE: Quick Guide to the Antwerp Coffee Culture

Find the Camino

Do it, because: you can start a pilgrimage from anywhere in Europe

Starting a pilgrimage in Belgium is very easy, since many of the country’s cities are connected to the Camino network. Antwerp lies on the Via Brabantica route and has a short stretch running through the city centre. Find the first way marker outside Saint James’s Church (Ruben’s burial site) and follow it to The Cathedral of Our Lady. Another way marker is just near Vlasmarkt and pilgrims can stay the night at St Julian’s hospital at Sint-Jansvliet 25. 

For more information, have a look at The Flemish Compostela Society and don’t forget to fetch your stamp at The Tourist Information (Het Steen). 

Explore The Cathedral of our Lady

See it, because: it is an iconic Antwerpian landmark and free to visit with your Compostela

The Cathedral of our Lady is an iconic Antwerpian landmark and not to be missed. Entrance to the cathedral is around 9€, but free with your Compostela. The Gothic cathedral is the largest church in Belgium and displays several artworks by Rubens. Its belfry is listed amongst the UNESCO certified collection of Belgian and French Belfries and can be climbed during a guided tour. The tour needs to be booked in advance and upon request. 

Find the Leipzig Connection

Do it, because: wherever you are in the world there will always be a link to Leipzig

I found the connection at the Red Star Line museum. Most immigrants came to Antwerp from East Europe. To cross the continent they used the Via Regia route, which starts in Germany in Görlitz and then proceeds via Leipzig. Some of the emigrants used the train and were separated from regular passengers. In Leipzig, the emigrants were checked and registered again.  

Another tie between Antwerp and Leipzig can be found at Plantin’s printing press. Plantin traded often in Germany, and Leipzig was already a well established and reputable book trading city in the 16th century, so of course, Plantin would be there, too.

Try out Plantin’s Printing Press

See it, because: Plantin was a modern entrepreneur and very ahead of his time

Around 1550, Christophe Plantin, a bookbinder and local printer, established his Officina Plantiniana in Antwerp. This marked the beginning of a family and company legacy that would endure for three centuries. By 1570, his printing house, equipped with 16 presses and employing over fifty workers, had become the world’s largest printing business supplying mostly bible translations, maps and encyclopaedias all over Europe including the book fairs in Frankfurt and Leipzig. Plantin commissioned the creation of typefaces that are still widely used today, including the renowned “Garamond”. What makes this legacy even more remarkable is that visitors can still explore Plantin’s original print house, now part of the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. His former second printing press in Leiden does no longer exist.

Adult ticket 12€

Stroll along at The Harbour and Het Eilandje

Do it, because: this is a quiet, modern neighbourhood and The Harbour has more interesting sights to see

The Harbour has been an integral part in shaping Antwerp’s reputation and history since the 16th century. And whilst I’m not too much into ships and ports, I have to admit, the area north of the centre is actually quite nice to explore. Not only will you find the Red Star Line Museum here, but on the other side is a newly developed neighbourhood called Het Eilandje. Its neat streets have new residential builds and cafes. There are quiet side streets and canals to explore, or enjoy the view from the top of the MAS. The Felixpakhuis, a former coffee storage, lies near the idyllic marina. Further north is Antwerp’s latest ultra-modern events venue, De Ark. This is one of the areas you want to get lost in. 

Enjoy a Music Gig at Trix

Do it, because: it’ll make you feel like a local

This is a personal experience which I have fond memories of. During my brief residency in Belgium, I went to a few gigs in Antwerp and Trix always delivered. It is a really cool venue, a bit outside of the centre, but nevertheless a fantastic spot to create long lasting core memories.

Go window-shopping in the Design & Fashion District

Do it, because: find unique pieces and be inspired by Antwerpian creativity

Antwerp offers much more than just diamonds and its port. For decades, the city has been a hub for artists and designers. The fashion sector is known as the birthplace of the “Antwerp Six,” a group of innovative designers who emerged in the 1980s, gaining instant international acclaim for their pioneering and avant-garde creations. The Antwerp Six include designers such as Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, and Dirk Bikkembergs. All have had a profound impact on the fashion industry both in Belgium and internationally. Dries Van Noten recently gave his last fashion show, so this iconic brand will soon ascend even more into the high ranks of the fashion Olymp.

Since Antwerp has such a well-preserved Old Town with many characterful buildings, hunting through the various local stores is pure joy. Top addresses when looking for highly unique pieces and creative designs are Espoo & t’ Koetshuis in Kloosterstraat, Matriks in Museumstraat and several concept stores in Hoogstraat, which sell jewellery by local brand Splash. I also loved mo.ment on Kammenstraat.

Did You Know Van Gogh was Here, too?

See it, because: it’s a random part of Antwerpian history

You may notice a familiar view of Antwerp in some of Van Gogh’s earlier work. He indeed visited and lived in the city for a very brief period. In 1885 he arrived with the hope to study art at the art academy and sell his works in town. He created a total of seven paintings and numerous drawings. Unfortunately, his stay was not as fruitful as expected and he moved on to Paris a year later. 

Today, you can embark on a self-guided Van Gogh route across town and visit all the stations that link to the painter, including Het Steen and his lodgings in Laange Beeldekensstraat 224.  

Buy some Antwerpian Souvenirs

Do it, because: why not?

Antwerp has a wonderful selection of really cool souvenirs. Not only will you find something unique in the design district, but you could also take home a copy of the Nello & Patrasche story in comic book form, a Belgian classic in itself. The Tourist Information is a good spot for buying souvenirs as all of their books are sold in foil and they also have the gin & amaretto bottles of MV Antwerpia, which are a copy of the Train Station. I also really like my Antwerp train station lighthouse from Kähler (found at the Matriks design shop) or my Splash Antwerp jewellery. The bookstore Baiantwerp on Hoogstraat is another top address for souvenirs and sells mostly local literature in Dutch & English, as well as postcards, puzzles and art prints.

Of course, you can also take home a packet of Antwerpian hand cookies from Leonidas.

Relax at Plantentuin

Do it, because: this is a tranquil garden for a much needed break

Plantentuin is one of the rare green spots in the city centre, offering visitors a small yet tranquil oasis beautifully designed as an herbal garden. It was created by Pharmacist Peter van Coudenberghe (1517-1599) to supply the nearby St. Elisabeth Hospital with fresh herbs used for traditional medicine. Today, the garden’s collection includes over 600 different plant species and counts over 2,000 individual herbs. All of them are legally protected. The space is further adorned by a greenhouse filled with cacti and exotic plants, a small pond, and several art installations. Find its entrance on Leopoldstraat.

Antwerp’s City History at MAS & Free Rooftop Views

See it, because: the building is welcoming with free exhibition spaces and rooftop

The largest museum in town, the MAS (Museum aan de Strom) is a top thing to do in Antwerp, as it offers a unique experience to visitors. Its exhibition space highlights the city development and port history, whilst the outside is an architectural delight. On site of a former 16th-century warehouse, the exterior resembles that of a port storage house, while its modern, wave-shaped windows evoke the design of Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie. Note the 3,000 integrated hand medallions throughout the building, which link to Antwerp’s hand legend.

Inside, the main exhibition space spans over 8 levels and is mainly free to visit. Some other levels have rotating special interest exhibitions on display and cost separately.

The rooftop allows for uninterrupted 360-degree views over the city. 

Adult tickets for the special interest exhibition are 8€

Come back for the Magical Christmas Markets

Do it, because: the markets are magical and better than Brussels

The Christmas Markets start on the first of Advent, which usually falls on the last weekend of November. The city is beautifully decorated with thousands of lights from the train station, leading up the Meir to Groenplaats. The main market, located outside the town hall and Brabo’s fountain, has several chalets selling gifts, food, and hot drinks. The festive atmosphere is lively and well-visited, but never so busy that it gets frustrating. It extends to many nearby alleys adorned with lights to smaller squares and individual chalets. The stalls around Hendrik Conscienceplein are particularly quaint. Even though it is not part of the official Christmas Market mile, I also really enjoyed the decorations around the Plantin-Moretus Huis.

Things to Do in Antwerp which You can avoid

Activities and Things to do in Antwerp, which I do not recommend: Antwerp is first and foremost known for its Diamond trade and jewellery quarter. The actual diamond district lies next to the Train Station, with De Rijfstraat, Hoveniersstraat, and Schupstraat forming the core of the district. The diamond dealers in Vestingstraat and Lange Herentalsstraat cater more to tourists. 

You’ll find the DIVA museum by the City Hall at Grote Markt, and it is often promoted heavily as THE top thing to do in Antwerp for tourists. I found the exhibition underwhelming and not well curated. The core of the collection are various valuable artefacts adorned with gems, but the actual history part of the diamond trade comes near at the end, by then you’ll be oversaturated from the glitz and shine. I wasn’t impressed.  

Usually, I also include day trips in my travel guides, but to be honest Antwerp has so much to offer, you won’t feel the need to leave. 

Making of “30 Things to Do in Antwerp”

• Visited Antwerp frequently at my own expense
• Tried out several activities, some of them over and over again to make adequate recommendations
• Created my own content based on experiences onsite
• Paid for experiences at my own expense

FAQs on 30 Things to Do in Antwerp

I understand this is quite a lengthy post, and you may have some quick questions about my ultimate 30 Things to do in Antwerp guide. You can, of course, always come back to any section of my post and read in more detail what you’d need for your trip. If you have questions or need help, please get in touch and I’m happy to assist.

Is Antwerp worth visiting?

A clear yes. Antwerp is a top destination if you value design, love art and food. Even though many international travel magazines recognise Antwerp’s well-kept appearance and laid-back character, I feel it flies under the radar when it comes to European city breaks. The cultural offering of things to do in Antwerp is endless and will keep you engaged for days.

How many days should I stay in Antwerp?

For a first time visit, I can highly recommend 3 to 4 days in Antwerp. The city is a delight to return for longer stays, depending on your interests and compatibility.

Is Antwerp solo travel-friendly?

Antwerp is safe and a top destination for solo travellers. The young population with its laid-back character welcomes all internationals with a friendly smile, I never got harassed here or been excluded as a solo diner. It is not as couple-focused as Brussels.

Thanks so much for reading. If you’ve enjoyed my ultimate 30 Things to do in Antwerp guide and would like to support my blog & research, you can do so via Buy Me a Coffee.

Till next time,

Carolin

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