Antwerp-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Antwerp International Airport (ANR) or Brussels National Airport (BRU)
  • Take a taxi or train to the city center (~30-40 minutes)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Grote Markt, one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful squares
    • Admire the stunning cathedral, Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Kathedraal (Cathedral of Our Lady)
  • Walk to the nearby Brabo Fountain, a beautiful 16th-century fountain

Evening

  • Head to the trendy neighborhood of Eilandje
    • Enjoy dinner at ‘T Goudblom (restaurant), serving Belgian cuisine
  • Explore the lively streets and bars, such as De Komedie

Accommodation

  • Stay at Hotel Rubens-Gleydans, a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Antwerp

Transportation

  • Use the public transportation system, including trams and buses
    • Buy a Day Pass (~€7) for unlimited travel within the city

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds on weekends and during events
  • Don’t miss the beautiful architecture and historic buildings throughout the city!

Day 2: Museums and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century
    • Admire works by artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Monet
  • Head to the nearby Cathedral Museum (Museum KANAL)

Afternoon

  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of Kattendijkdok, a former industrial area turned into an art district
    • Visit the Red Star Line Museum

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at De Groot (restaurant), serving creative Belgian cuisine
  • Head to the Stam bar, known for its extensive selection of craft beers

Things to Know

  • Be respectful when visiting churches and museums; dress modestly and avoid flash photography
  • Don’t forget to try some delicious Belgian waffles!

Day 3: Shopping and Markets

Morning

  • Visit the Meir, Antwerp’s main shopping street, lined with high-end boutiques and department stores
    • Look for discounts and sales at local shops
  • Head to the nearby Korte Nieuwstraat, a charming shopping street filled with unique boutiques

Afternoon

  • Explore the bustling Vleminckx market, offering fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs
  • Visit the Groenplaats flea market (Sundays only)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at De Vriendin (restaurant), serving traditional Belgian cuisine
  • Head to the lively neighborhood of Het Eilandje, known for its bars and clubs

Day 4: History and Architecture

Morning

  • Visit the stunning Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Kathedraal (Cathedral of Our Lady)
    • Admire the intricate stone carvings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and impressive tower
  • Explore the nearby St. Paul’s Church, a charming 16th-century church

Afternoon

  • Visit the House of Rubens, dedicated to the life and work of Peter Paul Rubens
    • Admire his famous paintings and learn about his impact on Antwerp’s art scene

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at ‘T Schipperske (restaurant), serving seafood cuisine with a view of the harbor
  • Explore the historic neighborhood of Steenenhoek

Day 5: Day Trip to Ghent

Transportation

  • Take a train from Antwerp’s Centraal Station to Ghent’s St. Pieters Station (~1 hour)
    • Use the public transportation system or buy a Day Pass for unlimited travel

Morning

  • Visit the stunning St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece
    • Admire the intricate stone carvings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and impressive tower

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming streets of Ghent’s Historic Center
    • Visit the iconic Gravensteen Castle

Evening

  • Return to Antwerp by train (~1 hour)

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend some time exploring a local market or shopping street
  • Visit any last-minute attractions, such as the Red Star Line Museum

Transportation

  • Take a taxi or train back to the airport for your departure flight