Antwerp, Belgium-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Monday

Morning

9:00 AM - Arrival and Check-in

  • Arrive at Antwerp International Airport (ANR) or by train at Antwerpen Centraal station.
  • Check-in at a hotel in the city center, such as:
    • Hotel O Kathmandu (budget-friendly)
    • Hotel ’t Sand (mid-range)
    • Grand Hotel De Diamant (luxury)

10:00 AM - Grote Markt and Town Hall

  • Start your day at the beautiful Grote Markt, a historic square lined with picturesque buildings, cafes, and street performers.
  • Visit the stunning Antwerp City Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Afternoon

12:30 PM - Lunch

  • Grab lunch at one of the many local eateries in the city center. Try:
    • De Koninck: traditional Belgian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
    • De Groene Poort: delicious sandwiches and salads in a cozy atmosphere.

1:30 PM - Cathedral of Our Lady

  • Visit the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in Europe. Admire its stunning stained-glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and imposing bell tower.

Evening

6:00 PM - Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, such as:
    • De Librije: contemporary Belgian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
    • De Karmeliet: refined French-Belgian cuisine in an elegant setting.

8:00 PM - Explore the City

  • Take a stroll along the picturesque Scheldt River, which runs through the heart of Antwerp.
  • Visit the charming Korte Nieuwstraat and Steenhouwersdriesstraat, two lively shopping streets lined with local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.

Day 2: Tuesday

Morning

9:00 AM - Diamond District

  • Start your day in the world-famous Diamond District, where you can:
    • Visit the stunning Central Station, a beautiful example of Belgian Art Nouveau architecture.
    • Explore the many diamond shops, museums, and exhibitions.

11:30 AM - Lunch

  • Take a break for lunch at a local eatery in the Diamond District. Try:
    • The Diamond Museum: offers delicious meals and snacks amidst its impressive collection of diamonds and jewelry.

Afternoon

1:00 PM - Antwerp Zoo

  • Visit the historic Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Home to over 3,000 animals from around the world.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens on site.

Evening

6:00 PM - Farewell Dinner

  • Enjoy your final dinner in Antwerp at a cozy local restaurant, such as:
    • The Beer Cafe: serves an impressive selection of Belgian beers alongside delicious pub grub.
    • De Schuttershof: offers traditional Belgian cuisine in a charming atmosphere.

8:00 PM - Departure

  • Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city before departing for the airport or train station.

Transportation

  • Antwerp International Airport (ANR) is located about 5 km from the city center.
  • The city has an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses. A single ticket costs around €2.
  • You can also rent a bike to explore the city.

Tips and Essentials

  • Be sure to try some of Belgium’s famous waffles or chocolates!
  • Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic views.
  • If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the beautiful flowers and blooming trees along the Scheldt River.
  • Learn a few basic Dutch phrases to show respect for the local culture.

Additional Information

  • Weather: Antwerp has a temperate climate with moderate temperatures throughout the year. Summer months (June-August) are usually warm and sunny, while winter months (December-February) can be cool and wet.
  • Language: While Dutch is the official language, many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency of Belgium.

Enjoy your trip to Antwerp!