Antwerp, Belgium-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Arrive at Antwerpen Centraal station and take the tram (line 2 or 24) from the station to the city center
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the iconic Grote Markt square, surrounded by historic buildings like the City Hall (Stadhuis) and the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal)
  • 11:30 AM: Stop for a coffee and pastry at Café ’t Kelderke, a cozy spot with outdoor seating

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), a modern museum that showcases Antwerp’s history, art, and culture
  • 3:30 PM: Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the Old Town (Oude Stad) and admire the beautiful architecture

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at De Karmeliet, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving contemporary Belgian cuisine
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the lively nightlife scene in the Red Light District (Eilandje)

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel ’t Sandwijk: A 4-star hotel located near the city center, with comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere

Transportation:

  • Tram: The most efficient way to get around Antwerp is by tram. Buy a Day Pass for unlimited travel.
  • Walking: Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

Day 2: Art, Fashion, and Food

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Rubenshuis, a museum showcasing the works of Peter Paul Rubens
  • 11:30 AM: Stop for a coffee and croissant at Café De Brouwerij, a charming spot with outdoor seating

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to the Flanders Fashion Academy (FFA) to learn about Antwerp’s fashion scene
  • 3:30 PM: Visit the bustling Meir shopping street, lined with shops and cafes

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at ’t Zuid, a restaurant serving creative Belgian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the lively nightlife scene in the Zuid district.

Day 3: History, Science, and Culture

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten), which features a collection of European art from the 14th to the 20th century
  • 11:30 AM: Stop for a coffee and pastry at Café De Verloren Zoon, a cozy spot with outdoor seating

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to the Red Cross War Museum (Oorlogsmuseum), which showcases the history of World War I
  • 3:30 PM: Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a printing press and publishing house.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at De Groene Waterbuffel, a restaurant serving contemporary Belgian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • 9:00 PM: Explore the lively nightlife scene in the Groenplaats district.

Day 4: Markets and Parks

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the bustling Grote Markt square, where you can find fresh produce and flowers at the daily market
  • 11:30 AM: Stop for a coffee and pastry at Café De Brouwerij, a charming spot with outdoor seating

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to the beautiful Eilandje Park, which offers stunning views of the city skyline
  • 3:30 PM: Visit the _Antwerp Zoo**, one of the oldest zoos in Europe, which is home to over 5,000 animals.

Things to Know:

  • Language: Dutch and French are official languages, but many locals also speak English.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Tips: Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions. Consider purchasing a Day Pass for unlimited tram travel.

Additional Tips and Recommendations:

  • Don’t miss: The stunning stained-glass windows at the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal).
  • Try local specialties: Waffles, frites, and moules-frites are must-try dishes in Antwerp.
  • Explore hidden gems: Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town to discover charming cafes and shops.