Antwerp, Belgium-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the City

  • Morning: Arrive at Antwerp International Airport or take a train from Brussels to Antwerp Centraal Station. Check-in to your hotel or hostel.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Grote Markt, the historic heart of Antwerp. Admire the stunning Town Hall and the iconic Brabo’s Statue.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at ‘T Eetcaest, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Flemish cuisine. Try their famous waterzooi (chicken stew).
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the surrounding streets, including the picturesque Steenplein and the quiet shopping street of Kammenstraat.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Karmeliet, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative Belgian cuisine.

Day 2: Antwerp’s Iconic Museums and Architecture

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal), one of the largest Gothic churches in the world. Don’t miss the stunning interior and climb to the top for panoramic views.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), a contemporary art museum housed in an impressive building designed by architects Smets & Van Dijck.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Café De Wereld, a lively café serving international cuisine and delicious sandwiches.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the printing press and bookbinding history of the famous Plantin family.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Het Gasthuys, a cozy restaurant serving seasonal Belgian cuisine.

Day 3: Fashion, Diamonds, and Parks

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the ModeMuseum (FASH) Antwerp, a museum showcasing the history of fashion in Belgium. Don’t miss the stunning collection of vintage clothing.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Diamond District (Diamantwijk), where you can admire the impressive diamond-cutting industry and buy souvenirs.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Café ’t Gouden Huis, a charming café serving traditional Flemish cuisine.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Antwerp Zoo (Dierentuin), home to over 4,000 animals from around the world. Don’t miss the stunning aviary and the elephant house.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Groene Glanz, a restaurant serving innovative Belgian cuisine in a cozy garden setting.

Day 4: Street Art, Parks, and Beaches

  • 9:00 AM: Explore the vibrant street art scene in Antwerp’s Steenstraat, where you can admire colorful murals and graffiti.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Eilandje Park, a peaceful oasis with a beautiful lake, walking trails, and stunning city views.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Café De Wereld, a lively café serving international cuisine and delicious sandwiches.
  • 3:00 PM: Head to the Antwerp Beach (Zand), where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea views. Don’t miss the beach bars and cafes.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Klinker, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Flemish cuisine.

Day 5: Historical Guilds and More Museums

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Gilde van de Antwerpse Drukkers (Antwerp Printers’ Guild), a historic guild house showcasing the printing industry’s history.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Middelheim Museum Park, a beautiful park with several museums, including the Museum of Chinese Art and the Museum of Indian and Southeast Asian Art.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Café De Klok, a charming café serving traditional Flemish cuisine.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Museum Vleeshuis (Meat House), a museum showcasing the history of meat trading and butchery in Antwerp.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Wereldvrede, a cozy restaurant serving innovative Belgian cuisine.

Day 6: Last Day in Antwerp

  • 9:00 AM: Spend your last morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Café De Wereld, a lively café serving international cuisine and delicious sandwiches.
  • 2:00 PM: Check-out of your hotel or hostel and head to the airport or train station for your departure.

Other Tips and Information

  • Transportation: Antwerp has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can buy a day ticket or use the De Lijn app.
  • Language: Most locals speak English fluently, but it’s always nice to learn some basic Flemish phrases like “Hallo” (hello), “Dank je wel” (thank you), and “Excuseer me” (excuse me).
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency in Belgium. You can exchange your money at a bank or use an ATM.
  • Weather: Antwerp has a temperate climate with moderate temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. Pack accordingly, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen for sunny days.
  • Safety: Antwerp is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Enjoy your trip to Antwerp!