hidden-gems-in-Antwerp

Hidden Gems in Antwerp: A Local’s Guide

While many tourists flock to the famous Central Station and Diamond District in Antwerp, there are plenty of lesser-known spots waiting to be discovered. Venture off the beaten path with us and explore these hidden gems in Antwerp.

1. The Red Star Line Museum (Rode Ster Lijnmuseum)

  • Address: Steenhouwersvest 6, 2000 Antwerpen
  • Transport: Metro: ‘Cathedral’ or tram: ‘23’, ‘24’
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am - 5pm (last entry at 4pm)
  • Admission: €12.50 adult, free for children under 6

Dedicated to the emigration of millions of people from Europe to America via Antwerp between 1873 and 1934, this museum is a poignant reminder of the city’s rich history.

2. The Plantin-Moretus Museum (Museum Plantin-Moretus)

  • Address: Vrijdagmarkt 27, 2000 Antwerpen
  • Transport: Metro: ‘Cathedral’ or tram: ‘23’, ‘24’
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am - 5pm (last entry at 4pm)
  • Admission: €12.50 adult, free for children under 6

Located in the former residence and printing plant of Christophe Plantin, a famous printer and publisher from Antwerp, this museum showcases an impressive collection of 16th-century printing presses, books, and manuscripts.

3. The Fashion Museum (Koetshuis)

  • Address: Kammenstraat 1, 2000 Antwerpen
  • Transport: Metro: ‘Cathedral’ or tram: ‘23’, ‘24’
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 10am - 5pm (last entry at 4pm)
  • Admission: €12.50 adult, free for children under 6

As the world’s oldest and largest fashion museum, the Fashion Museum is home to a stunning collection of over 500 historical costumes, dresses, and accessories from around the globe.

4. The Castle Park (Kasteelplein)

  • Address: Kasteelpark, 2000 Antwerpen
  • Transport: Metro: ‘Cathedral’ or tram: ‘23’, ‘24’
  • Opening Hours: Daily: 9am - sunset (park) and 10am - 5pm (museum)
  • Admission: Park: free; museum: €12.50 adult, free for children under 6

Escape the city chaos in this serene park, which features a beautiful castle ruin, walking paths, and picnic areas.

5. The Antwerp Zoo (Antwerpsch Dierentuin)

  • Address: Leopoldplaats 2, 2000 Antwerpen
  • Transport: Metro: ‘Cathedral’ or tram: ‘23’, ‘24’
  • Opening Hours: Daily: 9am - sunset (last entry at 4pm)
  • Admission: Adults: €20.50, children (3-12): €11, under 3s: free

Home to over 5,000 animals from around the world, the Antwerp Zoo is a must-visit for families and animal lovers.

Insider Tips

  • For a unique dining experience, visit the rooftop bar of the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) for panoramic views of the city.
  • To get off the beaten path, take a walk along the picturesque Scheldt River and explore the charming neighborhoods of Het Eilandje or ’t Zuid.

By exploring these hidden gems in Antwerp, you’ll experience the authentic essence of this beautiful Belgian city.