Antwerp 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Antwerp International Airport (ANR) or take the train to Antwerp Centraal Station
  • Check-in at Hotel Julien (4-star hotel in the city center) or B&B De Koning van Spanje (cozy B&B with a royal touch)
  • Start your day at Grote Markt, the historic heart of Antwerp, and admire the stunning City Hall and Cathedral of Our Lady
  • Visit the Rubenshuis (Rubens House), a museum showcasing the life and works of Peter Paul Rubens

Afternoon

  • Wander through the Meir Shopping Street, lined with high-end boutiques, cafes, and restaurants
  • Stop by the Antwerpen-Centraal Station, a beautiful example of Belgian railway architecture
  • Visit the MAS | Museum aan de Stroom (Museum on the River), featuring exhibits on Antwerp’s history and culture

Evening

  • Dine at De Foyer, serving traditional Belgian cuisine in a cozy setting
  • Enjoy a drink at Café De Foyer, located in a 17th-century building with a beautiful courtyard

Things to Know

  • Antwerp is known as the “Diamond Capital of the World”, so keep an eye out for diamond shops and museums
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven pavement, wear comfortable shoes!

Transportation

  • Use public transportation ( buses, trams, or metro) or walk/bike to get around the city
  • Buy a Lijnwinkel ticket for unlimited travel on public transport

Tips

  • Book your accommodations and popular attractions in advance to avoid crowds
  • Learn some basic Dutch phrases, like “dank je” (thank you) and “excuseer me” (excuse me)

Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the KMSKA | Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten (Royal Museum of Fine Arts), featuring an impressive collection of Belgian and international art
  • Explore the trendy neighborhood of ‘t Eilandje, known for its street art, vintage shops, and hip cafes

Afternoon

  • Stop by the Museum Plantin-Moretus, showcasing a unique collection of art and rare books
  • Admire the stunning architecture of the Boerentoren (Farmers’ Tower), now housing a museum and observation deck

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Het Pomphuis, serving seasonal dishes in a cozy, rustic setting
  • Catch a show or concert at deSingel, a popular cultural center with a beautiful garden

Things to Know

  • Antwerp has a rich history of art and culture, be sure to explore its many museums and galleries
  • Don’t miss the street performers and live music in the city center!

Transportation

  • Use public transportation or walk/bike to get around the city
  • Consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card, granting access to public transport, attractions, and discounts

Tips

  • Be prepared for variable weather, pack layers and waterproof gear
  • Don’t forget your camera, Antwerp’s architecture and street art are Instagram-worthy!

Day 3: Waterfront and Day Trip

Morning

  • Explore the Scheldt River waterfront, offering stunning views of the city
  • Visit the Red Star Line Museum, showcasing the history of the Red Star shipping company

Afternoon

  • Take a day trip to Hemiksem, a charming town just outside Antwerp, known for its picturesque canals and historic architecture (30-minute train ride)
  • Return to Antwerp and visit the Eilandje Willemdok, a trendy neighborhood with street art, shops, and cafes

Evening

  • Dine at De Kasbah, serving Moroccan-inspired dishes in a cozy setting
  • Enjoy a drink at Café Storm in ’t Hof, located in a beautiful 17th-century building

Things to Know

  • Antwerp’s waterfront offers stunning views of the city, take a romantic evening stroll
  • Hemiksem is a hidden gem, don’t miss its charming canals and historic architecture!

Transportation

  • Use public transportation (train or bus) for your day trip to Hemiksem
  • Consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card, granting access to public transport, attractions, and discounts

Tips

  • Pack snacks and water for your day trip, options may be limited in Hemiksem
  • Don’t miss the sunset over the Scheldt River, it’s a breathtaking sight!

Day 4: Markets and Shopping

Morning

  • Visit the Vrijdagmarkt, a bustling market offering fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs (every Friday)
  • Explore the Oude Koornmarkt, a historic square with cafes, shops, and street performers

Afternoon

  • Shop at The Fashion Museum, featuring exhibitions on fashion and textiles
  • Visit the Grand Bazar Shopping Center, offering a wide range of shops and restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at De Foyer, serving traditional Belgian cuisine in a cozy setting
  • End your trip with a visit to the Grote Markt, admiring the stunning City Hall and Cathedral of Our Lady at night

Things to Know

  • Antwerp’s markets offer a glimpse into local life, be sure to explore them!
  • Don’t miss the fashion and shopping opportunities in this stylish city!

Transportation

  • Use public transportation or walk/bike to get around the city
  • Consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card, granting access to public transport, attractions, and discounts

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds at popular markets and shopping areas
  • Don’t forget to try some local Belgian chocolate before you leave!

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Antwerp!