Antwerp, Belgium-2-day-itinerary

Antwerp, Belgium: A 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Start your day at the Grote Markt, the historic city center, and admire the stunning City Hall and the beautiful Brabo Fountain.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, a stunning Gothic cathedral with impressive architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Take a break for lunch at De Foyer, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Belgian cuisine.
  • 3:00 PM: Explore the Rubenshuis, a museum dedicated to the life and work of Peter Paul Rubens, one of Antwerp’s most famous sons.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at ** Het Pomphuis**, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern Belgian cuisine.
  • 10:00 PM: End your day with a stroll along the Scheldt River and take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Julien: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of Antwerp, offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast buffet.
  • Airbnb Option: Rent a cozy apartment in the historic center, perfect for couples or solo travelers.

Transportation

  • Trains: Frequent trains connect Antwerp to Brussels, Amsterdam, and other European cities. The main train station is Antwerpen-Centraal.
  • Buses: Regular bus services connect Antwerp to surrounding towns and cities.
  • Walking: Antwerp is a walkable city, and exploring on foot is a great way to discover its hidden gems.

Tips

  • Buy an Antwerp City Card, which grants access to many museums, public transport, and discounts at participating shops and restaurants.
  • Try some Belgian waffles or chocolate at one of the local cafes.
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets, which can be challenging for people with mobility issues.

Other Things to Know

  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but many locals speak English fluently.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Weather: Antwerp has a maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. Be prepared for rain!

Day 2

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the MAS | Museum aan de Stroom, which tells the story of Antwerp’s history and culture.
  • 1:00 PM: Take a stroll through the Red Light District, a historic area with beautiful architecture and a lively atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the Meir Shopping Street, lined with high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and street performers.
  • 5:00 PM: Relax at the Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at De Stoepa, a cozy bistro serving traditional Belgian cuisine with a modern twist.
  • 10:00 PM: End your day with a visit to the Zurenborg neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and trendy bars.

Other Recommendations

  • Visit the Antwerp Zoo, one of Europe’s oldest zoos, featuring over 7,000 animals from around the world.
  • Take a brewery tour at De Koninck or 3 Fonteinen, two of Antwerp’s most famous breweries.
  • Explore the Eilandje neighborhood, a trendy area with street art, hip cafes, and boutiques.

This itinerary provides a mix of history, culture, food, and fun, giving you a well-rounded taste of what Antwerp has to offer. Enjoy your trip!