Antwerp Belgium 6 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 (€100-150 per night) in the heart of the city
  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café De Foyer (€10-15 per person)

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady, a stunning example of Gothic architecture (free admission)
  • Explore the adjacent Grote Markt, surrounded by beautiful guildhalls and the City Hall
  • Wander through the charming streets of the Historic Centre and discover its hidden gems

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at De Foyer, serving traditional Belgian cuisine (€25-35 per person)
  • Take a stroll along the Scheldt River and admire the city’s romantic atmosphere

Tips

  • Buy an Antwerp City Card (€28 for 48 hours) for free admission to many attractions and public transportation
  • Be prepared for cobblestone streets, wear comfortable shoes!

Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning

  • Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (€10 per person), featuring an impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian art
  • Stop by the nearby Museum aan de Stroom, showcasing Antwerp’s history and culture (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Explore the trendy Eilandje neighborhood, known for its street art, boutiques, and restaurants
  • Visit the Red Star Line Museum (€10 per person), dedicated to the history of shipping and immigration

Evening

  • Dine at Het Pomphuis, offering a modern take on traditional Belgian cuisine (€30-40 per person)
  • Catch a performance or concert at the deSingel International Arts Centre

Tips

  • Take advantage of Antwerp’s bike-friendly infrastructure, rent a bike for €10-15 per day
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top floor of the Museum aan de Stroom

Day 3: Diamonds and Fashion

Morning

  • Visit the Diamond District, where you can see diamond cutters and jewelers at work (free admission)
  • Take a guided tour of the Antwerp Diamond Exchange (€20 per person)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Meir Shopping Street, lined with high-end boutiques and department stores
  • Visit the MoMu Fashion Museum (€10 per person), showcasing Belgian fashion and design

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Jane, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative cuisine (€50-60 per person)
  • Relax with a cocktail at Bar Oud Sluis, a stylish spot in the heart of the city

Tips

  • Be aware that diamond shops may have limited hours or require appointments
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Botanical Gardens (free admission)

Day 4: Day Trip to Mechelen

Morning

  • Take the train from Antwerp Centraal Station to Mechelen (approximately 30 minutes, €5-10 per person)
  • Visit the stunning St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Explore the charming streets and canals of Mechelen’s Historic Centre
  • Visit the Kazerne Dossin, a former military barracks turned cultural center (free admission)

Evening

  • Return to Antwerp by train and enjoy dinner at Den Ouden Vogelstruys, serving traditional Belgian cuisine (€25-35 per person)
  • Take a romantic evening stroll along the Scheldt River

Tips

  • Mechelen is easily accessible by public transportation, consider purchasing an NMBS/SNCB Day Pass (€10-15 per person) for unlimited train travel
  • Don’t miss the beautiful Hof van Busleyden, a historic courtyard complex in Mechelen

Day 5: Castles and Parks

Morning

  • Visit the impressive Het Steen Castle, a medieval fortress turned museum (€10 per person)
  • Explore the adjacent Steenplein, a charming square surrounded by cafes and shops

Afternoon

  • Relax in the beautiful Den Brandt Park, featuring walking trails, gardens, and a picturesque lake
  • Visit the Middelheim Park, home to several museums, gardens, and a petting zoo (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at De Kas, serving seasonal cuisine made with local ingredients (€30-40 per person)
  • Catch a movie or live performance at the Cartoons Cinema or Arenberg Theatre

Tips

  • Consider purchasing an Antwerp Park and Ride ticket (€5-10 per day) for convenient parking and public transportation
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of Het Steen Castle

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend your last morning in Antwerp exploring a local market, such as the Vrijdagmarkt (free admission)
  • Visit any last-minute attractions or do some last-minute shopping

Afternoon

  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport or train station for departure
  • Take one last look at the beautiful city of Antwerp before leaving

Tips

  • Be sure to validate your train ticket before departing from Antwerp Centraal Station
  • Consider purchasing some Belgian chocolates or souvenirs as a memento of your trip