Antwerp Belgium 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning

  • Arrive at Antwerp International Airport (ANR) or take the train to Antwerp Central Station
  • Check-in to your hotel:
    • Budget: Ibis Antwerpen Centrum or Airbnb apartments in the city center
    • Mid-range: Hotel ’t Sandt or NH Antwerp
    • Luxury: Hotel De Witte Lelie or Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (free admission)
  • Explore the surrounding Grote Markt, with its beautiful guildhalls and lively atmosphere
  • Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, discovering hidden gems and boutique shops

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Belgian cuisine at De Foyer or Den Engel
  • Try some local beers at Het Waterhuis or De Stoepa

Tips:

  • Antwerp is a walkable city, but you can also use public transportation (tram or bus) or take a taxi
  • Don’t forget to try some delicious Belgian waffles or chocolate!

Things to Know:

  • Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world, and you can visit the Diamond Museum to learn more about its history
  • The city has a rich cultural scene, with numerous museums and galleries

Day 2: Art and Fashion

Morning

  • Visit the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, where famous artists like Rubens and Van Dyck studied (free admission)
  • Explore the trendy Kammenstraat, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and design shops
  • Stop by the iconic MoMu (Fashion Museum), showcasing Belgian fashion design (€10 admission)

Afternoon

  • Discover the vibrant street art scene in the Eilandje neighborhood
  • Visit the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom), with its unique architecture and fascinating exhibitions (€10 admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy a cocktail at The Pharmacy, a trendy bar with a speakeasy vibe
  • Dine at ** Het Pomphuis**, serving seasonal dishes in a cozy atmosphere

Tips:

  • Antwerp is known for its fashion industry, so be sure to check out some of the local designers’ boutiques
  • The city has many parks and green spaces, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic

Things to Know:

  • Antwerp has a strong maritime history, which you can explore at the National Maritime Museum (€10 admission)
  • The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, like the Antwerp Pride and Jazz Middelheim

Day 3: History and Architecture

Morning

  • Visit the Red Star Line Museum, showcasing the history of immigration and shipping (€10 admission)
  • Explore the stunning St. Paul’s Church, with its beautiful interior and historic significance (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Take a guided tour of the Fortress of Antwerp, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (€15 admission)
  • Visit the Museum Plantin-Moretus, featuring an impressive collection of books, prints, and art (€10 admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at De Peerdestal, serving traditional Belgian dishes in a cozy setting
  • Relax with a drink at Café de Keyser, a historic café with a beautiful interior

Tips:

  • Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like waterzooi or paté
  • Antwerp has many bike-friendly roads and paths, so consider renting a bike for a day

Things to Know:

  • The city has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, with many historical landmarks still standing today
  • Antwerp is home to many international students and expats, giving it a diverse and cosmopolitan atmosphere

Day 4: Day Trip to Bruges

Morning

  • Take the train from Antwerp Central Station to Bruges (approximately 1.5 hours)
  • Visit the iconic Belfry Tower, offering stunning views of the city (€10 admission)

Afternoon

  • Explore the picturesque Rozenhoedkaai, lined with medieval houses and picturesque canals
  • Take a romantic boat tour along the Canal de l’Amour (approximately €8 per person)

Evening

  • Return to Antwerp by train and enjoy dinner at De Foyer
  • Relax with a drink at Het Waterhuis

Tips:

  • Bruges is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds and long lines
  • Consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card, which grants you free admission to many attractions and public transportation

Things to Know:

  • Bruges is known as the “Venice of the North” due to its numerous canals and medieval architecture
  • The city has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums and historical landmarks

Day 5: Markets and Shopping

Morning

  • Visit the bustling Antwerp Market, offering fresh produce, flowers, and souvenirs (free admission)
  • Explore the trendy Kammenstraat, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and design shops

Afternoon

  • Discover the unique Vrijdagmarkt, a weekly market selling everything from antiques to vintage clothing (free admission)
  • Visit the Wijnegem Shopping Center, featuring over 200 stores and restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at De Stoepa, serving traditional Belgian cuisine
  • Relax with a drink at The Pharmacy

Tips:

  • Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like fries or waffles
  • Antwerp has many shopping streets and centers, so be prepared to shop ’til you drop!

Things to Know:

  • The city has many weekly markets, each offering a unique shopping experience
  • Antwerp is known for its high-end fashion boutiques and diamond shops

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation

Morning

  • Visit the beautiful Antwerp Zoo, home to over 7,000 animals (€25 admission)
  • Take a stroll through the peaceful Den Brandt Park, featuring walking trails and picnic areas (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Relax with a boat tour along the Scheldt River (approximately €15 per person)
  • Visit the Spa & Wellness Center at the Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel, offering massages and treatments (prices vary)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Het Pomphuis, serving seasonal dishes in a cozy atmosphere
  • Relax with a drink at Café de Keyser

Tips:

  • Antwerp has many parks and green spaces, perfect for a relaxing stroll or picnic
  • Consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card, which grants you free admission to many attractions and public transportation

Things to Know:

  • The city has many spas and wellness centers, offering a range of treatments and relaxation options
  • Antwerp is home to many international students and expats, giving it a diverse and cosmopolitan atmosphere

Day 7: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring a local neighborhood
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport or train station for departure

Tips:

  • Be sure to try some of the local specialties, like chocolate or waffles, before departing
  • Consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card, which grants you free admission to many attractions and public transportation

Things to Know:

  • Antwerp is a city that has something to offer for everyone, from history and culture to fashion and relaxation
  • The city is easily accessible by air or train, making it a perfect destination for a quick getaway