Antwerp 6 Day Itinerary
Antwerp 6-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive in Antwerp and check-in at Hotel Julien or similar.
- Afternoon: Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, a stunning Gothic church with intricate stone carvings. Take a stroll along the nearby Grote Markt, admiring the beautiful guildhalls and City Hall.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at De Foyer, serving traditional Belgian cuisine. Try their famous waterzooi, a creamy fish or chicken stew.
Day 2: Art and Culture
- Morning: Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA), featuring an impressive collection of Flemish and Belgian art.
- Afternoon: Explore the MAS | Museum aan de Stroom, showcasing the city’s history, culture, and art. The building itself is a work of art!
- Evening: Relax with a drink at Het Pomphuis, a cozy bar serving local beers and delicious snacks.
Day 3: Diamonds and Fashion
- Morning: Visit the Diamond Museum DIVA, learning about Antwerp’s rich diamond history and even getting to see some sparkling gems up close.
- Afternoon: Stroll through the Meir, a popular shopping street lined with high-end boutiques, vintage shops, and cafes. Be sure to check out the stunning Boerentoren, a beautiful Art Deco building.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Het Gebaar, offering modern Belgian cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
Day 4: Waterfront and Red Star Line
- Morning: Visit the Red Star Line Museum, exploring the history of the shipping line that once connected Antwerp to New York.
- Afternoon: Take a stroll along the Scheldt River waterfront, enjoying the views and atmosphere. Stop by the Het Eilandje, a trendy neighborhood with hip bars and restaurants.
- Evening: Dine at Foyer Spagnol, serving delicious Spanish-Belgian fusion cuisine.
Day 5: Day Trip to Mechelen
- Morning: Take the train to Mechelen ( approx. 30 minutes) and visit the St. Rumbold’s Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic church with impressive stained-glass windows.
- Afternoon: Explore the charming city center, visiting the Grote Markt and the Beguinage of Mechelen.
- Evening: Return to Antwerp and enjoy dinner at De Foyer or try some street food at Food Hall De Koninck.
Day 6: Last Day in Antwerp
- Morning: Visit the Antwerp Zoo, one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful zoos.
- Afternoon: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions. Don’t forget to try some delicious Belgian waffles at a local cafe!
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at De Stoepa, serving traditional Belgian dishes with a modern twist.
Transportation
- Antwerp has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. Buy a Lijn card for convenient travel.
- Taxis are also widely available, but be aware that they can be more expensive than public transport.
Tips and Essentials
- Language: While many Antwerpians speak English, it’s always helpful to know some basic Dutch phrases.
- Currency: The Euro is the official currency in Belgium. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Weather: Antwerp can be chilly and rainy, even in summer, so pack accordingly.
- Safety: As with any city, be mindful of your belongings and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night.
Other Things of Interest
- Antwerp Fashion Museum (MoMu): A must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.
- Petroleum Zuid: A trendy neighborhood with a mix of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
- Summer festivals: Antwerp hosts various summer festivals, such as the Zomer van Antwerpen and Jazz Middelheim. Check the city’s event calendar to catch one during your visit.
Enjoy your trip to Antwerp!