Belgium’s second city and a major European port, home of the painter Rubens; famous for the Rubens altarpieces in the Cathedral of Our Lady, its grand Central Station and the diamond quarter.
Good for riverside walks, the MAS rooftop view and museum visits. source
December (winter fair)
Christmas stalls and skating fill the Grote Markt and nearby squares. source
Weather: April–June and September–October suit walking; in December a winter fair fills the Grote Markt, and winters are grey and wet. source
Times to avoid: Rain is common, so mix in indoor plans such as museums. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Antwerp
Cathedral of Our Lady A Gothic cathedral hung with four Rubens altarpieces including The Descent from the Cross; free under 18. source
Rubens House The house, studio and garden where Rubens lived and worked, with a renewed garden and visitor centre. source
MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) A museum of the port and city; the rooftop panorama is free without a ticket. source
Antwerpen-Centraal station A marble-and-iron domed station often ranked among the world’s most beautiful. source
Where to stay in Antwerp
Old town (Grote Markt)
The heart of town, walkable to the cathedral, town hall and riverfront.
Around Antwerpen-Centraal
By the international train station, handy for Brussels and Amsterdam.
What to eat in Antwerp
Antwerpse Handjes — Hand-shaped chocolates or biscuits from Antwerp legend
Belgian Fries — Twice-fried Belgian fries with a choice of sauces
Bolleke (De Koninck) — Antwerp’s signature amber beer served in a round glass
Antwerp tips and things to watch out for
Antwerp travel tips
Trams and buses take a De Lijn ticket or contactless card, though most of the old town is walkable. source
Getting there: trains from Brussels Airport or central Brussels reach Antwerpen-Centraal in about 40 minutes. source
Good to know in Belgium
Languages vary by region in Belgium. In Brussels, check both French and Dutch place names. source
Service is included in Belgian restaurant bills, but you may leave an additional tip if you wish. source
Watch out for in Belgium
Watch for pickpockets around Brussels Central and Midi stations and on the metro. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Antwerp are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in Belgium.
Antwerp attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
Cathedral of Our Lady (Adult): €12.00 · child €0.00