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Antwerp, Belgium is a distinctive and dazzling destination. Highlighted by elaborate architecture, intriguing districts and an enthralling history, the often-overlooked city can easily take travelers by surprise. With so much to see and do, planning the perfect one day in Antwerp can be challenging.
It was during our long stay in Ghent that we decided to take a day trip to Antwerp. We were initially overwhelmed by the copious number of attractions and places to visit. Determined to see the best of Antwerp, we created a one-day itinerary that allowed us to experience the top sights at a comfortable pace.
One Day in Antwerp: How To Plan a Trip
Planning what to do in Antwerp for a day is a bit tricky. The historic Old Town is not to be missed, but the sights are not limited to the city center. Neighborhoods sprawl to the north and south, hosting magnificent museums, vast green spaces and hidden gems.
While we had grand plans to tackle it all in a single day, the city is bigger than we anticipated. And on a warm and sunny Saturday, it was absolutely heaving locals, fellow tourists and countless distractions. In the end, we decided to save some sightseeing for a return trip to truly savor the moment.
To help you plan your best one-day trip, we are sharing our detailed Antwerp itinerary. Plus, advice regarding more things to do for speedy sightseers and those planning longer stays.
How Many Days in Antwerp, Belgium?
It can be difficult to determine how many days to spend in Antwerp. The city appeals to a range of visitors by offering an array of attractions.
Those who want to only see the highlights could easily tick off the iconic landmarks in a half day. On the other hand, travelers who like to delve deep into neighborhoods and art enthusiasts who love to linger in museums could stay for 3 days and not run out of things to do.
In our opinion, a day in Antwerp is sufficient for an overview. Visitors should pick and choose what to see in order to create an itinerary that is tailored to their specific interests.
Can I Visit on a Day Trip?
Antwerp is a phenomenal day trip destination – as it is easy to reach from Brussels, Amsterdam, Ghent and Bruges. With a current train schedule and some solid preparation, travelers can effortlessly plan an enjoyable excursion.
That said, visitors who decide to spend a full 24 hours in Antwerp (or, even better, 36 hours) will be able to enjoy quite a bit more of the city.
We share hotel recommendations later in the Travel Tips section. Additionally, we feature some of the top organized tours for those who rather leave the details to someone else.
Summary: Best Antwerp One Day Itinerary
On the morning of your 1 Day in Antwerp, start at the elaborate Central Station, one of the most exquisite buildings in the city. Next, breeze through the Diamond District and push into the posh Shopping District. Enhanced with stunning architecture and pedestrian lanes, it’s a marvelous area to just wander.
In the afternoon, set your sights on the historic Old Town. Take in the splendor of Grote Market, lift your eyes to the top of the soaring Cathedral bell tower and follow twisting lanes into quiet squares.
Later in the day, discover Antwerp’s maritime past along the Scheldt River. Climb to the top of a Medieval fortress and then wander along the waterway to see the Old Port.
In the evening, sip Belgian beer at a local craft brewery. End your day with a delectable meal from our list of top picks that cover a range of cuisines and price points.
Organize your Trip
As you plan how to spend a day in Antwerp, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of your trip specifics!
One Day Itinerary Antwerp
Our detailed Antwerp 1-Day Itinerary highlights the best of the city! The top sights are listed chronologically – making for an easy Self-Guided Antwerp Walking Tour. While it’s fairly simple to navigate from one sight to the next, we share a map of attractions at the end of the article.
MORNING: Central Station and Shopping District
Many travelers who visit Antwerp – especially on day trips – arrive via Central Station. This is exactly where we suggest you start your exploration of the city! After taking in the grandeur of the building, step out into the buzzing shopping district.
#1 Antwerp Central Station
Built at the turn of the 20th century (1895 to 1905), the Antwerp Central Railway Station is the most beautiful train station in Belgium. In fact, it’s considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in the world. The domed hall, which stands at a height of 246 feet, has earned it the name Spoorwegkathedraal – or Railroad Cathedral.
The station is a registered Protected Monument. Inside, don’t miss the Main Hall and the Big Hall Clock, then step out on the north side to Queen Astrid Square for a view of the exceptional exterior.
Sightseeing Tip: During our trip a giant Ferris wheel was blocking the superb view from the north. We can hope it is a temporary set up!
#2 Diamond District
Antwerp’s booming diamond trading business dates to the 15th century – and billions of dollars still pass through the Diamond Quarter each year. When discovering Antwerp in one day, it would be remiss to bypass the sparkling jewels without taking note of the history.
It was in the mid-1400s that Belgian Lodewyk van Bercken created the scaif – a tool used to precisely cut diamonds (which is still used to this day). In fact, he created the world’s first Pear Cut Diamond – the legendary (but now lost) 137 carat Florentine Diamond.
The trade of diamonds – from cutting rough diamonds to selling polished gems and jewelry – employs 30,000 people in the city. Many of the diamond traders in Antwerp are Jewish – so most of the shops are closed on Saturdays, but on any other day, the district gleams.
The 2003 Antwerp diamond heist – known as the Heist of the Century – saw more than $100 million in jewels stolen.
Top Tip: A statue of Lodewyk Van Bercken celebrating his role in the diamond business is perched on Meir Shopping Street. To get to it, walk along De Keyserlei, passing statues of Antwerp painters David Teniers and Anthony van Dyck. Then at the beginning of Meir, look over your right shoulder to find the monument to Lodewyk van Bercken.
#3 Meir Shopping Street
The prestigious pedestrian shopping street, Meir, ranks as the most expensive street in the country. The historic buildings house recognizable fashion brands, boutique fashion shops and hip cafes.
That said, strolling Meir Street isn’t just for fashionistas. The famous lane is lined with a mishmash of 18th and 19th century architecture. We share details of a few of the must-see places on Meir next on our Antwerp Itinerary.
Trip Tip: While strolling, make sure to look up to see the architectural details along the lane, not just into the store windows!
#4 Stadsfeestzaal
Opened in 1908 as an exhibition hall, the neoclassical Stadsfeestzaal was one of the grandest buildings on the Meir. After years of neglect, however, the grandeur of the luxurious hall had long faded. Then, it was nearly destroyed by a raging fire.
Rather than tear it down, fortunately the city decided to restore it. Complete with marble, mosaics and gold leaf ornamentation, the striking building was renovated into an incredibly opulent shopping mall. Step inside the refurbished and grandiose interior; it’s once again one of the top things to see in Antwerp!
Travel Tip: There are toilets at Stadsfeestzaal, but cost 1 euro.
#5 The Chocolate Line at Paleis op de Meir
Anyone spending one day in Antwerp, Belgium should get a taste of the local chocolate – and there is no better (or unique) place than The Chocolate Line. Breaking from tradition, the cutting-edge sweet shop pushes the boundaries of gourmet chocolate with funky flavor combinations, large creations, an open kitchen and a gorgeous showroom.
Located within the Royal Palace on the Meir – or Paleis op de Meir – The Chocolate Line welcomes guests into their sensational space.
Interesting Fact: Paleis op de Meir is a Rococo palace dating to 1745. It was originally built by a wealthy merchant, but it was later used as a royal residence – by both Napoleon Bonaparte and the Belgian royal family. In 1969, the residence was gifted to the city. In addition to the fascinating chocolatier, the palace also houses a chic café.
#6 Giant Antigoon Severed Hand Sculpture
Those visiting Antwerp, Belgium will quickly realize that the hand is a symbol of the city. It’s based on folklore and the story is said to go hand-in-hand with the city’s name.
According to the legend, a giant – named Druon Antigoon – stood on the Scheldt riverbank demanding tolls from those who crossed. Anyone who couldn’t pay the fee would have one of their hand cut off. A young Roman soldier, Silvius Brabo, decided to fight the giant. When he claimed victory, he cut off Druon Antigoon’s hand and tossed it in the river.
A large hand art installation on Meir pays tribute to the legend. It’s fun for photo ops and kids love to climb atop it.
Fun Fact: The etymology of the word Antwerp is said to be derived from Hand Werpen, which translates to Hand Throwing.
#7 Boerentoren Building
Not a must-see for your Antwerp 1 Day Itinerary, but somewhat hard to miss is the Art Deco Boerentoren Building. Formerly known as the KBC Tower, the landmark skyscraper was completed in 1932 (just a couple of years after the Empire State Building).
At that time, the tower stood at 287 feet and ranked as the tallest building in Belgium. It held the honor until 1960. Since then, its height has been extended to 314 feet – which still makes it the second tallest buildings in the city.
Attraction Tip: The structure is currently being renovated into a cultural space, which is aimed to open in 2026.
#8 De Wilde Zee Shopping District
A cluster of 5 car-free streets creates the De Wilde Zee commercial shopping zone and is one of the best places to visit in Antwerp in one day. The district boasts both boutique shops and recognizable brands – as well as a number of chocolatiers, bakeries and eateries.
At the heart of the compact area is Nieuwe Gaanderij shopping center – the oldest in the city – that features a covered arcade. Schrijnwerkerstraat, Huidevetterstraat, Kelderstraat and Schuttershofstraat are all known for high-end shops and luxury boutiques.
While shopping, be sure to check out the ‘cheeky’ Den Deugniet Statue…a relative of Brussel’s Manneken Pis.
Top Tip: Not all of the streets in the district are dedicated to pedestrians. Always keep an eye out for cars, trams and bicycles!
#9 Rubenhuis Museum
An artist, collector, businessman and a diplomat; Sir Peter Paul Rubens is – still to this day – somewhat of a celebrity in Antwerp. Known for his signature Flemish Baroque artwork, he painted a variety of subjects – from landscapes to altarpieces.
The Rubens House Museum, where he lived and worked in the 1610s, is dedicated to his life. Exhibits include his own paintings, as well as a diverse collection of works of art he owned.
In the summer of 2024, the museum is reopening after a long renovation project. Tickets are required to visit.
Itinerary Tip: The Rubenhuis Antwerp Museum is one of the city’s top attractions. However, as there are so many places to see in Antwerp in one day, we don’t recommend visiting unless you are a fan of his art.
#10 Typical Belgian Lunch
Eating Belgium fries is must while visiting Antwerp. At Frites Atelier they take the experience to the next level with artisan fries. Michelin star chef, Sergio Herman, is behind the project. Committed to offering the best fried potato experience, they top their crispy fries with unique flavor combinations and classic sauces that are handmade.
In fact, patrons can double-down with two iconic Belgian foods and order fries topped with Flemish Stew. Just be sure to save room for dessert, because just down the street is Philip’s Biscuits. At Philip’s they make traditional Belgium Speculoos and popular hand-shaped cookies.
Also in the area is Goossens, a favorite local bakery, and Desire de Lille, which is known for crunchy waffles. The best Antwerp craft beer bar, Station 1280, is tucked away in the courtyard of an outdated retail complex.
Foodie Tip: If your trip is on a Saturday, consider eating at the enticing Saturday Market.
AFTERNOON: Antwerp Old Town
By early afternoon on your Antwerp day trip, make your way into the historic center. The charming district is postcard-perfect with gabled houses, striking statues and landmark sights.
#11 Groenplaats
Anyone who is going to visit Antwerp in one day should make it a point to pass through Groenplaats Square. The ‘Green Square’ is a charming plaza on the south side of the Cathedral.
Once serving as the Cathedral cemetery, it was opened as a public space in 1803 and planted with lime trees. Between 1805 and 1815, it was named Place Bonaparte as a tribute to Napoleon.
Standing at the center is a statue of Rubens, which was created in 1843. The area features nice benches for relaxation and is surrounded by distinctive architecture.
Architecture Tip: The most notable structure on Groenplaats is the Grand Bazar. Built in 1885 as a retail space, the department store closed in 1990. The building now houses a Hilton hotel.
#12 Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady
The Gothic Cathedral in Antwerp – or Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal – is a landmark city sight. It took nearly 170 years – from 1352 until 1521 – to build the imposing church. In fact, it’s never actually been completed as originally intended. After a fire nearly destroyed the church in 1533, the second tower was never built, leaving the façade somewhat lopsided.
Inside, masterpiece artworks (by Rubens and others) are on display. The colorful and detailed stained-glass windows date to the late 1800s. Many of Antwerp’s most notable citizens have been buried at the Cathedral.
While it ranks as one of the top things to do in Antwerp, Belgium, we opted to skip the interior and simply admired it from the outside.
Don’t Miss: In front of the Cathedral is an unusual statue of a sleeping boy and his dog tucked under a blanket of bricks. The artwork features Nello & Patrasche, characters from the book, A Dog of Flanders.
#13 Hendrick Conscienceplein Square
One of the best things about Antwerp are the ancient, twisting, cobblestone lanes that lead to quiet squares. Hendrick Conscienceplein ranks one of the best. The small and harmonious square features two striking buildings that are face-to-face: a church and a library.
The 17th century St. Charles Borromeo Church features an elaborate Baroque design. The classic, three-tiered façade is sumptuous, and the rich interior is decorated with a grandiose altar – and includes paintings by (you may have guessed) Peter Paul Rubens. In fact, Rubens designed the original 39 ceiling paintings, but they were all destroyed in a fire.
In addition to the many artworks exhibited throughout the church, visitors can also see a collection of lace and the underground crypt. A fee is required to enter.
Across the way, the Heritage Library Hendrik Conscience is a Flemish cultural institution that accommodates more than 1.5 million literary works. The collection began in 1481 with just 41 books. It contains every printed book from the nearby Plantin Publishing House, as well as ancient manuscripts. The robust collection is a part of the Flanders Heritage Library.
Visitors are welcome to go inside to see the reading room. The true hidden gem, however, is the extravagant Nottebohm Room, which looks like a library out of the pages of a Harry Potter book. Unfortunately, the gorgeous gallery can only be accessed during organized public events or on a guided tour.
Trip Itinerary Tip: Check the time before visiting either attraction – as there is still so much more to see!
#14 Grote Markt and City Hall
The city’s most remarkable square, Grote Markt is magnificent at every turn. The history of the space can be traced to the 13th century – but the opulent buildings on the square date to the mid-1500s. A must-see in Antwerp, the most extraordinary sights are the City Hall and Brabo’s Monument Fountain.
The impressive, flag-baring Antwerp City Hall stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Melding Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles, the 16th century City Hall is dazzling. Note the statues on the rising façade – including Mary, Lady Justice and Lady Prudence – as well as the coats of arms. Visitors are welcome to step inside – for free – to see the exhibitions and some of the rooms in the building.
At the center of Grote Markt is the iconic Brabo Fountain. The bronze sculpture was cast in 1887 and depicts the celebrated tale of Brabo throwing the hand of Druon Antigoon into the Scheldt River.
Sightseeing Tip: The glittering facades of the buildings that encircle the square are ancient Guild Houses. Each of the city’s trade associations designed their own house, often incorporating their details into the facade.
#15 Suikerrui and Quaint Streets
The Old Town streets that lead to Grote Market are some of the most atmospheric places in Antwerp. Brick gabled houses, colorful street art and a reprieve from the crowds can all be found in the back lanes.
Leading away from the square to the north, Braderijstraat takes visitors into a tangle of streets that are lined with an eclectic mix of architectural designs from different eras.
Suikerrui, a historic east-west street on the south side of the square, was once a canal that spilled into the river. Today, the canal is covered over and the wide, pedestrian street is lined with stunning buildings (like the opulent German guild house, Hansa Huis, at #5).
Top Day Trip Tip: While visitors will surely want to check off a list of sights to see, we believe strolling along the streets that surround the historic heart of the city is a must!
LATE AFTERNOON: Scheldt River and Antwerp Port
The top things to see in this area are the ancient Het Steen Castle and the modern MAS Museum. Both attractions are free things to do in Antwerp!
#16 Het Steen Fort
A Medieval fortress on the right bank of the river, Het Steen is a must-see sight. Built in the early 1200s, the castle is the oldest building in the city. Throughout its history, it has been used as a fortress, the city hall, a court of justice and a prison. Today, it houses the Antwerp Story Museum (ticket required), the Tourist Information Office and a free viewing platform.
Standing in front of the fort is a statue of Lange Wapper. The giant is a popular character in Antwerp folklore. Walk up the ramp to enter the fortress, where visitors are free to roam some of the rooms before taking the stairs up to the rooftop for panoramic views.
Tip for Travelers: To get to the next sight on our list, the MAS Museum, stick to the riverside. The waterfront path is much more enjoyable than walking on the street. Plus, you can glimpse the cranes and ships of the working port in the distance.
#17 MAS Museum
Rated as one of the Antwerp top attractions, the contemporary Museum aan de Stroom is an exceptional structure. The sandstone and glass building stands 200 feet tall – and boasts a rooftop that is free to visit. To get to the panoramic viewing platform, simply ride the escalators to the 10th floor.
The exhibitions in the MAS Museum detail Antwerp’s maritime history and shipping trade. The museum also aims to navigate the city’s relationship with the world through artworks and artefacts – as well as interactive and contemporary displays. Note that some exhibits are free, while others require a ticket.
Day Trip Tip: The MAS closes at 5pm, with the last entry at 4pm – so mind the time if taking in the elevated view is on your Must See Antwerp List!
#18 Havenhuis and Red Star Line Museum
Next, explore more of the Old Port and Eilandje District. Top sights are the Havenhuis Port Authority Diamond Building and the Red Star Line Museum.
The Port House – or Havenhuis – is a government building that boasts an innovative design. The sparkling design resembles both a ship and a diamond – giving a nod to the city’s two biggest trades. The Port of Antwerp serves as the second-largest shipping harbor in Europe (after Rotterdam) – and Havenhuis hosts the administration offices (no entry).
The Red Star Line Museum (timed ticket required/last entry 3:30pm) is another one of the top places to visit in Antwerp. It details the historic Antwerp shipping company and its use as a migration route to the Americas during the 20th century. The engaging museum, which is housed in the original Red Start Line offices, features exhibits that are suitable and interesting for all ages.
Through videos, photographs and relics from the past, the site tells the stories of Europeans who traveled to Antwerp and sailed across the Atlantic to start a new life in the New World.
Top Tip: The Old Port District sights can entertain visitors for the better part of a day. Those interested in the shipping industry – rather than shopping streets – may want to rearrange their itinerary. Start your day in the Port District to visit museums (that close early in the evening), then visit the Old Town sights and end your day wandering through the Shopping District on your way back to the train station.
EVENING: Dinner and Belgian Beers
After ticking off your list of what to see in Antwerp in one day, it’s time to relax, get a taste of the regional cuisine and try a bit of beer from Belgium.
Top Picks for Restaurants in Antwerp
Many Antwerp restaurants don’t have a stellar reputation; tending to be high priced for moderate fare. That said, there are a few exceptions.
For a taste of local flavor, tuck into a plate of fresh seafood from Fish a’Gogo. The relatively new restaurant has quickly gained a following. It gets high marks for serving fresh and delicious razor clams, oysters, mussels and kibbling – along with other daily specials.
To experience the region’s French inspired cuisine, enjoy a meal at De Reddende Engle. Known for their affordable, yet delicious dishes, the seasonal menu changes regularly.
The appealing Koepoortstraat street hosts a number of regional eateries – like Croquettenbar Smaeck and Nathan for fine dining. For meaty Belgian dishes, try Meat Factory on Grote Markt or De Pottekijker.
Travelers will also find heaps of chain restaurants with ample patio seating on De Keyserlei. Ellis Gourmet Burger and Bier Central Antwerpen are good options near the train station.
Antwerp Beer Bars
Drinking a beer from Belgium is a must-do in Antwerp and there are quite a few notable bars where visitors can sample the local products.
Elfde Gebod – which translates to 11th Commandment Bar – is one of the city’s most peculiar pubs. Serving traditional comfort food (like stews and bitterballen) and an ‘uncountable’ beer selection (including local Antwerp Beer de Koninck), what makes the tavern unique is that it is loaded full of religious statues and artwork.
Café Beveren is a throw-back bar along the riverside that is popular with locals. In addition to the Belgian beer, there is an old-school, coin-operated, self-playing organ and jukebox.
For craft beer, there is no better bar in Antwerp than Station 1280. They pour brews from Unchartered Brew Co, which is right next door, as well as a wide selection of international beers.
You can seek out an unusual beer experience at Café Kulminator. Here, patrons must know the password “Here to Taste Beer” to get inside and select from their amazing inventory, including a 50-year-old bottled brew.
Twenty minutes outside the center by Tram 15, the De Konick Antwerp City Brewery offers tours and tastings if you have the time.
Top Tip: If wine is more to your taste, then don’t miss the exceptionally charming Luddites Books and Wine Café. The historic villa has been renovated into a bookshop and the top floor café features excellent wine along with beer and coffee.
Additional Antwerp Things To Do
When we were planning things to do in Antwerp in a day, we had to make difficult decisions about what to include. While we love to see it all, there just isn’t enough time in the day (or energy in our legs) to visit everything!
However, first-timers who want to get off the beaten path and travelers planning to stay in Antwerp for 2 days (or longer) can use our tips of more things to do. We categorize the following attractions by district.
City Center: Museums, Churches, Parks and Markets
In our outlined 1-Day Itinerary for Antwerp, we featured the top museums and churches. However, there are a few more cultural institutions that visitors might want to see on their day trip.
Plantin-Moretus Museum
The UNESCO World Heritage Plantin-Moretus Museum features 16th century printing presses (including two of the world’s oldest), as well as a collection of ancient books and artworks. The museum is housed in a mansion, which served as the residence and workspace of the Plantin-Moretus family. Tickets are required to enter and visitors could easily spend 2-3 hours here.
Vleehuis Museum
The red-brick Museum Vleeshuis dates to the early 1500s. It was built as the former Butchers’ Guildhall and slaughterhouse (the design is said to look like pieces of bacon) – but was later used for wine storage, as a theatre and a painting studio.
In the 1900s, the building was renovated to host the Antiquities Museum. By the 1970s, the collection had evolved to feature historic musical instruments. The museum promotes the art of instruments – as well as sound and dance. Ticket required.
St Paul’s Church
St. Paul’s is another Antwerp ecclesiastical institution that features both Gothic and Baroque designs – as well as wood carvings and Flemish Renaissance art by Rubens and other Belgian artists. What makes St. Paul’s different, however, is the abundance of sculptures and statues within the church and on the grounds.
The inner courtyard garden Calvary – consisting of 63 life-size stone figures – is simply exquisite. A ticket is required to enter and the site has limited opening hours.
Plantentuin Botanical Garden
A lush oasis in the middle of the bustling Antwerp, the Plantentuin Garden is a wonderful place to relax for a moment. The park dates to the mid-1500s, when a pharmacist grew herbal medicines for the nearby hospital. The garden hosts more than 2000 species of plants – including herbs, cactus and exotic flowers. Don’t miss the frog pond. It’s free to enter and an ideal picnicking spot.
Stadspark City Park
Occupying the former site of the Antwerp Fortress, Stradspark was designed in the mid-1800s. Dotted with monuments and playgrounds, the highlight is the duck pond – complete with a historic iron suspension bridge.
Nationale Bank Building
The distinctive triangular Nationale Bank building is unmissable. The landmark building was designed in 1879 in the Neo-Renaissance style.
Zoo
The Antwerp Zoo, which is located right next to Central Station, was established in 1843. The zoo itself is rather small, but they make an effort to create natural habitats for the wide variety of animals. These include everything from elephants and lions to penguins and sea lions to a butterfly pavilion and reptile house. A ticket is required.
Saturday Market
If your trip coincides with a Saturday, we highly recommend squeezing the boisterous market onto your plans of what to do in Antwerp in One Day. The Zaterdag Markt features fresh produce from around the globe. It is sometimes referred to as the Foreign Market for the exotic fruits available for sale. Additionally, vendors sell prepared foods, fresh flowers, clothes and bric-a-brac.
South: Architecture, Museums and Shopping in Zuid
The stylish Zuid District – often called Le Petit Paris – was created in the late 1800s as a fashionable neighborhood on the south side of the city. The planned squares and roundabouts all feature magnificent monuments and intriguing architecture.
Additionally, the area boasts a number of museums, a vibrant antique shopping district and a riverside park.
Monument Schelde Vrij
Completed in 1883, the Schelde Vrij – or Schelde Free – celebrates the re-opening of the trade route on the river. The grandiose statue, which stands at the center of a roundabout connecting 8 streets, features the neo-Flemish Renaissance style. The nearby Baron Lambermont Statue and fountain is also worth seeking out.
Het Bootje (The Little Boat)
One of the peculiar and offbeat Antwerp attractions, Het Bootje is an Art Nouveau design that features the bow of a boat protruding from the corner of a building. It was created for a wealthy shipbuilder, P. Roeis (his initials can still be seen on the hull).
KMSKA Royal Museum of Fine Arts
A stunning neoclassical building fronted by a large fountain, the KMSKA Museum was designed and built in the late 1800s. The extensive collection of artworks dates from the 14th to 20th centuries. A ticket is required to enter.
Note that the contemporary Museum van Hedendaagse Kunst Antwerpen and the Fotomuseum, are two other top museums in Zuid.
Waterpoort
Also called Porta Regia, the Waterpoort Gate was completed in 1624 to honor King Philip IV of Spain. Said to feature design elements by Rubens, it was part of the city fortifications and served as a passageway to the river for boats to reach the Vlasmarkt.
Scheldt Docks South
Long used as a parking lot, the revitalized Scheldt Docks South is a favorite local hangout – especially for summertime sunsets. Ideal for walking, picnicking and just hanging out, the riverside park also has art installations, a playground and fitness zone.
Kloosterstraat
An enclave of antique shops and second-hand stores, Kloosterstraat is yet another shopping district in the city. In addition to the vintage goods, many new shops are opening offering designer threads.
Fine 19th century architecture can be found on the street. Not to be missed is #81, which features an intricately designed garland made of cedar wood.
The street is especially lively on Sundays when many of the other stores around the city are closed and the small flea market is in full swing.
Riverside: Boats, Maritime Relics and Tunnel
The Scheldt River is intertwined with the history of the city. Visitors eager to learn more about the importance of the waterway can spend a few hours along the river.
Boats and Ferries
One of the fun things to do in Antwerp is to get out on the water – and there are a couple of ways to do it! Tourist Boats tote travelers through the harbor to see the most important monuments and to learn about the shipping heritage.
Visitors can also hop on the free ferry that shuttles passengers between the left and right banks of the river. Boats depart regularly from the docks near the Het Steen Fortress.
Maritime Open-Air Museum Boeienweide
A few maritime artifacts are sprinkled throughout this riverside park – including buoys, anchors and old ship parts. While not the most informative museum, Boeienweide is a great place to stretch your legs and take in a view.
St. Anna Tunnel
A bit of a hidden gem, the Sint-Annatunnel is an underground – and under river – passageway linking Antwerp to Linkeroever on the other side of the Scheldt. The 1,876-foot-long tunnel is accessed via an unusual wooden escalator. They date to the 1930s and are still a rarity.
Trip Planning Tip: To make the best use of your time, ride the free ferry across the river, walk through the maritime park and then go through St. Anna Tunnel to return to Old Town Antwerp.
North: Green Spaces and Attractions in Noord
The area to the north of the city center is home to the University of Antwerp and a handful of fun attractions.
Beguinage Hidden Garden
We first learned about the Beguinage – or Beginhof – communities when visiting Haarlem near Amsterdam and we were quickly smitten with the secret gardens. The communities were designed to house devout women.
The Beguinage in Antwerp was built within the city walls in the year 1545 – and housed Beguine women until the 1980s. Today, the Beguinage is a quiet residential community with a pretty garden, religious statues and cobblestone lanes.
Park Spoor Noord and Parkbrug Bridge
The Spoor Noord – or North Railway Park – is a reutilized train yard transformed into a spacious green space. Three of the old railyard buildings are still on site – but the park mostly consists of open lawns and recreation zones, such as the skatepark (complete with a full pipe), ping pong tables and a summertime splashpad. Visitors can also see some interesting street art in the tunnel under the roadway.
Connecting the Eilandje Quarter to Spoor Noord Park is the artsy Parkbrug Bridge. The metal-covered structure features cut-outs that create unique designs as the light shifts. It can be a fun spot for photo ops and a convenient way to get to the park.
St James Church
The 15th century St. James Church (called Sint-Jacobskerk in Flemish) is an ornate structure featuring a Gothic exterior and a lavish, Baroque interior. The church, which is free to visit from 2pm to 5pm, was where Rubens was married and buried (along with many other members of his family).
Beer Lovers Bar
Featuring 12 beers on tap and 300 different kinds in bottles and cans, Beer Lovers is one of the best bars in Antwerp. In addition to Belgian favorites, they stock offerings from brewers around the world.
Chocolate Nation
Take a deep dive into the Belgium’s sweetest trade at the Chocolate Nation Museum. The immersive experience allows visitors to learn about the history and production from cocoa beans to chocolate bars.
Additionally, there are workshops that allow guests to create their own chocolate treat. A ticket is required, but audio guides and tastings are included.
Map of Antwerp Things To Do in a Day
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Antwerp map below. The numbered sights correlate with our list of Things To Do in Antwerp for a Day. The additional markers note our suggestions for longer stays.
Antwerp Travel Tips
Now that you know what to see and do on your Antwerp trip, we have a few tips to help you plan your excursion or longer vacation.
Getting There
Antwerp can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. With the airport service extremely limited, the best way to get to Antwerp is via train. The Antwerpen-Centraal Railway Station is within easy walking distance from the Old Town. Some services may require a switch at Antwerp-Berchem Station.
Travelers arriving to or departing via bus will need to confirm the station on their ticket, as there are several bus stations in the city.
Visitors with a car will find a number of paid parking lots in downtown as well as free or inexpensive car parks outside the city center that are well-connected with public transit.
Train Connections
Antwerp is easy to reach from popular destinations in Belgium and the region. To save money, travel on the weekends, when tickets are heavily discounted!
Brussels: The direct IC Train from Brussels to Antwerp takes about 45 minutes.
Ghent: The IC Train from Ghent St. Peter’s Station to Antwerp takes about 1 hour.
Bruges: Trains from Bruges to Antwerp travel through Ghent and/or Brussels and take about 1.5 hours.
Amsterdam: The Intercity Direct train from Amsterdam Centraal to Antwerp takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Organized Day Trips
If you are feeling overwhelmed with trip planning, don’t stress. Consider joining an organized tour to Antwerp. With the route and itinerary organized by a professional, all you need to do is show up!
Day Trip from Brussels to Antwerp and Ghent
See two of Belgium’s best cities on a full day trip from Brussels. On this organized excursion, an English-speaking guide leads the group to the two cities’ top sights and attractions. Find out more!
Amsterdam Day Trip to Antwerp
On a private day trip tour from Amsterdam to Antwerp, participants spend a full day exploring Antwerp. The guide leads the tour, but allows plenty of time for exploring on your own. Get the details!
Getting Around
The best way to get around Antwerp is on foot – especially when exploring the sights in the city center. For discovering beyond the center, visitors can use local public transit – which consists of a network of trams and buses.
Tickets for both can be purchased from machines (at some stops), at vendor kiosks or via contactless payment or the De Lijn App. Find current pricing and more info on the transit website.
Where To Stay in Antwerp
Travelers spending one night in Antwerp will want to stay right in the center. We believe the best place to stay is near the train station – as you can quickly drop off your luggage and start exploring.
The NH Collection Hotel features an unbeatable location and offers affordable rates. Guests rave about the tasty breakfast, comfortable rooms and excellent service. Check price and availability for your trip!
If NH Collection is fully booked, use our money-saving tips on Finding the Best Hotels for Cheap.
What You Will Need for your Antwerp Visit
Our final advice is all about what you will need for your day trip adventure. Want more packing hacks and checklists? Check out our Travel Packing page!
Durable Shoes
Our itinerary of what to see in Antwerp in a day covers some ground – so you will want to make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Use our guide to the Best Shoes for Traveling for honest reviews.
Travel Camera
The top attractions in Antwerp are gorgeous! To capture the beauty, bring an actual travel camera – like the DSLR Canon Rebel and 18-135mm lens that we use. Find out why it’s such a great camera for budget travelers!
Versatile Day Pack
On a day trip to Antwerp, you will want to carry a bag where you can stow all your everyday travel items. We use small backpacks that are big enough for lightweight jackets, our camera and a water bottle. The best day bags for travel will keep your items organized – and be a deterrent to pickpockets!
Start planning your trip to Belgium! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
Travel Guides for Belgium and Beyond
If you liked our tips for what to see in Antwerp in 1 day, check out our advice for other top destinations in the country and region!
- Best of Belgium Itinerary
- Things To Do in Brussels
- Plan a Trip to Bruges
- What To Do in Ghent
- Great Bars in Bruges
- Visiting Amsterdam
- One Week in Paris
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