Antwerp Historic Center Brussels
Antwerp's historic center captivates with its grand architecture, from the iconic Central Station to the majestic Cathedral, offering a rich cultural ...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Antwerp Historic Center Brussels
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Antwerp's historic center captivates with its grand architecture, from the iconic Central Station to the majestic Cathedral, offering a rich cultural and culinary experience.
"Antwerp's historic center is a feast for the eyes, boasting stunning architecture and a vibrant atmosphere."
🚶♀️ Free Walking Tours
Join a free walking tour for an insightful overview and local tips. Ask your guide for extra recommendations!
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early
For budget-friendly travel from Paris, book train tickets 2 months in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Antwerp Central Station
Koningin Astridplein
A breathtaking architectural marvel, often called the 'Railway Cathedral.' A must-see even if you're not catching a train.

Cathedral of Our Lady
Handschoenmarkt
Belgium's largest Gothic cathedral, housing masterpieces by Rubens. Its towering spires dominate the city skyline.

Grote Markt & Brabo Fountain
Grote Markt
The vibrant heart of Antwerp's historic center, surrounded by the stunning City Hall and guildhalls. Home to the legendary Brabo Fountain.

MAS Museum Rooftop
Hanza-Promenade
Enjoy panoramic city views from the free rooftop terrace of the MAS museum. Open late, it's perfect for sunset.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Architecture
Plan Your Culinary Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Free Walking Tours
Join a free walking tour for an insightful overview and local tips. Ask your guide for extra recommendations!
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early
For budget-friendly travel from Paris, book train tickets 2 months in advance.
🧇 Don't Miss Belgian Waffles
Indulge in authentic Belgian waffles from renowned spots like Maison Dandoy. A true culinary delight!
🍺 Explore Local Brews
Discover Antwerp's rich beer culture at breweries like De Koninck or Seef, and enjoy a pint at a local bar.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Free Walking Tours
Join a free walking tour for an insightful overview and local tips. Ask your guide for extra recommendations!
🎟️ Book Train Tickets Early
For budget-friendly travel from Paris, book train tickets 2 months in advance.
🧇 Don't Miss Belgian Waffles
Indulge in authentic Belgian waffles from renowned spots like Maison Dandoy. A true culinary delight!
🍺 Explore Local Brews
Discover Antwerp's rich beer culture at breweries like De Koninck or Seef, and enjoy a pint at a local bar.
🏛️ Hidden Stock Exchange
Seek out the alleyway near Burger King on the way to the cathedral to find the building of the world's first stock exchange.
🖼️ MAS Museum Views
Visit the MAS museum for its impressive exhibits and enjoy stunning city views from its free rooftop terrace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Antwerp's stunning architecture, particularly the Central Station and Cathedral, and its vibrant historic center. The city is also celebrated for its delicious food, especially waffles and fries, and its welcoming atmosphere. Some find the city can be busy, and navigating certain areas might require a good map.
"We couldn't go inside because there was a wedding going on at the time we went, but even from the outside, the building looks and feels grand.
Right next to Grote Markt. Impossible to miss. Even in the age of skyscrapers, this public square is awe inspiring and I can't imagine how it would have appeared to people when it was first constructed.
Area gets very crowded."
Rasikanand Harvind
"I have been there on last Sunday, and I don’t why but it was filled with a lot of countries’ flags… such a beautiful place, making a great harmony with the monument in the center."
Işıl
"Pretty city hall with a nice statue in the front and excellent exhibits that explain the cities plan for parks and highway removal"
Lukasz Zbylut
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Antwerp's historic center is easily accessible. If arriving by train, Antwerp Central Station is a magnificent landmark and a great starting point. For those coming from Paris, a train journey takes less than two hours and booking in advance can save money.
Public transport within the city, including trams and buses, is efficient and you can pay with your bank card or phone.Yes, the historic center of Antwerp is very walkable. Many of the main attractions, like the Grote Markt, Cathedral of Our Lady, and MAS museum, are within a reasonable walking distance of each other.
Absolutely! You can take a train from Brussels to Antwerp, which is a popular day trip or short stay option. The journey is relatively quick, making it easy to explore both cities.
Walking is ideal for exploring the historic center. For longer distances, Antwerp has an excellent public transport system including trams and buses. You can use contactless payment directly at the validator.
Yes, there are direct train services from Paris to Antwerp, making it a convenient option for a day trip or a longer visit. Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure the best prices.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While many outdoor attractions like the Grote Markt and Central Station are free to admire, major attractions like the Cathedral of Our Lady and museums such as the MAS require an entrance fee. It's advisable to check the official websites for current ticket prices and opening hours.
Yes, several key attractions are free to visit. These include admiring the architecture of Antwerp Central Station, exploring the Grote Markt, and enjoying the panoramic views from the MAS museum's rooftop terrace.
The Cathedral of Our Lady has specific opening hours, which can vary. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit to avoid disappointment.
While the MAS museum itself has an entrance fee for its exhibitions, the rooftop terrace offering panoramic city views is free to access and is open until 10 PM, making it a great evening destination.
For most major attractions and museums, purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended. This can often save you time by allowing you to skip queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
📸 📸 Photography
Antwerp is incredibly photogenic! Key spots include the stunning interior and exterior of Antwerp Central Station, the intricate facade of the Cathedral of Our Lady, the bustling Grote Markt, and the panoramic views from the MAS museum rooftop.
Yes, Antwerp's historic center is magical at night. The Grand Place is beautifully illuminated, and the Cathedral of Our Lady offers a dramatic silhouette against the night sky. The MAS rooftop is also open late for evening cityscapes.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces and for personal use. However, some museums may have restrictions on flash photography or photography in certain exhibits. Always check signage within museums.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light for photography. Weekday mornings are also ideal for capturing iconic landmarks with fewer crowds.
Explore the charming side streets and alleys for unique perspectives. The area around the MAS museum and the Scheldt river offers great shots, and don't forget the historic 'ruien' (underground canals) for an alternative, albeit potentially damp, photo adventure.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You absolutely must try Belgian waffles and fries! Antwerp also offers delicious chocolate, a wide variety of Belgian beers, and local specialties. Explore cafes and restaurants for a true culinary experience.
Many places serve excellent Belgian fries, often referred to as 'frites'. Look for popular spots and street vendors. They are known for their double-frying technique, resulting in a perfect crunch.
Antwerp has a diverse culinary scene. From traditional brasseries to modern eateries, you'll find plenty of options. Consider trying Elfde Gebod, De Rooden Hoed, or De Sinjoor for local flavors.
For a relaxed atmosphere and great drinks, explore Antwerp's cafes and bars. Bier Central is a popular choice for beer enthusiasts, and many charming cafes can be found throughout the historic center.
Dining prices in Antwerp can vary. While fine dining can be pricey, you can find affordable and delicious meals at cafes, brasseries, and food markets like the Wolf foodmarket.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Zoo and Plopsa Station amusement park are also popular choices for younger visitors. For a more relaxed outing, Rivierenhof Park features playgrounds, a petting zoo, and mini-golf. Remember to check the opening times and any age or height restrictions for specific attractions.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Opt for free walking tours to get acquainted with the city's history and layout, and consider purchasing a public transport day pass if you plan on using trams and buses frequently. Enjoy affordable and delicious Belgian fries from street vendors and explore local bakeries for budget-friendly snacks.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Delve deeper by visiting the site of the world's first stock exchange or taking a tour of the fascinating 'ruien' (underground canals). The MAS Museum offers insights into the city's maritime history, and the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA) is a must-visit after its extensive renovation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Wonders of Antwerp
Dominating the skyline is the Cathedral of Our Lady, Belgium's largest Gothic cathedral. Its intricate stonework and towering spires are a sight to behold. Nearby, the Grote Markt (Grand Square) is the vibrant heart of the city, surrounded by the ornate facade of the Stadhuis (City Hall) and historic guildhalls, all UNESCO World Heritage sites.
For a modern architectural contrast, the Port House, designed by Zaha Hadid, offers a striking contemporary addition to the city's landscape. The MAS Museum also provides a unique architectural experience, with its distinctive brick facade and the accessible rooftop offering panoramic views.
Culinary Delights: A Taste of Antwerp
The city also boasts a rich chocolate heritage. Explore local chocolatiers for exquisite pralines and truffles. For those who appreciate a good brew, Antwerp is home to numerous breweries and bars offering a wide selection of Belgian beers, from light lagers to rich Trappist ales. Consider visiting De Koninck or Seef breweries for a taste of local brews.
Beyond these iconic treats, explore the Wolf foodmarket for a diverse range of culinary options, or seek out traditional restaurants like Elfde Gebod or De Rooden Hoed for authentic Flemish cuisine. The city's vibrant food scene ensures a memorable gastronomic journey for every visitor.
Exploring Antwerp's Hidden Gems
For a truly unique experience, consider a tour of the 'ruien', the old city canals that have been transformed into underground passages. While now re-routed and cleaner, these tours offer a fascinating, albeit sometimes damp, glimpse into Antwerp's subterranean past. You'll be provided with protective gear for this adventure.
Don't overlook the charm of Antwerp's smaller museums or the opportunity to simply wander through its picturesque streets and discover independent boutiques and cozy cafes. The area around the MAS museum and along the Scheldt river also offers quieter, yet equally rewarding, exploration opportunities.
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