Begijnhof Antwerpen
A serene 17th-century residential complex and garden, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Antwerp's historical past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Garden is at its best
Begijnhof Antwerpen
Best Time
Garden is at its best
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 17th-century residential complex and garden, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into Antwerp's historical past.
"An oasis of calm and beauty, the Begijnhof is a must-visit for a tranquil escape in Antwerp."
🤫 Be Quiet & Respectful
Remember people live here! Keep voices low and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Stroll & Reflect
Take your time to wander through the garden and admire the historic houses.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Central Garden
Center of the Begijnhof
A lush, peaceful garden with fruit trees and quiet seating areas, perfect for reflection.
Historic Beguine Houses
Surrounding the garden
Charming 17th-century houses that once housed religious women, offering a glimpse into the past.
The Church of the Begijnhof
Within the Begijnhof complex
A functioning church that adds to the spiritual and historical ambiance of the site.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Respect the Residents
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Be Quiet & Respectful
Remember people live here! Keep voices low and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Stroll & Reflect
Take your time to wander through the garden and admire the historic houses.
Tourist question - what are unusual, but cool places in Antwerp to visit? Like hidden restaurants, forgotten but cool museums, weird shops, cool places to drink... Nothing famous like Aquatopia, ZOO etc.
🌳 Enjoy the Greenery
The garden is a highlight, especially when fruit trees are in bloom or bearing fruit.
📍 Easy to Find
Located near the university, it's a convenient stop during your city exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Be Quiet & Respectful
Remember people live here! Keep voices low and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Stroll & Reflect
Take your time to wander through the garden and admire the historic houses.
🌳 Enjoy the Greenery
The garden is a highlight, especially when fruit trees are in bloom or bearing fruit.
📍 Easy to Find
Located near the university, it's a convenient stop during your city exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Begijnhof as a beautiful, peaceful oasis in the heart of Antwerp, offering a much-needed respite from the city's hustle. Its historical charm, exquisite garden, and tranquil atmosphere are frequently highlighted as major draws, making it a delightful surprise for many. While it's a residential area requiring respectful quiet, its accessibility and unique ambiance make it a highly recommended stop.
"A really beautiful, peaceful spot near the university-area. Begijnhof, is a community of houses with garden and orchard (pears were dropping out of trees as I walked in the garden). Originally built for religious women in the 17th century, it now seems to be an apartment building for locals. The garden is exquisite and while I was there students (speaking a variety of languages) were chilling out, reading etc. Really cool spot on a nice day."
Irma Zandl
"In a hustling and bustling city like Antwerp, where it is crowded and full of people in a hurry to get to places and or spend their money, this here is the oasis you need. The silent climax you did not think you could find so close to the craze of the city centre.
Please, respect this silence. Sit down, relax. Leave your worries behind. Enjoy."
Mike Michels
"Lovely place to enjoy the silence.
Much needed after a few days of visiting museums and going around the city center."
Cristina Panzeri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Begijnhof is centrally located near the university district. You can easily walk there from the city center or take public transport to nearby stops. It's a short walk from the Groenplaats or Meir shopping streets.
Street parking is very limited in this central area. It's best to use public parking garages like the one at the Groenplaats or Q-Park Kooldok.
Yes, cycling is a great way to get around Antwerp. There are usually bike racks available nearby, but be mindful of the residential nature of the Begijnhof itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Begijnhof and its garden is generally free. It's an open residential area, so no tickets are required.
The Begijnhof is typically accessible during daylight hours. However, as it's a residential area, it's best to visit during reasonable daytime hours and be mindful of residents.
Yes, the church within the Begijnhof is usually open to visitors. Check for specific service times if you wish to attend.
Absolutely! You can get a good feel for its tranquility and beauty with a short stroll, making it perfect for a brief stop.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but always be discreet and respectful, especially as people live here. Avoid intrusive photography that might disturb residents.
The central garden with its trees and flowers, the charming facades of the historic houses, and the church are all picturesque.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in residential areas like the Begijnhof due to privacy concerns and local regulations.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is incredibly peaceful and tranquil, offering a stark contrast to the busy city outside. It feels like stepping back in time.
A leisurely stroll can take 30-60 minutes, but you could easily spend longer if you wish to sit and relax in the garden.
There are no public restrooms or cafes directly within the Begijnhof. You'll find these amenities in the surrounding city center.
The paths are generally paved and relatively flat, making it mostly accessible. However, some older sections might present minor challenges.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to keep noise levels down to respect the residents. It's a great place for a peaceful walk and to point out interesting architectural details on the houses. Pack some snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities within the Begijnhof itself, and enjoy a moment of calm before heading back to more active city explorations.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Take advantage of the garden seating to read a book, chat softly, or simply soak in the historical atmosphere. It’s a place to recharge and appreciate the beauty of preserved heritage, offering a different pace from the typical tourist trail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven of Peace: The Begijnhof's History and Charm
Today, the Begijnhof is a UNESCO World Heritage site and continues to be a residential area, preserving its serene character. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly and appreciate the historical significance and the peaceful ambiance. It’s a place where you can feel the echoes of centuries past while enjoying a moment of calm away from the city's hustle.
Walking through the Begijnhof feels like stepping into another era. The multilingual explanation panel at the entrance provides context, but the true magic lies in simply experiencing the quietude. It’s a testament to how historical sites can remain vibrant and relevant, offering a unique perspective on Antwerp's rich cultural tapestry.
Experiencing the Begijnhof: Tips from Visitors
Visitors emphasize the importance of respecting the residents. While the Begijnhof is open to the public, it's crucial to maintain a quiet demeanor, as it is a living community. This means avoiding loud conversations, keeping phone calls brief, and being mindful of where you walk. The feeling of being in a 'movie set' while being minutes from the city center is a common sentiment, adding to its unique appeal.
For photographers, the architectural details of the 17th-century houses, the sculptures, and the old water pumps offer lovely subjects. However, discretion is key. The overall advice is to approach the Begijnhof with a sense of calm and appreciation, allowing its historical charm and peacefulness to envelop you.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit