Meir
Antwerp's premier shopping street, blending grand architecture with lively street performers and diverse retail options.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Meir
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed shopping
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Antwerp's premier shopping street, blending grand architecture with lively street performers and diverse retail options.
"A long street full of beautiful buildings, shops, cafes, and always some kind of new music being played."
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Street musicians often perform, adding a lively atmosphere. Tip them if you enjoy their tunes!
🛍️ Shop Smart
Discover a wide range of brands, including cosmetics and clothing, often at competitive prices.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Street Musicians
Along the Meir
Lively accordion, piano, and djembe performances add a unique soundtrack to your stroll.
Architectural Grandeur
Along the Meir
Admire the elegant historic residences and the stunning neoclassical theater.
Shopping Variety
Along the Meir
From big brands to cosmetics, find everything you need on this bustling retail avenue.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bustle
Beyond the Shops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Street musicians often perform, adding a lively atmosphere. Tip them if you enjoy their tunes! 
🛍️ Shop Smart
Discover a wide range of brands, including cosmetics and clothing, often at competitive prices.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
The Meir is a long, beautiful street perfect for a leisurely walk, connecting the station to the city center.
📸 Capture the Moment
The architecture and street life make for great photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Street musicians often perform, adding a lively atmosphere. Tip them if you enjoy their tunes!
🛍️ Shop Smart
Discover a wide range of brands, including cosmetics and clothing, often at competitive prices.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
The Meir is a long, beautiful street perfect for a leisurely walk, connecting the station to the city center.
📸 Capture the Moment
The architecture and street life make for great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Meir for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse shopping options, and the lively entertainment provided by talented street musicians. The beautiful architecture adds to the overall appeal, making it a must-visit destination for both shopping and experiencing Antwerp's urban charm. Some find it can get very busy, especially on weekends.
"Great place for a magnificent shopping and eating experience there is always some kind of new music being played by amazing musicians and beautiful sound of piano also. Busy at times but that is clear proof of how amazing and how much variety is available here. Big branded clothing and cosmetics also available here that to at cheap pricing. A variety of choices for restaurant and elegent cuisine, and also a chance to taste the famous belgian chocolate and belgian waffles. A must check out."
Waqas Khan
"A long street lined with shops, bustling with people. It stretches from the central station all the way into the city center. You’ll find all kinds of stores here, offering just about anything you might want."
Alexandra
"Nice central street."
Paul Ciprian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Meir is easily accessible as it stretches from Antwerp Central Station into the city center. You can walk directly from the station or take public transport.
Yes, the Meir is primarily a pedestrian street, making it ideal for walking and shopping without worrying about traffic.
Walking is the best way to experience the Meir, allowing you to browse shops, enjoy street performers, and admire the architecture at your own pace.
While the Meir itself is pedestrianized, there are several parking garages nearby, such as the one at Antwerp Central Station.
Absolutely! Numerous trams and buses stop near or along the Meir, making it very convenient to reach via public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Meir is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. You can visit and stroll along it freely.
As a public street, the Meir is always accessible. Individual shop hours will vary, typically opening around 10 AM and closing between 6 PM and 8 PM.
While the street itself is free, some individual shops or attractions might have their own admission policies. However, general access to the Meir is free.
The Meir is generally flat and pedestrian-friendly, making it accessible. However, individual shop entrances may vary.
Yes, the Meir is accessible 24/7, though shops will be closed. The street is often beautifully lit at night.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a wide variety of shops, including major international brands, clothing stores, cosmetic shops, and more.
Yes, the Meir and its side streets offer numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries, including opportunities to try Belgian chocolate and waffles.
While the Meir focuses on major brands, you can find souvenir shops in the surrounding areas or explore smaller boutiques for unique Belgian items.
Yes, the Meir hosts many well-known brands and trademarks, catering to various shopping preferences.
Don't miss out on famous Belgian chocolates and waffles, readily available in cafes and shops along or near the Meir.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grand neoclassical architecture, the bustling street life, and the talented street musicians.
Yes, street photography is common and encouraged on the Meir, capturing its vibrant atmosphere.
Both daytime for vibrant street scenes and evening for beautiful lighting offer great photographic opportunities.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for personal photography on the public street.
Yes, but it's polite to ask permission or offer a small tip if you plan to take close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 The wide, pedestrianized street makes it easier to navigate with strollers, and there are plenty of shops with items that might appeal to younger visitors. While the Meir is primarily a shopping street, nearby cafes offer opportunities for breaks and treats like Belgian waffles or chocolates, which are always a hit with kids.
🛍️ Shoppers on a Budget
Beyond shopping, enjoying the atmosphere of the Meir is free! You can soak in the vibrant street life, admire the architecture, and listen to the talented street musicians without spending a euro.
+2 For budget-friendly dining, look for local bakeries or cafes that offer more affordable Belgian snacks and light meals rather than sit-down restaurants.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Meir: Antwerp's Grand Boulevard
What truly sets the Meir apart is its vibrant atmosphere, often enhanced by talented street musicians who fill the air with melodies from accordions, pianos, and djembes. These performances add a unique cultural layer to the shopping experience, drawing crowds and creating a lively, engaging environment.
+2 It's a place where commerce, culture, and urban life converge, offering visitors a dynamic and memorable experience.For those looking to explore further, the Meir serves as a gateway to other Antwerp attractions. Its proximity to the Central Station means you can easily combine a visit with exploring the station's architectural marvel or venturing into the nearby city center for more historical sights and culinary delights.
Navigating the Meir: Tips from Travelers
Don't just focus on the shops; take time to appreciate the street's aesthetic. The beautiful architecture provides a stunning backdrop for photos, and the street performers add an unforgettable soundtrack to your visit.
+3 It's a good idea to have some small change handy if you wish to tip the musicians who contribute so much to the ambiance. For practicalities, the Meir is easily walkable from the Central Station, making it convenient for day-trippers. While the street itself is pedestrianized, ample parking is available in nearby garages.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit