Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)
Striking red sandstone museum with high-tech exhibitions exploring Antwerp's place in the world, topped by a free panoramic terrace.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy city lights from above
Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)
Best Time
Enjoy city lights from above

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Striking red sandstone museum with high-tech exhibitions exploring Antwerp's place in the world, topped by a free panoramic terrace.
"The building itself is architectural marvel and worth the visit, with an excellent panorama open after exhibitions close."
🎯 Free Rooftop Access!
Enjoy stunning panoramic views from the rooftop terrace, accessible even when the museum is closed.
⏰ Check Terrace Hours
Rooftop hours may differ from museum hours. Confirm before your visit, especially on Mondays.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Rooftop Terrace
Top floor
Breathtaking 360° views of Antwerp and the port. Free access makes it a must-see!

Architectural Marvel
Exterior
A striking modern building of red sandstone and glass, resembling stacked boxes.

Antwerp's Global Connections
Exhibition floors
Explore exhibits on Antwerp's maritime history, world cultures, and its role in global trade.
Planning Your Visit
Rooftop Views: Free Access, But Check Hours
Allocate Ample Time for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Rooftop Access!
Enjoy stunning panoramic views from the rooftop terrace, accessible even when the museum is closed.
⏰ Check Terrace Hours
Rooftop hours may differ from museum hours. Confirm before your visit, especially on Mondays.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Exhibits are vast; dedicate several hours to truly explore the museum's collections.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The rooftop offers incredible photo opportunities of Antwerp.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Rooftop Access!
Enjoy stunning panoramic views from the rooftop terrace, accessible even when the museum is closed.
⏰ Check Terrace Hours
Rooftop hours may differ from museum hours. Confirm before your visit, especially on Mondays.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Exhibits are vast; dedicate several hours to truly explore the museum's collections.
📸 Capture the Skyline
The rooftop offers incredible photo opportunities of Antwerp.
🍽️ Nearby Dining Options
Consider dining across the street at Wolf for a post-museum meal.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the MAS for its stunning modern architecture and the breathtaking panoramic views from its free rooftop terrace. The museum's diverse exhibitions, which connect Antwerp's local history to global narratives, are also highly regarded, offering an enriching and visually engaging experience for all.
"MAS Museum – A Modern Museum with Great Views
The MAS Museum is a big and modern building in Antwerp, close to the river. It looks very cool with red bricks and glass windows stacked like boxes. Inside, there are interesting exhibitions about Antwerp, the port, world cultures, and art.
One of the best parts is the rooftop, where you can go up for free and see amazing views of the whole city!"
Harsha Jayakody
"Great museum with a gorgeous roof terrace! Multiple exhibits focused on different facets of Antwerp. The building is also a brilliant bit of architecture.
Highly recommend a visit if you’re in Antwerp, along with a meal across the street at Wolf!"
Talon Fast
"A must-visit cultural landmark in Antwerp. the building itself is architectural marvel and worth the visit. Inside, you'll find a thoughtfully curated and unique collection that spans diverse themes — from local maritime history to global trade, and even an impressive section on World War II that offers powerful insight on the city’s history under occupation.
What sets MAS apart is the way it connects Antwerp’s local story to global narratives. The exhibits are visually engaging and often interactive, making the experience enriching and accessible.
Don’t miss the free rooftop panorama terrace — it offers stunning 360° views of the city and port, perfect for a relaxing end to your visit.
Whether you're into history, architecture, or just looking for a great viewpoint, MAS delivers on all fronts."
Dibyojeet Bagchi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MAS is easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams or buses to nearby stops. It's also a pleasant walk from the city center, offering scenic views along the waterfront.
While direct parking at the museum is limited, there are several public parking garages within walking distance. Consider parking at the Grote Markt or Oudaen garages.
Yes, it's a scenic walk along the Scheldt river, taking about 20-30 minutes from the historic center. It's a great way to see more of the city.
The museum is generally accessible, with elevators connecting the different floors and ramps where necessary. The rooftop terrace is also accessible.
From Antwerp Central Station, you can take a tram (e.g., lines 3, 5, 9, 10) towards the city center and get off at a stop near the MAS, or enjoy a longer but pleasant walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the museum's exhibitions is ticketed. However, the panoramic rooftop terrace is free to access, offering spectacular city views.
The museum exhibitions are closed on Mondays, but the rooftop terrace is often accessible. It's best to check the official MAS website for the most up-to-date hours.
For the exhibitions, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. The rooftop is generally first-come, first-served.
Museum hours typically run from 10 AM to 5 PM, with the terrace often open later, until 10 PM. Always verify current hours on the MAS website as they can vary.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Check the MAS website for specific pricing and potential city passes that might include entry.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The MAS features diverse exhibitions on Antwerp's history, its port, world cultures, and art. The building's architecture and the panoramic rooftop are also major draws.
A thorough visit can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibitions. The rooftop offers a quicker, but equally rewarding, experience.
Yes, the MAS often has interactive elements and visually engaging displays that can appeal to children, making it a family-friendly destination.
You'll get stunning 360-degree views of Antwerp's skyline, the Scheldt river, and the bustling port. It's a fantastic vantage point for photos.
The museum offers various guided tours, often focusing on specific exhibitions or themes. Check their schedule for availability and booking information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The MAS has a restaurant on the 8th floor offering food and drinks with a view. Additionally, there are many dining options in the surrounding area.
The area around the MAS has several restaurants and cafes. A popular recommendation is 'Wolf', located across the street, offering a variety of food stalls.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition halls. However, you might be able to consume them in designated areas or outside the museum.
While specific menus can change, most restaurants in Antwerp are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan choices. It's advisable to check the restaurant's current menu or inquire upon arrival.
The restaurant on the 8th floor is known for its views, which can influence pricing. It's generally considered a mid-range to slightly upscale dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in the museum's exhibition spaces, but tripods and flash photography are usually prohibited. Always check for specific signage.
The rooftop terrace offers unparalleled panoramic shots of Antwerp. The museum's exterior architecture also provides excellent photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The rooftop is the prime location for capturing stunning photos of the city skyline, the port, and the river.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around public buildings for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to avoid flying drones near the MAS.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light for both the architecture and the city views. Evenings provide a chance to capture the city lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for at least a few hours to explore, and consider focusing on the more visually stimulating exhibits. The open spaces on the rooftop also provide a chance for kids to stretch their legs. Remember to check the museum's website for any specific family-oriented activities or workshops they might be offering during your visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The undisputed highlight for photographers is the rooftop terrace. From this vantage point, you can capture stunning 360-degree views of Antwerp, the Scheldt river, and the vast port. Whether you're after a daytime panorama or the magical glow of sunset, the rooftop delivers. Remember to check the hours, as the terrace often stays open later than the exhibitions, allowing for evening city light photography.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While the museum exhibitions do have an entrance fee, they offer a comprehensive look into Antwerp's history and global significance. If your budget is tight, prioritize the rooftop experience. You can also enjoy the surrounding waterfront area for free, taking in the impressive architecture of the MAS from the outside.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The MAS: A Beacon of Antwerp's History and Global Reach
The exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, moving beyond simple historical accounts to weave narratives that connect local experiences with broader global trends. Visitors can expect to encounter a wide array of artifacts, from historical treasures and intricate artworks to personal mementos and ship models, all contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Antwerp's place in history. The museum's approach often encourages reflection, posing questions that prompt visitors to seek answers within the exhibits, making the learning process more engaging and personal.
Beyond its indoor collections, the MAS is renowned for its panoramic rooftop terrace. This free-access area provides an unparalleled 360-degree vista of Antwerp, encompassing the sprawling port, the winding Scheldt river, and the city's urban landscape. It's a perfect spot to appreciate the scale of Antwerp's maritime influence and to capture breathtaking photographs, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Navigating the MAS: From Free Views to Immersive Exhibits
For those wishing to delve deeper, the museum's exhibitions are spread across several floors, each dedicated to different themes. These include Antwerp's history, its connection to world cultures, and its significant role in global trade. The displays are designed to be visually engaging and often interactive, making them suitable for a wide range of visitors, including families. It's advisable to allocate a significant portion of your day, perhaps 2-4 hours, to fully appreciate the breadth and depth of the collections.
When planning your visit, remember that while the rooftop terrace often has extended hours, the museum exhibitions have specific opening times and are closed on Mondays. Checking the official MAS website for the most current information on hours, ticket prices, and any special events is highly recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit