Last updated on July 31st, 2025
Antwerp wasn’t on my radar when we visited Belgium. But on a whim, we decided not to go straight to our base in Ghent from Amsterdam, but to break in Antwerp for the day. We hopped off the train, left our luggage in a locker in the train station, and set out to explore the city. That impromptu Antwerp day trip was the best decision!
This port city is a powerhouse of culture, from its striking architecture to its cutting-edge fashion scene. It’s compact enough to explore in a day, but diverse enough to leave you wanting more. We explored Antwerp’s winding streets, iconic sights, and art scenes, and I’m excited to share my tips to help you make the most of your visit.
My guide and maps will help you see the best of Antwerp in just one day. You won’t have to worry about missing out on key sights or wasting time figuring out where to go next. I’ve taken opening times of sights into consideration, so you will have to double back to a few places in order to not waste time. This way, you can focus on enjoying every moment in this vibrant city.
Get ready to wander through Antwerp’s city center, marvel at Rubens’ masterpieces, and indulge in some Belgian chocolate. With our insider knowledge, you’ll feel like a local as you navigate this captivating city. Let’s dive into the perfect Antwerp day trip itinerary!
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What is Antwerp Famous For and is it Worth Visiting?
You might already know that Antwerp is famous for its diamonds. Nearly 80% of the world’s rough diamonds pass through this city. It’s fascinating to wander around the Diamond District and see how the industry works. Diamond jewelry is also one of the best things to buy in Belgium.
Antwerp is also a hub for fashion. The Antwerp Six, a group of influential designers, put this city on the fashion map. You’ll find trendy boutiques and flagship stores scattered throughout.
Art and architecture are other strong points. The city is home to many works by the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens. This Flemish artist made his home here and stamped the Baroque tradition on the city. Just walking around the city, you’ll see buildings that span different styles and eras.
A little known aspect of all Belgian cities, including Antwerp, is the wonderful street art dotted all around. You’re sure to stumble across graffiti and cool modern sculptures as you explore the city. If you want some more, include other recommended places, like the ones found in our own Northern Belgium travel itinerary!
A trip here isn’t complete without tasting Belgian chocolate. Antwerp’s chocolate shops make some of the best sweets you’ll ever taste. Don’t miss out on buying a few to bring home.
Is Antwerp worth visiting? Absolutely. The city blends history, culture, and modern life in a way that’s hard to find elsewhere. Even if you have just a day, you can enjoy it immensely. However, I do understand that time can be short. Maybe you’re wondering how Antwerp is versus Bruges or Ghent for a visit?
Morning
Start your day early to make the most of Antwerp’s top sights. With just one day to explore, we’ll concentrate on its historic heart in the morning and start with the places that are free to see. With the assumption that you’ll arrive by train, here’s an Antwerp walking tour map for the morning hours.
Antwerp Central Train Station
Step off the train into one of the world’s most beautiful railway stations. Antwerp Central’s stunning architecture blends old and new. The main hall’s soaring dome and intricate stonework will take your breath away. Snap some photos of the grand staircase and glass-and-steel train shed.
Don’t miss the restored waiting rooms with their ornate ceilings and marble details. Even if you’re not arriving by train, it’s worth popping in to admire this 19th-century masterpiece.
Grote Markt (Great Market Square)
If you don’t want to walk for about a mile to the historic center, you can take a tram from near the train station to emerge at the Groenplaats metro station. From there, take a short walk to Antwerp’s bustling Great market Square.
In the center stands the Brabo Fountain, depicting a local legend. Admire the stunning 16th-century City Hall and colorful guildhalls. Each building tells a story of the city’s wealthy past.
Grab a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes. Street performers often entertain crowds here later in the day, but the first thing in the morning is great for taking pictures without a throng of crowds. Expect to spend about 30 minutes.
Vlaaikensgang (Hidden Alley)
Discover a secret slice of medieval Antwerp. This narrow alleyway dates back to the 16th century. Look for the small entrance between houses on Oude Koornmarkt.
Step into a quiet world of cobblestones and ivy-covered walls. Peek into charming courtyards and imagine life here centuries ago. It’s a peaceful break from the busy streets nearby. You’ll only need about 15 minutes.
Cathedral of Our Lady
Next, head to Antwerp’s iconic Gothic cathedral. Its main 123-meter spire dominates the skyline. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of art, including Rubens’ famous triptychs. Don’t miss the stunning stained glass windows and detailed carvings, and don’t forget to look down – the floor is a patchwork of old tombstones.
You can tour the cathedral on your own in about 1 hour and there’s a standard guided tour that takes 90 minutes if you want more detail. The cathedral’s bells chime every 15 minutes, adding to the atmospheric experience.
If you like climbing towers for sweeping views, there’s a quirky detail you should know about the cathedral’s two towers. The main tower (belfry tower) belongs to the city and not the church, so you have to arrange to climb the 515 stairs at the Museum Vleeshuis. You also have to do it no late than 3 weeks before your visit.
The smaller tower belongs to the church and you can climb that as a part of the 2 hour “behind the scenes” tour that includes the inside of the church, the smaller tower, and the garden. I recommend that you skip the tours if you’re only visiting Antwerp for a day.
Plantin-Moretus Museum
Visit the world’s only UNESCO-listed museum printing workshop. Step back in time to the 16th century when Plantin and Moretus ran their printing empire from Christophe Plantin’s home and workshop.
See the world’s oldest printing presses and a priceless collection of books and art. The beautiful courtyard garden is perfect for a quick rest. Don’t miss the library with its ancient globes and maps.
You will need 1-1.5 hours for a visit.
Optional: DIVA Diamond Museum
If you love jewelry, DIVA, Antwerp’s diamond museum, offers an impressive look at the city’s glittering past. You’ll learn about the history of diamonds, the craftsmanship, and the unique role Antwerp has played in the diamond trade for centuries.
The replica diamond vault steals the show here. Packed with drawers of diamond duplicates, it offers a hands-on lesson in how these gems are graded. It’s like a crash course in gemology, minus the hefty price tag.
Interactive displays make it engaging for all ages and you can use the audio guide and printout for straightforward explanations of everything you see. The museum also provides a 90 minute guided tour if you’re so inclined. Check if there are any gemstone workshops or demonstrations during your visit for an extra special experience.
Lunch at a Traditional Belgian Restaurant
Time for some hearty Belgian fare! Choose between two local favorites. De Bomma serves grandma-style comfort food in a rustic setting. Try their famous meatballs, stoofvlees (beef stew), or moules-frites (mussels with fries). If you’re a fan of laid-back lunches, this place is a must-try.
Or head to Antwerp’s oldest restaurant, Elfde Gebod. It’s a quirky restaurant filled with religious statues and even a few sacrilegious trinkets. Its name means “11th Commandment” in Dutch. Because of Belgium’s reputation as a Trappist beer capital, this extra commandment is “Thou shalt drink beer and enjoy thy life!” For a good lunch, their vol-au-vent is a crowd-pleaser.
Both places offer great beer selections to wash down your meal.
Afternoon
During midday in Antwerp, treat yourself to some of the city’s best eats and unique flavors. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional Belgian restaurant, and then discover the delights of Belgian chocolate at the Chocolate Nation Museum.
Het Steen
Het Steen castle stands guard over the Scheldt River. This small medieval fortress dates back to the 13th century. Today it houses a visitor center with great city views from its rooftop.
Climb the ramparts for a free peek at Antwerp’s busy port. Inside, multimedia exhibits bring the city’s maritime past to life. However, these are not free and you’ll have to skip them in order to save time.
Plan on spending 30 minutes here.
St Paul’s Church
St. Paul’s Church is a Baroque masterpiece. Inside, you’ll find marble, gold, and over 50 paintings by Flemish artists. Don’t miss the frescoed ceiling, the intricate pulpit with its exotic animals, and Rubens’ “Flagellation of Christ” in the transept.
The peaceful garden behind the church holds over 60 life-size statues. It’s a tranquil spot to rest your feet. Allow about 45 minutes to tour the church and garden.
St. Charles Borromeo Church
St. Charles Borromeo Church is a gem of Baroque architecture. The church’s plain facade hides a lavish interior. Marvel at the marble altar, wooden sculptures, and paintings by Rubens.
Look up at the ceiling’s trompe l’oeil paintings that create an illusion of depth. The church often hosts classical music concerts, so if you’re planning to spend more than a day in Antwerp, check if there’s one during your visit. For this day trip, spend about 30 minutes here.
Rubenshuis Experience and Garden (Rubens House)
Now this is an attraction that has changed since we were there. The house the Rubens converted to a city palace for him to live and work in is closed until 2030 for restoration. In its place there’s a new Rubens Experience, garden, and library to explore.
The Rubens Experience brings the artist’s world to life. It’s an immersive mix of sights and sounds that lets you step into Rubens’ shoes. Whether you’re an art buff or just curious, it’s a fun and engaging way to get to know Antwerp’s most famous painter.
You should book your slot online – there’s a show every 30 minutes and they alternate between English and Dutch. You can get a ticket just for the show, but I recommend that you get a combined ticket for the experience as well as the garden.
Rubens’ garden is a vibrant oasis, bursting with over 17,000 plants. It’s a living recreation of the artist’s own retreat, based on extensive historical research and even Rubens’ personal letters. Here, Rubens entertained guests, played with his children, and found inspiration.
The garden changes with the seasons, from spring’s fiery tulips to winter’s evergreen shrubs, all color-coordinated with input from fashion designer Dries Van Noten. As you stroll through, you’ll get a sense of the artist’s life beyond the canvas. It’s not just a garden – it’s an open-air extension of the museum, telling Rubens’ story through nature. You can get a glimpse of Rubens’ house from here.
The new library on the second floor is freely accessible to everyone. It is a treasure trove for enthusiasts of Rubens and other Flemish masters. With thousands of documents at your fingertips, you can dive deep into the artist’s life and work. It’s like having a backstage pass to art history.
Plan to spend about 1.5-2 hours here.
Evening
Enjoying the evening in Antwerp means savoring delicious Belgian chocolate and cuisine and experiencing the local beer culture.
Optional: Visit the Chocolate Nation Museum
Craving sweets? Pop into Chocolate Nation before drinks and dinner. This museum stays open until 6:30 PM, giving you a chance to learn about Belgium’s chocolate-making history. You’ll see how cocoa becomes chocolate and even taste some samples. Your ticket will include an audio guide and a chocolate tasting package.
The interactive displays are fun, and you might pick up some trivia to impress your friends back home. The museum tour takes about an hour and a half.
Visit a Traditional Belgian Beer Café
Before dinner, head to a classic Belgian beer café.
Billie’s is a cozy spot to try some of Belgium’s famous beers. The wood-paneled walls and dim lighting create a warm vibe. The staff know their stuff and can help you pick from over 100 beers. Try a fruity Lambic or a strong Trappist ale. Grab some cheese or sausage to snack on while you sip. It’s a great place to chat with locals and fellow travelers.
Café Kulminator is a quirky beer haven that feels like your eccentric grandparents’ basement. Forget fancy decor – it’s all about the brews here. Their specialty? Belgian beers, especially Trappists. The beer menu is massive, featuring everything from fresh releases to rare aged bottles. Look for the giant book on the bar, dramatically lit by candles.
Fair warning: Trappist beers can pack a punch. Pace yourself and grab some meat and cheese to snack on. It’s not a full meal, but it’ll help you keep your wits about you.
Dinner at a Cozy Belgian Bistro
Antwerp is home to many charming bistros that serve traditional Belgian dishes. For dinner, head to Bistro Ernest. This charming spot serves up classic Belgian dishes with a modern twist. The menu changes with the seasons, but you might find options like Flemish beef stew with fries, Mussels in white wine sauce, and Waterzooi (creamy chicken soup).
The portions are generous, and the prices are fair. Save room for dessert – their chocolate mousse is a must-try. The friendly staff and warm atmosphere make for a perfect end to your Antwerp day trip.
Getting to Antwerp
Traveling to Antwerp is easy and convenient with multiple transportation options. Whether you prefer the speed of trains, the flexibility of car travel, or the budget-friendly buses, there’s a way for everyone to reach this vibrant city.
Transportation Options (Train, Car, Bus)
Train: Taking the train is often the fastest and most comfortable option. Antwerp Central Station is a major hub, connecting to cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels. High-speed trains, like Thalys and Eurostar, link Antwerp with other key European cities. The SNCB Intercity and local trains also link from other Belgian cities, like Ghent, where we made our base. The station itself is a beautiful landmark worth seeing.
Car: Driving to Antwerp gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. The city is well-connected by highways, making it a convenient option for those traveling from nearby cities. Be aware, though, that parking in the city center can be a bit tricky. Look for park-and-ride options on the outskirts.
Bus: Taking a bus is often the cheapest option. Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines have frequent services to Antwerp from multiple cities. The buses are usually comfortable and come with amenities like Wi-Fi. Bus travel might take longer but can be a good choice if you’re on a budget.
If you’re staying in Ghent, you may want to leave two days for sightseeing in Ghent. Use our itinerary to help you plan your days there!
Estimated Travel Time from Nearby Cities
Paris: If you’re coming from Paris, the high-speed Thalys train takes around 2 hours to reach Antwerp. By car, the journey is about 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. Bus rides can take upwards of 4.5 hours.
Amsterdam: From Amsterdam, another high-speed train option is available. The journey takes about an hour and a half. Driving will take around 2 hours, while bus travel can take about 3 hours.
Brussels: Brussels is the closest major city, with trains taking only about 40 minutes, so a day trip to Antwerp from Brussels makes perfect sense. Or you can do it the other way round and use our guide to Brussels sightseeing in one day. Driving will take you just under an hour, while a bus can take around 1.5 hours.
Ghent: A quick train ride from Ghent to Antwerp takes about an hour. By car, you’re looking at around 50 minutes, and the bus will take roughly the same time as driving.
Bruges: From Bruges, trains to Antwerp take approximately 1.5 hours. A car ride will take about 1.5 hours if the traffic is light. Buses are a longer option, usually taking around 2 to 2.5 hours. Make sure to visit Bruges with the help of our day trip guide!
Using these transportation methods, you can plan your trip to make the most of your visit to Antwerp.
