Antwerp's Affordable Adventure: 2 Fun-Filled Days!

Experience Antwerp's charm on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Antwerp, Belgium is a charming port city with stunning architecture, rich history, and a bustling art scene. While it may not be the cheapest destination, budget travelers can still explore the city's highlights by visiting free museums, strolling through scenic parks, and indulging in street food. With affordable accommodations like hostels and Airbnb options, a trip to Antwerp can be enjoyed even on a limited budget.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Antwerp Exploration

  • Start your day with a cup of coffee at Caffènation, a hipster café with cozy atmosphere.
  • Visit the Grote Markt, a beautiful square surrounded by historical buildings, and snap a photo with the Brabo Fountain.
  • Head to the Rubens House, a stunning museum showcasing the works of the famous Flemish painter.
  • Take a break and enjoy some traditional Flemish cuisine at De Groote Witte Arend, a restaurant in a unique 16th-century house.
  • Stroll around the trendy neighbourhood of ‘t Zuid, known for fashionable boutiques, vibrant nightlife, and cool street art.
  • End your day by admiring the panoramic views of the city from the top of Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady.
  • Where to stay: Tryout Hotel Ibis Budget Antwerpen Centraal Station for affordable lodging, just minutes from the train station.
Day 2

Diamonds and Belgian Waffles

  • Visit the Diamond District, one of the largest diamond trading centers in the world.
  • Learn about the glittering world of diamond trade at the Diamond Museum, a must-see for anyone interested in precious stones.
  • Treat yourself to a delicious Belgian waffle at Frites Atelier, a gourmet food stand that reinvents the French fry.
  • Shop for souvenirs and gifts at Vrijdagmarkt, a unique flea market with an eclectic mix of stalls.
  • Explore the Museum Plantin-Moretus, the oldest printing press in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Finish your Antwerp adventure by enjoying a pint of local beer at the hip cafe Kulminator.
  • Where to eat: Looking to try some homemade Belgian specialties like croquettes and meatballs in a cozy atmosphere? Check out Chez Fred.
  • Antwerp is a city with history and charm that will delight visitors of all kinds. From diamonds to waffles, museums to street art, there's something for everyone. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and vibrant city life on a budget in this destination that's often overlooked by travellers.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Antwerp by plane is to fly into Brussels Airport (BRU) and take a direct train from Brussels Airport-Zaventem station to Antwerp Central station, which takes about 30 minutes.

Car

Driving to Antwerp is also an option, especially if you want to explore the surrounding area or plan to visit multiple cities in Belgium. The best route is to take the E19 highway from Brussels or Amsterdam and follow signs to Antwerp.

Train

Taking a train to Antwerp is recommended if you are coming from another city in Belgium or Europe. The best way to get there is to take a train to Antwerp Central station, which is a major hub for international and domestic trains.

Boat

Getting to Antwerp by boat is possible if you are coming from the Netherlands or other parts of Europe. The best way to get there is to take a ferry from the Port of Rotterdam to the Port of Antwerp, which takes about 4 hours.

Bus

Taking a bus to Antwerp is a good option if you are on a budget or prefer a more scenic route. The best way to get there is to take a Flixbus from Amsterdam or Brussels to Antwerp, which takes about 2-3 hours depending on traffic.

Destination

Antwerp

Get ready to pronounce 'Antwerpen' wrong at least ten times before realizing it's just the Dutch word for Antwerp. But don't worry, the locals won't judge you… too much.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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