Antwerp Untangled: 5 Days of Family Fun and Hidden Gems

Discover the enchanting gems of Antwerp, where family adventures come alive.

19 July 2023

Antwerp, Belgium offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and family-friendly attractions. Discover the majestic Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in the world, where children can marvel at a wide variety of animals. Explore the stunning Antwerp Central Station, a masterpiece of architecture, before indulging in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles that will leave the whole family craving for more.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering Antwerp's Marvels

  • Start your day at the stunning Antwerp Central Station. Marvel at its majestic architecture and intricate details.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the historic center's cobblestone streets. Prepare to be enchanted by the quaint boutiques and charming cafés.
  • Visit the jaw-dropping Cathedral of Our Lady. Its spire proudly reaches for the heavens, offering a glimpse into Antwerp's rich history.
  • Explore the hidden gem of Vlaeykensgang, a medieval alleyway filled with secret courtyards and unexpected surprises.
  • Indulge in a delicious Belgian waffle topped with mouthwatering chocolate and fresh strawberries. A sweet treat fit for royalty!
  • End the day with a visit to Het Steen, Antwerp's iconic medieval fortress. Let your imagination run wild as you picture knights guarding its mighty walls.
Day 2

Artistic Antwerp

  • Begin the day with a visit to the renowned Royal Museum of Fine Arts, home to masterpieces by Rubens, Van Dyck, and other Flemish masters.
  • Wander through the quirky and vibrant Street Art District. Admire the colorful murals and let your creative spirit soar.
  • Take a break at a local café and savor a steaming cup of Antwerp's famous artisanal coffee. Perfect for fueling your artistic endeavors!
  • Explore the Museum Plantin-Moretus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's oldest printing press. Unearth the secrets of bookmaking.
  • Don't forget to snap a selfie with the iconic statue of Brabo in the Grote Markt. Legend has it that he defeated a giant by throwing his hand into the river!
Day 3

Antwerp's Tasty Treasures

  • Start your day at the picturesque Antwerp Zoo. Say hello to the penguins, marvel at the giraffes, and let your inner child run wild!
  • Indulge in a seafood feast at one of Antwerp's many cozy bistros. Freshly caught mussels, shrimp croquettes, and a crisp beer await!
  • Take a leisurely boat tour along the Scheldt River. Enjoy the stunning views and the gentle breeze against your face.
  • Uncover the secrets of Belgian chocolate at a workshop. Learn the art of praline-making and savor your delicious creations.
  • End the day with a visit to Antwerp's famous diamond district. Admire the dazzling craftsmanship and perhaps find a sparkling souvenir.
Day 4

Antwerp's Hidden Gems

  • Explore the enchanting Middelheim Open-Air Sculpture Museum. Marvel at the blend of contemporary art and nature's serene beauty.
  • Dive into the fascinating world of insects at the quirky Bug Zoo. Get up close and personal with creepy crawlies you never thought you'd find charming!
  • Embark on a treasure hunt in Antwerp's vintage shops. Unearth unique fashion finds and timeless curiosities that tell stories of the past.
  • Enjoy a picnic in the delightful Stadspark. Bask in its tranquil atmosphere and watch the locals go about their day.
  • Catch a movie in the oldest cinema in Belgium, Cinema Cartoons. Immerse yourself in a classic film while surrounded by vintage charm.
Day 5

Saying Farewell to Antwerp

  • Start your day with a visit to the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom). Climb to the rooftop panoramic terrace for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Scheldt River. Feel the wind in your hair as you take in the picturesque landscapes.
  • Savor the flavors of Antwerp at a traditional Belgian brasserie. Delight in rich stews, crispy frites, and a glass of refreshing Belgian beer.
  • Explore Antwerp's fashion district and browse through the trendy boutiques. Find the perfect outfit to take home as a stylish souvenir.
  • Bid adieu to Antwerp with a sunset cruise along the river. Reflect on the memories made and toast to the beauty of this charming city.

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

More travel plans

5 Days of Flemish Fun: Antwerp Adventure Guide

Antwerp is a vibrant city rich in Flemish history and architecture, offering a delightful taste of Belgian culture and gastronomy. Visitors can explore the city's famous diamond district, stunning cathedrals and museums, and indulge in delicious waffles and chocolate. Highlights of Antwerp include the historic Grand Place, the medieval fortress of Het Steen, and the towering Gothic spires of the Cathedral of Our Lady.

Antwerp Adventure: Explore, Shop and Savor

Antwerp is a charming city in Belgium with a rich history and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, wander through the quaint streets of the old town, and admire the stunning architecture of the MAS museum. Don't forget to indulge in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles while exploring this beautiful city.

Budget-Friendly Antwerp Adventure: 5 Days of Fun

Antwerp, Belgium is a charming city that offers a variety of affordable activities to do. Start off by exploring the Old Town, where you'll come across the famous Grote Markt, which is lined with cafes and restaurants offering Belgian delicacies. Visit museums and galleries such as the Rubenshuis, which houses the famous works of Peter Paul Rubens, and the Museum Plantin-Moretus, which traces the history of printing.

A Belgian Adventure: 3 Days of Family Fun in Antwerp

Antwerp, Belgium offers a plethora of family-friendly activities for an unforgettable trip. Explore the enchanting Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in the world housing over 5,000 animals. Discover the mesmerizing Diamond District, where children can learn about the city's rich diamond history and even witness the craftsmanship firsthand. Finally, don't forget to take a relaxing boat tour along the Scheldt River, offering picturesque views of the city and a delightful experience for the entire family.