Antwerp in a Day: Budget-Friendly Guide

Discover Antwerp's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Antwerp is a charming European city with plenty to offer, even for travelers on a tight budget. Visitors can explore affordable museums, enjoy delicious street food, and take advantage of free walking tours to see the city's historical landmarks. With its picturesque streets and welcoming locals, Antwerp is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an affordable European getaway.

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Day trip plan

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Antwerp on a Budget

  • Antwerp is a charming Belgian city with stunning architecture and delicious food. If you're visiting on a budget, fear not! Here's how to spend a day in Antwerp without breaking the bank:
  • Start the day with a stroll along the River Scheldt, admiring the colorful riverside houses and the impressive Port House building.
  • Next, head to the Grote Markt square to see the magnificent Gothic City Hall and the impressive Brabo Fountain. Don't forget to snap a photo with the statue of Brabo throwing a hand of Antigoon, the city's legendary giant.
  • For lunch, head to Frites Atelier, a funky and trendy spot serving some of the best fries in town. The prices are reasonable, and you can customize your own sauce combination.
  • In the afternoon, visit the MAS Museum, a contemporary museum that showcases the city's maritime history and culture. Best of all, the panoramic rooftop offers stunning views of Antwerp's skyline, and it's free!
  • For dinner, check out the trendy neighborhood of Het Eilandje and grab a table at Bar Paniek. This hip and bohemian spot serves great food and drinks at reasonable prices, including some local specialties like shrimp croquettes and Belgian beers.
  • End the night with a stroll along the cobbled streets of the old town and marvel at the spectacular architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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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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.