Antwerp 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Antwerp Itinerary:

Where to Stay:

This itinerary assumes you’ll be staying in a central location. For specific hotel recommendations, consider specifying your budget and preferred neighborhood style (e.g., luxurious, budget-friendly, family-oriented).

Day 1: Arrival & Historic Heartbeat

  • Morning: Arrive in Antwerp, check into your accommodation, and grab a quick bite to eat at a local bakery near the train station. Enjoy fresh pastries like pain au chocolat or speculaas (a spiced Belgian cookie) and sample some delicious coffee.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic city center. Start with the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal), marvel at the Groningen Market, wander through the charming cobblestone streets, and visit the historic guildhalls, such as the Guildhall of the Great Guild and the Guildhall of Saint George.

Things to Eat:

  • Waffles & Fries: Indulge in a classic Belgian waffle (look for wafels or gaufres) and enjoy it with a variety of toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce. Pair your waffle experience with some delicious Belgian fries from one of the many fry stands around the city.

  • Belgian Beer: No trip to Antwerp is complete without trying their local brews. Head to De Volkskas for a traditional Belgian beer experience, or explore *pubs and bars in the city center.

Food & Drink:

  • Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at ’t Hartje van de Stad, a popular eatery in the historic district known for its classic Flemish dishes.
  • Dinner: Savor a delightful meal at Het Paleis, a restaurant offering a unique blend of modern and classic Belgian cuisine.

Day 2: Rubens & Antwerp Art Scene

  • Morning: Discover the masterpieces of Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens at the Rubens House museum, exploring his former home and studio.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Antwerp art scene. Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, which houses a remarkable collection of artwork by Flemish masters, including a significant number of paintings by Antwerp’s own Peter Paul Rubens.

Day 3: Diamonds & Design

  • Morning: Explore the Antwerp Diamond District, learning about the history and trade of these precious gems.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), a striking museum dedicated to showcasing the city’s rich history and culture through its unique collection and exhibitions.

  • Dinner: Enjoy a meal at ’t Pakhuis, a restaurant with a focus on fresh, local seafood.

Things to Eat:

  • Lunch: Try the famous Antwerp “Friet” (fries) from a different street vendor, perhaps one specializing in Belgian fries and sauces.
  • Dinner:

Day 4: Antwerp’s Culinary Delights

  • Food & Drink: Experience a food tour, like the one offered by Antwerp Food Tours, to sample the best of Antwerp’s cuisine.

Day 5: Antwerp for Beer Lovers

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a Belgian beer tasting at a local brewery or pub.

  • Things to do:

    • Visit a local brewery: Explore the brewing process and savor fresh, locally brewed beers.

Food & Drink:

  • Enjoy “De Koninck” beer at a brewery:

Things to Eat:

  • Antwerp’s Chocolate Heritage:

  • Chocolate tasting: Immerse yourself in the world of Belgian chocolate with a visit to one of the many chocolate shops and chocolateries in the city.

  • Try local chocolatiers: Explore smaller, independent chocolatiers for unique experiences and flavors.

Day 6: Antwerp’s History & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, but this time focus on the exhibits beyond just those by Rubens.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore Antwerp’s Fashion District: Discover the city’s renowned fashion scene, browsing through designer boutiques and vintage shops.

Things to Note:

  • Antwerp is a walkable city, but you can also use public transportation (buses, trams, and the metro) or rent a bike to explore further afield.
  • The city has a rich history, so be sure to visit some of its historical landmarks.
  • Enjoy the local nightlife in one of the many pubs and bars offering a variety of Belgian beers and live music.

Things to Do:

  • Visit the Antwerp Zoo: Explore this world-renowned zoo with its impressive collection of animals and beautiful gardens.

  • Explore the MAS: Enjoy the exhibits on the history of Antwerp’s port, shipbuilding industry, and cultural heritage.

  • Sample local chocolates: Antwerp is known for its high-quality chocolate, so don’t leave without trying some from a renowned chocolatier like Chocolate Nation, The Chocolate Line or Pierre Marcolini.

  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife: Explore the Antwerp Zoo’s Nightlife event, where you can enjoy live music, food and drinks after dark.

  • Visit the Antwerp Diamond District:

  • Taste a variety of beers: Indulge in a traditional Belgian beer experience at one of the many breweries and pubs around the city.

Things to Consider for your Itinerary:

  • What time of year are you visiting? This will impact the weather and what activities are available.
  • What are your interests? Antwerp has something for everyone, from history buffs to art lovers to shopaholics.

Let me know if you have any specific preferences, and I can help tailor this itinerary further!