Antwerp One Week Itinerary: Essential Guide

Antwerp One Week Itinerary: Essential Guide

Planning your perfect Antwerp adventure is simpler than you think! This essential guide provides a structured, beginner-friendly, one-week itinerary to help you explore the best of Antwerp. We’ll cover must-see sights, hidden gems, and delicious food, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable trip for families, solo travelers, and everyone in between.

Visiting Antwerp, a city brimming with history, art, and fashion, can feel a little overwhelming for first-time explorers. Where do you even begin? What are the absolute must-sees, and how do you fit it all into just one week without feeling rushed? It’s a common travel puzzle, but don’t worry! This guide is designed to give you a clear, easy-to-follow plan. We’ll break down your week into manageable, exciting days, ensuring you get the most out of your Antwerp experience. Get ready to discover a city that will charm you at every turn!

To help you navigate your trip smoothly, especially if you’re traveling with young children or require personal care items, remember to pack smart. Consider comfortable, discreet options like travel-friendly adult diapers or child diapers for added peace of mind during long travel days or extensive sightseeing. Journey Essentials is here to make your travels comfortable and stress-free, no matter your needs.

Your Essential Antwerp One Week Itinerary

Antwerp is a city that beautifully blends historical grandeur with modern vibrancy. It’s a hub for art, fashion, and diamonds, offering something for every kind of traveler. This itinerary is designed for ease and enjoyment, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere without feeling like you’re ticking off a rigid to-do list. We’ve considered travel times, popular attractions, and opportunities to relax and discover local life.

This guide aims to be your compass, pointing you towards unforgettable experiences. From iconic landmarks to charming backstreets, get ready for a week filled with discovery.

Day 1: Arrival and Historic Heart

Welcome to Antwerp! After settling into your accommodation, it’s time to dive straight into the city’s historical core. Today is about familiarizing yourself with the beautiful Grote Markt and its surroundings.

1. Morning: Arrival & Settle In

Arrive at Antwerp Central Station or Antwerp Airport. Transfer to your hotel and leave your luggage. Take a moment to get acquainted with your immediate surroundings.

2. Lunch: Local Flavors near the Grote Markt

Find a cozy bistro or café around the Grote Markt. Try some Belgian fries (frietjes) or a local sandwich. This is a great way to ease into the Belgian culinary scene.

3. Afternoon: Grote Markt & City Hall Tour

Explore the stunning Grote Markt (Main Square). Admire the Guildhalls, the beautiful City Hall (Stadhuis), and especially the Brabo Fountain. The architecture here is breathtaking.

Consider a guided tour of the Stadhuis if available; it offers insights into Antwerp’s rich history and governance. For detailed information on historical sites and opening hours, the official Antwerp tourism website is a great resource.

4. Late Afternoon: Cathedral of Our Lady

Visit the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts impressive Gothic architecture and is home to several masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens. Allow at least 1.5 hours here.

5. Evening: Dinner and a Stroll

Enjoy dinner in the vibrant area surrounding the Cathedral. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the Scheldt river as the sun sets, enjoying the views of the illuminated city.

Day 2: Art, Rubenesque & Diamond District

Antwerp is deeply connected to art, especially the Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens. Today, we delve into this artistic heritage and experience the city’s famed diamond quarter.

1. Morning: Rubens House Museum

Visit the Rubens House (Rubenshuis), the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens. It’s a wonderfully preserved glimpse into the life and work of this Flemish artist. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.

2. Lunch: Quick Bite near the Museum

Grab a sandwich or a salad from a local bakery or café. You’ll want to maximize your time exploring.

3. Afternoon: Diamond District Exploration

Take a walk through the renowned Diamond District, located near Antwerp Central Station. While not everyone buys diamonds, it’s fascinating to see the bustling trade. Visit the DIVA museum (Antwerp’s Diamond Museum) for an immersive experience into the history and allure of diamonds and jewelry.

4. Late Afternoon: Antwerp Central Station

Marvel at the grandeur of Antwerp Central Station. Often called the “Railway Cathedral” due to its stunning architecture, it’s worth exploring even if you’re not catching a train.

5. Evening: Dinner in the Station Area

The area around Central Station offers a wide array of dining options, from traditional pubs to international cuisine.

If you’re traveling with younger children and need to manage diaper changes discreetly, having a compact changing kit with travel-friendly adult diapers or child diapers can be a lifesaver. Pack them in a small, easy-to-access bag. Ensure you have travel-sized wipes and disposal bags too for hygiene on the go.

Day 3: MAS Museum & Het Eilandje Exploration

Today is dedicated to the fascinating MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) and the revitalized historic port district, Het Eilandje.

1. Morning: MAS Museum Visit

Head to the MAS Museum. This impressive building offers panoramic views of the city from its rooftop and houses diverse collections spanning Antwerp’s history, art, and seafaring past. Plan for at least 3 hours to explore its multi-story exhibits.

2. Lunch: Portside Café

Enjoy lunch at one of the cafés or restaurants in the Het Eilandje district, offering pleasant views and a relaxed atmosphere.

3. Afternoon: Het Eilandje Discovery

“Het Eilandje” (The Little Island) is Antwerp’s old harbor district. Wander through its charming streets, see the historic ships, and soak in the maritime atmosphere. The Red Star Line Museum is also located here, telling the emigration stories of millions who sailed from Antwerp to America.

4. Late Afternoon: Red Star Line Museum

Explore the poignant Red Star Line Museum. It’s a moving tribute to the millions of emigrants who passed through Antwerp on their way to a new life. This museum offers a unique perspective on human migration. Allow 1.5-2 hours.

5. Evening: Dinner in Het Eilandje

Dine in Het Eilandje. Many restaurants here offer fresh seafood, fitting the maritime theme.

Day 4: Fashion, Shopping & Plantin-Moretus Museum

Antwerp is a global fashion capital. Today, you can indulge in some shopping and visit a unique UNESCO World Heritage site.

1. Morning: Fashion Museum (MoMu) or Shopping

Visit the Fashion Museum (MoMu) if you’re a fashion enthusiast. Alternatively, explore the shopping streets like Meir, the fashionable Nationalstraat, or the boutique-filled Zuid (South) district. The Antwerp fashion scene is legendary, driven by the city’s famous designers often referred to as the Antwerp Six.

2. Lunch: Trendy Café in the Zuid District

The Zuid district is known for its trendy cafes and restaurants, perfect for a stylish lunch.

3. Afternoon: Plantin-Moretus Museum

Discover the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This is the only museum in the world that is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving a 16th-century printing workshop and publishing house. It’s a fascinating look at the history of printing and bookmaking. Allow 2 hours.

4. Late Afternoon: Riverside Walk or Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Scheldt river, perhaps near the Steen Castle (Het Steen), Antwerp’s oldest building, which now houses a maritime museum and offers great views.

5. Evening: Culinary Delights

Explore the diverse culinary scene for dinner. Antwerp offers everything from traditional Flemish stews to innovative modern cuisine.

Day 5: Day Trip to Ghent or Bruges (Optional)

While Antwerp offers plenty, its convenient location makes day trips to other Belgian gems easy. Ghent and Bruges are both popular choices.

Option A: Ghent

1. Morning: Train to Ghent

Take a direct train from Antwerp Central to Ghent-Sint-Pieters station. The journey is about 30-45 minutes.

2. Explore Ghent: Gravensteen Castle & Canals

Visit the impressive Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts), explore the stunning St. Bavo’s Cathedral (home to the Ghent Altarpiece), and take a canal tour to see the city from its waterways. Ghent offers a more lived-in, student-city vibe compared to Bruges.

3. Lunch: Ghent Delicacies

Enjoy local specialties in Ghent.

4. Afternoon: Wander Ghent’s Medieval Streets

Get lost in the charming medieval streets, admire the belfry, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

5. Evening: Return to Antwerp

Take the train back to Antwerp.

Option B: Bruges

1. Morning: Train to Bruges

Take a train from Antwerp Central to Bruges. This usually involves a change at Ghent-Sint-Pieters or another station. The total journey time is around 1-1.5 hours.

2. Explore Bruges: Markt Square & Canals

Wander through the picturesque Markt Square, climb the Belfry for panoramic views, and take a romantic boat tour on the canals. Bruges is often called “Venice of the North” for its beautiful waterways.

3. Lunch: Bruges Treats

Sample Bruges’ famous chocolates or waffles.

4. Afternoon: Bruges Charm

Explore the Minnewater (Lake of Love) and the Begijnhof.

5. Evening: Return to Antwerp

Take the train back to Antwerp.

For day trips, especially with young children, having a comfortable stroller and readily accessible changing supplies is crucial. Consider smaller, more absorbent child diapers for extended periods away from restrooms. A small backpack with water bottles and snacks can also make the journey much smoother.

Day 6: Parks, Palaces & Culinary Exploration

Today is about enjoying Antwerp’s green spaces, grandeur, and of course, more food!

1. Morning: Stadspark or Hobokense Polder

Visit Stadspark, Antwerp’s green oasis, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. If you’re up for a bit more nature, consider a trip to Hobokense Polder, a large nature reserve offering walking trails.

2. Lunch: Picnic or Park Café

Either pack a delicious picnic to enjoy in the park or find a café nearby.

3. Afternoon: Antwerp Zoo & Astridplein

Explore the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe, located right next to Central Station. It’s a beautiful and well-maintained zoo, offering a delightful experience for all ages. Afterwards, explore the lively Astridplein.

4. Late Afternoon: Chocolate or Beer Tasting

Indulge in a Belgian chocolate tasting session or visit a local brewery for a beer tasting experience. Antwerp offers numerous opportunities to savor these Belgian delights.

5. Evening: Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a special farewell dinner at one of Antwerp’s highly-rated restaurants. This is a great chance to try a dish you haven’t yet, perhaps Stoofvlees (Flemish beef stew) or Vol-au-vent.

Day 7: Last Bites & Departure

It’s time to say goodbye to Antwerp, but not before one last taste of the city.

1. Morning: Local Market or Souvenir Shopping

Visit a local market if it’s market day (e.g., Groenplaats on Saturdays for flowers and souvenirs) or do some last-minute souvenir shopping for Belgian chocolates, speculoos, or local crafts.

2. Brunch/Early Lunch: Antwerp’s Best

Enjoy a final Belgian breakfast or brunch. Consider trying a local bakery for fresh pastries or a café for some delicious pancakes.

3. Departure

Head to Antwerp Central Station or the airport for your departure, filled with memories of your week in this incredible city.

Getting Around Antwerp

Antwerp is a very walkable city, especially in the central areas. However, for longer distances or when traveling with family, several options are available:

• Public Transport (De Lijn): Antwerp has an efficient network of trams and buses. A day ticket or a multi-day pass can be a cost-effective option. You can purchase tickets at station kiosks, newspaper stands, or via the De Lijn app.
• Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Available for convenient door-to-door service.
• Bike Rental: Antwerp is bike-friendly. Several rental services are available, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

If you’re using public transport with children and require frequent diaper changes, plan your routes to include stops near amenities. Having a discreet bag with all your essentials, including adult or child diapers, wipes, and disposal bags, is key for smooth transitions.

Top Antwerp Attractions at a Glance

Here’s a quick overview of the key sights you’ll encounter on your Antwerp adventure:

Practical Tips for Your Antwerp Trip

To make your trip even smoother, here are some essential tips:

• Currency: The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash for smaller purchases or markets.
• Language: The official language is Dutch (Flemish dialect). English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is warmer but busier.
• Food & Drink: Don’t leave without trying Belgian fries, waffles, chocolate, and of course, Belgian beer!
• Packing Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Pack layers, as the weather can change. If traveling outside of summer, a waterproof jacket and umbrella are advisable. For those needing extra support, ensuring you have a discreet supply of adult diapers or child diapers is crucial for any travel scenario, allowing you to focus on exploration rather than worry.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi is broadly available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces.

For travelers who might require personal care items like adult diapers