Antwerp is a city that wears many hats: it's a fashion hub, an art lover's paradise, and a foodie’s dream. With just three days to explore, you can pack in a mix of history, culture, and culinary delights that will have you falling head over heels for this Belgian gem. Get ready to dive into an itinerary designed to balance the city’s classic attractions with hidden treasures. Grab your walking shoes and let’s discover Antwerp like a local!
Day one: Classic must-sees
Kick off your adventure with a day filled with Antwerp's iconic sights. Your journey begins at the Grote Markt, the city's bustling main square. Arrive early to soak in the splendid architecture before the tourists swarm in. Snap a selfie with the majestic Brabo Fountain—you’ll want proof that you were there!
- Morning: Spend about an hour at the Grote Markt. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy the view.
- 10:30 AM: Stroll over to the Antwerp Cathedral. This gothic masterpiece is home to some stunning works by Rubens, so don't forget your camera. Allocate about 1.5 hours for this visit.
- 12 PM: Lunch at De Groote Witte Arend, a cozy restaurant nearby. Try the Flemish stew; it’s a local favorite.
After lunch, head to the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens. This place is not just for art buffs; the gardens alone are worth the visit. Spend around two hours wandering through the exhibits and the beautiful courtyard.
- 2:30 PM: Spend some time at the nearby Meir to do a little shopping. This is Antwerp’s main shopping street, and you might find something fashionable to take home.
- 4 PM: Make your way to the MAS Museum for a dose of contemporary culture. The rooftop offers stunning views of the city—perfect for those Insta-worthy shots.
- 6 PM: Head back to your hotel to freshen up before dinner.
For dinner, explore the culinary scene at Het Pomphuis, a converted pump house with a unique ambiance. Reservations are a good idea, especially if you want to try their famous seafood dishes.
Day two: Culinary delights
Day two is all about indulging your taste buds. Start your morning with a local breakfast at Café d’Anvers. The pastries are flaky, and the coffee is strong enough to wake the dead. You’ll need that energy for your food adventure!
- 9 AM: Join a local food tour that kicks off around 10 AM. Look for a tour that includes stops at various eateries.
- 10 AM: Your guide will take you to sample local brews at a quaint brewery. You can expect to taste a few delicious Belgian beers while learning about the brewing process.
Next, you’ll head to a chocolate shop where you can indulge in some of the best pralines in the world. Don’t be shy; try everything. It's research, after all.
- 12 PM: Stop for lunch at a local food market. It's a great spot to taste different local bites, like frikandel or stoofvlees—just be careful not to overdo it.
- 2 PM: After lunch, continue your tour with stops at unique cafes. Sample local cheeses and perhaps a waffle or two. It’s practically a sin to leave Belgium without having a waffle!
- 4 PM: Wrap up the tour around 4 PM, and take a leisurely stroll through the city’s streets. You’ll want to work off some of those calories.
For dinner, hit Fiskebar for some fresh seafood. Make sure to pair your meal with a glass of local wine for the full experience. After dinner, take a sunset walk along the river to digest and enjoy the scenery.
Day three: Hidden treasures
On your final day, it’s time to uncover Antwerp’s hidden gems. Start with a leisurely breakfast at Gastronoom. Their breakfast options are delightful and will fuel you for the day ahead.
- 10 AM: Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll feel like a literary scholar as you explore the history of printing.
- 12 PM: Head to Het Zuid district, where you’ll find quirky boutiques and art galleries. Spend a couple of hours browsing through unique items.
For lunch, try Hummus en Soep for some delicious vegetarian options. It’s a hidden gem that locals adore.
- 2 PM: After lunch, take a stroll through the Stadspark. This park is a favorite among locals and perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
- 4 PM: If you're up for it, visit the Rubens House again or check out the nearby Royal Museum of Fine Arts.
Finish your day with dinner at De Muze, a jazz café where you can enjoy live music while savoring some local cuisine. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your Antwerp adventure. Who knows? You might even find yourself tapping your feet to the rhythm of the night.
Your three days in Antwerp will leave you with memories to cherish and stories to tell. So go ahead, pack your bags, and get ready for a whirlwind of charm and adventure. You might just find yourself planning a return trip before you even leave!
