Ultimate 3-Day Antwerp Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

A dazzling blend of creative energy, historic grandeur, and cosmopolitan flair, Antwerp is Belgium’s diamond-studded gem on the River Scheldt.

Main view of Antwerp

Day 1: Antwerp’s Historic Heart & Cultural Icons

Morning

Begin at the iconic Antwerp Central Station, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful train stations, with its grandiose domed hall and lavish stonework.

Antwerp Central Station

Antwerp Central Station

Stroll to Zoo Antwerp, one of the oldest city zoos in the world, renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture and conservation efforts.

Zoo Antwerp

Zoo Antwerp

Afternoon

Head to Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its soaring spire and masterpieces by Rubens.

Cathedral of Our Lady

Cathedral of Our Lady

Enjoy lunch at Frites Atelier, an upscale spot serving Belgium’s iconic fries with gourmet twists and homemade sauces.

Frites Atelier

Frites Atelier

Evening

Marvel at the ornate Grote Markt, the lively city square surrounded by stunning guild houses and the Renaissance-style City Hall.

Grote Markt

Grote Markt

Experience classic Belgian cuisine at De Groote Witte Arend, a hidden gem in a historic 16th-century building, perfect for a cozy dinner.

De Groote Witte Arend

De Groote Witte Arend

📍 Directions for Day 1

Day 2: Art, Fashion & the Quays

Morning

Immerse yourself in Flemish Baroque at the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, filled with his masterpieces and period interiors.

Rubenshuis

Rubenshuis

Grab coffee and a croissant at Normo, Antwerp’s celebrated specialty coffee bar with a hip, laid-back vibe.

Normo

Normo

Afternoon

Explore the cutting-edge exhibitions at MoMu (ModeMuseum), Antwerp’s internationally renowned fashion museum, showcasing local designers and global trends.

MoMu

MoMu

Enjoy lunch with a harbor view at Felix Pakhuis, a stylish brasserie in a converted warehouse, serving Belgian classics along the docks.

Felix Pakhuis

Felix Pakhuis

Evening

Visit the striking MAS Museum (Museum aan de Stroom), where panoramic rooftop views meet thought-provoking exhibits on Antwerp’s global connections.

MAS Museum

MAS Museum

End the day at Bar Paniek, a quirky, waterside bar in the old harbor, perfect for local beers and sunset vibes among Antwerp’s creative crowd.

Bar Paniek

Bar Paniek

📍 Directions for Day 2

Day 3: Diamonds, Vintage, and Neighborhood Discoveries

Morning

Kick off with a visit to the Diamond District, where Antwerp’s world-famous diamond trade comes alive in glittering shopfronts and bustling exchanges.

Diamond District

Diamond District

Wander through Zurenborg, a hidden gem neighborhood famed for its whimsical Art Nouveau mansions and atmospheric streets like Cogels-Osylei.

Zurenborg

Zurenborg

Afternoon

Dig for vintage treasures and indie finds at Kloosterstraat, Antwerp’s eclectic shopping street lined with antique stores, boutiques, and cozy cafés.

Kloosterstraat

Kloosterstraat

Pause for lunch at Meat and Eat, a local favorite for sandwiches and salads using fresh, regional ingredients in a relaxed setting.

Meat and Eat

Meat and Eat

Evening

Soak up bohemian vibes in Het Eilandje, the rejuvenated docklands now buzzing with creative spaces, waterside bars, and contemporary architecture.

Het Eilandje

Het Eilandje

Treat yourself to creative Belgian fare at Graanmarkt 13, an innovative restaurant in a gorgeous townhouse, beloved by foodies and locals alike.

Graanmarkt 13

Graanmarkt 13

📍 Directions for Day 3

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