Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history of Antwerp. In the morning, visit the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world. Explore its diverse collection of animals and enjoy educational presentations. In the afternoon, head to the MAS Museum, located on the waterfront. This museum showcases Antwerp's history, art, and culture through interactive exhibits. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the Grote Markt, the city's main square, surrounded by stunning medieval buildings.
Antwerp Zoo: Entrance fee €25 per adult, €20 per child | Estimated time: 3-4 hours
MAS Museum: Entrance fee €10 per adult, free for children under 12 | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Grote Markt: Free admission | Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Pelican. This cozy café offers a variety of delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, try De Vagant. This charming restaurant specializes in traditional Belgian cuisine, with dishes like moules-frites and carbonnade flamande. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
For dinner, dine at Het Pomphuis. Located in a former pump house, this restaurant features a unique industrial setting and serves a fusion of Belgian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about €30 per person.
Sunday, October 15: Family Fun and Nature
Embark on a day filled with family-friendly activities and a touch of nature. Start your morning at the Antwerp Toy Museum, which displays a vast collection of antique toys that will delight both children and adults. In the afternoon, head to Rivierenhof, a beautiful park perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. Let the kids have fun at the playgrounds or rent bicycles to explore the park's vast green spaces. As the evening approaches, visit the Antwerp City Brewery, where you can take a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and sample some local beers.
Antwerp Toy Museum: Entrance fee €5 per adult, €2 per child | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
Antwerp City Brewery: Tour fee €15 per adult, €7 per child | Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
In the morning, you can have a delicious breakfast at Cafe Kamiel, located just a short walk from the Antwerp Toy Museum. They offer a variety of options including pastries, sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about €10 per person.
For lunch, head to Het Pomphuis, a unique restaurant situated in an old water pumping station near Rivierenhof. Enjoy a meal on their outdoor terrace overlooking a scenic pond. They offer a wide range of dishes including salads, sandwiches, and grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about €15 per person.
In the evening, make your way to The Jane, an acclaimed restaurant housed in a former church. Indulge in their creative and sophisticated menu that combines flavors from various cuisines. The elegant atmosphere and impeccable service make it a perfect spot for a memorable dinner. Average cost for a meal is about €60 per person.
Monday, October 16: Art and Shopping
Indulge in art and shopping on your last day in Antwerp. Start your morning at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection of artworks from renowned artists. Explore the various galleries and admire masterpieces from different periods. In the afternoon, visit the Meir, Antwerp's main shopping street. Stroll along this bustling avenue lined with shops, boutiques, and department stores. Find souvenirs or treat yourself to some Belgian chocolate. In the evening, take a relaxing boat cruise along the River Scheldt, enjoying picturesque views of the city.
Royal Museum of Fine Arts: Entrance fee €15 per adult, free for children under 18 | Estimated time: 3-4 hours
Meir Shopping Street: Free admission | Estimated time: 2-3 hours
River Scheldt Boat Cruise: Ticket price €12 per adult, €8 per child | Estimated time: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For some off the beaten path attractions, visit the Middelheim Open-Air Sculpture Museum, a unique park where beautiful sculptures blend harmoniously with nature. Another local favorite is the Comics Station Antwerp, a theme park dedicated to Belgian comic book characters. This interactive park offers attractions and activities for all ages, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of comics. These hidden gems provide a dose of culture and entertainment while keeping the family-friendly vibe.