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Antwerp is a compact, cosmopolitan Belgian city known for diamonds, fashion, historic architecture, and a lively café culture. Plan for easy tram/walkable neighborhoods, variable weather, and multilingual locals (Dutch/Flemish + English). Below are practical, safety, and cultural tips to make your visit smooth.
Visa & entry requirements
- Schengen: Belgium is in the Schengen Area. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need only an ID card. Many nationals may enter visa-free for short stays (typically 90 days in 180 days). Others must obtain a Schengen visa in advance.
- Passport validity: Generally at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen and issued within last 10 years — check your country-specific rules.
- Proof of onward travel, accommodation, travel insurance, and sufficient funds may be requested at border control.
Best time to visit
- Peak: Late spring to early autumn (May–September) for mild weather, outdoor terraces, festivals. July–August busiest.
- Shoulder seasons: April–June and September–October — fewer crowds, good weather.
- Winter: November–February colder and wetter but good for fewer tourists, Christmas markets, and museum visits.
Safety tips
- Antwerp is generally safe for tourists but take normal precautions: watch for pickpockets in busy areas (Central Station, Meir shopping street, trams), secure bags, avoid flashing valuables.
- Night safety: Main districts (city center, Zuid) are fine; avoid poorly lit backstreets late at night.
- Emergency numbers: 112 for police/ambulance/fire in Belgium.
Local customs & etiquette
- Language: Dutch/Flemish is official; many locals speak excellent English and French. Learn basic greetings: "Hallo" (hello), "Dank u"/"Dank je" (thank you).
- Politeness: Say hello when entering small shops or cafes; use “please” and “thank you.”
- Dining: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—round up or leave 5–10% for good service.
- Dress: Smart casual is common; fashion scene (Antwerp Six legacy) means stylish locals in certain neighborhoods.
Currency & payments
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
- Cards: Credit/debit cards widely accepted; many places prefer card for larger amounts. Smaller cafés/market stalls may accept only cash.
- ATMs plentiful; notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.
Transportation & getting around
- Arrival: Antwerp International Airport (ANR) has limited flights; Brussels Airport (BRU) is a common international gateway ~40–50 minutes by train. Antwerp Central Station is a major rail hub.
- Public transport: Efficient trams, buses, and trains run by De Lijn and NMBS/SNCB. Buy tickets from machines, apps, or kiosks and validate on board if required.
- Walking & biking: City center is compact and walkable; bike-friendly with rental options (Velo Antwerpen).
- Taxis & rideshare: Taxis available; Uber limited/variable—check current availability.
- Driving: Not recommended in center due to narrow streets, parking fees, and good public transport.
Must-know tips & local insights
- Must-see: Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp Central Station, Grote Markt, MAS Museum, Diamond District, ModeMuseum (fashion), Zurenborg & Het Eilandje neighborhoods.
- Food & drink: Try Belgian beer, fries (frites) with mayo, waffles, moules-frites, local chocolate. Sit-down meal hours similar to rest of Europe.
- Markets & shopping: Meir for mainstream shopping; historic boutiques and Antwerp fashion designers in the Fashion District. Diamond stores cluster near the Central Station.
- Museum passes: Consider the Antwerp City Card or museum combination tickets if visiting multiple sites.
- Day trips: Ghent, Bruges, Brussels, and the Belgian coast are easily reachable by train.
- Seasonal events: Check for Antwerp Pride, Antwerp Fashion Week, Christmas markets, and local festivals depending on timing.
- Connectivity: Free Wi‑Fi available in many cafes and some public spots; buy a local SIM or international roaming plan if you need continuous data.
Practicalities
- Power: Standard European 230V, Type C/E plugs.
- Time zone: CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2) in summer.
- Health: EU/EEA nationals should carry an EHIC/GHIC; non‑EU travelers should have travel insurance covering medical evacuation.
Quick checklist before you go
- Check visa/passport rules and COVID entry updates (if any).
- Book accommodations near a tram/metro line or Central Station.
- Pack a waterproof layer and comfortable walking shoes.
- Have a mix of card and small euro cash.
- Note emergency number 112 and your country’s embassy contact.
Enjoyment tip
- Slow down: Antwerp rewards wandering—explore side streets, cafés, and independent boutiques for the best local experience.