Planning a weekend getaway to Belgium? Don't forget to add Antwerp to your itinerary. This fashionable and historic city is brimming with charm, culture, and delightful surprises. If you love art, shopping, food, or architecture, you'll have loads to love in this vibrant city. If you only have two days, don't panic—here's the ideal 2- days Antwerp itinerary to guide you through the best of the city.
This Antwerp guide makes it easy and hassle-free so that you can spend more hours discovering and less time organizing. From ancient cathedrals to cool cafés, here's how you can have a great weekend in Antwerp.
Start your Antwerp itinerary in the center of the old town—the Grote Markt. This is the city center and a wonderful starting point for your exploration. The square is ringed by stunning 16th-century guildhouses and the huge City Hall. Take a couple of photos and soak up the atmosphere.
Then walk up to the Cathedral of Our Lady. It's the highest church in Belgium and an absolute wonder of Gothic architecture. In the interior, there are beautiful stained-glass windows and notable paintings by the artist Rubens. It's one of the best Antwerp attractions, so take your time and walk through it completely.
From there, wander the narrow streets of the old town. Stop for a morning coffee at one of the many cozy cafés nearby, and enjoy a fresh Belgian waffle if you’re feeling hungry.
From your stroll in the old town center, proceed to Meir Street, Antwerp's shopping hub. It's lined with stately buildings and trendy boutiques, making it ideal for a stroll and some shopping therapy.
For lunch, you might want to attempt a hip brasserie or pick up a snack at a neighborhood bakery. Many places have wonderful Belgian fries or a traditional croque-monsieur. If you are traveling on a tight budget, this neighborhood also features wonderful casual dining.
One of the top things to do in Antwerp is to go to the Rubens House (Rubenshuis). This was the residence and workshop of the renowned Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens. There are many of his paintings, as well as those of other artists he respected, inside.
Even if you're not art-savvy, this museum is worth seeing for its looks and serene garden. It truly transports you back to the way things were in the 1600s.
Finish your first day by going to the Scheldt River for sunset views. Stroll along the promenade and observe the boats as the sun sets. This is one of the most laid-back sections of any Antwerp travel guide.
For dinner, try one of the riverside restaurants or go to the hip Het Zuid district for something newer. Everything from Belgian favorites to international foods is available. After dinner, have a local beer or glass of wine at a nearby bar.
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Begin your second day at the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS). This striking, contemporary building close to the docks is among the best Antwerp attractions. The museum traces the history of the city, its port, and its position in the world.
Every floor has a different theme, and new exhibitions are usually present. But the highlight? The rooftop provides great panoramic views of the city, and you are free to visit even if you don't go into the exhibits.
This makes for a great photography spot and offers you a new perspective on the city's modern side.
After MAS, remain in the vicinity and check out the Eilandje neighborhood. Previously a docklands district, it is now one of the city's hippest areas. There are trendy apartments, waterfront cafes, and peaceful walking trails along the canals.
For lunch, take a break at a harbor-front café and have some fresh seafood or a salad. The ambiance here is serene and chic—a welcome respite after the frenetic activity of the first day.
No Antwerp travel schedule would be complete without stopping at the Diamond District. Antwerp is a leading diamond trading center in the world. You don't need to shop for anything, but it's entertaining to catch the glint and hear some of the history behind the diamond trade in the district.
Right next to the Diamond District is Antwerp Central Station, which is more than a stop to take a train—it's one of the world's most stunning railway stations. Come inside to view its stunning architecture, marble floors, and magnificent dome ceiling.
This is a good time to take a break, have a coffee or snack within the station, and appreciate the combination of old and new design.
On your last evening in Antwerp, return to the old town for a traditional Belgian meal. Sample stoofvlees (beef stew), mussels and fries, or a big bowl of soup accompanied by fresh bread.
If you have room for dessert, indulge in Belgian chocolate at one of the city's local chocolatiers. You'll discover plenty of sweet stores all over the city, particularly around the main square.
To complete your weekend in Antwerp, take another evening walk. The lights of the city have a fairy-like ambiance, particularly in and around the Cathedral of Our Lady and riverwalk.
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The following are a few basic tips to keep your 2-day Antwerp itinerary hassle-free and enjoyable:
If you'd like to add extra days or switch up some of the stops, here are additional things to do in Antwerp:
These extra Antwerp attractions are perfect if you’re staying a bit longer or just want to mix things up.
Antwerp is always beautiful, but 2025 is going to be a tremendous year for tourism in the city. There are new art exhibitions, food festivals, and public events scheduled for the year. The city is also getting greener, with additional car-free areas, bike lanes, and parks.
Whatever brings you here: culture, cuisine, style, or entertainment, this Antwerp travel guide is your key to unlocking the best from your visit. With only two days, you can enjoy an excellent combination of old and new, peaceful and vibrant, traditional and joyful.
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A weekend in Antwerp is an ideal way to enjoy a European city that's full of surprises. With this simple Antwerp itinerary, you will have the chance to see the city's top sights, connect to local tastes, and have plenty of time to kick back and experience the atmosphere of the city.
From the cobblestone city center to the sleek portside museums, there is something here for any traveler. So, pack your bags and your camera and have a vacation of a lifetime in this cultural gem of Belgium.
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