Antwerp, Belgium 2 Day Itinerary

Antwerp, Belgium: 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Mokum (Handschoenmarkt 4). This popular café offers a variety of dishes, including vegan options.

Sightseeing:

  • Visit the iconic Grote Markt (Large Market Square) to see the city’s Town Hall and the magnificent Brabo Fountain.
  • Explore Het Steen, the oldest building in Antwerp, which dates back to the 13th century.
  • Wander around the charming Vestingstraat for some unique shopping experiences.

Lunch:

  • Have lunch at De Fagot (Vestingstraat 40), a cozy eatery serving traditional Belgian dishes.

Afternoon:

  • Pay a visit to the Rubens House (Wapper 9-11), home to one of Antwerp’s most famous painters, Peter Paul Rubens.
  • Next, explore the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onderbergen 20) and admire the stunning Baroque architecture and Ruben’s masterpieces.

Evening:

  • Take a stroll along the Havenluis for panoramic views of the city and harbor.
  • Dine at Korenlei 3 (Korenlei 3), known for its exquisite seafood dishes, or try Dok&Duvel (Vlaamse Kaai 1) if you prefer a more casual setting.

Day 2:

Morning:

  • Begin your day at the Antwerp Zoo (Tirlezstraat 34). Home to over 900 species, it’s one of the oldest zoos in the world.

Lunch:

  • Grab lunch at De Koninck (Arsenaal 1), a local brewery where you can enjoy their signature Antwerpen City beer along with a variety of dishes.

Afternoon:

  • Explore the Museum Aan de Stroom (MAS) (Hanzarikstraat 3) to learn about Antwerp’s history, culture, and maritime heritage.
  • Take a stroll in the beautiful Sablon Quarter (Sint-Jansplein) with its charming houses, antique shops, and the stunning Church of Our Blessed Lady at the Sablon (Onze-Lieve-Vrouw ten Sablon).

Evening:

  • Indulge in some Belgian chocolate at The Chocolate Line (Korte Vlaamstraat 7) or Wittamer (Nationalestraat 28).
  • End your day with a visit to the trendy Docklands District, where you can enjoy drinks at one of the many bars such as Made in Antwerp (Eilandje 3).

Things to Know:

  1. Antwerp is primarily Dutch-speaking, but most residents also speak English.
  2. The city operates on European standard socket C (2 round pins).
  3. The public transportation system is excellent and affordable. You can purchase a MOBIB card for unlimited travel.
  4. The city center is relatively small and easy to explore on foot, but consider using the tram if you’re short on time or need a break.
  5. Antwerp is famous for its diamond industry; consider visiting some of the many diamond shops in the Diamond Quarter (Diamantkwartier).

Tips:

  1. Try local dishes such as Mussels and Frites, Stoofvlees (Beef Stew), or Waterzooi (Chicken or Fish in a creamy sauce) during your stay.
  2. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Antwerp Art Festival in July and the Antwerp Pride Parade in August.