With 7 days in Antwerp, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. Forget predictable sightseeing. In Antwerp, discovery happens in layers: beneath the 't Steen castle lies a medieval harbor, behind an unassuming facade on Nationalestraat is the revolutionary Dries Van Noten boutique, and within the MAS Museum's towering silhouette are stories of global trade that built this city.
Why Visit Antwerp
The Rubens Trail: Step into the painter's world at Rubens House, his actual residence and studio, then see his monumental altarpieces in situ at St. Charles Borromeo Church and the Cathedral of Our Lady, understanding his profound impact on the city's visual identity.
Diamond Dynasty: Explore the concentrated, high-security Diamond District around Hoveniersstraat, where over 80% of the world's rough diamonds are traded. Visit DIVA, the museum dedicated to the art of diamonds, silver, and jewelry, to understand this glittering legacy.
Fashion Frontier: Walk the 'ModeKwartier' around Nationalestraat, home to flagship stores of the Antwerp Six (like Ann Demeulemeester) and the MoMu Fashion Museum, which showcases provocative contemporary design in a historic setting.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Antwerp adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Central Station
Experience Central Station, one of Antwerp's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Antwerp like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in Belgium.
Cathedral
Experience Cathedral, one of Antwerp's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Art, History & Discovery
Uncover layers of history that shaped Antwerp. From ancient remains to modern marvels, today reveals the stories behind the city's evolution.
Rubens House
Experience Rubens House, one of Antwerp's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover Antwerp's lesser-known treasures. These local favorites offer authentic experiences away from the crowds.
MAS Museum
Experience MAS Museum, one of Antwerp's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 5: Markets, Food & Exploration
Indulge your senses with Antwerp's culinary scene. From bustling markets to beloved local spots, today is a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Diamond District
Experience Diamond District, one of Antwerp's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 6: Culture & Hidden Gems
Dive deeper into Antwerp's rich cultural heritage. Today is about understanding what makes this city tick, from its artistic legacy to its local traditions.
Grote Markt
Experience Grote Markt, one of Antwerp's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 7: Final Treasures
Make every moment count on your final full day. There's still so much to discover in Antwerp, and today brings fresh adventures.
Ready to explore Antwerp?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Antwerp is best explored by combining walking with public transport.
- 2The best time to visit Antwerp is April to October. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted.
- 4A few words in Dutch go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 6With 7 days, consider a day trip outside Antwerp to experience more of Belgium.
Must-Try Food in Antwerp
💡 Dine where the chefs do: the area around Marnixplaats is packed with innovative, high-quality restaurants favored by the city's culinary insiders, like The Jane or Het Gebaar.
Book Activities in Antwerp
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Antwerp
Historic Centre (Grote Markt & Cathedral)
The medieval heart of Antwerp, centered around the magnificent Grote Markt square with its ornate 16th-century City Hall and guildhouses.
Het Zuid (The South)
Antwerp's elegant 'Borough of Museums,' characterized by wide, Parisian-style boulevards and beautiful fin-de-siècle architecture.
Het Eilandje & the Port
A formerly derelict dockland area transformed into a beacon of modern urban renewal.
Day Trip Ideas
With 7 days in Antwerp, you have time for a memorable day trip. Here are some great options nearby:
Ghent
A stunning medieval rival to Antwerp, Ghent boasts an incredibly well-preserved historic core with a fairy-tale castle, breathtaking guildhouses along the canals, and a vibrant student energy.
Brussels
Belgium's bustling, multilingual capital offers a stark contrast to Antwerp's cool confidence.
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