In this guide
If you’re going to visit Antwerp, Belgium anytime soon but don’t know what to do yet – this is travel guide is perfect for you!
Antwerp is one of those cities that feels instantly welcoming: walkable streets, golden architecture, cozy cafés, and a mix of historic charm and creative modern energy.
Perfect for a day trip or a long weekend, these are five things you shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Antwerp.
1. Arrive Through Antwerpen-Centraal — One of Europe’s Most Beautiful Stations
We went by train. We started our journey in Leeuwarden and through Rotterdam Central we got into Antwerp Central Station.
Your trip to Antwerp starts the moment you step off the train and this isn’t just a station, it’s a masterpiece.
It’s often named one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world, it feels more like a cathedral than a transit hub.
Built in the early 1900s, the station blends stone, iron, and glass in dramatic layers across multiple levels.
Look up: the domed ceiling alone is worth the visit. Whether you’re arriving from Amsterdam, Brussels, or Paris, give yourself a minute to stand still and take it all in.
2. Het Steen
Het Steen is a small medieval fortress that marks Antwerp’s earliest history. Originally built around the 13th century, it once guarded the city and served as part of its defensive walls.
It’s a compact but atmospheric landmark where you can wander the courtyard, admire the stone towers, and take in river views. Inside, you’ll find a visitor center introducing Antwerp’s history — perfect for getting your bearings before exploring the rest of the city.
3. Visit MoMu — Antwerp’s Fashion Museum
Antwerp has a reputation in the world of fashion, largely thanks to the legendary Antwerp Six, and there’s no better place to explore this creative heritage than MoMu – the Fashion Museum.
Right now, one of the standout shows at MoMu is Girls.
On Boredom, Rebellion and Being In‑Between (running until 1 February 2026). This immersive exhibition blends fashion, photography, film and visual art to explore what ‘girlhood’ means — not just as a phase, but as a lens through which we continue to see the world.
4. Treat Yourself to Cinnamon Buns in a Cozy Café
The city of Antwerp really has embraced the cinnamon bun trend with open arms.
Whether you like yours soft and gooey or crisp around the edges, you’ll find them in specialty coffee shops, Scandinavian-style bakeries, and small independent cafés throughout the historic center.
Order a bun, sit by the window, and enjoy the local rhythm as cyclists glide past and church bells echo between the buildings. It’s one of the simplest but most satisfying things you can do in the city, especially on a chilly day.
My girlfriend really loved them and is now addicted to them.
5. Wander Through Antwerp’s Old Town
Antwerp’s Old Town is the kind of place that instantly pulls you in. It’s a web of cobblestone streets, ornate guild houses, hidden courtyards, and warm golden façades that seem to glow even on cloudy days. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of surprises around every corner.
The real joy, though, is simply wandering. The narrow side streets are full of chocolatiers, small boutiques, cozy cafés, and quiet corners that feel untouched by time.
In the late afternoon, the warm glow of the streetlights makes the old façades look even more magical.
It’s compact, atmospheric, and perfect for exploring without a plan.
Transportation in Antwerp
Getting around Antwerp is straightforward thanks to its compact layout and efficient public transportation network.
Most attractions are within walking distance, but when you need to travel further, the city’s trams, buses, and bike system make moving around easy.
By Tram
Trams are the fastest and most convenient way to get around Antwerp. The network covers the entire city center and extends to nearby districts, making it ideal for visiting places like Zurenborg, the harbor area, or the southern neighborhood (‘t Zuid). Trams run frequently throughout the day, and they’re easy to navigate even for first-time visitors.
By Bus
Buses cover routes that trams don’t reach, especially outside the historic center. They’re reliable and well-connected to major squares and residential districts. Just keep in mind that traffic in the city can slow buses during peak hours.
By Metro (Premetro)
Antwerp doesn’t have a traditional metro, but it does operate a premetro: an underground tram system running below the city. It works just like a metro in the central areas — especially useful for quickly crossing the city without dealing with street-level traffic.
By Bike (Velo Antwerpen)
Antwerp is a bike-friendly city with wide cycling lanes and scenic routes along the Scheldt river. The city’s bike-sharing system, Velo Antwerpen, has docking stations almost everywhere, making it perfect for short trips or exploring neighborhoods a bit farther from the center.
By Foot
The historic center of Antwerp is extremely walkable. Most major sights — Het Steen, the Grote Markt, Cathedral of Our Lady, Meir shopping street — are all within a short stroll of each other. The narrow, cobblestone streets make walking both practical and enjoyable.
Tickets & Passes
The De Lijn network offers:
- Single tickets (valid for 60 minutes across trams and buses)
- Day passes
- Contactless payment directly on trams and buses
- Mobile tickets via the De Lijn app
Tickets work on both trams and buses, making it easy to switch between them as you explore.
Frequently asked questions
