Antwerp (province) Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful Antwerp province of Belgium with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and food to eat.


Introduction to Antwerp (province)

Antwerp province is situated in the Flemish region in Belgium and is known for its rich history, culture, stunning natural beauty, and modern lifestyle. The province covers an area of 2867 km² and has a population of over 1.8 million people. Antwerp, the largest city in the province, is a hub of fashion, art, and cuisine. The province is also home to other charming cities, such as Mechelen, Turnhout, and Lier, each with its unique culture and attractions. Whether it’s exploring the rich art and architecture of the region or going on outdoor adventures, Antwerp province has something to offer for every type of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Antwerp (province)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Antwerp province is home to a wide range of cultural attractions, including museums and historical places. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in the region.

  • MAS (Museum aan de Stroom): This renowned museum in Antwerp showcases the cultural and historical significance of the city and the region. The museum is also known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city from the top.

  • Rubens House: This former residence of the iconic Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens, has now been converted into a museum dedicated to his life and work.

  • Museum Mayer van den Bergh: This museum in Antwerp houses an extensive collection of artworks and artifacts amassed by the Belgian art collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh.

  • Fort Breendonk: This former WWII concentration camp has now been converted into a memorial museum, giving visitors an insight into the horrors of the Holocaust.

Natural Attractions of Antwerp (province): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Antwerp province boasts of stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities that would cater to nature enthusiasts. Here are some of the best natural attractions of the region.

  • De Schorre Park: Known for its unique landscape architecture, this park in Boom boasts of scenic nature trails, waterfalls, and playgrounds making it suitable for both kids and adults.

  • Kalmthoutse Heide National Park: This pristine natural reserve is located on the border between Belgium and the Netherlands, boasts of stunning landscapes, heathlands, and provides nature lovers ample opportunities to relax, hike, or picnic.

  • Stone Circles of Gruitrode: A unique historical attraction, the Stone Circles of Gruitrode feature the remains of the oldest known human-built structures in the region, dating back to the Neolithic times.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Antwerp (province)

Antwerp province has numerous hiking and biking routes that offer travelers the chance to explore the natural beauty of the province and stay active. Here are some of the best routes in the region.

  • Donkmeer Circular Route: This 19 km hiking route takes you around the circumference of the Donkmeer lake, providing scenic views all the way.

  • Antwerp Green Belt Cycling Route: This 55 km bike route takes you through the suburbs of Antwerp, past farmland and through a nature reserve, providing an excellent way to explore the green belt surrounding the city.

  • Fort Oelegem and Vaartland Cycle Route: This 38 km cycling route takes you along the scenic forest and pastoral farmlands of rural Antwerp.

Best Things to Do in Antwerp (province): Activities and Tours

Antwerp province offers a wide range of activities and tours for travelers to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in the region.

  • Beer Tasting Tour: Discover the finest breweries and taste the best beers in the region on a beer tasting tour.

  • Chocolate Workshop: Join a chocolate-making workshop to learn about the rich history of Belgian chocolate and create your delicacies to take home.

  • Walking Tour of Antwerp Central: Join an experienced tour guide and explore the charming streets and historical landmarks of Antwerp on a walking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Antwerp (province)

For a comprehensive Antwerp province experience with a reasonable budget, travelers should follow this week-long itinerary, which includes:

Day Destination Activities
Day 1 Antwerp MAS Museum, Cathedral of Our Lady
Day 2 Mechelen Palace of Margaret of Austria, St. Rumbold’s Cathedral
Day 3 Boom De Schorre Park, Tomorrowland
Day 4 Turnhout Castle of the Dukes of Brabant, National Playing Card Museum
Day 5 Antwerp Rubens House, Grand Place
Day 6 Lier Lier Beguinage, St. Gummarus Church
Day 7 Kalmthout Kalmthoutse Heide National Park, Stone Circles of Gruitrode

Food and Drink Scene of Antwerp (province)

Antwerp province is a food lover’s paradise, featuring some of the best Belgian cuisine and a rich beer culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of the region.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mosselen met Friet: A classic Belgian dish of mussels in white wine served with crispy fries.

  • Stoofvlees: A hearty stew made with beef, onions, and beer, served with fries or bread.

  • Waffles: The world-famous waffles of Belgium come with a variety of toppings such as whipped cream, fruits, and chocolate sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Antwerp province is home to several breweries, producing an impressive range of beers, such as Tripels, Dubbels, and Lambics, among others.

  • Jenever: Considered the predecessor to gin, Jenever is a popular spirit of Antwerp province, with a variety of different flavors available.

Where to Stay in Antwerp (province): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Antwerp province offers a vast array of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best options based on budget.

  • Budget: Goodnight Antwerp Hostel and City Hostel Antwerp are affordable options for travelers looking for a comfortable stay at reasonable prices.

  • Mid-Range: De Keyser Hotel - Tower Deluxe, Banks Hotel, and Hotel Julien are some of the best mid-range hotels in the region.

  • Luxury: Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel, Renaissance Antwerp Hotel, and Hotel Rubens - Grote Markt are some of the finest luxury hotels in Antwerp province.

What to Buy in Antwerp (province): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Antwerp province is known for its unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best buys to take home.

  • Diamonds: Antwerp is renowned for its diamond industry, making it an ideal place to purchase unique diamond jewelry.

  • Beer and Chocolate: Belgian beers and chocolates are known throughout the world for their unique taste and quality.

  • Antiquities and Artifacts: Antwerp province is known for its history, and purchasing unique artifacts and antiques would make for excellent souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Antwerp (province)

Antwerp province has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should respect local customs and values. The culture of the region has been influenced by its location in Europe, making it a melting pot of different customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Antwerp (province)

The best time to visit Antwerp province is during the spring season, from March till May, when the weather is mild, and the flowers bloom, creating a scenic view in the region. Summer is also an excellent time to visit when the region is bustling with activity, festivals, and fun-filled events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Antwerp (province)

Here are some do’s and don’ts travelers should be aware of when exploring Antwerp province.

Do:

  • Explore the region on foot: Antwerp province is home to scenic walks and treks, and walking is the best way to appreciate the beauty of the region.

  • Try new foods: Antwerp province is a food lover’s paradise, and travelers should be sure to try some of the unique regional dishes and cuisine.

  • Experience the local art and culture: Antwerp province is renowned for its art and culture, and visitors should take the time to explore the various museums, galleries, and cultural centers that showcase it.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety measures: Like any other tourist destination, Antwerp province has its share of petty crime. Visitors should take precautions, such as staying in well-lit areas and avoiding deserted areas at night.

  • Litter: Antwerp province is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and visitors should help keep it clean by properly disposing of trash.

  • Skip tipping: Tipping is customary in the service industry of Belgium; a small tip of about 10% is expected for excellent services.

Safety and Health

Safety in Antwerp (province)

Antwerp province is a safe destination for travelers, and crime rates are generally low. However, travelers should exercise caution and take necessary safety measures, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Antwerp (province)

Travelers do not require additional vaccinations when visiting Antwerp province. The region has quality medical facilities and pharmacies readily available in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Antwerp (province): Transportation Options and Logistics

Antwerp province is easily accessible via several modes of transportation, including air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Antwerp (province)

The Brussels Airport, located around 55 km from Antwerp, is the nearest international airport that serves the region. The Antwerp International Airport, which caters to domestic and regional destinations, is also available for commuting between destinations.

Bus Stations Near Antwerp (province)

Antwerp is easily accessible via bus services that connect it with other Belgian cities and neighboring countries. The national bus company ‘De Lijn’ is a popular mode of transportation for getting around the province.

Other Options

Antwerp province is well-connected via rail, and it is also accessible via private cars, taxis, and bikes.

How to Get Around in Antwerp (province)

Antwerp province has an excellent network of public transportation, including trains, buses, and trams, making it convenient for travelers to explore the region. Bike rentals and walking around the city or nature parks are also popular options.

Where to Go Next from Antwerp (province): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Antwerp province is the perfect gateway to explore other regional destinations in Flanders and Europe. Here are some nearby destinations that visitors can explore.

  • Ghent: A historic city located around 60 km from Antwerp that is known for its medieval architecture and delicious cuisine.

  • The Hague: The Netherlands’ political capital and home to several international organizations, only two hours drive by car from Antwerp.

  • Bruges: Located around an hour’s drive from Antwerp, Bruges is famous for its cobblestoned streets, historic architecture, and chocolates.

Conclusion

Antwerp province is a cultural and natural treasure trove waiting to be explored. It boasts of rich history, delicious cuisine, stunning natural landscapes, and modern amenities to cater to all kinds of travelers. Follow our comprehensive guide to experience the best that Antwerp province has to offer.

In Flames performs at Graspop 2008 In Flames performs at Graspop 2008


    Antwerp
    Herentals
    Mechelen