Antwerp Itinerary 10 Days: The Complete Discovery (2026)

Welcome to Antwerp! After settling into your accommodation, begin your exploration in the heart of the city. Start at the magnificent Grote Markt, admiring the ornate guildhouses and the iconic Brabo Fountain. Don't miss a visit inside the Cathedral of Our Lady, home to several masterpieces by Rubens. For lunch, find a cozy spot near the Grote Markt for traditional Belgian frites with a variety of sauces. In the afternoon, wander through the charming cobblestone streets, discovering hidden courtyards and antique shops. Consider a visit to the Steen Castle, Antwerp's oldest building, offering panoramic views of the Scheldt River. End your day with a delightful dinner at Da Giovanni, known for its authentic Italian cuisine, or try a local bistro for some Belgian stoemp.

Today is dedicated to the Flemish master, Peter Paul Rubens. Begin your morning at the Rubens House, his former home and studio, now a museum showcasing his life and works. Immerse yourself in the opulent interiors and the beautiful garden. Afterwards, stroll down the Meir, Antwerp's premier shopping street, admiring the stunning architecture, including the Stadsfeestzaal. For lunch, grab a quick bite at a sandwich bar on the Meir or enjoy a more leisurely meal at a café in the area. In the afternoon, delve deeper into art at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA), which houses an impressive collection of old masters and modern art (check opening times as it recently reopened). Conclude your day with dinner in the vibrant Theaterbuurt, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences.

Step into the dazzling world of diamonds today. Start your morning exploring the Diamond Quarter, located right next to the magnificent Antwerpen-Centraal Station. While you might not be buying, it's fascinating to see the bustling trade and window shop the exquisite creations. Don't miss the stunning architecture of the Central Station itself, often called the 'Railway Cathedral.' Grab lunch at a kosher deli in the Diamond Quarter for an authentic experience. In the afternoon, visit the Chocolate Nation museum, an immersive journey into the history and making of Belgian chocolate, complete with tastings! Afterwards, wander through the nearby Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in the world. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of the Central Station, like one of the many options along De Keyserlei.

Today, immerse yourself in Antwerp's reputation as a fashion capital. Begin your day in the Fashion District, exploring the boutiques of local designers and international brands. Visit the MoMu - Fashion Museum Antwerp (check their exhibition schedule as it often changes) to understand the city's significant influence on global fashion. For lunch, discover a trendy cafe or a stylish brasserie in the area. In the afternoon, make your way to 'Het Zuid' (The South), a chic neighborhood known for its art galleries, museums, and beautiful architecture. Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA) for cutting-edge exhibitions. As evening approaches, enjoy a sophisticated dinner in Het Zuid, choosing from a variety of upscale restaurants and trendy bars.

Explore Antwerp's revitalized port area, Het Eilandje. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Museum aan de Stroom (MAS). Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the port. Spend a few hours exploring its diverse exhibitions on Antwerp's history, art, and culture. For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many excellent restaurants in Het Eilandje, like 'Storm' or 'Napoli.' In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the quays, admiring the historic warehouses and modern architecture. You can also visit the Red Star Line Museum, which tells the poignant stories of emigrants who departed from Antwerp to America. End your day with a delicious dinner in Het Eilandje, soaking in the waterside atmosphere.

Escape the city bustle and discover Antwerp's greener side and charming residential areas. Begin your day with a relaxing stroll through Stadspark, a beautiful urban park perfect for a morning coffee or reading a book. Afterwards, head to the Zurenborg district, famous for its stunning Art Nouveau and Belle Époque architecture. Take your time admiring the ornate facades and unique houses. For lunch, find a cozy brasserie or a local eatery in Zurenborg, enjoying the neighborhood's relaxed ambiance. In the afternoon, perhaps visit the Cogels-Osylei, the most famous street in Zurenborg, known for its architectural masterpieces. Consider a visit to the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into the history of printing. Enjoy dinner in Zurenborg, experiencing its local charm.

Delve into Belgium's rich brewing tradition today. Start your morning with an interactive tour of the De Koninck Brewery, learning about the brewing process and, of course, enjoying a tasting of their famous beers. Afterwards, explore the surrounding areas, perhaps discovering local markets or specialty shops. For lunch, many breweries offer excellent food pairings; otherwise, find a casual spot nearby. In the afternoon, head towards Dageraadplaats, a lively square in the Zurenborg district, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse selection of bars and restaurants. It’s a perfect spot for an afternoon coffee or another local beer. Consider joining a guided beer tasting tour in the evening to sample a wider variety of Belgian brews. Enjoy a hearty Belgian dinner at a traditional pub, pairing your meal with a recommended local beer.

Today, take a break from Antwerp and embark on a day trip to one of Belgium's other captivating cities: Ghent or Bruges. Both are easily accessible by train and offer a different historical and architectural experience. If you choose Ghent, marvel at the Ghent Altarpiece in St. Bavo's Cathedral, cruise the canals, and explore the Gravensteen Castle. For Bruges, immerse yourself in its fairy-tale canals, medieval architecture, and enjoy some famous Bruges chocolate. For lunch, savor local specialties in whichever city you choose – perhaps waterzooi in Ghent or mussels and fries in Bruges. Spend the afternoon soaking in the unique atmosphere, visiting museums, or simply wandering the picturesque streets. Return to Antwerp in the evening for a relaxed dinner at one of your favorite spots or try a new neighborhood restaurant.

Discover a different side of Antwerp today, focusing on modern urban spaces and vibrant local culture. Start your morning at Park Spoor Noord, a former railway yard transformed into a dynamic urban park with playgrounds, a skate park, and green spaces. It's a fantastic spot for a relaxed walk or to observe local life. For lunch, grab a casual bite at one of the food trucks or cafes within the park, or venture into the vibrant Borgerhout neighborhood, known for its multicultural atmosphere and diverse eateries. In the afternoon, explore the street art scene in Borgerhout and other peripheral areas – look for impressive murals and graffiti. Consider visiting a local market if one is open. Conclude your day with an adventurous dinner in Borgerhout, trying an international cuisine you haven't experienced yet.

On your final day, enjoy a relaxed morning for last-minute souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot. Head back to the Historic City Center to browse the charming shops around the Grote Markt for Belgian chocolates, waffles, or unique crafts. Perhaps enjoy a final coffee and pastry at a quaint cafe. If you have time, consider a quick visit to the Carolus Borromeus Church, an exquisite example of Baroque architecture. For your farewell lunch, choose a restaurant that left a good impression earlier in your trip, or try a classic Belgian eatery for one last taste of stoemp or mussels. Depending on your departure schedule, you might have time for one more leisurely stroll along the Scheldt River or a final visit to a small museum. Depart from Antwerp with cherished memories of its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious flavors.