Start at the Grote Markt, Antwerp’s vibrant central square, surrounded by ornate guildhouses and the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady. Take a moment to admire the cathedral’s Gothic spire and consider a quick visit inside to see Rubens’ masterpieces (entry is ticketed, so check times). From here, stroll 5 minutes north to Vleeshuis, a striking 16th-century butchers’ guildhall, now a museum of musical history. Its red-and-white façade is quintessentially Antwerp. Next, head south along the charming Suikerrui street, about a 7-minute walk, to Het Steen, a medieval fortress by the Scheldt River. Snap a photo of this historic castle, one of Antwerp’s oldest structures.
For a bite, walk 10 minutes east to Het Elfde Gebod (Torfbrug 10), a quirky, statue-filled pub near the cathedral, known for hearty Belgian dishes like stoofvlees (beef stew) at reasonable prices. It’s a local gem, no reservations needed, but arrive early for a table. Enjoy a quick lunch or a Belgian beer to soak up the atmosphere.
Post-lunch, wander 10 minutes south to the ModeMuseum (MoMu) (Nationalestraat 28), Antwerp’s fashion museum, reflecting the city’s status as a design hub. Even a brief visit to its exhibitions (check for tickets) offers a glimpse into Antwerp’s avant-garde style. Nearby, pop into The Chocolate Line (Paleis op de Meir 50, a 10-minute walk), a decadent chocolatier by Dominique Persoone, for a praline or hot chocolate, perfect for a sweet pick-me-up.
Continue 10 minutes east to the Rubenshuis (Wapper 9-11), the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens. This Baroque gem, with its art-filled rooms and courtyard, is a must-see (allow 45 minutes, book tickets in advance). It’s a short stroll from Meir, Antwerp’s bustling shopping street, where you can window-shop at high-end boutiques or grab a coffee at Caffènation (Mechelsesteenweg 16, a 5-minute detour), a cosy spot for specialty brews.
End your tour at the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) (Hanzestedenplaats 1), a 15-minute walk north. This modern, red-sandstone museum towers over the Eilandje district, offering free access to its rooftop for stunning city views. If time permits, explore its exhibits on Antwerp’s maritime history (ticketed).
This four-hour tour weaves through Antwerp’s historic core, blending art, food, and culture. Wear comfortable shoes, check museum ticket requirements, and embrace the city’s mix of old-world charm and modern flair.
Ireland county by county
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Largest town walking tour
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Towns
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
Villages
Antrim – Armagh – Carlow – Cavan – Clare – Cork – Derry – Donegal – Down – Dublin – Fermanagh – Galway – Kerry – Kildare – Kilkenny – Laois – Leitrim – Limerick – Longford – Louth – Mayo – Meath – Monaghan – Offaly – Roscommon – Sligo – Tipperary – Tyrone – Waterford – Westmeath – Wexford – Wicklow
