The dynamic city of Antwerp, Belgium, showcases an Old World charm with avant-garde flair. For travelers who crave Northwestern European culture, creativity, and a bit of indulgence, Antwerp delivers a mix of sophistication and soul. Known as a world-renowned diamond district, Antwerp offers fashion-forward boutiques and legendary art history on nearly every corner. Cobblestone streets lead to vibrant squares, riverside promenades, and cozy cafés where visitors often commune over Belgian waffles or sip a Trappist beer. From the museums to Michelin-starred cuisine to cultural festivals, Antwerp invites every traveler to slow down, stay curious, and fall in love with the city.

• Best time to travel: May to September (peak season); January to February (off-season); March to April and October to early November (shoulder season) 
• Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language(s): Dutch (Flemish), French, English   
• Noteworthy: Antwerp Pride (August), Summer of Antwerp (Zomer van Antwerpen, July–August), Winter in Antwerp (December–early January), Antwerp Jazz Festival (May), Bollekesfeest (August)  
• Best for: Art Nouveau Architecture, Fashion Aficionados, Belgian Cuisine, Romantic Getaway  

Get Away: Getting To And Around Antwerp, Belgium

By Air 

Antwerp International Airport is a small but convenient hub, just 15 minutes from the city center by taxi or bus. While it mainly serves European destinations, larger international flights land at Brussels Airport, which is roughly 45 minutes by train. When flying into Brussels, frequent trains make connecting to Antwerp quick and easy. Many travelers also use Eindhoven (Netherlands) or Charleroi airports for budget options and day trips.

By Car

Driving into Antwerp is doable but not always recommended for exploring the busier city center. That’s because many streets are narrow, one-way, or part of low-emission zones. Parking can be limited and expensive, though park-and-ride options just outside the city make day access easier. If planning to explore Flanders or the Netherlands, keep in mind that Belgian drivers are efficient and road signs are typically in Dutch.

By Public Transit

Antwerp boasts an efficient public transportation system, operated by De Lijn, with trams and buses connecting all major neighborhoods and attractions. The city’s main train station, Antwerpen-Centraal, is a destination in itself—one of Europe’s most beautiful stations and a major hub for regional and international travel. Tickets for trams and buses are best purchased in advance via app or kiosk to avoid a surcharge. For day-trippers or frequent travelers, a day pass offers great value.

Explore Antwerp, Belgium On Foot

Antwerp’s compact city center is ideal for walking, with most top attractions within 15–20 minutes of each other. Wandering through the Old Town’s winding streets, lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and hidden courtyards, is part of the city’s magic. There’s pedestrian-friendly signage in the public spaces, which are clean, well-lit, and safe to navigate even at night. Bring comfortable shoes as most visitors end up exploring more than originally planned.