Top reasons to visit Antwerp
- Vibrant Flea Markets: Experience the lively atmosphere of Antwerp's flea markets, perfect for finding unique treasures and local crafts.
- Cultural Attractions: Visit museums, art galleries, and historic churches that showcase the city's rich heritage and artistic flair.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a day at the Antwerp Zoo or relax at Groenplaats, offering fun for all ages.
- Delicious Cuisine: Savor the flavours of Belgium at renowned restaurants, featuring local delicacies and delightful dishes.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Explore Antwerp's picturesque streets and vibrant neighbourhoods, perfect for immersing yourself in local culture.
Find great hotels in and around Antwerp
Discover a range of accommodation options in Antwerp, from modern hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, catering to every traveler's needs. Whether you're on a business trip, a family holiday, or seeking pet-friendly stays, Antwerp hotels offer excellent services and facilities to ensure a memorable experience. Explore the vibrant city while enjoying the comfort of a hotel in Antwerp that suits your style and budget.
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Antwerp City Centre: Nestled in the heart of Antwerp, the Radisson Blu Hotel offers a luxurious 4-star experience ideal for families seeking comfort and convenience. With a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, this hotel caters specifically to families with amenities like Window Guards for children and a First Aid Kit for peace of mind. The stylish rooms and sophisticated atmosphere ensure a pleasant stay, while its prime location allows easy access to Antwerp’s attractions, making it a great base for family adventures.
- PREMIER SUITES PLUS Antwerp: Rated 8.6 out of 10, PREMIER SUITES PLUS Antwerp is a modern 4-star hotel that combines comfort with a range of amenities for both leisure and business travellers. The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can indulge in various recreational activities, including fitness facilities and nearby hiking or biking opportunities. Located close to the city centre and shopping districts, it provides a vibrant atmosphere for those looking to explore Antwerp’s culture while enjoying a relaxing stay.
- a&o Brussel Centrum: Situated 40.2km from Antwerp, a&o Brussel Centrum is a 4-star hotel tailored for city explorers and business travellers. This pet-friendly accommodation allows dogs and offers various pet amenities, making it a suitable choice for those travelling with their furry companions. Its central location in Brussels provides easy access to city attractions, while the hotel features modern facilities to cater to business needs. With a casual atmosphere and convenient amenities, it serves as a comfortable base for your adventures in Belgium.
Where to stay in Antwerp
Antwerp offers an unforgettable blend of vibrant city life and rich history, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers. Explore the heart of Antwerp, where charming streets and lively neighbourhoods create a warm atmosphere, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Don't miss P6, a prime location to experience the city's bustling vibe. Surrounding areas also provide a glimpse into the friendly local culture, ensuring a memorable Belgian adventure just a stone's throw away.
- Mechelen: Nestled between Antwerp and Brussels, Mechelen is a charming city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and family-friendly activities. The city offers a vibrant atmosphere with bustling markets and live music events that cater to all ages. Notable landmarks include its impressive event conference venue and convention centre, making it a perfect base for entertainment-themed experiences. With a mix of historical buildings and modern amenities, Mechelen invites visitors to explore its cultural scene while enjoying the local cuisine.
- Old Town: Situated in the heart of Antwerp, the Old Town neighbourhood is a delightful blend of history and modernity. This area is characterised by its picturesque piazza square and stunning monuments, providing a cultural feast for visitors. The vibrant theatre scene and lively markets attract families and culture enthusiasts alike, especially during the bustling summer months. Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you'll discover quaint shops and cafés, making it a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.
- Sint-Niklaas: Known as the city of the largest Christmas tree, Sint-Niklaas is a lively urban centre with plenty to offer. The city is home to an array of shopping centres and malls, ideal for those looking to indulge in retail therapy. Families will find entertainment in the city's parks and local events, while historical churches and monuments add a touch of culture to your visit. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse activities, Sint-Niklaas ensures a memorable experience for every traveller.
Things to do in Antwerp
Shopping
In Antwerp, visit the historic Meir shopping street, bustling with high-street brands and local boutiques. For a unique experience, check out the Antwerp Diamond District, where you can find exquisite jewellery. Don't miss the vibrant Sunday market at the Groenplaats for local crafts and souvenirs.
Recreation
In Antwerp, relax at the Wellness Center Ganshoren, where you can enjoy saunas, steam baths, and a tranquil garden. Nearby, the Hotel Julien's spa offers rejuvenating treatments and a rooftop terrace with stunning city views, providing a serene escape amidst urban vibes.
Adventure
Explore the vibrant Antwerp Zoo, located near the city centre, where you can encounter a variety of species in a historic setting. For a thrilling experience, visit the nearby Clip 'n Climb, offering exciting indoor climbing challenges for all skill levels amidst a colourful environment.
Nightlife
An evening in Antwerp offers vibrant nightlife, from cocktails at the stylish Café d'Anvers to the lively beats at Club Vaag. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the cosy bars in the historic centre, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy Belgian brews.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Antwerp
Antwerp offers great ways to save during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Green Square and De Keyserlei, and use affordable transport options such as trams, metros, or bicycles. The cheapest months to visit are January to February and August, with Saturday being the most economical day for accommodation. Book hotels about a month in advance or check last-minute deals on Expedia for better rates. Combine your stays with flights and activities for added savings, and use filters to find eco-friendly options or budget-friendly stays on platforms like Hostelworld.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Antwerp are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and September to October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Antwerp is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Antwerp is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Antwerp is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Antwerp hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Antwerp
Antwerp is perfect for family, city, and culture-themed holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historic churches. Explore the Antwerp Zoo, relax at Groenplaats, or wander through the Botanic Sanctuary for a rich cultural experience. This vibrant city caters to travellers seeking family fun and cultural immersion, ensuring that your visit is both memorable and enjoyable.
- Museum Aan de Stroom: Situated in the heart of Antwerp, this museum offers a fascinating blend of art, history, and culture. Its modern architecture houses diverse exhibitions that showcase the city's maritime heritage and global connections, providing visitors with insightful perspectives on Antwerp's past and present.
- Fort Breendonk: This historic fort serves as a poignant reminder of Belgium's past, particularly during World War II. Visitors can explore the fortress and its barracks, gaining a deeper understanding of the hardships endured by prisoners. The guided tours add an emotional layer to the experience, encouraging reflection on freedom and resilience.
- Brussels Gate: A stunning example of Renaissance architecture, this historic gate once served as a key entry point to the city. Its impressive structure and intricate details speak to Antwerp's rich history. Visitors can appreciate the architectural beauty while exploring the surrounding area, steeped in historical significance.
Best time to go to Antwerp
The best time to visit Antwerp is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.