Antwerp in 2 Days: Top Attractions, Food & Culture in 2025!
With its fusion of ancient tradition and modern adventure, Antwerp emerges as a very lively and chic place to be. A short visit here is perfect with its walkable city center areas, world-class museums, and fashionable neighborhoods. Antwerp is a must for all culturalists, retailers, and foodists, for it has been lusted after for everything. This guide shows you how to enjoy two of the best days in this city: at its top spots and in its many secret nooks.
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Things to Do in Antwerp
Arrival & Departure
Antwerp is very easy and convenient to reach in 2025. The city is perfectly shared across the train contours, with direct routes from the most important hubs like Brussels, Amsterdam, and Paris. Antwerp Central Station is your gateway into the city, a stunning architectural landmark. For international air travelers, Brussels Airport is 45 minutes away by train. Public transport, bikes, and walking out in the city are the best ways to get around. Departures are just as easy, thanks to the reliable transit links in this city. Plan ahead for two days to maximize everything and have the smoothest start and finish to the trip.
How to Get Around in Antwerp?
Transport in Antwerp offers ease and efficiency. The De Lijn public transport system is reliable, with trams and buses connecting all major areas of the city. Tickets can be bought from machines or via apps, and other options include contactless payment. Antwerp is also very walkable and bike-friendly, with bike-share options readily available. Taxis and ride-sharing services also come in handy for longer travel distances or late-night rides. A City Pass would give tourists unlimited travel and discount options for Antwerp attractions, hence making their exploration easy and affordable.
Day 1
Grote Market & Old City
Begin your adventure in Antwerp at the Grote Markt, the historic center of the city. Here, amidst all the ornate guild houses and the grand City Hall, this lively square breathes the medieval charm of Antwerp. Stroll the cobbled streets of the Old City, discovering hidden courtyards, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. Nearby is the Cathedral of Our Lady, another UNESCO site with masterpieces by Rubens, and an impressive showcase of Gothic architecture.
Rubens Highlights
Art lovers can't miss Antwerp’s celebration of its most famous resident, Peter Paul Rubens. Visit the Rubenshuis, his former home and studio, showcasing his masterpieces and personal collection. Head to the Cathedral of Our Lady to see four of his monumental altarpieces. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts, reopened and refreshed, also houses key Rubens works. After soaking in the art, unwind at nearby Antwerp restaurants offering local flavors and stylish atmospheres.
Scheldt River Bike Ride
An interesting bike trip along the Scheldt River is a scenic and stress-free avenue into Antwerp. The views along the riverside path are excellent—water, passing ships, and a skyline changing as the city itself. Ride past historic docks, modern architecture, and peaceful green spaces. Stop at riverside cafes or parks for a quick break. Well-marked cycling routes and bike rentals are available throughout the city. This ride offers great opportunities for travel lovers who just want fresh air, local sights, and some real adventure.
Dinner and Drinks in Het Eilandje
Het Eilandje, Antwerp’s revitalized dockside district, offers a vibrant dining scene perfect for an evening out. Enjoy refined Belgian cuisine at La Pipe d’Anvers, or savor Mediterranean flavors at Pazzo. For an upscale experience, Zilte, located atop the MAS museum, provides panoramic city views alongside its gourmet menu. After dinner, unwind at Bar Paniek, a trendy waterfront spot known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere. These venues exemplify the diverse culinary offerings of Antwerp restaurants and are among the best places to visit for food and drinks in Antwerp.
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Day 2
Brunch and Vintage Markets
Kick off the morning in Antwerp with a lovely brunch at the hippest places like Tinsel or Kloonies. Both have very nice interiors and wonderful menus to enjoy. Hit the lively vintage markets of the city after that, like Vogeltjesmarkt and Vrijdagmarkt, where you'll find extraordinary antiques, secondhand clothes, and many odd items. These markets can be the final words of local culture, shopping, and at the same time, the legacy of old Antwerp streets.' When speaking about these entertaining places, most people can't help but remember their glory days spent here.
Shopping and Zuid Neighborhood
Antwerp's Zuid district is vibrant with art, fashion, and design. This area should be a stop for those looking to shop for that interesting one-off piece. Stroll along Kloosterstraat, famous for its antique and vintage shops selling everything from mid-century furniture to rare collectibles. Very close by is Nationalestraat, home of the MoMu fashion museum and high-end boutiques like Dries Van Noten and Graanmarkt 13, which represent the best of contemporary Belgian design. When it comes to contemporary art, check out galleries like Sofie Van de Velde and Tim Van Laere, showcasing the forefront of contemporary works. After shopping, one can unwind in one of the many chic cafés or bars and soak up the local ambiance as mentioned in this Antwerp travel guide 2025.
Beer Tour
A lot of people think that beer lovers would really enjoy visiting Antwerp. Just taste a few of the many breweries and pubs where you can spend some time drinking and discover new favorites. Begin with an hour at De Koninck Brewery, one of Antwerp's oldest, which will not only give you a bit of knowledge about the history of Antwerp brewing but also allow you to taste some of the beers that are available in a local environment.
Then you have Biercentral, which is basically made for all heavy beerheads; as you enter, you can find thousands of Belgian brews. For something more private, search out hidden places like The Beer Planet and Het Elfde Gebod. Finish your tour off with a drink at Café den Hopsack, famed for its wide range of craft beers.
Fancy Dinner at Jane
In the deserving limelight of fine restaurants, The Jane, Antwerp, towers above all others with a chance of getting unforgettable fine dining experiences. This two-Michelin-starred restaurant is seated in a newly restored chapel, of the 19th century, and offers a synthesis of majestic architectural space and culinary perfection. Chef Nick Bril's clever gastronomic tasting menu celebrates Belgian and international ingredients that often shine a light on seafood or seasonal produce. The accompanying open kitchen within the ex-altar space completes the immersion. An affair in elegance combined with supreme service, The Jane guarantees to turn up the perfect evening for those fishing for a fine dining experience.
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Conclusion
In just 48 hours, you can experience Antwerp’s rich history at the Grote Markt, admire Rubens' art, explore the Zuid district's shopping scene, and enjoy a bike ride along the Scheldt River. Get around easily by walking, hopping on trams, or renting a bike. Savor the city's unique blend of culture, fashion, and food, and take the time to enjoy its modern energy and historical charm. This Antwerp itinerary for 2 days allows you to make the most of the city’s highlights and hidden gems.
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