Keep exploring

A quick aside in your visit to introduce a few other points of interest that didn’t make it into your itinerary. Having welcomed many famous artists and architects like Rubens and Van Dyck, Antwerp is a true artistic hub of great value. If you’re into the classic masters of painting, the Mayer van den Bergh Museum or the Snijders-Rockox House should be your next stops. But if you want to keep that vintage vibe without all the canvases and brushes, we highly recommend a detour to the Plantin-Moretus Museum and the Red Star Line Museum. The former showcases a unique collection dedicated to printing and publishing, while the latter takes you into the warehouses of the legendary shipping company that helped millions of Europeans emigrate to the United States and Canada. For a bolder, trendier cultural experience, head to the docks—you won’t be disappointed. This former port area is reinventing itself with striking visuals, and the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) is proof of that. Exploring Belgian cultural heritage wouldn’t be complete without two specialties: beer and chocolate. Don’t hesitate to visit local breweries around Antwerp, like De Koninck, to learn all about the brewing process of this UNESCO-listed tradition and to taste the best craft beers of the region. If chocolate is more your thing, no worries—many workshops let you make your own chocolates, visit chocolatiers, and sample these world-famous treats. If you have a bit more time, consider visiting the charming small town of Mechelen, 25 km from Antwerp, known for its Saint Rumbold’s Cathedral and the Royal Manufacture De Wit Museum, famous for its tapestries. Further south, about an hour from Antwerp, lies the lovely city of Leuven, home to Belgium’s oldest university. If you prefer outdoor activities, head to Kalmthoutse Heide National Park, just 40 minutes from Antwerp. This natural area reveals landscapes of dunes and heath, perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic. With all this, you’ll have plenty to do if you decide to stay a little longer in the region.