Trip to Antwerp, Belgium

Day 1: Arrival

Welcome to Antwerp! Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel which is ideally located in the heart of the city. You can spend the day exploring the city on foot, starting with a walk along the river Scheldt. The historic port of Antwerp is located along the river, and you can take in the stunning views of the old town from here.

After the walk, you can visit the famous Antwerp Central station, which is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. The station’s gorgeous architecture features several styles of design and it is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes. You can even grab a coffee and sit in the stations central hall, gazing at its magnificent atrium.

Day 2: Diamond District and the Fashion Museum

Today, you will start your day with a visit to the Diamond District to witness the diamond trade that Antwerp is famous for. You can visit the Antwerp Diamond Exchange which is the largest diamond center in the world and witness the various stages of diamond processing.

After the Diamond district, visit the Fashion Museum which is located in the heart of the city. The museum boasts of an impressive collection of fashion dating back to the 16th century and currently houses over 40,000 items. The museum also displays contemporary works of international designers.

Day 3: Ruben’s House and Plantin-Moretus Museum

Start your day with a visit to the Ruben’s House, which is the former home of the famous 17th century painter, Peter Paul Rubens. The house now houses his artwork and collections, and you will be able to see not only his art but also his beautiful gardens.

After Ruben’s house, visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This museum provides a fascinating insight into the world of printing and houses the world’s oldest printing press. It traces the history of printing and publishing in the city over 300 years with the display of works of many Flemish Masters.

Day 4: Cathedral of Our Lady and Het Steen

Today, start with a visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The cathedral boasts of three magnificent altars, a beautiful pulpit and a collection of four paintings by Rubens and his student Anthony van Dyck.

After the cathedral visit, head towards Het Steen or ‘The Stone’, a medieval fortress and the oldest building in Antwerp dating back to the early Middle Ages. The fortress played a key role in the defense of the city’s port and is a must-visit for history buffs. Today, it’s a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists with its stunning riverside location and gorgeous green surroundings.

Day 5: MAS Museum and Meir Shopping Street

Today, start with a visit to the MAS Museum, which offers a panoramic view of Antwerp and the port. The museum is a unique mix of culture and maritime heritage, and the exhibits include items from around the world, exciting artworks, and historical items.

After that, enjoy shopping on Meir street, which is the top shopping destination in Antwerp. Meir is a pedestrian street filled with international brands, luxury goods, boutiques, and department stores, perfect for indulging your shopping urge.

Day 6: Antwerp Zoo and Schuttershofstraat

Spend the morning at the Antwerp Zoo, considered one of the oldest zoos in the world. The zoo is an impressive 10-hectare park where visitors can witness more than 950 species of animals in their natural habitats.

After the zoo, enjoy some high-end shopping at Schuttershofstraat, one of the chicest shopping streets in Antwerp, lined with designer boutiques, exclusive beauty stores, and stylish decor shops.

Day 7: Departure

It’s time to bid farewell to the beautiful city of Antwerp. Depending on your flight timings, you might be able to enjoy some last-minute shopping or explore the city a bit more before departing.