3 day itinerary for Antwepen

Itinerary

Antwerp is a vibrant city filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and a lively arts scene. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful Belgian city!

## Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Antwerp

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a cozy café like Café de Groote Witte Arend. Try their fresh pastries and a strong Belgian coffee to kickstart your adventure!
• Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal): After breakfast, head to this stunning Gothic cathedral. Marvel at the intricate architecture and don’t miss the impressive artworks by Rubens inside.

Afternoon:

• Grote Markt: Stroll over to the bustling Grote Markt, the city’s main square. Take in the beautiful guild houses and the impressive Town Hall. Snap some photos and soak in the atmosphere!
• Lunch at a Local Brasserie: Grab lunch at De Bomma, where you can enjoy traditional Belgian dishes like stoofvlees (beef stew) or a hearty croque monsieur.
• Antwerp Zoo: After lunch, visit the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world. It’s located right next to the Central Station, so it’s super convenient!

Evening:

• Dinner in the Meir District: Head to the Meir, Antwerp’s main shopping street, and find a nice restaurant for dinner. The Jane is a fantastic option if you’re looking for something upscale, but there are plenty of casual spots too!
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Scheldt River. The views of the city skyline at night are simply magical!

## Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Mombasa: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this trendy spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious options.
• Museum aan de Stroom (MAS): Head to the MAS, a striking museum that tells the story of Antwerp and its connection to the world. The rooftop offers stunning panoramic views of the city!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Het Pomphuis: Enjoy lunch at this unique restaurant housed in a former pump house. The ambiance is fantastic, and the food is top-notch!
• Rubenshuis: After lunch, visit the former home and studio of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens. The art and the beautiful gardens are a must-see!

Evening:

• Dinner in the Zuid District: Explore the trendy Zuid area and have dinner at Bistro du Nord, known for its cozy vibe and delicious dishes.
• Nightlife in Antwerp: If you’re up for it, check out the local nightlife! The area around the Meir and the Zuid has plenty of bars and clubs where you can enjoy a drink or two.

## Day 3: Shopping and Relaxation

Morning:

• Brunch at Café de Rooden Hoed: Treat yourself to a leisurely brunch at this charming café. Their brunch menu is delightful!
• Antwerp’s Diamond District: After brunch, explore the Diamond District. Even if you’re not in the market for diamonds, the area is fascinating and full of history.

Afternoon:

• Shopping in the Fashion District: Antwerp is known as the fashion capital of Belgium. Visit the boutiques along Nationalestraat and Kloosterstraat for some unique finds. Don’t forget to check out the ModeMuseum (Fashion Museum) for a dose of fashion history!
• Lunch at Bourla: Stop for a light lunch at this historic café, which is a great spot to relax and recharge.

Evening:

• Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fascinating glimpse into the history of printing and publishing. The building itself is stunning!
• Farewell Dinner at Restaurant Het Gebaar: For your last night, indulge in a memorable dinner at this Michelin-starred restaurant. The tasting menu is a fantastic way to experience the best of Belgian cuisine.
• Evening Walk: End your trip with a peaceful evening walk through the city, reflecting on all the wonderful experiences you’ve had in Antwerp.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that balances culture, history, and culinary delights. Enjoy your trip to Antwerp! If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to ask!