Antwerp

Antwerp is a charming city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant arts scene, making it a perfect destination for couples. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that balances romance, culture, and a bit of adventure. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Antwerp

Morning:

• Breakfast at Café Impérial: Start your day with a cozy breakfast at this lovely café. Try their delicious pastries and a strong cup of coffee to fuel your day.
• Cathedral of Our Lady: After breakfast, stroll over to the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Don’t forget to check out the artworks by Rubens inside!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at De Groote Witte Arend: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at this charming restaurant known for its local dishes. Try the Flemish stew!
• Antwerp Zoo: After lunch, take a romantic walk through the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world. It’s a lovely place to wander hand-in-hand and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Jane: For a special evening, make a reservation at The Jane, a Michelin-starred restaurant housed in a former chapel. The ambiance is magical, and the food is an experience in itself.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a romantic stroll along the Scheldt River. The views of the city lights reflecting on the water are simply enchanting.

Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning:

• Breakfast at Caffè Città: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at this trendy café. Their brunch options are fantastic!
• Museum aan de Stroom (MAS): Head to the MAS, a striking museum that tells the story of Antwerp’s history and culture. The rooftop offers stunning panoramic views of the city.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Het Pomphuis: Enjoy lunch at this unique restaurant located in a former pump house. The ambiance is industrial chic, and the food is delicious!
• Rubenshuis: After lunch, visit the former home and studio of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens. The art and the beautiful gardens are perfect for a romantic afternoon.

Evening:

• Dinner at Bistro du Nord: This cozy bistro offers a warm atmosphere and a menu filled with French-inspired dishes. Perfect for a romantic dinner!
• Theater or Concert: Check out what’s on at the Royal Theatre of Antwerp or a local concert venue. Enjoying a performance together can be a wonderful way to end the day.

Day 3: Shopping and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pain de Mie: Treat yourselves to a delightful breakfast at this bakery known for its fresh bread and pastries.
• Meir Shopping Street: Spend the morning shopping along Meir, Antwerp’s main shopping street. You’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to quirky shops.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Frituur No. 1: Grab a casual lunch of Belgian fries at this popular spot. You can’t leave Belgium without trying some frites!
• Stroll through the Botanical Garden: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Botanical Garden. It’s a peaceful oasis in the city, perfect for some quiet time together.

Evening:

• Dinner at Restaurant Het Gebaar: For your final dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at this restaurant known for its creative dishes and elegant setting.
• Cocktails at Skybar: End your trip with a nightcap at a rooftop bar like Skybar, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline while sipping on delicious cocktails.

Tips:

• Transportation: Antwerp is very walkable, but you can also use trams or rent bikes to explore the city.
• Reservations: For popular restaurants, especially The Jane, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Antwerp! Enjoy your romantic getaway! 🌹✨