How to do Antwerp in a weekend
Antwerp is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities just across the border. The city is full of Instagram-worthy restaurants, nice coffee spots, and so many fun places that you can't possibly check them all off in one weekend. Yet that's exactly what we're trying to do. Here are a few of the best things to do during a weekend in Antwerp.
And a tip before you start: grab one of those electric scooters. It's by far the most fun way to get around all the hotspots.
Breakfast like a local
A good weekend starts with a good breakfast, and they understand that all too well in Antwerp. At Tinsel you get seriously good coffee and breakfast that you really sit down for. Sourdough bread, poached eggs, and those plates that you automatically take a photo of. Nordica 31 is also such a place. It has a Scandinavian vibe.
Shopping on the Meir (and right next to it)
When you say Antwerp, you say shopping. The Meir is the most famous shopping street in the city and here you find all the big brands. But the most fun is actually to dive into a side street, where the smaller boutiques and concept stores are hidden. Think of the Graanmarkt, where you find stylish shops and minimalist concept stores. And where also the Antwerp label KASSL can be found. Antwerp simply has a good eye for style. You can see that immediately in the shops. So make sure to set aside a few hours for this, because the chance that you go home empty-handed is small. More likely with a bag full. Or five.
Sniffing fashion at the MoMu
That Antwerp is a fashion capital is not only noticeable when you look around the street, but especially when you step into the ModeMuseum Antwerpen The museum tells the story of famous designers and shows why the city plays such a big role in the international fashion world. The exhibitions are often accessible and thus also fun if you're not a fashion insider. Perfect for an afternoon between shopping.
Strolling past stalls at the Saturday market
A visit to the Vogelenmarkt shouldn't be missed. This market feels a bit like a food hall, but then spread over a long street in the open air. You find street food, fresh products, and vintage stalls. It's pleasantly busy and just the kind of place where you wander around without a plan. Grab something tasty and stroll further into the city at your leisure.
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Reserve here for dinner
Antwerp is just as good at food as it is at shopping, so plan your weekend a bit around restaurants. There are more than enough places to try. U Eat & Sleep for example combines a beautiful view of the water with refined dishes. If you want something a bit hipper, then Osaka and Cantine are good options. Getting hungry is easy, choosing where to eat is the real challenge.
Terraces: Grote Markt and ’t Zuid
At the Grote Markt, you're in the historical heart of the city, overlooking the beautiful guild houses. The hustle and bustle around the terraces also makes it the perfect place for people-watching. Order a coffee (or an Aperol) and sit down comfortably. Want to take a more local approach? Then head to Het Zuid. Here you find wider squares, stylish cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere where mainly locals spend their sunny days.
Completely relax at Botanic
After a day of walking, shopping, and eating, a bit of relaxation is a luxury you don't want to miss. In the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp you find a spa that is a destination in itself. The hotel is in a beautiful historic building, mixed with modern elements. Swimming and sweating in the sauna can be done here at its best.
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Wining at Het Archief
A good glass of wine cannot be missing from a weekend getaway. Het Archief is located in the building where, you guessed it, the Provincial Archive of Antwerp used to be. The interior is very impressive; cast iron and bricks everywhere you look. There's a good chance this will be the kind of place you immediately seek out again next time.
The nice thing about Antwerp is that you're never really done. There's always another restaurant you wanted to try, a shop you wanted to step into, and a terrace where you could have had just one more drink. Enough reason to go back soon.
