What is the best time to visit Antwerp in Belgium?

Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium, making it a major cultural hub in the country. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich history, with centuries of art, fashion, and monuments to explore. But what is the best time to visit Antwerp to get the full experience? Let’s take a look.

Summer

June through August is the warmest and most popular time to visit Antwerp as the temperature usually doesn’t drop below 75°F (23°C). This is also when the city comes alive with events and festivals, including the annual Flanders Festival, which draws in thousands of visitors each year. This is a great time for tourists and locals alike to enjoy music, entertainment, food, and much more. Besides festivals, the city has plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Tourists can take a boat ride on the river, visit the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady and its small treasures, or explore Antwerp’s hidden medieval alleys. If you’re up for it, you can also attend one of Antwerp’s world-famous fashion shows.

Autumn

Between September and November, temperatures in Antwerp remain warm with plenty of sunshine. This season tends to be quieter with fewer festivals and events happening than during the summer months. On the plus side, this means prices drop down to some of their lowest levels of the year. Many attractions remain open as well, including the Plantin-Moretus Museum, Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp, and the MAS Museum. You might even get lucky and be able to see artists exhibiting their work on the streets. All in all, this season is great if you want a peaceful atmosphere to explore some attractions and get to know local artisans.

Winter

December through February can be quite cold in Antwerp, with temperatures dropping down to below freezing. Despite this, it’s still possible to find plenty of activities to do. During Christmastime, you can visit the city’s most famous market located around Grand-Place square, shop for unique gifts, and soak up all the festive atmosphere. After that, you can winterize your day with a trip to Ham Square where you can enjoy a hot chocolate or glühwein while admiring the breathtaking views of Antwerp’s old city. Other great winter activities include ice-skating at Rivierenhof or attending one of the music and theater performances hosted at Erasmus House.

Spring

March through June is when Antwerp experiences its mildest temperatures. This makes it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as exploring galleries, participating in festivals, attending concerts, or just wandering through all the historical spots in town. This is also when Antwerp’s botanical gardens start blossoming again — Veltem-Beisem is especially spectacular. This season also wants for a trip to Grote Markt Square where visitors can view stunning architecture from the baroque period and the famous 16th century City Hall. Overall, there’s something for everyone in Antwerp, no matter what season it is. However, if you want to experience both Antwerp’s historical side and its liveliness, then summertime is definitely the best time to visit. You’ll find all the tourist attractions open and plenty of local events happening throughout this season. For more information about events in Antwerp, we suggest visitantwerp.be which will keep you updated with all sorts of activities happening in town no matter when you decide to visit!

Insider’s Guide: The Best Time to Visit Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp, one of the most charming cities in Belgium, is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. It’s a perfect combination of modern architecture, elegant fashion boutiques, cultural heritage, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a lively nightlife. In this insider’s guide, we will break down the best time to visit Antwerp, the best attractions to see, the perfect dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

When is the Best Time to Visit Antwerp?

The best time to visit Antwerp is from April to June or September to November. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it the perfect time to explore the city. Moreover, the peak tourist season is from July to August, which means the city can be crowded with tourists. For those who want to avoid the crowds and get better deals on accommodation and flights, it’s better to visit during the shoulder season.

Attractions to See in Antwerp

Antwerp is a city rich in culture and history. Here are some must-see attractions:

The Antwerp Cathedral

The Cathedral of Our Lady, or De Kathedraal as it’s known in Dutch, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It’s the tallest cathedral in Belgium and home to many works of art, including four of Rubens’ masterpieces.

The Antwerp Central Station

Antwerp Central Station is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Built-in 1905, it boasts an impressive dome made from iron and glass.

The Antwerp Zoo

The Antwerp Zoo, also known as the ZOO Antwerpen, is one of the oldest zoos in the world. It’s home to over 5000 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and hippos.

Dining Spots in Antwerp

Antwerp is famous for its food and drink scene. There are many Michelin-starred restaurants, trendy cafés, and cosy bars to choose from.

The Jane

The Jane is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant located in a renovated chapel. Its avant-garde cuisine is a mix of Flemish and global influences.

RAS

RAS is a chic restaurant located in the trendy south district of Antwerp. It’s a gastronomic hotspot known for its contemporary Belgian cuisine.

Café de Muze

Café de Muze is a cosy jazz café located in the historic district of Antwerp. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy live music, a pint of beer, and traditional Belgian dishes.

Cultural Experiences in Antwerp

Antwerp is brimming with cultural experiences that appeal to all ages and interests.

The Rubens House

The Rubens House is a museum dedicated to the life and works of Peter Paul Rubens, one of the most famous Flemish Baroque painters. It’s a stunning building, and the collection includes many of Rubens’ masterpieces.

The MAS

The Museum Aan de Stroom, or MAS, is an iconic building and one of the most popular cultural attractions in Antwerp. It’s a museum of world cultures, and the collection includes art, artifacts, and objects from all corners of the globe.

The Red Star Line Museum

The Red Star Line Museum is dedicated to the history of the shipping company that transported millions of Europeans to North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s a fascinating look at a pivotal moment in European and American history.

Local History of Antwerp

Antwerp is a city steeped in history, and you can explore it in many ways.

The Grote Markt

The Grote Markt, or Grand Place, is the historic heart of Antwerp. The square is surrounded by many beautiful buildings, including the City Hall, the Cathedral, and the Guildhalls.

The Plantin-Moretus Museum

The Plantin-Moretus Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only printing and publishing house in the world from the Renaissance and Baroque periods that has been preserved in its original state.

The Vlaeykensgang Alley

The Vlaeykensgang Alley is a hidden gem in the heart of Antwerp’s old town. It’s a small alleyway that takes you back in time to medieval Antwerp. It’s a must-visit for history buffs.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

For those who want a more unique Antwerp experience, take a look at these hidden gems:

The Antwerp Street Art Scene

Antwerp has a thriving street art scene, with many impressive murals and graffiti dotted around the city. For those looking for an alternative city tour, take a stroll to admire the work of famous artists like ROA and Smates.

The Antwerp Port House

The Antwerp Port House is an unconventional building designed by Zaha Hadid Architects. It’s a blend of old and new, with a renovated historic fire station and a new glass and steel structure that appears to float above it.

The Antwerp Six Fashion Trail

Antwerp is famous for its fashion, and the Antwerp Six are a group of six Belgian fashion designers who emerged in the 1980s. To follow in their footsteps, explore the fashion district around Nationalestraat and Kammenstraat.

In conclusion, Antwerp is a city that has something for everyone. From its historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and delicious dining to its alternative arts scene and hidden gems, it’s the perfect place to visit, no matter what time of year.