Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp

Antwerp , Belgium

Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp

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About this experience

Walk around Antwerp and explore the historical center in the company of our knowledgeable and passionate guides. We'll take you on a fascinating trip through Antwerp's past and present, including the astonishing works of Rubens, the city's majestic architecture, its culinary diversity and intense nightlife. Look for our RED umbrella on the Grote Markt square.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Our guides are volunteers who offer tours for tips, so please bring cash money to reward the guide. The fee only covers the cost of booking via this platform.

Available options

English Tour

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Grote Markt square is the heart of Antwerp. It is filled with gorgeous medieval guild houses, the City Hall and the Brabo Fountain in the middle. Here our guide will share the history and legends behind the square and its monuments.

Named after the Flemish writer Hendrik Conscience, this atmospheric square truly is an architectural and intellectual treasure. It hosts an impressive baroque church and the old city library.

This impressive 17th century Baroque church is famous as a Rubens masterpiece. The painter’s contribution to this monument is considerable: from numerous paintings to the interior and decorations on the facade. A visit to this monument is included in the tour during the opening hours.

The Bourse of Antwerp is the world's first Wall Street. Here you will find out more about the Golden Age of Antwerp and how the city came to be an important international trading centre in the 16th century. A visit to this magnificent monument is included in this tour during the opening hours.

Stop 5

The Rubens House is the former home and workshop of the famous Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. Here we share with you his life story and some secrets behind the artist’s success.

Stop 6

Antwerp is one of the world’s leading fashion capitals. Why is that so and where can you go for some good fashion shopping? You will find out while passing through the designer's quarter.

Stop 7

This museum is a real hidden gem and was the first museum to be listed as UNESCO World Heritage. It brings the centuries-old history of books and printing to life, which our guides will enthusiastically explain to you on the tour. A visit to the museum’s historical garden is usually included in this tour during opening hours.

The Vlaeykensgang is the best preserved medieval street of Antwerp and a little alley that is not easy to find on your own. Our guide will walk you through it and take you back in time to the Middle Ages. It is said to be the most photographed spot in the city.

There are lot of statues on this tour, but this one is in our opinion the prettiest. Though most of the local people are not familiar with the story of Nello and Patrasche, it is the reason for many - mostly Asian - tourists to visit Antwerp. Our guides are happy to share its story with you.

Stop 10

We end the tour in front of the majestic Cathedral with some history and curious facts about its construction. To finish the tour, our guides will provide you with plenty of recommendations on things to do in Antwerp to help you plan the rest of your stay.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

131 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

1,651 reviews

5★

1566

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please, bring comfortable shoes.

Meeting point

We meet in front of the statue on the main square (Grote Markt). Look for the RED umbrella.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Our guides are volunteers who offer tours for tips. The fee only covers the cost of booking via this platform.

Important notes

Please be by the Brabo statue in front of city hall on the main square (Grote Markt) of Antwerp 10 minutes before the start of the tour and look for the guide with the red umbrella.

Keep in mind that our Legends of Antwerp tour is a free tour, which means that you are free to leave a tip to the guide if you enjoyed the tour, so please bring cash money to reward the guide. The booking fee is only used to process the booking and reserve your spot. Enjoy the tour!

About Antwerp

Antwerp, a vibrant city in Flanders, Belgium, is renowned for its diamond district, fashion scene, and rich cultural heritage. With its medieval architecture, world-class museums, and bustling port, Antwerp offers a unique blend of history and modernity.

Top Attractions

Grote Markt

The Grote Markt is the central square of Antwerp, surrounded by stunning guildhalls and the iconic Brabo Fountain. It's a lively hub of activity and a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Cathedral of Our Lady

This magnificent Gothic cathedral is one of Antwerp's most famous landmarks. It houses several masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens and offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (€6 for tower climb)

Antwerp Central Station

Antwerp Central Station is not just a transportation hub but also an architectural masterpiece. Its stunning design, with a massive dome and intricate details, makes it a must-see attraction.

Architectural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (€8 for a guided tour)

MAS Museum

The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) is a modern museum showcasing Antwerp's history and its connections to the world. The building itself is an architectural marvel, and the panoramic views from the roof terrace are not to be missed.

Museum 2-3 hours €12 (free for children under 12)

Diamond District

Antwerp is the world's diamond capital, and the Diamond District is the heart of the city's diamond trade. Here, you can visit diamond shops, museums, and even see diamond cutters at work.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (prices vary for purchases)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Waterzooi

A traditional Flemish stew made with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy broth. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for cooler weather.

Main Course Contains dairy and meat

Antwerpse Handjes

A sweet pastry shaped like a child's hand, made with almond paste and topped with sugar. These treats are a symbol of Antwerp and a must-try for visitors.

Snack Contains nuts and gluten

Flemish Beef Stew (Carbonnade Flamande)

A rich and flavorful beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices. It's a classic Flemish dish that's perfect for a cold day.

Main Course Contains meat and gluten (from the beer)

Waffles

Belgian waffles are a must-try when in Antwerp. They come in various types, such as Brussels waffles (light and crispy) and Liège waffles (dense and sweet).

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy (unless specified otherwise)

Popular Activities

Biking Kayaking Hiking Spa and wellness Boat tours Park visits Museum visits Walking tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Antwerp, with warm weather and numerous outdoor events. The city is lively, but also more crowded.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Antwerp is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transport
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Antwerp International Airport • 5 km from city center
Brussels Airport • 45 km from city center

By train

Antwerp Central Station

By bus

Antwerp Central Bus Station, Antwerp Berchem Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with frequent services and clear signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Taxis Antwerp, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Eilandje Zurenborg South (Zuid)

Day trips

Bruges

100 km from Antwerp • Full day

Bruges is a charming medieval city known for its canals, cobblestone streets, and stunning architecture. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular day trip from Antwerp.

Ghent

60 km from Antwerp • Full day

Ghent is a vibrant and historic city known for its medieval architecture, canals, and lively atmosphere. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular day trip from Antwerp.

Brussels

45 km from Antwerp • Full day

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and a vibrant city known for its historic sites, museums, and culinary delights. It's an easy day trip from Antwerp and offers a wealth of attractions.

Festivals

Antwerp Pride • July Antwerp International Film Festival • November Christmas Market • December

Pro tips

Visit the Diamond District for a unique and fascinating experience, and don't be afraid to haggle when making purchases
Explore the city's historic center on foot, and don't miss the stunning architecture and hidden gems along the way
Try local specialties, such as waterzooi, Antwerpse handjes, and Belgian waffles, and sample the city's famous chocolates and beers
Take a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective, and enjoy the beautiful canals and waterfront views
Visit the city's museums and cultural attractions, such as the MAS Museum, the Red Star Line Museum, and the Flemish Opera