Hidden Antwerp Self Guided Tour: History, Art and Fashion

Antwerp , Belgium

Hidden Antwerp Self Guided Tour: History, Art and Fashion

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(1 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Antwerp's oldest neighborhoods on a self-guided walking tour through Lodovico Guicciardini’s "most beautiful city in the world" and Victor Hugo’s art-filled haven. Starting at the Renaissance splendor of Antwerp City Hall, uncover secret squares, forgotten monuments, and hidden gems often missed by tourists. Wander through the old harbor, vibrant fashion district, and medieval meat hall, discovering unique spots like art nouveau jeweler Goudsmederij Wim Meeussen and the eclectic Books&Booze Antwerpen. Along Stoelstraat, experience 15th-century Antwerp’s atmosphere, meeting historical figures like Willem Elsschot and Pieter Paul Rubens. Hear tales of Flemish folklore at the Lange Wapper Statue and learn about Antwerp’s rich heritage at Brabo’s Monument. From the last dance organ at Café Beveren to the wartime history of Cathedral of Our Lady, this tour offers insights into Antwerp’s diverse culture and past, ending with a panoramic view of the River Scheldt at Het Steen.

Available options

Hidden Antwerp Self Guided Tour: History, Art and Fashion

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Start your tour at Antwerp City Hall, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its grandeur sets the stage for a journey through the city’s historic heart.

Stop 2 Pass by

Pass by Brabo's Monument, a striking fountain that commemorates the legendary Roman soldier Brabo. This iconic statue adds a touch of mythical charm to your tour.

Wander through the Grote Markt, Antwerp’s bustling main square surrounded by ornate guild houses. This lively area showcases the city's vibrant history and stunning architecture.

Stop 4 Pass by

Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, dedicated to the history of printing. Its beautifully preserved rooms and exhibits offer a glimpse into the city’s rich printing heritage.

Marvel at the Cathedral of Our Lady, a Gothic masterpiece famous for its towering spires and impressive artworks. This majestic cathedral stands as a testament to Antwerp’s artistic legacy.

Stop at the Lange Wapper Statue, which depicts a mischievous figure from Flemish folklore. This quirky landmark adds a touch of local legend to your walk.

Pause at Café Beveren, known for its unique last dance organ. This charming bar offers a nostalgic atmosphere and a taste of Antwerp’s traditional social scene.

Explore Books&Booze Antwerpen, a quirky concept store blending books and beverages. This spot reflects Antwerp’s creative spirit and provides a unique shopping experience.

Pay homage to the Nello & Patrasche Statue, inspired by the novel "A Dog of Flanders," which celebrates the bond between a boy and his faithful dog.

Stop 10 Pass by

Discover Museum Vleeshuis, dedicated to Antwerp’s musical heritage and housed in a historic building that was once the city’s meat market.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Tickets and entrance fees to attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour begins in the heart of Antwerp in front of the Stadhuis, or town hall, at Grote Markt 1.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

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