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Antwerp tours and excursions

Antwerp tours

Bicycle tours

Several local companies offer a variety of city cycling tours, in which you might pedal along the quays of the River Scheldt to the old port, visit the 'Eilandje' (Little Island), or navigate the narrow medieval streets of the Sint-Andries quarter.

Tel: +32 3 232 0109
Website: http://www.antwerpbybike.be/en

Walking tours

The Antwerp tourist office organises no fewer than eight themed walking tours of the city, which are led by tour guide Carolien Krijnen. Her saunters cover subjects such as Rubens, history, fashion and architecture. Places are limited, so the tourist board advises visitors book walks three weeks in advance.

Tel: +32 3 232 0103
Website: https://www.visitantwerpen.be/en/walks

Antwerp excursions

Lier

Just 16km (10 miles) southeast of Antwerp is Lier, a charming little city that has drawn comparisons with Bruges thanks to its scenic canals and gothic architecture. Trains depart hourly from Centraal station. If you go, don’t miss the beguinage – this 13th-century collection of buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tel: +32 3 800 0555
Website: http://www.visitlier.be/en

Ghent

Antwerp is often regarded as an excursion itself from either Brussels or Ghent. Turn the tables and visit the latter, which is 58 km (36 miles) southwest of Antwerp. Peppered with pretty canals and awash with medieval architecture, head first to the UNESCO-listed Belfort belfry for an amazing overview of the city. Then seek out The Ghent Altarpiece at Saint Bavo Cathedral, a panelled masterpiece painted by 15th century artist Jan van Eyck.

Tel: +32 9 266 5660
Website: https://visit.gent.be/en
A digital image at https://illuminoto.com

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Firean Hotel

Built in 1929, the Firean Hotel is reputed to be one of the most charming hotels in Belgium. This hotel is an Art-deco mansion that the actual owners restored in 1986. They take pride in offering outstanding quality and service with thoughtful gestures. One of the proprietors welcomes guests upon arrival, acquainting visitors with the space.

 

Tra Noi

Located in the heart of the fashion district, this superb little guesthouse is owned by Danielle, a friendly lady who has two apartments and a guest bedroom that she rents out at very reasonable rates. Danielle used to work in the fashion industry, so the decor is stylish and slightly eccentric (there’s an antique rowing boat hanging from the ceiling of one apartment), but the city centre location is almost unbeatable.

Hotel Postiljon

Nestled in the shadow cast by the neighbouring cathedral, this long-established Antwerp hotel offers simple, clean and elegant rooms. It may be small with no frills, but considering its prime location opposite the city’s biggest landmark, Hotel Postiljon offers fantastic value for money.

Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel

Less characterful than some Antwerp hotels, though no less luxurious, the Astrid is a towering modern building that borrows elements from older styles. Boasting some 200 rooms of 5-star lavishness, it’s situated directly opposite Antwerp's Centraal station. Guests have full use of the leisure facilities, including a health centre.

Hotel Julien

A short walk from Groenplaats Square, this elegant and cosy Antwerp hotel is a beautiful mix of old and new. The rooms sport minimalist designer décor and all amenities blend seamlessly with original medieval features. Friendly staff preside over the space, and the roof terrace provides sweeping city views.

Leonardo Hotel

Located near Antwerp's Centraal Station, Leonardo Hotel has 96 spacious bedrooms, which are smart, clean and contemporary. The location is great for exploring the diamond district and for onward travel, but not so good for the historic Old Town, which is a fair walk away. But the price is right and the summer terrace is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast.