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 0109Website: 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 0103Website: 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 0555Website: 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 5660Website: https://visit.gent.be/en
