Historic Antwerp

Is Antwerp's history really so fascinating? In the early Middle Ages, Antwerp was no bigger than a village. Then it slowly grew into a major European trading hub and the largest city in the Netherlands. Following the Spanish occupation and the French domination, the port of Antwerp grew into one of the largest in the world. What has this fascinating history produced? Beautiful buildings, fine art and plenty of stories and legends.  

At your own pace

Would you like to discover these vestiges of a fascinating history on foot and at your own pace? Then this walking guide is an excellent companion. The walk it navigates is about 6.5 km long and takes about 2.5 hours. Of course, you decide where you want to stop and when you want to take a break. So be sure to stop at a museum or church, or enjoy a drink on a sunny terrace. Thanks to the fold-out map at the back of the booklet, getting lost is nearly impossible. And a handy timeline ensures that you always have an overview of the most important milestones in the city's history. 

Start and finish at Het Steen

The walks start at Het Steen and that is no coincidence. The city's oldest preserved building has had numerous functions over the centuries, from fortress to prison and museum. This centuries-old fortress houses a Visitor Centre, a cruise terminal and The Antwerp Story, an interactive experience trail with a panoramic roof terrace. It's perfect as an introduction to your walk, but also very suitable to end with.  

Stories and legends to stir one's imagination

The route of the walking guide leads you right through the city, past museums, historic houses, squares, towers and churches. Along the way, you will not only enjoy beautiful architecture, but also discover the stories and legends behind these sights. In this way, you can easily imagine what it must have been like to live in Antwerp in former times. 

Highlights and hidden gems

Besides top attractions such as the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Grote Markt with the Town Hall and the Rubenshuis, this walking guide also shows you the hidden gems, such as the oldest wooden façade in the city, the De Poesje puppet theatre and the Putkevie of Quenten Massys. At the end of it all, enjoy a spectacular view over the Scheldt, while you walk back to Het Steen via the Walking terrace.

A welcome break

Antwerp has a rich culinary tradition and you can feel that when you walk through the city. Restaurants, cafés, coffee bars, chocolate shops, ice cream sellers... you can be tempted into treating yourself to something delicious around every corner. Need some practical tips? The Grote Markt, the Conscienceplein, the Theaterplein and the Vrijdagmarkt are pleasant squares on the route where you have plenty of options for a tasty lunch, snack or drink. After a refreshing break, you'll be ready for the rest of your walk. 

Practical information

Are you ready for it? Buy the walking guide 'Historic Antwerp - A walk through the centuries' at the visitor centres of Visit Antwerpen. This voyage of discovery through historic Antwerp will only cost you 6 euros. Enjoy!

Planning to visit any museums, churches and attractions? The Antwerp City Pass will be a real asset.