1.The Scheldt Quays: sunset with view of the river Scheldt

What's the best place to enjoy the waterfront in Antwerp? Without doubt, it's the sprawling Scheldt Quays. Go for an evening stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the Scheldt breeze and the setting sun. Sip a bottle of wine or Cava with your sweetheart or with friends and feast on tasty toasts with the bottle bag from Botellón. You could also pass by the panoramic terrace of  Het Steen,  where you can enjoy a phenomenal view of the city, port and the water.

• Ideal for: couples and/or an evening stroll. 

• Best time: one hour before sunset.

2. Linkeroever (Left Bank) and Sint-Anneke beach

At Het Steen, you can take the ferry to Linkeroever (Left Bank)  in a few minutes for a stunning view of the Antwerp skyline. Prefer to cycle or walk? You can take the iconic Pedestrian Tunnel  under the river Scheldt. Admire the antique wooden escalators and enjoy the cinematic setting. After that, it's a short walk to the  Sint-Anneke beach. Sand, sun, wind and a panoramic view create an instant holiday feeling.

• Ideal for: families, a picnic. 

• Best time: a sunny afternoon.

3. Galgenweel: a walk around the lake

Also on Linkeroever (Left Bank) is Het Galgenweel, a large pond with a view of Antwerp's skyline. Walk around the lake and spot birds and unusual plants along the way. In sunny weather, you can see wakeboarders and windsurfers skimming across the water. Fancy a longer walk? Keep walking and go to the Middenvijver pond and the Het Rot nature reserve.

• Ideal for: athletic hikers, nature lovers. 

• Best time: morning.

4. The Eilandje: a maritime atmosphere in the old port area

On the other side of town, enjoy the maritime atmosphere of the trendy  Eilandje district, once Antwerp's oldest port area. The marina and the MAS are the eye-catchers of the neighbourhood. Stroll along the docks, admire the sailing boats and enjoy the industrial architecture. Pick up something delicious from the Delafaille bakery  and enjoy it on a waterfront bench.

• Ideal for: city walking, photography, architecture lovers. 

• Best time: afternoon to sunset.

5. Park Spoor Noord: fountains and summer bar

One of the most popular spots on a sunny day is undoubtedly Park Spoor Noord. Lay down in the grass or let your kids play in the fountains and shallow water while you enjoy a drink in your beach chair. For summery cocktails and crispy pizzas, you have to be at Bar Noord,  the park's summer bar.

• Ideal for: families, a summer day, a picnic.

• Best time: a sunny afternoon or the early evening.

6. Droogdokkenpark: tranquillity and panoramic views

This park is the ideal place to get a breath of fresh air. Located on a bend in the river Scheldt, if offers sweeping views of the river, city and port for you to enjoy. Nestle in a deck chair and witness a magnificent sunset.

• Ideal for: anyone in search of peace and quiet.

• Best time: in clear weather, one hour before sunset.

7. Kattendijkdok

Discovered Schengenplein yet? This green, car-free square in the Cadixwijk neighbourhood borders Kattendijkdok. With trees, benches, a water playground and a spacious pontoon, it is a nice place for a picnic by the water. Stroll along the dock and discover maritime elements such as mooring posts and old train tracks. From there, you can overlook the residential towers across the water and the impressive Port House.

• Ideal for: a sunny lunch. 

• Best time: midday

Where else can you relax by the water? On a boat, of course. Take a trip on the water and admire the city and the port from a different perspective. Boat trips in Antwerp

FAQs

• What is the most beautiful place to watch the sunset in Antwerp?

The Scheldt Quays and Droogdokkenpark offer an open view of the setting sun.

• Is there a beach in Antwerp?

Yes, on Linkeroever (Left Bank) is Sint-Anneke beach, overlooking the port.

• What are fun places to picnic in Antwerp?

The Scheldt Quays, Kattendijkdok and Park Spoor Noord are ideal for a picnic by the water.