Antwerp Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)

Get set for a flexible, personalized journey through Antwerp, Belgium, with this private walking tour that costs $62.51 per person. Designed for those who want an authentic local perspective, this tour offers customization options or the chance to leave it to the guide’s expertise. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a personalized introduction to the city’s highlights and lesser-known spots, all with the convenience of pick-up from your accommodation in Antwerp.

This tour spans 2 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of flexibility to fit it into your schedule. The experience is shared exclusively with your group, ensuring a private, intimate atmosphere. Guides are passionate about Antwerp and eager to tailor the experience based on your interests, making it suitable for curious visitors who want to go beyond generic sightseeing.

While this tour is well-reviewed and offers group discounts and mobile tickets, it does not include food, drinks, or local transportation. It’s best for those who enjoy walking tours and want a deep dive into local life, history, and culture, with the option for a more leisurely or brisk pace depending on your preferences.

Key Points

• Flexible duration: 2 to 8 hours, customizable to your schedule
• Private experience: Only your group participates, led by a passionate local guide
• Cost: $62.51 per person, with potential for group discounts
• Includes pick-up from your accommodation (if in Antwerp)
• Highlights: Visit the Grote Markt, Hendrik Conscience Statue, Carolus Borromeus Church, and Rubenshuis
• Special features: You can customize the tour or let the guide shape your route based on your interests

Exploring Antwerp’s Heart: The Grote Markt

The Grote Markt serves as the central hub of Antwerp’s old city quarter. Surrounded by Renaissance-style guildhalls, the Town Hall, and notable buildings, this square is a visual feast, with many facades reconstructed during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The guide points out artworks depicting this very square by Flemish artists, adding a layer of cultural context.

The 40-minute stop here introduces visitors to Antwerp’s vibrant history and architecture. Because the square is freely accessible, no admission ticket is needed, making it an easy starting point. Expect lively streets, historical buildings, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Discovering Belgian Literature at Hendrik Conscience Statue

The Hendrik Conscience Statue marks the location of a prominent Belgian author considered the pioneer of Dutch-language literature in Flanders. The guide explains Conscience’s significance during a time when French was dominant among Belgium’s upper classes, making this an insightful stop for those interested in Belgium’s cultural evolution.

Spending about 40 minutes at this statue allows for a focused discussion on Belgian literary history. The statue itself is located in a central spot, accessible without an admission fee, and offers a moment to appreciate local literary figures.

Visiting the Carolus Borromeus Church

The St. Charles Borromeo Church was built between 1615 and 1621 as a Jesuit church, later rededicated to Saint Charles Borromeo in 1779. Located on the Hendrik Conscience square, it features notable architecture and history, and the guide shares stories about its construction and religious significance.

The 30-minute stop involves admiring the church’s exterior and learning about its role in Antwerp’s spiritual life. Since no tickets are required, this stop provides a peaceful break to appreciate religious art and architecture.

Learning About Antwerp’s Trade History at Handelsbeurs

The Handelsbeurs Antwerpen is a significant building, known as the world’s first purpose-built commodity exchange. The guide highlights its transformation from a 17th-century trading hub to the Antwerp Stock Exchange in the 19th and 20th centuries, now functioning as an events venue.

Spending 30 minutes here allows an exploration of Antwerp’s historic importance in global commerce. The building’s architecture and history reflect Antwerp’s long-standing role as a trading city, making this a compelling stop for those interested in economic history.

Stepping Inside Rubenshuis

The Rubenshuis was the home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, one of Antwerp’s most famous painters. Purchased in 1610, the house was renovated based on Rubens’ own designs, creating an Italian palazzo-style residence with a courtyard garden.

This 10-minute exterior visit offers a glimpse into Rubens’ life and artistic environment. Although the tour does not include entry, the guide shares insights about Rubens’ influence and the house’s architecture, sparking interest for further exploration.

Exploring Fashion at MoMu

MoMu, the fashion museum of Antwerp, showcases Belgian fashion designers and trends. The guide provides an external overview of this cutting-edge museum, emphasizing its role in conserving and exhibiting Belgian fashion since 2002.

Since the tour only includes an outside view, visitors interested in fashion will appreciate the chance to learn about Antwerp’s fashion scene and its place within Belgian culture.

Discovering Print and Publishing at Plantin-Moretus Museum

The Plantin-Moretus Museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, housed in the former residence of 16th-century printers Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus. It focuses on printing history, showcasing original presses and documents from the era.

This brief outside visit offers a detailed look into Antwerp’s printing and publishing heritage, illustrating the city’s historical importance in the dissemination of knowledge and culture.

The Flanders Connection at Nello & Patrasche Statue

The Nello & Patrasche Statue commemorates the beloved story of a Flemish boy and his dog from the “Dog of Flanders” novel. The guide explains the story’s popularity, especially in Japan, Korea, Russia, Ukraine, and the Philippines, where it remains a children’s classic.

This 10-minute stop emphasizes the cultural connection between Antwerp and the story, adding a charming, literary touch to the tour.

Logistics and Tour Customization

This private tour offers pickup from your accommodation in Antwerp, making logistics simple for travelers. The customization option allows your guide to tailor the route or focus on specific interests, whether history, art, or local life. The tour’s flexible duration lets you choose from 2 to 8 hours, depending on your schedule and level of interest.

Because it’s a walking tour, it’s suitable for most travelers, but comfort with walking is recommended. The tour is accessible for service animals, and most travelers can participate comfortably.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes this tour distinctive is its private, customizable nature combined with the enthusiasm of guides eager to share insider insights. The ability to meet at your accommodation and tailor your experience makes it suited for visitors who prefer a more personal and relaxed approach compared to group tours.

The inclusion of key landmarks like Grote Markt and Rubenshuis, alongside lesser-known sites such as the Plantin-Moretus Museum and Nello & Patrasche Statue, offers a well-rounded introduction to Antwerp’s cultural and historical fabric.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value and flexibility, it does not include food or drinks, so participants should plan to take breaks accordingly. Also, as a walking tour, it requires comfortable footwear and suitable physical condition. The duration can vary widely—from 2 hours for a quick overview to 8 hours for a comprehensive exploration—so travelers should specify their preferred length when booking.

Some stops are external visits or brief stops, which might not satisfy those seeking in-depth museum experiences. For access to certain attractions like Rubenshuis or MoMu, separate admission tickets are needed if you wish to go inside.

Who Should Book This Private Antwerp Tour?

This private, customizable tour is perfect for visitors who want an authentic, local perspective of Antwerp. It suits those with flexible schedules and a curiosity for history, art, and cultural stories. The personalized approach makes it ideal for small groups or families, especially if they wish to focus on specific themes or landmarks.

Travelers who appreciate walking tours but desire the comfort of a private guide will find this experience rewarding. It’s less suitable for visitors seeking a structured, museum-heavy day without outside exploration.

Final Thoughts on the Antwerp Private Custom Walking Tour

This private tour offers a cost-effective and personalized way to discover Antwerp’s essence. With guides passionate about their city, visitors gain authentic insights and a deeper understanding of local life. The ability to customize the itinerary ensures that each experience is tailored to personal interests, making it a flexible choice.

While some attractions are external only, the overall value lies in the expert guidance and flexibility. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy walking and want a more intimate, curated look at Antwerp, free from the constraints of larger group tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize this tour to focus on specific interests?
Yes, the tour can be tailored to your preferences or left to the guide’s discretion.

Is transportation included during this tour?
No, it is primarily a walking tour, and no local transportation is included.

How long does the tour typically last?
The duration ranges from 2 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Grote Markt, Hendrik Conscience Statue, Carolus Borromeus Church, Handelsbeurs, Rubenshuis, MoMu, Plantin-Moretus Museum, and the Nello & Patrasche Statue.

Is admission to museums included?
No, the tour only covers exterior visits; admission tickets are separate if you choose to enter any attractions.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Yes, as a walking outdoor experience, it proceeds rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its private, customizable nature and the passion of local guides provide a more authentic experience compared to standard tours.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but comfort with walking is recommended. The tour is accessible for service animals.

How do I book this tour?
It can be booked online in advance, with most bookings made 53 days in advance on average.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.