Antwerp Sightseeing Tour from Brussels

Key Points

• Duration & Price: Approximately 7.5 hours for $53.36 per person, including transportation.
• Highlights: Visit Antwerp’s Market Square, Cathedral of Our Lady, MAS museum, and the Central railway station.
• Guide & Commentary: Led by a professional guide offering bilingual commentary in English, Spanish, and French.
• Stops & Attractions: Explore Antwerp’s historic streets, guild houses, the Diamond Pavilion, and the port.
• Transport & Logistics: Travel is in an air-conditioned coach with round-trip transportation from Brussels.
• Review & Ratings: Overall 3.5/5 from 224 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides but noted for some tour timing issues.

Starting Point and Price Details for the Antwerp Day Trip

This guided sightseeing tour departs from Paulusplein in Brussels at 9:30 am, with the journey taking approximately 7 hours 30 minutes. For $53.36 per person, travelers receive round-trip transportation, guided commentary, and visits to key Antwerp sites. The tour is operated by Brussels City Tours – Keolis Travel, which guarantees air-conditioned coaches and a professional guide. The tour can include commentary in English, Spanish, and French, with a maximum group size of 200 travelers.

Scenic Journey from Brussels to Antwerp in Comfort

Traveling from Brussels to Antwerp is covered by a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. The drive itself offers scenic views and allows the guide to set the historical context of Antwerp, including its ties to 17th-century painter Peter Paul Rubens and its impressive architectural heritage. The journey provides a good overview of the city even before arriving, though some reviews suggest that more engaging commentary during the drive could enhance the experience.

Exploring Antwerp’s Central Railway Station

Upon arrival, the first stop is Antwerp Central Railway Station, built in 1905. Recognized as the 4th most beautiful railway station in the world in 2009, it features stunning architecture by architect Delacenserie. The station sits in the Jewish and Diamant districts, close to the zoo, making it a perfect starting point for sightseeing. Visitors appreciate its grandeur, and the admission is free. The station serves as a symbol of Antwerp’s enduring importance as a transport hub, especially for the diamond industry.

Strolling Through Antwerp’s Main Shopping Street, Meir

Next is Meir, the city’s largest pedestrian shopping street. The avenue is lined with grand 18th and 19th-century buildings and is home to major international brands, making it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and shopping. The tour allows 20 minutes here, giving enough time to admire the architecture and browse the shops. This stop offers a lively atmosphere and insight into Antwerp’s bustling commercial scene.

Discovering Grote Markt and Its Historic Center

The Grote Markt is the vibrant heart of Antwerp’s old town. Here, visitors see the town hall and guild houses, with their ornate facades reflecting Renaissance and Baroque influences. The 15-minute stop is an opportunity to take photos, enjoy the lively surroundings, and hear stories about the legend behind Antwerp’s name—linked to the Brabo statue, depicting a figure tossing a giant’s hand into the Scheldt River. This square is central to Antwerp’s social and cultural life.

Visiting the Cathedral of Our Lady and Rubens’ Masterpieces

A highlight of the tour is the Cathedral of Our Lady, started in 1352 and completed in 1521. It is known as the largest Gothic church in the Netherlands and features two high towers, 123 meters and 66 meters tall. Inside, the church houses four major paintings by Peter Paul Rubens: The Raising of the Cross, The Resurrection of Christ, The Descent from the Cross, and The Assumption of the Virgin. The admission fee is not included, but the artworks are considered some of Rubens’ finest. Visitors frequently praise the guide’s insights into the paintings and the building’s architecture.

Exploring Groenplaats and Brabo’s Legend

The Groenplaats square features the Town Hall of 1561 in Italo-Renaissance style and the famous Brabo statue, which symbolizes the city’s name—Antwerp, meaning “Hand Throw.” According to legend, a giant named Antigoon had been threatening the city, and Brabo chopped off his hand and threw it into the river. The square also hosts marvelous 17th-century guildhouses and offers a chance for some relaxed time to soak in the historic ambiance.

Visiting the Castle and the Maritime Museum

The tour includes a stop at a 13th-century castle, which houses the National Museum of Maritime since 1952. Located along the old city fortifications, this site offers a glimpse into Antwerp’s maritime history. It is a significant part of Antwerp’s identity as a major port, which is also considered the second-largest seaport in Europe.

Diamond District and Trade Hub

Antwerp is globally renowned for its diamond industry. The tour visits the Diamond Pavilion, where diamond merchants work on cutting, polishing, and trading precious stones. Visitors see jewelers at work, and the site offers insights into Antwerp’s status as a jewelers’ hub. This stop suits those interested in craftsmanship and luxury trade, with 20-minute visits allowing a close look at the diamond trade.

Antwerp’s Port and External Attractions

A key feature of the city is its port, the second-largest in Europe. While not a formal stop on this tour, the port’s prominence ties into Antwerp’s economic strength and trade history. The tour’s stops at historic and commercial sites give a broader understanding of this dynamic city.

Top-rated Guides and Multilingual Commentary

Reviews consistently highlight guides like Jasmine and Bruno as knowledgeable, engaging, and accommodating. Many praise guides who handle multiple languages simultaneously, often juggling three languages with flawless fluency. This multilingual approach, while valued, has also drawn some criticism when it results in less continuous commentary. Guests appreciate guides who share insights into Rubens’ paintings and local legends, making the city’s highlights more meaningful.

Practicalities: Tour Logistics and Group Size

The tour operates with a professional guide and includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The meeting point is centrally located in Brussels, and the tour ends in Brussels as well. The group size can be up to 200 travelers, which some reviews find a bit large, but the efficient scheduling and timing are generally well-managed. There’s no hotel pickup, so guests need to arrive at the designated meeting point.

Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a rundown of Antwerp, some guests note that free time may be limited, with brief stops at notable sites. The multilingual commentary can sometimes disrupt the flow of information for those seeking a fully English experience. Accessibility might be an issue for visitors with mobility challenges, and lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. Also, a few reviews mention timing issues, such as waiting for late arrivals or missing parts of the tour due to scheduling constraints.

Final Thoughts on the Antwerp Day Trip

This tour provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural highlights, and historical insights, all delivered in a comfortable and organized manner. It suits first-time visitors to Antwerp who want a structured overview without the hassle of planning their own itinerary. The guides’ expertise, especially in handling multiple languages, and the notable landmarks make it a worthwhile choice. However, those seeking more free time or a more personalized experience might prefer a private or self-guided option.

The $53.36 price point offers good value for the chance to see Antwerp’s iconic sites, learn about Rubens, admire its distinctive architecture, and explore its famous port and diamond district. This tour makes for a convenient day trip from Brussels, especially for history, architecture, and art enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the date of my excursion?
Yes, it is possible to reschedule depending on availability, but changes must be made in advance.

Are pets allowed on board the coach?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour vehicle.

What should I bring with me during the tour?
It’s advisable to check the weather forecast and bring suitable clothing, such as a raincoat or umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Do your coaches have air-conditioning?
Yes, all coaches are equipped with air-conditioning.

Can I take my luggage with me?
Yes, the coaches are large and comfortable, capable of accommodating luggage.

Do I need cash during the tour?
Yes, travelers are advised to carry some cash for extra expenses or purchases.

Will you wait if I am late?
The tour company can wait up to 5 minutes if informed of the delay in advance.

Do you offer hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts and ends at the designated meeting point in Brussels.

Can I book the Antwerp tour in Bruges or other cities?
This tour is specific to Antwerp; other tours, like canal trips or trips to Bruges, are available but must be booked separately.

Is my ID or passport required?
There are no border controls within the Schengen Area, but carrying an ID is recommended.

Will I have free time during the tour?
Yes, there are designated free time stops, typically ranging from 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the itinerary.

Are the tours canceled in bad weather?
Tours proceed unless there is extreme weather such as heavy storms or floods.

This Antwerp sightseeing tour from Brussels combines convenience, comprehensive highlights, and knowledgeable guides, making it a solid choice for those eager to explore Belgium’s second-largest city efficiently.