Antwerp

Being the second biggest city in Belgium, Antwerp is spread across the river Scheldt, approximately 40 km away from Brussels. Being amongst the biggest ports in the world, Antwerp is the second most multi-cultural city in the world after Amsterdam. it is still a great place to visit, especially with its family friendly tours to guide you through more than...

Being the second biggest city in Belgium, Antwerp is spread across the river Scheldt, approximately 40 km away from Brussels. Being amongst the biggest ports in the world, Antwerp is the second most multi-cultural city in the world after Amsterdam. it is still a great place to visit, especially with its family friendly tours to guide you through more than just the medieval old town. Jump on the HopnStop bus, ride the tourist train or enjoy the view from a horse carriage.

With wide pedestrian zones it is quite easy to stroll around the city. Visit the Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal (Cathedral of Our Lady) with paintings by Peter Rubens. As many other European cities, Antwerp too, hosts one of the nicest Christmas market in the country. Antwerp’s parks are an ideal place for relaxation, having a picnic and letting your children enjoy the playground. Visit the Stadspark with two playgrounds near the public restrooms. Further playgrounds are to be found in the Rivierenhof park, or close to the cathedral and at the Grote Markt is the Sint-Andriesplaats park with a small playground.

Belgium is famous for its markets and Antwerp is not different. Visit the Foreigners Market (Saturday), the Bird Market (Sunday) or the Het Geluk child-friendly bar. The Antwerp Zoo is one of Belgium’s most popular attraction and on top of that it’s one of the oldest zoos in Europe. Built in the mid-18th century, it houses over 5000 animals and during the 2017 winter holiday season, you can enjoy the light spectacle, China Light. Have some water fun during the hot summer months either in an ecological swimming lake or in the Olympic swimming pool.

For older kids, we recommend visiting the Comics station, an indoor playground displaying famous Belgian comics, like the Smurfs and Tintin.

Since Antwerp is a small city, it is fairly easy to walk or bike around the main sights. Train or Bus connections between Brussels and Antwerp are very easy. If you arrive by car, be prepare to pay for parking, because it’s charged throughout the city.