Making the most of Antwerp
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The cruise ships are docked at the new cruise terminal of Antwerp, in 2020 next to the fortress "Het Steen". As the passengers disembark right in the middle of the historical center were they can enjoy the medieval architectural treasures, Breughel, Rubens, chocolate and the famous Belgian beers. Het Steen (The Stone), Steenplein 1. This is a rather small medieval castle on the banks of the river Schelde. It used to function as a city fortification and now houses a naval museum (open air only, inside closed). It is the starting point of the Wandelterrassen, a scenic boardwalk with a cafe/restaurant at either end.
For embarkation/disembarkation passengers:
Most belgian and dutch airports are well connected by trains. From Antwerp's spectacular renovated central station it is only a 5-10 minute cab ride to the terminal.
Antwerp is the real urban deal, a refreshingly down-to-earth yet vivacious cosmopolitan habitat blessed with magnificent architecture, fashionable shop fronts, beer-washed pubs, dazzling monuments, jazzed-up clubs, inspired artworks and restaurant tables piled with plates of superb Belgian and multicultural food. Antwerp, home of the Flemish Baroque master Rubens, not only has a wealth of outstanding museums, picturesque galleries, sculpted streets and beautiful architecture, but is also laced with refreshing greenery and urban haunts. Its culture, history, vibrant nightlife and world-class shopping are within easy reach, thanks to excellent…
City Hall/Old Market Square (Stadhuis/Grote Markt). This is the historical centre of town. The market square is surrounded by the typical medieval guild houses you find in most Flemish historical towns.
Rubenshuis The house of painter Peter Paul Rubens is now a museum of his life and artwork. Many of his paintings and artworks and his contemporaries are installed in the rooms, as well as furniture of his period. Paintings include his early Adam and Eve.
Getting around
Antwerp is best discovered on foot. Just ask directions to the Central Station and you will see all the major sites and shops underway. The renovated station is now one of greatest in the world.
Food and shopping
If you walk from the ship towards the center and central railway station, you will see more stores than you can imagine. Selling not only chocolates, lace, and diamonds!
Money
Euro
Staying connected
In Antwerp mainly dutch spoken, however, English is well mastered.
Opening Hours and
Stores in general 9am - 18pm Mon-Sat. Some (larger) stores stay open later.