Discover Antwerp
Antwerp is a big city made for families: you get off the train at a spectacular cathedral station , you have the zoo right next door, then head for the harbour district (Eilandje) with the MAS and its 360° views. The historic centre (Grote Markt, Notre-Dame Cathedral) can be explored on foot, punctuated by fun museums (Chocolate Nation, Red Star Line), esplanades on the banks of the Scheldt and large parks to take a breather. Everything is well connected by De Lijn tram/bus, convenient with stroller.
- TRAIN TIME FROM BRUSSELS : ~40–45 min (direct, several trains/hour).
- DURATION OF VISIT : 1 day (possible 1/2 day concentrated).
- FOR WHOM?
– Kids : ZOO Antwerpen, Chocolate Nation, playgrounds and misters in Park Spoor Noord (summer).
– The whole family : short trips, varied activities.
– Teenagers : panorama of the MAS, Red Star Line, port walk and street-photo in Eilandje.
The must-sees
- Antwerp Central Station (Antwerpen-Centraal)
One of the most beautiful train stations in Europe: domes, marble, glass roofs… Take 10 minutes to look up and take some pictures. Good introduction before or after the zoo.
- ZOO Antwerpen (at the exit of the train station)
One of the oldest zoos in the world: okapis, lions, aquarium, butterfly greenhouse, themed areas. Shaded paths, rest areas, on-site catering. Ideal with stroller.
- Chocolate Nation (in front of the train station)
Immersive museum dedicated to Belgian chocolate: plantations, machines, showroom… and tastings. Perfect in case of rain and very popular with children.
- MAS – Museum aan de Stroom (Eilandje district)
Iconic architecture in height: exhibitions on the city and the port + terrace/panorama at the top. The outdoor galleries are mounted by escalators, lifts available for strollers.
- Red Star Line Museum (Eilandje)
The story of migrants from Antwerp to America (1873–1934), told with objects, testimonies and interactive resources. Very meaningful for 10+ year olds; combine with the nearby MAS.
- Portopolis (near the MAS)
Interpretation Centre of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges : simulators, models, discovery games. Ideal for understanding the activity of the port before a walk along the docks.
- Het Steen & Scheldt quays
Small medieval castle converted into a visitor centre, on the water’s edge. Very pleasant walk at sunset, with benches and views of the boats.
- Cathedral of Our Lady, Grote Markt & Brabo Fountain
The historic centre: narrow facades, statues, cafes and pancakes. Possible visit of the cathedral (think of covered shoulders according to services).
- DIVA – Antwerp Home of Diamonds (centre)
The diamond explained by objects, workshops and scenographies; Good option for curious teens. Combine with a quick passage through the Diamond Quarter at the exit of the station.
- Middelheim Museum (Sculpture Park, Wilrijk)
Free open-air museum with monumental works scattered in a large park. Perfect space for running, picnicking and taking photos.
If the weather is nice ☀️
Start at the train station (photos) and then head to the zoo for the morning.
After lunch, tram to Eilandje : MAS (exhibitions + panorama), stroll on the quays, pass through Portopolis and snack on the pontoons.
If you have time, finish with Middelheim or Park Spoor Noord (fountains/misters in summer).
If it rains 🌧️
Focus on 100% indoor activities: Chocolate Nation → Red Star Line → MAS (exhibitions , panorama if the rain subsides). Add DIVA or a tour of the Cathedral depending on the children’s interest. Hot chocolate break in the center before taking the train again.
Parks, amp; green breaks
- Park Spoor Noord – large urban park on a former railway wasteland, playgrounds, misters and skate park (summer). Where? to the north of the centre, between Eilandje and Dam.
- Stadspark – central park with lake, lawns and playground; Perfect for a breather between two visits. Where? between Rubenslei and Van Eycklei.
- Middelheimpark (Middelheim Museum) – huge sculpture park in Wilrijk, flat paths for strollers. Where?Middelheimlaan (south of the city).
- Rivierenhof (Deurne) – very large green area with playgrounds, ponds and boat rental depending on the season. Where?Turnhoutsebaan (to the east, tram from the centre).
Practical information
- Getting there : direct trains from Brussels ↔ Antwerp Central, approx. 40–45 minutes, very frequent.
- Getting around : De Lijn tram/bus from the train station to the centre, Eilandje and the large parks; Validate on the way up.
- Strollers : wide, flat sidewalks; elevators in major museums (MAS, Red Star Line). Old town with some cobblestones.
- Lockers : lockers available in Antwerp-Centraal (useful if you arrive early/leave late).
- Tickets & reservations : weekends and holidays = crowds at the zoo and Chocolate Nation ; Book a slot when possible.
- Dining : Plenty of family-friendly options around the Grote Markt and in Eilandje (docks ).
To conclude
Before leaving, think “zero stress” logistics: Bruges train station has automatic lockers (several sizes), very useful if you arrive early or leave late. To spare the little legs, De Lijn buses no. 1 and 2 connect the station directly to the centre (‘t Zand, St. Saviour’s Cathedral, Burg, Jan-Van-Eyckplein…).
Adapt your plan to the season: boat trips are usually provided from March to mid-November, while winter sees Bruges light up with Winter Glow (markets and light trails, late November → early January). As for museums, there is good news: the Bruges Museums take care of the reception of families (treasure hunts, youth audio) and admission is free for children under 13 years old to many sites (except belfry).
Finally, if you still have energy, extend the magic with a mini-cruise to Damme aboard the Lamme Goedzak (several round trips per day in season): soft polder landscapes and a postcard village 35 minutes from Bruges.
