10 Inspiring Year-Round Things to Do in Antwerpen Belgium

Key Takeaways:

• Antwerpen blends historic architecture, art, fashion, and modern city life into an unforgettable year-round destination.

• The city offers everything from cathedral views and underground tunnels to chocolate shops, jazz clubs, and riverside strolls.

• With walkable streets, world-class museums, and vibrant districts, there’s always something to discover no matter the season.

Located along the River Scheldt, Antwerpen (Antwerp) is Belgium’s second-largest city and a sparkling gem of art, architecture, and culture. With a rich history as a medieval trading hub, Antwerp evolved into a modern metropolis while preserving its heritage. The city is known worldwide for its diamond district, baroque art legacy, and as the home of painter Peter Paul Rubens. Today, it also boasts a booming fashion scene, stylish cafés, and hidden courtyards that invite slow exploration.

Visitors love Antwerp for its walkability, edgy-meets-elegant vibe, and the way it seamlessly balances Old World beauty with contemporary flair. Whether you’re visiting in the snow or sunshine, the city always has something vibrant happening—from jazz nights to food festivals and art installations. Here are 10 must-do activities you can enjoy all year round in Antwerpen.

Table of Contents

1. Admire the Masterpieces Inside Cathedral of Our Lady

2. Wander Through the Historic District and Grote Markt

3. Visit the Rubenshuis (Rubens House Museum)

4. Experience the MAS Museum and Rooftop View

5. Take the Underground Tour of the Antwerp Ruien

6. Walk the Park Spoor Noord and Grab Street Food

7. Discover Fashion in the ModeMuseum (MoMu)

8. Tour the Antwerp Zoo and City Park Combo

9. Enjoy a Live Show at De Roma Theater

10. Cruise the River Scheldt by Boat or Water Bus

1. Admire the Masterpieces Inside Cathedral of Our Lady

Standing tall in the heart of the city, the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) is a Gothic marvel that took nearly two centuries to complete. Its soaring spire dominates the skyline and serves as a landmark for anyone exploring the old town. Inside, you’ll find awe-inspiring stained glass, ornate carvings, and several masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens. It’s both a spiritual and artistic sanctuary.

The cathedral is open year-round and offers audio guides in multiple languages. It’s especially atmospheric in winter when holiday decorations and soft lighting create a serene mood. Whether you’re into architecture, art, or photography, this UNESCO-listed site offers a rich and reflective experience. Be sure to look up—the vaulted ceilings are breathtaking.

2. Wander Through the Historic District and Grote Markt

Antwerp’s Grote Markt is the postcard-perfect center of the city, framed by ornate guildhalls, the City Hall, and open-air cafés. During the day, street performers and local vendors fill the square, while at night, golden lighting casts a magical glow over the cobblestones. The surrounding old town is filled with winding alleyways, cozy pubs, and chocolate shops begging to be explored.

This district is lively year-round, with seasonal events like winter markets, summer terraces, and autumn beer festivals. It’s also a shopping hub, especially along the Meir—Antwerp’s main pedestrian retail street. Take your time wandering from one narrow street to the next—you’ll stumble upon everything from 17th-century buildings to modern boutiques. Whether you’re browsing or just soaking in the vibe, it’s Antwerp at its most charming.

3. Visit the Rubenshuis (Rubens House Museum)

The former home and workshop of Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens is now a beautifully preserved museum that offers an intimate glimpse into his life and legacy. The building itself is a work of art, with a peaceful courtyard garden, classic portico, and reconstructed interiors showcasing period furniture. Inside, you’ll find some of Rubens’ own works alongside pieces by his contemporaries.

Open year-round, the Rubenshuis is one of Antwerp’s most beloved attractions for art and history lovers. The experience feels like stepping into the 1600s, complete with the scent of old wood and echoes of artistic brilliance. Even if you’re not a hardcore art fan, the setting alone is worth the visit. It’s a quiet, inspiring pocket of history just steps from the city’s modern bustle.

4. Experience the MAS Museum and Rooftop View

MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) is Antwerp’s most striking modern museum, located in the hip Eilandje district by the docks. The building’s red sandstone façade and wavy glass panels make it an architectural landmark, and inside you’ll find exhibitions on everything from world cultures to the city’s port history. Each floor is dedicated to a unique theme, with interactive displays and multilingual info.

The rooftop is free to access and offers panoramic views of the city, the river, and the port. It’s especially beautiful at sunset or on clear days when you can see for miles. Whether you’re into art, history, or photography, MAS has something to engage you. Don’t forget to explore the museum plaza below—often filled with food trucks and pop-up installations.

5. Take the Underground Tour of the Antwerp Ruien

Beneath Antwerp’s cobbled streets lies a network of medieval canals and tunnels called the Ruien. Once used for transporting goods and draining water, they’ve been preserved and transformed into one of the city’s most unique attractions. Guided tours take you underground to explore this hidden world, where brick passageways echo with centuries of history.

Available all year long (weather permitting), the Ruien tours include audio guides and safety gear. It’s a fascinating way to learn about Antwerp’s infrastructure and past in a totally immersive setting. The temperature underground stays fairly stable, making it a great rainy-day or winter activity. If you like stories, shadows, and offbeat adventures, this one’s for you.

6. Walk the Park Spoor Noord and Grab Street Food

What was once an abandoned rail yard is now one of Antwerp’s coolest green spaces. Park Spoor Noord is a modern urban park filled with open lawns, fountains, sports courts, and cycling paths. It’s the go-to spot for outdoor yoga, skating, or simply relaxing under the sun. The park’s industrial vibe mixed with open-air freedom makes it a favorite for all ages.

In warmer months, food trucks and pop-up bars line the edges, serving Belgian fries, burgers, and craft beer. There’s also a skate park and splash zone for kids, making it perfect for families. Live DJs and mini festivals often take over the park on weekends. If you want to mingle with locals and chill out like an Antwerper, this is the place to go.

7. Discover Fashion in the ModeMuseum (MoMu)

Antwerp is one of Europe’s fashion capitals, and the ModeMuseum (MoMu) showcases that heritage with rotating exhibits that dive deep into Belgian design. Located in the fashion district near Nationalestraat, MoMu explores everything from conceptual runway looks to textile history and modern street style. It also celebrates the legacy of the “Antwerp Six”—a group of designers who revolutionized global fashion in the 1980s.

The museum is open year-round with constantly changing exhibits, workshops, and interactive installations. Fashion students and creatives from around the world come to study here. It’s an inspiring space, even for those who aren’t fashion-obsessed. After your visit, explore the surrounding boutiques and concept stores—it’s retail therapy with serious style.

8. Tour the Antwerp Zoo and City Park Combo

Right next to the Central Station lies one of Europe’s oldest zoos—Antwerp Zoo. Open since 1843, it houses over 5,000 animals in beautifully landscaped habitats. From penguins and elephants to reptiles and rare birds, it’s a full day of discovery for animal lovers. The zoo also plays a leading role in European conservation and research.

Just a short walk away is the serene City Park (Stadspark), a leafy oasis with ponds, statues, and winding paths. It’s great for an afternoon picnic or to let kids run off steam after the zoo. The combo of structured zoo fun and relaxed park atmosphere makes this part of Antwerp a full-circle experience. Whether it’s sunny or overcast, the mix of nature and learning is hard to beat.

9. Enjoy a Live Show at De Roma Theater

De Roma is a restored Art Deco theater in the Borgerhout district, beloved for its eclectic programming and local charm. Originally opened in 1928, it now hosts everything from jazz and world music to indie film screenings and community storytelling nights. The building’s detailed restoration is a visual treat in itself, with chandeliers, balconies, and vintage signage.

Events are held year-round, and tickets are affordable, making it one of Antwerp’s most accessible cultural venues. The vibe is casual yet atmospheric, and the crowd is usually a mix of artists, locals, and visitors. Even if you don’t know the act, a night at De Roma feels like a warm invitation into the city’s creative pulse. Grab a drink and enjoy the show.

10. Cruise the River Scheldt by Boat or Water Bus

To see Antwerp from a different angle, hop aboard a river cruise or water bus along the Scheldt. Boats offer views of the historic skyline, docklands, and waterfront architecture that you can’t appreciate on foot. Some tours come with commentary on the port’s massive shipping history and its modern-day operations.

Cruises are available throughout the year, with heated boats in colder months and open-deck options in summer. Alternatively, the city’s water bus is a low-cost way to travel the river like a local. It’s not just scenic—it’s practical too, connecting you to neighborhoods and nearby towns. A trip on the water adds calm and perspective to your Antwerp itinerary.

What to do if you have kids?

Antwerp is wonderfully kid-friendly with attractions that balance education and play. The zoo and aquarium are obvious favorites, but children also love the underground Ruien tunnels and the storytelling exhibits at MAS. In summer, parks like Spoor Noord and City Park offer splash zones and playgrounds, while winter brings magical holiday markets and skating rinks. Many museums, like the Chocolate Nation or Red Star Line Museum, offer interactive exhibits geared toward younger audiences. Whether it’s hands-on learning or outdoor fun, there’s no shortage of year-round options for families.

Where can I find free events in Antwerpen Belgium taking place this weekend?

To find free concerts, open-air markets, art pop-ups, or cultural happenings this weekend in Antwerp, check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. This free tool curates alcohol-free, family-friendly events in your area and updates weekly. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it helps you skip the search and get straight to the fun. From rooftop jazz to local design fairs, PlanMyWeekend.ai makes exploring Antwerp effortless and exciting.

Final Thoughts

Antwerp is a city that surprises you—in its hidden alleys, in the elegance of its museums, and in its vibrant, ever-changing energy. It’s a place where every season brings a new rhythm, yet the city never loses its timeless charm. Whether you’re tracing the brushstrokes of Rubens, sipping coffee by the river, or catching a gig at De Roma, Antwerp offers a year-round experience that blends depth with discovery. Come curious, stay inspired—and leave with more than just great chocolate.