Antwerp is one of the bigger Flemish cities in Belgium. It’s most famously known for its fashion scene, diamond trade, and one of the oldest zoos in the world.
But, Antwerp also has some of the best photo opportunities around Belgium. These are sure to make your friends back home jealous. Even better, these are totally free picturesque spots in Antwerp!
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Top 5 Picturesque Spots In Antwerp
There’s no denying that Antwerp Belgium is a beautiful city. I mean they are known for their diamond trade, so there’s money somewhere there…! If you’re looking for some of the best spots for a good photo opportunity in Antwerp, these are my favourite free photo spots in Antwerp!
1. Central Station
If I didn’t know any better, I wouldn’t have thought this building was merely a train station. From the outside, Antwerp Centrale is a majestic building that’s absolutely breathtaking.
The inside doesn’t disappoint either… Because you have so many windows, it’s magnificent inside as well. It’s also like you’re being transported back in time once you walk inside.
If you arrive to Antwerp by train it’s definitely not a bad first impression of the city, and you don’t even have to travel far for one of the most picturesque spots in Antwerp.
You might also be interested in reading…
Travelling by train is super easy in Belgium, read my post on 9 Easy Day Trips From Brussels You Have To Go On
2. MAS (Museum Aan de Storm) Rooftop View
This is the largest museum in Antwerp and has one of the best free photo spots in Antwerp (for sunset as well!). They have a rooftop view that gives you a 360-degree view of the entire city!
And the best part? Entry to the rooftop is 100% free!
Don’t skip this stop if you’re not a museum or art buff, you’ll still be able to see the view. But if you do like art, they do have some great exhibits to check out while you’re there.
P.S. Want to watch the Antwerp sunset while enjoying a local beer? Head to one of the restaurants across from the museum, like Batavier or Burgerij Eilandje. From there, you’ll get an unbeatable view of the Antwerp sunset and you can order a De Koninck beer (Antwerp’s local brew).
3. Best Instagram Spots In Antwerp: Vlaeykensgang
Vlaeykensgang is a hidden alley in Antwerp that makes it one of the best Instagram spots in Antwerp. Overgrown vines have taken over the buildings creating this beautiful enchanting alleyway for you to explore.
It’s tucked away within Antwerp’s medieval streets, you wouldn’t be able to find this hidden alleyway unless you already know it’s there.
Plus, if you’re hungry, there’s a secret restaurant here that you grab a bite to eat at (making it an even more Instagram-worthy photo spot in Antwerp!).
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4. Best Antwerp Photos At Grote Markt
There are tons of Antwerp photos to be taken in Grote Markt. Grote Markt (Market Square) is the central square in Antwerp, similar to Grand Place in Brussels. You have the Antwerp city hall on one side, and beautiful Belgian architecture all around (you know the triangle architecture), and in the centre of it all is Brabo Fountain.
You’ll want to photograph every point of this square, every time you turn around you’ll see something else worthy of a picture!
5. Sunset Antwerp On ‘t Vlot (Antwerp Boarwalkk)
‘t Vlot translates into the raft. ‘t Vlot is really more of a dock, or boardwalk over looking the Scheldt River. It’s right next to the ancient Het Steen Fortress. You can walk from Steenplein to Zuiderterras with a view of the historic district on one side and the sunset over the water on the other.
It’s usually populated with locals grabbing a beer and hanging out, so you can also pick up a picnic dinner to enjoy!
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Bonus Free Antwerp Photo Spot: Nello & Patrache Statue
Near Grote Markt, in front of the Church of Our Lady is one of the best and cutest statues I’ve ever seen. If you’re travelling with kids you need to stop here for a sweet photo opportunity in Antwerp.
Although it’s a sad story about a boy and his dog (but don’t worry just fictional) it’s a cool statue made out of marble with a cobblestone blanket.
Need A Place To Stay In Antwerp?
I stayed at B&B Lucy In The Sky and would HIGHLY recommend it if you’re looking for a personal experience with loads of Beatles references. A son and his wife owned and ran the hotel and breakfast was served at his parents café down the street. Our room also came with a quaint and private balcony to enjoy. See rates & availability.
Here are some other alternatives I have found for places to stay based on different needs.
Whole Apartment: If you’re looking for a local experience of Antwerp with an entire apartment the whole family can enjoy stay at Alesia at Friday B&B. If you’re travelling through Belgium with a car, they offer free indoor parking in the garage. See rates & availability.
Highly Rated: For a luxury stay in Antwerp, Hotel Julien is the place to stay. This highly rated hotel is in two historical buildings the heart of Antwerp. The best part though? The rooftop terrace with incredible city views for guests to enjoy! See rates & availability.
Budget-Friendly: A bit more on a budget, Leonardo Hotel Antwerpen is very reasonably priced hotel in the Diamond District of Antwerp. See rates & availability.
For more accommodation options, see Booking.com.
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