Antwerp City Guide

Try Belgian fries, waffles, mussels, and stoemp. The city offers many international cuisines. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing. Late-night food is mostly snack bars and kebabs.

Nightlife is lively and varied, with pubs, bars, and clubs. Students make the scene lively.

Strong coffee scene blending traditional cafes and modern third-wave shops. Offers specialty roasters and quality brews.

Tipping is not required as service charges are included. Rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated but optional.

Buy SIM cards at Proximus, Orange, Telenet stores, electronics stores, or some convenience shops. eSIMs are available. ID is required for registration.

Generally clean streets, especially downtown. Efficient waste and recycling systems. Few sanitation issues.

Duty pharmacies rotate for after-hours. Some convenience stores are open 24/7. Emergency departments are always open. Limited late-night food options.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Delhaize, Albert Heijn, and Colruyt offer international products. Fresh markets such as the Exotic Market operate on Saturdays. Most stores open 8 or 9 AM to 8 PM. Many close Sundays and holidays, though some small shops stay open. Prices are fixed except maybe flea markets.

Card payments work in most places, but keep some cash for small purchases and markets.

ATMs are widespread near banks and shopping areas. Foreign transaction fees may apply, so check with your bank.

Antwerp International School offers English instruction. Local schools teach primarily in Dutch. Apply early due to waitlists.

A growing community with co-working spaces, meetups, and Facebook groups. Some co-living options and nomad events exist.

Green spaces like Stadspark, Rivierenhof, and Scheldekaaien provide shaded walks and good running routes.

Popular running spots include Stadspark, Rivierenhof, and the Scheldt riverbanks. Running is safe and supported by clubs and events, including an annual marathon.

Popular gym chains with day passes and short memberships.

Many tennis and padel clubs with booking systems, rentals, and coaching. Courts have clay, hard, and artificial surfaces.

Padel courts are common, with memberships and pay-per-play options. Coaching is widely available.

Yoga studios offer many styles, meditation classes, and spas. English-speaking instructors and flexible class options are common.

Various dojos and gyms offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Karate, Judo, and MMA. English-speaking instructors and competitions are common.

No skiing near Antwerp. Ardennes are too far for day trips.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are available on the Scheldt River and nearby lakes. Rentals and guided tours operate mainly in warmer months.

Surfing is available on the Belgian coast, about 1-1.5 hours away. Water is cold year-round, so wetsuits are needed. Autumn and winter have the best waves. Beginners and advanced surfers can find spots.

Limited inland dive sites, like Nemo 33 near Brussels. No ocean diving. Visibility and marine life are limited. Dive centers offer rentals and courses.

Hospitals like Antwerp University Hospital (UZA) and ZNA Middelheim have English-speaking staff. Both public and private care are high quality. Pharmacies show a green cross and offer OTC meds. Emergency number is 112.

Tap water is safe to drink throughout the city.

Plenty of playgrounds and family-friendly cafés. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Antwerp Zoo, Technopolis, and Chocolate Nation.

LGBTQ+ friendly with an active community, safe venues, and strong legal protections. Hosts an annual Pride festival.

Pet-friendly city with dog parks, quality vets, and many pet-welcoming places. EU pet passport and vaccinations needed.