Which is better to visit Brussels or Antwerp?
Andrew Campbell
Published May 08, 2026
Keeping this in consideration, which is better Antwerp or Brussels?
*If you like shopping I think Antwerp would have the edge over Brussels. It also has a pretty shopping street, the Meir, and some pretty squares. But I think Brussels has the better nightlife, and more dining options, thanks to the thousands of civil servants with good disposable incomes.
Beside above, which is better Bruges or Antwerp? Bruges or Antwerp: food & nightlife If nightlife is important to you, Antwerp is probably a better choice than Bruges. Bruges is charming but relatively quiet at night. Antwerp on the other hand, has a good reputation for night fun, being an animated port city.
Also Know, is it worth going to Antwerp?
In my opinion, Antwerp is worth at least a quick visit if you're in the area. It doesn't boast many knock-out sites of interest to tourists, but Antwerp is a vibrant, slightly gritty modern city. I imagine if Bruges had not gone into hibernation, it would today probably look and feel much like Antwerp.
Is Brussels worth a visit?
Brussels is certainly worth visiting! This destination is perfect for a weekend away. For UK residents it is even better because you can use the Eurostar for direct trains to Brussels. There are also direct trains to Brussels from Paris.
Related Question Answers
How far is Antwerp from Brussels?
41 kmHow many days do you need in Antwerp?
Even if you are visiting for just one or two days, you will be able to use some tips. But if you have the time, I recommend spending at least 3 or 4 days in Belgium. My recommended three day Belgium itinerary includes the capital city Brussels and the most beautiful towns of Flanders – Antwerp, Ghent, and Bruges.Where should I stay in Belgium?
Belgium Hotels and Places to Stay- Novotel Brussels City Centre Hotel. View Hotel.
- Ibis Brussels Off Grand Place. View Hotel.
- NH Collection Brussels Grand Sablon. View Hotel.
- Hotel Metropole. View Hotel.
- Novotel Brussels Off Grand Place Hotel. View Hotel.
- Steigenberger Wiltcher's. View Hotel.
- Hotel Amigo.
- Adagio Brussels Grand Place.
What is there to do in Antwerp today?
The Ultimate Guide of Things to Do in Antwerp, Belgium- .
- #1 – Arrive by train to see the famed Central Station.
- #2 – Go shopping or simply view the renowned shopping districts.
- #3 – Visit the outdoor or street markets.
- #4 – Go on a massive food trip!
- #5 – Witness the city's iconic cathedral.
- #6 – Walk through the historical heart of the city.
- #7 – Discover art and culture.
How far is Antwerp from Amsterdam?
around 130kmShould I stay in Ghent or Brussels?
I would opt to stay in Ghent and do the side trip to Bruges if you like. Brussels is, in Belgian standards, a big city and sights are relatively spread. If do do visit Brussels, have a clear idea on what you want to do because otherwise you might be just wondering about in neighbourhoods that are just not so pretty.How many days do you need in Amsterdam?
Three daysHow long is the train from Amsterdam to Antwerp?
2h08 minutesIs English spoken in Antwerp?
Apart from Dutch, there will be some French spoken and after that probably English and Arabic or Turkish. What repercussions did the closure of this river have to the city of Antwerp and Europe during this time? Throughout all of Europe, the English language is obviously the most dominant language known.What is Antwerp best known for?
Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world and the diamond industry plays an important role in the economy of the city and has done throughout its history. During the 16th Century the city was one of the most important places, and one of the most important ports in all of Europe.Is Antwerp safe at night?
Antwerp is a reasonably safe city, but the area around some neighbourhoods like De Coninckplein, Borgerhout, Seefhoek and the Schipperskwartier are considered unsafe and best avoided at night. Yet, they can be visited during the day to enjoy the lively environment.Does Antwerp have a red light district?
Antwerp (or Antwerpen) in Belgium has a single red light district in an area known as 't schipperskwartier. This translates to 'shipper's quarters' and covers Schippersstraat, Vingerlingstraat, Verversrui and Villa Tinto. There are also two adult shops, one of which doubles up as a peep show on Vingerlingstraat.What can I buy in Antwerp?
Without going further into details, enjoy our list below of the top 10 souvenirs to buy in Antwerp.- Belgian Beer. Photo by Michael Sonnabend on Foter.com.
- Belgian Chocolates.
- Belgian Cheese.
- A Piece of Art from the Art Market.
- A Book from the Book Market.
- Jar of Speculoos Spread.
- Beautiful Laces.
- A Diamond is Forever…
Is there Uber in Antwerp?
Re: Does Uber operate in Antwerp? No, Uber doesn't operate in Antwerp. You are giving absolutely no information of when you want to travel, nor which Anker you want to visit.What do they speak in Antwerp?
DutchIs Antwerp Open on Sunday?
Opening hours Shops in Antwerp normally open Monday to Saturday 0900/1000-1800/1830. The main exceptions are Kloosterstraat and Hoogstraat, where many shops open on Sunday.How do I get from Brussels to Antwerp?
About this journey The average travel time between Brussels and Antwerp is 49 minutes. The quickest route is 35 minutes. The first train leaving Brussels is at 05:44, the last at 22:01. There is an average of 39 trains a day between Brussels and Antwerp, leaving approximately every 22 minutes.What is the best area to stay in Brussels?
Read our full review!- 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Brussels.
- City Centre Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Brussels for the First Time.
- The Marolles Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Brussels on a Budget.
- Saint Gery Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Brussels for Nightlife.