15 best museums to visit in Antwerp

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So much to see and so little time! Spend the night in Antwerp or take a guided tour.

Introduction

Antwerp is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and artistic legacy with numerous museums scattered throughout the city. From the intricate works of Flemish Baroque painters to the modernist designs of contemporary artists, the museums in Antwerp offer something for everyone.

In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the most prominent museums in Antwerp, delving into their histories, collections, and exhibitions. Whether you’re a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious traveler, the museums in Antwerp will captivate and inspire you.

Short of time to read the whole article? Go directly to your favorite museum via the table of contents.

1 MAS

The MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) is an impressive museum in Antwerp, located on the banks of the River Scheldt. The building is a sight to behold, with modern architecture featuring a striking red sandstone exterior reminiscent of stacked containers.

The MAS museum has an extensive collection that reflects the history of Antwerp and its global trade connections.

The museum has ten floors, seven of which house exhibitions. Each floor has a theme, ranging from the port of Antwerp to the city’s distant past and its relationship with other cultures. The collection consists of diverse objects such as art, archaeological finds, ship models, historical maps, and photographs.

On the top floor is a panoramic rooftop (free entrance) terrace where visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the city and the port.

The MAS regularly organizes temporary exhibitions, lectures, and workshops for visitors of all ages.

Welcome | Museum MAS

2 Rubenshuis

The Rubenshuis, located in the heart of Antwerp, is a museum that was once the home and studio of the celebrated Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens. The building itself is a magnificent example of a city palace.

Now temporarily closed for renovation.

Visitors to the Rubenshuis can explore the rooms of the house furnished in the style of Rubens’ time, and learn about the life and work of the artist. The museum houses an impressive collection of Rubens’ paintings, drawings, and prints, as well as works by his contemporaries and pupils.

One of the highlights of the Rubenshuis is the beautiful garden. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the city, featuring a central fountain, flower beds, and a stunning trellis.

The Rubens House renews | Rubenshuis

3 KMSK

The Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten (KMSK) or Royal Museum of Fine Arts is a prominent art museum in Antwerp. The museum houses an extensive collection of Belgian and Flemish art.

The KMSK has an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings, featuring works by notable artists such as Jan van Eyck, Peter Paul Rubens, and James Ensor. The museum also showcases a range of international art.

The museum’s collection is organized thematically, covering genres such as portraiture, landscapes, and still lifes. One of the standout features of the KMSK is the extensive collection of 19th and 20th-century Belgian art, which highlights the country’s rich artistic heritage.

The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and events for visitors of all ages. The KMSK has also undergone significant renovations and modernizations in previous years, enhancing the visitor experience.

Homepage | KMSKA

4 Red Star Line museum

The Red Star Line Museum tells the story of the Red Star Line shipping company, which transported millions of immigrants from Europe to the United States and Canada between 1873 and 1934. The museum is located in the original buildings of the Red Star Line company.

Visitors to the Red Star Line Museum can take a self-guided tour through the museum’s various exhibits, which include historical photographs, objects, and personal stories of the passengers who made the journey. The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to explore the various stages of the journey, from the departure in Antwerp to arrival in the new world.

One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the immigrants, experiencing what they would have gone through when boarding the ship, going through customs, and living in cramped conditions on board. The museum also has a section dedicated to the lives of some of the famous passengers who traveled on the Red Star Line, such as Albert Einstein.

The Red Star Line Museum is a tribute to the shipping company and the immigrants who left their homes searching for a better life. The museum aims to tell their stories and preserve the memory of their journeys.

Millions of people, one dream | Red Star Line Museum

Traveltoer-Red-Star-Line-Antwerp-Belgium

5 M HKA (museum van hedendaagse kunst)

The Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA) is a leading contemporary art museum in Antwerp.

The museum’s collection features a diverse range of artworks from the 1970s to the present day, with a particular focus on Belgian and international artists who have shaped the contemporary art world.

The MHKA has an impressive art collection, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and video art.

The museum regularly organizes exhibitions showcasing the most innovative and influential contemporary artists from all over the world.

The museum hosts numerous events, lectures, and workshops, making it a lively hub for the contemporary art community. The museum’s location in the heart of Antwerp’s historic center also makes it an ideal destination for art lovers looking to explore the city’s cultural offerings.

Programme | M HKA, Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (muhka.be)

6 FOMU (Foto Museum)

The Fotomuseum (FOMU) Antwerp, also known as the Museum of Photography, is dedicated to the art and history of photography in Antwerp. The museum’s collection features a wide range of photographs from the 19th century to the present day, particularly contemporary photography.

The FOMU has a collection of more than 3 million photographs, emphasizing Flemish photography and the Belgian photographic tradition. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing the work of emerging and established photographers.

In addition to its exhibitions, the FOMU hosts lectures, workshops, and screenings, making it a hub for photography enthusiasts in Antwerp. The museum’s location in the trendy Zuid district of Antwerp makes it an ideal destination for art lovers looking to explore the city’s cultural offerings.

FOMU | FOMU | Fotomuseum Antwerpen | Photography museum Antwerp

7 Plantin Moretus museum

The Plantin-Moretus Museum is a printing and bookbinding museum located in the center of Antwerp. The museum tells the history of the printing and bookmaking industry. It’s in the former residence and printing shop of the Plantin-Moretus family.

They operated the most successful printing businesses in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries.

The museum’s collection features an impressive array of printing presses, bookbinding equipment, and printed materials from the 16th century onwards.

One of the highlights in the museum is the original printing presses used by the Plantin-Moretus family to produce some of the most important works of the Renaissance period.

The museum also has an extensive collection of manuscripts, maps, prints, and a fascinating collection of wooden typefaces and engraved copper plates.

Welcome in Museum Plantin-Moretus | Museum Plantin-Moretus (museumplantinmoretus.be)

traveltoer-PLantin-Moretus-Antwerp-Belgium

8 Vleeshuis

This former guild house dates from the 16th century and has been a museum since 1913.

It used to be a slaughterhouse and later a warehouse.

Its exhibiting musical instruments since the archaeological collection moved to the Museum aan de stroom. The meat house will undergo a complete renovation within a few years and will have a new purpose.

https://museumvleeshuis.be/en

9 DIVA museum

DIVA, the Antwerp Home of Diamonds, is a museum dedicated to the city’s rich history in diamond trading and jewelry making. The museum is in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in the heart of Antwerp’s historic city center.

DIVA’s collection includes objects related to diamond trading, jewelry design, and luxury goods dating from the 16th century to the present day. Visitors can admire exquisite pieces of jewelry, gemstones, and precious metals, as well as watchmaking tools and techniques.

DIVA I A brilliant museum in Antwerp I Diamonds, jewelry and silversmithing | DIVA (divaantwerp.be)

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10 Museum De Reede

Museum De Reede is a museum located in the city of Antwerp, Belgium. It is to show the work of graphic artists and their impact on the art world. The museum’s collection includes works by artists such as Francisco Goya, Félicien Rops, and Edvard Munch.

Museum De Reede focuses on the art of printmaking, which involves the creation of images using techniques such as etching, engraving, and lithography. The museum’s collection includes a variety of prints, including some rare and unique examples.

The museum is in a beautiful building ( De Rede) that dates back to the 19th century. Its architecture reflects the history of Antwerp and the city’s role as an important cultural and artistic center.

Museum De Reede is open to the public and welcomes visitors from around the world interested in exploring the rich history of graphic arts.

Home | Museum de Reede | Graphics in Antwerp (museum-dereede.com)

traveltoer-De-Reede-museum-Antwerp-Belgium

11 Eugeen Van Mieghem museum

The Eugeen van Mieghem Museum is dedicated to the life and work of the Belgian artist Eugeen van Mieghem (1875-1930).

Van Mieghem was a self-taught artist best known for his depictions of the people of Antwerp, particularly those who lived and worked in the city’s bustling port.

The museum features a collection of over 200 of van Mieghem’s works, including paintings, drawings, and etchings. Many of these works depict the daily life of Antwerp’s working-class residents and the diverse group of people who passed through the city’s port.

It is next to the museum de Reede.

The Eugeen van Mieghem Museum is a great place to learn about this important Belgian artist and to gain a greater appreciation for the people and culture of Antwerp during the early 20th century.

Museum – Van Mieghem Museum

12 Rockoxhuis

The Rockoxhuis museum is in the heart of Antwerp. The museum tells the life and work of the Flemish patrician and art collector Nicolaas Rockox (1560-1640).

Rockox was an influential figure in Antwerp during the 17th century and a close friend and patron of many artists, including Peter Paul Rubens. The museum is in the former home of Rockox and his wife. The building is a beautiful example of Flemish Renaissance architecture.

The Rockoxhuis museum’s permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, furniture, and other decorative objects from the 16th and 17th centuries. The collection has works by Rubens, Jan Brueghel the Elder, and many other Flemish artists.

Snijders&Rockoxhuis – Een verrassend museum in het hart van Antwerpen (snijdersrockoxhuis.be)

13 Mayer Van den Bergh

The Mayer van den Bergh museum shows the art collection of the Belgian art collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh (1858-1901). The museum is in a beautiful building specifically designed to showcase van den Bergh’s collection.

Van den Bergh was a passionate collector of art and artifacts from the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. He is best known for his collection of Flemish Primitives, which includes works by Jan van Eyck, Rogier van der Weyden, and Hans Memling, among others.

The Mayer van den Bergh museum’s permanent collection includes works of art and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, tapestries, and decorative objects. In addition to the Flemish Primitives, the collection includes works by artists from other periods and regions and a large collection of armor and weaponry.

What is there to see? | Museum Mayer van den Bergh

14 MOMU

The MoMu museum, short for ModeMuseum, tells the history and evolution of fashion in Belgium and showcases the work of both established and emerging designers.

The MoMu museum’s permanent collection includes over 30,000 items, including clothing, accessories, and textiles, as well as photographs, films, and other archival material related to fashion. The collection includes works by many notable Belgian designers, such as Dries Van Noten, Walter Van Beirendonck, and Ann Demeulemeester, as well as international designers such as Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, and Comme des Garçons.

The museum is known for its innovative and engaging exhibitions, which often combine the work of established designers with new and emerging talent.

MoMu – ModeMuseum Antwerpen

15 Chocolate Nation

The Chocolate Nation museum tells the history and culture of chocolate products.

The Chocolate Nation also features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities that allow visitors to learn about and taste chocolate in new and engaging ways. The museum includes a chocolate-making workshop, where visitors can learn how to make chocolate creations. It has a tasting room, where visitors can sample a wide variety of different chocolates.

The Chocolate Nation museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of chocolate and to gain a greater appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into making high-quality chocolate. The Chocolate Nation museum is a must-visit destination in Antwerp.

Discover the largest Belgian chocolate museum in the world (chocolatenation.be)

FAQ

Yes, Antwerp is a walkable city. The city center is compact and most of the main attractions, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Grote Markt (Great Market Square), and the Antwerp Central Station, are within walking distance of each other. Walking around the city is also a great way to discover the charming historic streets, picturesque neighborhoods, and hidden gems that Antwerp has to offer.

Yes, Antwerp is definitely worth visiting! It’s a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Antwerp is known for its stunning architecture, including the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady and the modern Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), as well as its vibrant arts and fashion scenes. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, including the works of famous artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and the diamond industry, for which Antwerp is renowned.

The best time to visit Antwerp depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your visit. Here’s an overview of what to expect in Antwerp throughout the year:

Summer (June-August): Summer is peak tourist season in Antwerp, with warm temperatures and long days. However, it can also be crowded, and many locals go on holiday during this time. Expect higher prices for accommodations and attractions.
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): These seasons are generally mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices than summer. Spring in Antwerp is particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers and foliage.
Winter (December-February): Antwerp can be cold and gray during the winter, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy, such as museums and cozy cafes.

Overall, the best time to visit Antwerp is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. However, if you’re interested in summer festivals or holiday markets, then those seasons might be more appealing to you.

Yes, you can drive into Antwerp. The city is well connected to the surrounding areas by a network of highways and major roads, making it easily accessible by car. However, traffic in the city center can be congested, especially during rush hour, and finding a parking spot can be challenging.

If you plan to drive into Antwerp, it is recommended to park your car outside the city center and use public transportation to get around. There are several park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city, where you can park your car and take a tram or bus into the city center. This is a convenient and affordable way to avoid the hassle of driving in the city and finding parking.

It’s worth noting that Antwerp has a low-emission zone (LEZ) in place, which restricts the access of older, more polluting vehicles in the city center. If you’re planning to drive into Antwerp, make sure to check if your vehicle is compliant with the LEZ requirements and if not, consider alternative modes of transportation.

In Belgium parking restrictions are clear. Most on-street parking is chargeable parking, with parking meters on the streets. For long term parking you need to go to the car parks.

No, parking is not free on Sundays in Antwerp. In fact, parking is not free on any day of the week in most parts of the city center.

There are paid parking zones throughout Antwerp, including the city center, where you need to pay for parking on all days of the week, including Sundays. The cost and time limits of parking may vary depending on the location and the type of parking zone.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, some parking garages and lots offer free or reduced parking rates on Sundays. It’s best to check with the specific parking facility beforehand to see if they offer any discounts on Sundays.

Overall, if you plan to park in Antwerp, make sure to check the parking regulations and fees for the specific area you are visiting to avoid any parking fines or other issues.

The amount of time needed to explore Antwerp depends on your interests and travel style. However, in general, I would recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Antwerp to see the main attractions and get a feel for the city’s culture and vibe.

During a 2-3 day trip to Antwerp, you can explore the historic city center, visit some of the city’s famous museums, such as the Rubenshuis and the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), and take a stroll along the Scheldt River. You can also visit the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Europe, or take a bike ride to the nearby Rivierenhof park.

If you have more time, you can explore some of the surrounding areas, such as the charming village of Lier, the picturesque town of Mechelen, or the beautiful nature reserve of Kalmthoutse Heide.

Yes, Antwerp is generally English friendly. Many locals, especially those who work in the service industry, speak English fluently and are accustomed to communicating with visitors in English. Most signs, menus, and other information for tourists are also available in English.

In addition, many tourist attractions, such as museums and galleries, have English audio guides or offer guided tours in English. English-language maps and brochures are also widely available at tourist information centers and hotels.

Antwerp is famous for many things, including:

Diamonds: Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world, with over 80% of the world’s rough diamonds passing through the city.
Fashion: Antwerp is a fashion hub and has produced many renowned fashion designers, such as Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, and Walter Van Beirendonck.
Art: Antwerp was home to the famous Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, whose works can be seen in the city’s many museums and galleries.
Architecture: Antwerp is home to a wealth of architectural styles, from medieval buildings to modernist structures, including the stunning Antwerp Central Station.
Food: Antwerp is known for its culinary delights, such as Belgian chocolates, waffles, and beers, as well as local specialties like Flemish stew and Antwerpse Handjes (a type of cookie).
Culture: Antwerp has a rich cultural heritage, with a thriving arts and music scene, numerous festivals throughout the year, and a UNESCO-listed historic city center.

Overall, Antwerp is a city with a lot to offer, from its world-renowned diamonds and fashion to its stunning architecture, art, and culinary delights.

Yes, foreigners are allowed to drive in Belgium with a valid driver’s license from their home country. However, if your license is not in English, French, German, or Dutch, you will need to carry an official translation or an international driver’s permit (IDP) along with your license. The IDP is a document that translates your driver’s license into several languages and is recognized in many countries worldwide.

It’s also worth noting that Belgium, like many European countries, drives on the right-hand side of the road, and speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h). Additionally, seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a cell phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free device.

If you plan to stay in Belgium for an extended period of time, you may need to exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Belgian driver’s license, depending on the rules of your home country and the length of your stay in Belgium.

Antwerp is not the most expensive city in Europe, but it is also not the cheapest. Prices in Antwerp can vary depending on the type of activity you are engaging in and the location you are in. Here are some general price ranges for common expenses in Antwerp:

Accommodation: Prices for hotels and Airbnb rentals in Antwerp can vary widely depending on the location and level of comfort. On average, expect to pay around €70-€120 per night for a mid-range hotel room.
Food and drink: Food and drink prices in Antwerp can also vary, but on average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around €20-€30, while a local beer or coffee can cost around €2-€4.
Transportation: Public transportation in Antwerp is relatively affordable, with a single trip on the tram or bus costing around €3. A taxi ride in the city center will typically cost around €10-€20.
Entertainment: Prices for entertainment in Antwerp can vary widely, with some museums and galleries offering free admission and others charging a fee. On average, expect to pay around €10-€15 for admission to a museum or gallery.

Overall, Antwerp can be a moderately expensive city to visit, but there are ways to save money, such as staying in a budget hotel, taking advantage of free activities, and eating at local cafes and street food vendors instead of restaurants.

Antwerp has a variety of transportation options to help visitors and locals get around the city. Here are some of the most common ways to move around in Antwerp:

Walking: Antwerp is a relatively compact city, and many of its major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city center, and it’s free!
Public transportation: Antwerp has an extensive public transportation network, including trams, buses, and trains, that connect the city center with the suburbs and surrounding towns. You can buy single tickets or a day pass from machines at the stations or onboard trams and buses.
Biking: Antwerp is a bike-friendly city, with a network of bike lanes and rental services. You can rent a bike from a bike rental shop or use the city’s bike-sharing program, Velo Antwerpen, which has more than 400 bike stations around the city.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Antwerp and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Taxis are generally more expensive than public transportation but can be a good option for short distances or when traveling late at night.
Car rental: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies in Antwerp. However, keep in mind that parking can be difficult and expensive in the city center.

Overall, Antwerp has many transportation options to suit every budget and preference, so you can easily explore the city and its surroundings.

Antwerp is generally a safe city, and visitors should not encounter any major safety issues if they take reasonable precautions. Like any other city, there are some areas that can be less safe than others, and it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid certain areas, especially late at night.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe in Antwerp:

Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like train stations and shopping districts.
Keep your belongings close: Keep your valuables close to you and be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Use official taxis: If you need to take a taxi, use official taxis from a reputable company, rather than unmarked or unofficial taxis.
Stay in well-lit areas: If you’re out late at night, stick to well-lit areas and avoid dark or isolated streets.
Follow traffic rules: Be aware of traffic rules and cross streets at designated crosswalks. Bicycles are common in Antwerp, so keep an eye out for them when walking or driving.

Overall, Antwerp is a safe city, and visitors should not encounter any major safety issues if they take reasonable precautions.

As a foreign visitor in Belgium, you are required by law to carry a form of identification with you at all times. While it is not necessary to carry your passport with you at all times, it is a good idea to have a copy of your passport or a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, with you at all times in case you are stopped by the police or immigration officials.

In Belgium, EU citizens or family members of EU citizens must at all times be able to show proof of identity and right of residence if they are: 15 years of age or over, and. in a public place.