Private Historical Walking Tour of Antwerp

Ideally, we begin our fairy-tale journey of Antwerp from the north entrance of the Central Station. Voted to be among the most beautiful train stations in the world by Newsweek, Mashable and The Telegraph, this spectacular landmark is worthy to be chosen as our first point of exploring Antwerp’s wonderful treasures. This eclectic masterpiece was designed by Louis Delacenserie in a palette of various architectural styles. You will see its awe-inspiring entrance hall, the marvellous decoration of its impressive ceiling and the extraordinary grandeur of the building. I will share with you some great stories and then I will show you a special spot for the best shots!

We then continue together through the streets of De Keyserlei and Leysstraat, passing by Аntwerp’s magnificent Opera House, as well as the imposing statues of the Flemish painters Anthony van Dyke and David Teniers the Younger, until we reach the “Meir”, the main shopping street of the city. Take it easy! It is not time for shopping … it is time for inspiration! Here, we will go inside the neoclassical Stadsfeestzaal shopping gallery to admire its aristocratic interior. Featuring a gracious glass dome with gold leaf, extravagant staircase, sculptures, mosaics and wall reliefs, this place truly stimulates the senses.

And the best is yet to come, as nearby is the splendid “Paleis op de Meir”, Antwerp’s Royal Palace! You might be fascinated to learn that once it belonged to important rulers such as Napoleon Bonaparte, William I of the Netherlands and the Belgian royal family. Delve into the palace’s extraordinary history and admire its charming atmosphere. I am sure that you will also fall in love with the cozy chocolate shop at its entrance, offering Antwerp’s finest hand-crafted delights.

Then stroll through a labyrinth of captivating streets and alleyways, passing by the 17th-century house of the famous Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens, the appealing Bourla Theatre and an enchanting mini botanical garden with fairy-tale statues and flowers. Not far away is Antwerp’s spectacular Handelsbeurs. The city established one of Europe’s pioneering purpose-built exchanges on this site in the 16th century, earning it the reputation of ‘the mother of all stock exchanges’. After a devastating fire in 1858, the present magnificent neo-Gothic building was inaugurated in 1872. This is the perfect moment to talk about Antwerp’s glorious past and how it emerged throughout the late Middle Ages, as the richest city in the world.   

From there, we continue towards the lavishly decorated churches of Saint Charles Borromeo and St James. While the first is famous for once housing some of Rubens’s greatest artworks, the latter is known to be the site of his final resting place. But the spirituality of Antwerp is yet to be revealed before our eyes by visiting the city’s majestic Cathedral of Our Lady! Designed by a father and son, Jan and Pieter Appelmans in mid-14^th century, it would become the largest Gothic cathedral in Belgium. It has a monumental interior with colossal arches, tombs of famous nobles and a number of significant works by Rubens, including “The Raising of the Cross”, “Assumption of the Virgin Mary”, “The Descent from the Cross” and “The Resurrection of Christ”.

Ambling through other picturesque sights we arrive at one of Belgium’s most awesome squares, the Grand Place! This stunning square looks as though it has come straight out of a postcard, surrounded by magnificent buildings such as the impressive City Hall, 16th-century guildhalls and several historic restaurants. After the tour, you may wish to stay here and enjoy some of Belgium’s finest specialities. By now you might be a bit hungry, but we still must see some exciting sights on the way, before you are fully indulged in Belgium’s delicious cuisine! You certainly won’t miss the imposing statue of Antwerp’s legendary hero, Silvius Brabo, standing proudly in the middle of the square. Hear some gripping stories about why he is holding a cut-off hand and how it became the symbol of Antwerp.

And here comes the moment for the diamonds … jewels, designed to enhance our beauty and illuminate our souls! Antwerp has been a focus of the diamond trade since the 15th century. You will enjoy a stop at a renowned diamond shop, gaining a full insight into the magical world of those precious stones. Learn about their secrets and how this city became their ultimate guardian throughout the centuries.

And as every fairy tale has its end, ours is going to conclude in front of the charming medieval fortress of Antwerp, Het Steen, built more than 800 years ago. Go back in time and delve into a world of legends and mysteries that echo till the present day!

Shall we now have a pint of Belgian beer?    

The price for this private tour depends on the size of your group. Prices are per group, not per person. The price includes my tour guiding services for 3 hours, based on the itinerary described above. Entrance fees are not included and, where applicable, are paid on site or in advance depending on the museum or attraction you choose to visit. 

• The price per group of up to 4 people: € 120 per group
• The price per group of 5 to 8 people: € 140 per group
• The price per group of 9 to 15 people: € 160 per group
• For groups of more than 15 people, please send me an email or complete the booking form, indicating the exact number of people in your group.

Please note: Each additional hour is charged at €40 per group for groups of up to 15 people. For groups of more than 15 people, extended-tour pricing is quoted individually.

OPTIONAL INTERIOR VISITS AND ATTRACTIONS

The standard 3-hour itinerary allows time for a visit to one museum or attraction if you would like to enrich your experience. Below you can find approximate entrance fees for some popular museums and attractions in Antwerp that may be included in the tour. If you would like to visit more than one museum, the standard duration of 3 hours will normally not be sufficient. I can advise you on the additional time required depending on the museums or attractions you choose. 

• Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady – € 12 per person
• DIVA  Museum /diamonds, jewellery and silver/ – € 12 per person
• MAS Antwerp /art, culture and history/ – € 12 per person
• Museum Plantin-Moretus – € 12 per person
• Snijders&Rockox House – € 10 per person
• Rubens Experience & Garden – € 12 per person
• Museum De Reede – € 15 per person
• MoMu – Fashion Museum Antwerp – € 13 per person
• KMSKA – Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp – € 20 per person
• Red Star Line Museum – € 10 per person

The ideal meeting point I suggest for this private tour is in front of the entrance to the Antwerp Opera. View the exact suggested  meeting point on Google Maps.

However, you may also choose another meeting location based on your requirements and preferences.

• The Private Historical Walking Tour of Antwerp lasts for 3 hours. Additional hours can be arranged in advance, subject to availability.
• The itinerary may be slightly adjusted according to monument opening hours, religious services, events or other circumstances.
• The best way to book your tour is by using the booking form on my website. I will carefully check your booking and confirm availability within 24 hours of your request.
• You may also send your booking request by telephone at +32 487 670 312, via WhatsApp or Viber, or by email at  info@toursinbelgium.com
• If you have special requirements, please let me know in advance.
• If you would like to visit additional museums or attractions, I can include them when compatible with the route and available tour time.
• Upon confirmation, I will send you a booking reference number by email together with payment instructions.
• Please check the weather conditions before the tour and dress accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.