Port Guide | Belgium | Dive Deep
Antwerp
Samantha Cruz | Editor
Published on 2025-04-05
Congratulations-you've just cruised into Antwerp, Belgium's stylishly eccentric port city known less for lace and waffles (that's so Bruges) and more for diamonds, cutting-edge fashion, and absurdly potent beer. Legend has it the name 'Antwerp' comes from a slightly gruesome story involving a giant, a brave Roman soldier, and a severed hand tossed into the river Scheldt-because why settle for a dull backstory? Today, instead of hand-throwing, Antwerp is busy offering up world-class art (hello, Rubens!), fashion-forward boutiques, and enough Belgian fries stands to seriously challenge your self-control. As you wander ashore, you'll soon discover an effortlessly cool city where medieval guildhalls neighbor avant-garde cafes, and the famously glittering diamond district is conveniently poised to drain your travel funds within minutes. Kick off your visit with a cold bolleke at a cozy local bar, then stroll your way from the historic Grote Markt toward the cutting-edge galleries and lively terraces of Het Zuid neighborhood-your journey through Antwerp's edgy, refined contradictions has officially begun.
Belgium has 8 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Antwerp is known for its diamond district, vibrant arts scene, and historical architecture. Expect a range of activities including shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Where do cruise ships dock in Antwerp?
Port Name Antwerp
Country Belgium
Region Western Europe
Ship Terminal Antwerp Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The terminal is located approximately 1 km from the city center, easily accessible by foot, taxi, or public transport.
What's the weather like in Antwerp?
Best Season to Visit Spring to early Autumn (April to October)
Climate Temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters.
Weather Notes Occasional rain in spring and early autumn; pleasant weather in the summer months.
Temperature Range 50F to 75F (10C to 24C)
High Temp 82F
Low Temp 28F
Average Temp 54F
What do I need to know about Antwerp?
Language Dutch
Currency Euro (EUR)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 529,247
Timezone Central European Time (CET)
How do I get around Antwerp?
Taxis, local buses, trams, and bicycle rentals are all available near the terminal.
What are The Best Things to do in Antwerp?
Discover what you should do while you're in Antwerp.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Cathedral of Our Lady
Groenplaats 21, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, featuring art by Peter Paul Rubens.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
Red Star Line Museum
Montevideostraat 3, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Discover the history of European emigration to America from Antwerp.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Plantin-Moretus Museum
Vrijdagmarkt 22, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
A UNESCO heritage site showcasing the world's oldest printing presses.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)
Hanzestedenplaats 1, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Explore exhibitions on Antwerp's history in this modern architectural landmark.
Distance from Terminal: 0.8 miles
The Rubens House
Wapper 9-11, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Visit the former home of painter Peter Paul Rubens.
Distance from Terminal: 1.4 miles
Grote Markt and Brabo Fountain
Grote Markt, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Stroll through the historical square lined with guildhalls and the famous fountain.
Distance from Terminal: 1.3 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Antwerp Zoo
Koningin Astridplein 20-26, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium
One of the oldest zoos in the world, offering unique Art Nouveau architecture.
Distance from Terminal: 1.8 miles
De Koninck Brewery Tour
Mechelsesteenweg 291, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium
Tour the famous city brewery and taste the iconic 'Bolleke' beer.
Distance from Terminal: 2.5 miles
Antwerp Fashion Museum (MoMu)
Nationalestraat 28, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Discover Antwerp's rich fashion heritage and contemporary design.
Distance from Terminal: 1.3 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Middelheim Open Air Sculpture Museum
Middelheimlaan 61, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
Explore a vast array of modern sculptures in this beautiful park setting.
Distance from Terminal: 4.3 miles
Rupel River Kayaking
N/A
Kayak on the scenic Rupel River, just a short trip from the city.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Hiking in Kalmthout Heath
Putsesteenweg 129, 2920 Kalmthout, Belgium
Explore one of Belgium's oldest and most beautiful nature reserves.
Distance from Terminal: 17.3 miles
Cycling along the Scheldt River
N/A
Enjoy scenic views and fresh air on a cycling route along the Scheldt.
Distance from Terminal: 1.5 miles
A Little Extra
Het Steen Castle
Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Recently renovated, this castle offers great views of the river and the city.
Distance from Terminal: 1 miles
Flemish Brunch at 't Muziekstraatje
Schoolstraat 5, 2140 Antwerp, Belgium
Enjoy a traditional Flemish brunch in a cozy music-themed cafe.
Distance from Terminal: 4.1 miles
Overnight Trips
C-Mine Expedition in Genk
C-Mine 10, 3600 Genk, Belgium
Explore a converted coal mining site that's become a cultural hotspot.
Distance from Terminal: 47.5 miles
Belgium Regional Tip
Importance of greetings and goodbyes with handshakes or kisses on the cheek. When meeting someone, shake hands briefly yet firmly, and friends commonly greet with a light kiss on the cheek.