Antwerp with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide

Antwerp with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide

Looking for a family city trip that combines shopping, beautiful architecture, Belgian treats and a little festive magic? Antwerp with kids is a lovely option.
We’ve visited Antwerp with our daughters, and it’s one of those destinations that works well when you fancy getting away without travelling too far. It’s closer to home for us than Brussels, making it an easy choice for a day trip. And when Christmas arrives, Antwerp has another reason to tempt us back: the Christmas market, sparkling lights, Ferris wheel and all those tempting snack stalls.

Our girls loved the festive atmosphere, browsing for souvenirs and finding something delicious to eat along the way. Meanwhile, we could enjoy the city and do a little shopping ourselves. Everyone happy? That’s what I call a successful family outing.
We also have a slightly unusual family tradition. We collect Hard Rock Cafe glasses, so naturally, Antwerp had to make the list. Those glasses aren’t going to collect themselves, are they?
Of course, there’s more to Antwerp than shopping bags and adding another glass to the collection. The city has an impressive railway station, a beautiful historic centre, fascinating museums, a famous zoo and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Belgian chocolate.
In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Antwerp with kids, practical tips for planning your visit and ideas for a day trip or weekend away. Whether you’re travelling with younger children or teenagers, there’s plenty to inspire your next Belgian adventure.

Is Antwerp Worth Visiting with Kids?

Absolutely! Antwerp combines the charm of a historic European city with shopping, good food, museums and attractions that appeal to different ages.
One of its biggest advantages is flexibility. You can visit for a day, concentrate on the historic centre and enjoy a little shopping, or stay for a weekend and explore further afield.
We’ve particularly enjoyed Antwerp as a shopping destination and during the Christmas season. It’s easy to combine browsing the shops with exploring the city, stopping for a snack and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
And let’s be honest: when you’re travelling with children, a city that offers interesting sights, tasty treats and opportunities to buy souvenirs already has a few advantages.

Antwerp is particularly suitable for families who enjoy:

• Exploring historic streets and impressive architecture.
• Shopping in familiar stores and independent boutiques.
• Visiting museums and interactive attractions.
• Discovering Belgian chocolate, waffles and fries.
• Exploring a zoo or spending time in a park.
• Enjoying Christmas markets and festive decorations.
• Taking a day trip without organising a long holiday.

Many central attractions can be combined on foot, although some museums and parks are further away. The trick is to choose a few highlights rather than attempting to see everything.
If you’re planning a longer trip around the country, our [Belgium with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide] includes more inspiration for exploring Belgium with children.

The Best Things to Do in Antwerp with Kids

1. Admire Antwerp Central Station

Let’s begin somewhere you might not expect to be a sightseeing highlight: the railway station.
Antwerp Central Station is one of the city’s most impressive buildings. Its monumental architecture, grand entrance hall and enormous dome have earned it the nickname Railway Cathedral.
Even if you’re arriving by car, the station is worth seeing. Look up at the dome, admire the stonework and take in the scale of the building. It feels considerably more impressive than the average place where you stand checking whether your train is delayed.
The station is also a practical starting point for a family itinerary. Antwerp Zoo is next door, while Chocolate Nation is directly opposite.
Our tip: Arriving by train? Give yourself a few minutes to explore the station before heading into the city. If you’re travelling by car, you can still include it in your sightseeing route.

2. Visit Antwerp Zoo

If your children love animals, Antwerp Zoo is worth considering.
Located next to Antwerp Central Station, it is one of Europe’s historic zoos and offers a mixture of animals, landscaped gardens and characterful historic buildings.
Depending on the areas you explore, you can see animals including giraffes, penguins, lions, gorillas and many others. There are also opportunities to learn about conservation and discover more about the animals in the zoo’s care.
Allow several hours for your visit. Trying to squeeze the zoo into a short stop between other attractions would be a little like attempting to visit an entire shopping centre in ten minutes: technically ambitious, but probably not much fun.

Practical information

• Location: Koningin Astridplein 26, Antwerp.
• Time needed: Allow several hours, potentially half a day or more.
• Tickets: Prices vary by date and visitor category.
• Planning: Check the current opening hours and daily programme before visiting.

For current information and tickets, visit the [official Antwerp Zoo website].

Is Antwerp Zoo right for your itinerary?

If your children love animals, it could be one of the highlights of your trip. For a short shopping-focused day trip, however, you might prefer to spend your time in the historic centre.
Both approaches work. You don’t need to visit every attraction to enjoy Antwerp.

3. Discover Belgian Chocolate at Chocolate Nation

Belgium and chocolate are a pretty good combination. Add children to the equation, and a chocolate experience becomes even more tempting.
Chocolate Nation is an interactive attraction opposite Antwerp Central Station. It takes visitors on a journey through the world of Belgian chocolate, exploring its history, production and development into the chocolate we know today.
The experience uses audiovisual displays and interactive elements to explain how chocolate travels from cocoa plantations to Belgian pralines. Visitors can also discover different flavours along the way.
The experience generally takes around 70–90 minutes, making it a useful addition to a city-centre itinerary.

Practical information

• Location: Koningin Astridplein 7, Antwerp.
• Time needed: Approximately 70–90 minutes.
• Suitable for: Families interested in chocolate and interactive experiences.
• Tickets: Online booking is recommended, particularly during weekends and school holidays.

Check current prices, opening hours and available time slots on the [official Chocolate Nation website].
Our tip: Combine Chocolate Nation with Antwerp Central Station, as they’re directly opposite each other. You could then continue towards the shopping streets or the historic centre.
And if the children remember the chocolate tasting more clearly than the educational information, well, that would hardly be surprising.

4. Explore the Historic Grote Markt

The Grote Markt is one of Antwerp’s most beautiful squares and an excellent place to begin exploring the historic centre.
The square is surrounded by ornate guild houses, cafés and restaurants, creating a wonderful backdrop for a leisurely walk. Look closely at the buildings and you’ll notice plenty of decorative details.
In the middle stands the Brabo Fountain, which depicts the legendary story associated with Antwerp’s name.
According to local legend, a giant demanded payment from ships entering the river and cut off the hands of those who refused. The hero Brabo defeated the giant and threw its hand into the river. The story is traditionally associated with the Dutch words hand werpen, meaning to throw a hand, although this is a legend rather than an established explanation of the city’s name.
It’s an unusual story to share with older children while exploring the square.

What to do around the Grote Markt

• Admire the historic guild houses.
• Look at the details of the Brabo Fountain.
• Stop for a drink or something to eat.
• Explore the surrounding historic streets.
• Continue towards the Cathedral of Our Lady.
• Walk towards the river and Het Steen.

You don’t need a ticket or a complicated plan to enjoy the square. Sometimes a wander through a beautiful historic centre is enough.

5. Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady is one of Antwerp’s most recognisable landmarks. Its impressive spire dominates the skyline, making it difficult to miss when exploring the historic centre.
Inside, visitors can admire the architecture and important artworks associated with the cathedral. The building has a strong connection with the Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, whose work forms an important part of Antwerp’s artistic heritage.
If your children enjoy art, architecture or exploring historic buildings, the cathedral is worth considering.
It also fits naturally into a walking route through the old city, particularly if you’re already visiting the Grote Markt.
Our tip: Check current visiting arrangements and admission information before you go. If you’re visiting with younger children, keep the visit flexible and combine it with something more active afterwards.
A little sightseeing followed by a snack stop is often a winning combination.

6. Walk Along the River Scheldt and See Het Steen

Antwerp’s history is closely connected to the River Scheldt, which helped establish the city as an important trading port.
A walk towards the waterfront offers a different perspective on Antwerp. You’ll leave some of the busiest shopping streets behind and discover a more open riverside setting.
One of the landmarks here is Het Steen, a historic fortress that has become an important symbol of the city.
The building dates back to the medieval period, although it has changed over the centuries. Its location near the river makes it a natural stop when exploring the historic centre.

Why include the waterfront in your family itinerary?

• It offers a change of scenery from the shopping streets.
• You can admire Het Steen from the outside.
• It’s an opportunity to discuss Antwerp’s history and its connection to the river.
• It fits naturally into a walk through the historic centre.

Check current visitor information if you want to explore the building or any exhibitions inside.

7. Explore the MAS Museum

The MAS, or Museum aan de Stroom, is one of Antwerp’s most distinctive modern buildings.
Located in the Eilandje district, the striking red museum explores Antwerp’s connections with the world, including its history, trade, culture and relationship with the river.
The building itself is part of the attraction. Its architecture stands out against the surrounding waterfront, and the boulevard and panorama provide impressive views across Antwerp.
The panorama is particularly appealing if you’d like to see the city from above.

Practical information

• Location: Hanzestedenplaats 1, Antwerp.
• Museum galleries: Generally Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am–5 pm.
• Last access to the galleries: 4 pm.
• Boulevard and panorama: Have separate opening hours.
• Closed: Generally on Mondays, with some exceptions for public holidays.

The panorama may close temporarily in bad weather, so check the [official MAS website] before visiting.
Our tip: Decide whether you want to explore the exhibitions, enjoy the panorama or do both. If you’re planning a short day trip, you may prefer to focus on one experience rather than trying to fit in everything.
The Eilandje district is also worth exploring if you’d like to see a different side of Antwerp beyond the historic centre and shopping streets.

8. Discover the Red Star Line Museum

The Red Star Line Museum tells the stories of people who emigrated from Europe to North America, many of whom departed from Antwerp.
The museum explores what it was like to leave home in search of a new life. Through personal stories, historical objects and exhibitions, visitors can learn about migration and the experiences of families who made these journeys.
It’s a different kind of museum from one focused on art or architecture, and it can be particularly interesting for school-age children who enjoy history and stories about real people.
The museum also offers a family activity called the Suitcase full of Objects, designed especially for children aged approximately 7–12. Visitors can discover stories through objects and their senses.

Practical information

• Location: Montevideostraat 3, Antwerp.
• Opening hours: Generally Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am–5 pm.
• Time needed: Allow approximately 1.5 hours.
• Family activities: Check availability before your visit.

Find current information on the [official Red Star Line Museum website].
This museum is outside the main historic-centre sightseeing route, so it is better suited to a longer visit or a weekend than a tightly packed day trip.

9. Go Shopping in Antwerp

Shopping is one of our reasons for visiting Antwerp with the girls. It’s closer to home for us than Brussels, and it’s a great option when we fancy a shopping trip.
Antwerp has a mixture of major shopping streets, independent boutiques, fashion shops and specialist stores. Whether you’re looking for familiar brands or something a little different, there’s plenty to browse.
The city is also known for its fashion scene, so it’s a good destination for anyone who enjoys discovering new styles and independent shops.
Here are a few areas to explore.

Meir

Meir is one of Antwerp’s main shopping streets, with a wide range of familiar brands and shops. It’s a convenient choice if shopping is high on your list.

The historic city centre

Around the Grote Markt and surrounding streets, you’ll find smaller shops, boutiques and places to stop for a drink or snack.

Nationalestraat and the fashion district

If you’re interested in fashion and independent boutiques, explore the area associated with Antwerp’s fashion scene. It offers a different atmosphere from the larger shopping streets.
Our tip: If you’re visiting with children, mix shopping with other activities rather than planning an entire day around the shops.
Although, if your children are anything like ours during a Christmas shopping trip, the souvenir shops might turn out to be the main attraction anyway.
And don’t forget to leave a little room in your bag for whatever everyone decides they absolutely cannot live without.

10. Visit Hard Rock Cafe Antwerp

We have a personal reason for visiting Hard Rock Cafe Antwerp: we collect the glasses.
Yes, we’re those people. Every new city offers another opportunity to add to the collection, and we’re not about to let a glass collect itself!
For us, visiting Hard Rock Cafe is a fun little tradition during city trips. It gives us a familiar stop during a day of exploring and another souvenir to associate with the destination.
If your family also enjoys collecting souvenirs, you could create your own tradition. Perhaps you collect magnets, postcards, Christmas decorations or something completely different.
Hard Rock Cafe can also be an option if you’re looking for a familiar menu while travelling with children.
Our tip: If you’re collecting a particular glass, check availability before making a special trip. Merchandise can vary by location.

11. Give the Kids Some Time Outdoors

A city trip doesn’t have to mean walking between buildings all day.
If the children need a break from sightseeing, Antwerp has several parks and green spaces where you can slow down.

Stadspark

Stadspark is a central green space that can be useful for a short break during a city visit. It’s a convenient option if you want to escape the busy shopping streets for a little while.

Middelheim Park and Middelheim Museum

For families with more time, Middelheim offers a different experience. The park is home to an open-air sculpture collection, allowing visitors to explore art in a green setting.
Children can walk between the sculptures while adults enjoy the surroundings. It combines an outdoor outing with an introduction to art without the feeling of being confined to museum galleries.
Because Middelheim is outside the immediate historic centre, check transport options before including it in a short itinerary.

Park Spoor Noord

Another option is Park Spoor Noord, a large urban park that offers space to relax and spend time outdoors.
It’s worth considering if you’re staying longer or want to explore a different part of Antwerp.
Our advice: Choose a park that fits naturally into your route. You don’t need to travel across the city just to squeeze in a green space, particularly on a short day trip.

12. Try Belgian Food in Antwerp

One of the easiest ways to make a city trip enjoyable for children is to include a few treats along the way.
Fortunately, Antwerp gives you plenty of opportunities to do just that.

Belgian fries

Belgian fries, often served with a selection of sauces, are a popular choice for a casual lunch or dinner.

Belgian waffles

Whether you prefer a simple waffle or something topped with chocolate and other extras, this is a classic treat to try during your visit.

Belgian chocolate

Antwerp has chocolate shops throughout the city, making it easy to pick up a few pralines or a box to take home.

Moules-frites

If your family enjoys seafood, mussels served with fries are a traditional Belgian dish worth looking for on restaurant menus.
You don’t need to book a fancy restaurant for every meal. A mixture of cafés, casual restaurants and food stops can work well for families.
And if your children are anything like ours during a Christmas market visit, the snacks might be just as exciting as the sightseeing.

Antwerp at Christmas: Markets, Lights and a Ferris Wheel

Antwerp is particularly appealing during the Christmas season, when the historic centre becomes a festive destination filled with decorations, seasonal stalls and sparkling lights.
We’ve visited Antwerp during this time of year, and the Christmas market was part of the fun.
The girls loved the Christmas lights, snacks and souvenir shopping. The Ferris wheel added another festive highlight, while browsing the market stalls gave us plenty of opportunities to stop, look around and enjoy the atmosphere.
It was a lovely combination of things to do together. We could enjoy the city and the shopping, while the girls were perfectly happy discovering festive treats and choosing souvenirs.
And if you’ve ever visited a Christmas market with children, you know how quickly the priorities can change. You might be admiring the historic buildings when someone suddenly spots a stall selling something delicious. The sightseeing can wait. Apparently, the snack cannot.
Sometimes, those simple moments are what make a family trip memorable. You don’t need a packed itinerary of museums and attractions to enjoy a city together.

What can families expect at Antwerp’s Christmas market?

The city’s seasonal event, Winter in Antwerpen, spreads festive activities across several locations in and around the historic centre. Depending on the year’s programme, visitors can expect Christmas stalls, lights, seasonal food and additional attractions.
The Ferris wheel and other rides may operate at designated locations, so check the current programme if these are priorities for your family.
For 2026–2027, the city’s published information lists Winter in Antwerpen from 4 December 2026 to 3 January 2027. Dates, opening hours and attractions can change in future years, so check the latest official information before travelling.

Our tips for visiting with kids:

• Visit after dark if you want to enjoy the Christmas lights.
• Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes.
• Allow time for snacks and browsing the stalls.
• Set a souvenir budget before entering the market. Your wallet will thank you.
• Check the locations of the Ferris wheel and other attractions before setting off.
• Don’t try to combine too many other activities with the market in one evening.

Antwerp is especially lovely in winter, when the city fills with festive lights, seasonal treats and a Christmas market. We enjoyed the atmosphere, including the Ferris wheel and the chance to browse the stalls with the girls. If you’re planning a winter city break, take a look at our guide to [Belgium Christmas Markets: A Magical Family Winter Escape] for more festive destinations across Belgium.

Antwerp with Kids: One-Day Itinerary

Visiting Antwerp for a day? Focus on the historic centre, add a little shopping and choose one main attraction.
Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances sightseeing with time to enjoy the city.

Morning: Historic Antwerp

Start at Antwerp Central Station if you’re arriving by train. Take time to admire the architecture before heading into the city.
Continue towards the historic centre and visit the Grote Markt, the Brabo Fountain and the Cathedral of Our Lady.
Allow time to explore the surrounding streets rather than rushing straight from one sight to the next.

Lunch: Belgian Food

Choose a café or casual restaurant in the city centre.
This is a good opportunity to try Belgian fries or another local speciality. If the weather is good, take your time and enjoy a break before continuing.

Afternoon: Choose Your Main Attraction

Pick one attraction that suits your family.

• Chocolate Nation if your children love chocolate.
• MAS if you’re interested in the city’s history and want to enjoy panoramic views.
• Antwerp Zoo if your family loves animals and you’re happy to spend several hours there.
• Shopping if you’d rather browse the shops and explore the city’s fashion scene.

Trying to fit all these attractions into one day would make the itinerary unnecessarily rushed. Choose the experience that matters most to your family.

Late Afternoon: Shopping and a Treat

Finish your day with some shopping, a visit to a chocolate shop or a stop for waffles.
If Hard Rock Cafe is part of your plans, you could also include it in your route, depending on your plans and opening hours.
This itinerary offers a balance of sightseeing, food and shopping without requiring you to race around the city.

Antwerp with Kids: Two-Day Weekend Itinerary

If you have a weekend in Antwerp, you can explore more of the city at a relaxed pace.

Day 1: Historic Centre, Shopping and Chocolate

Morning

• Admire Antwerp Central Station.
• Explore the Grote Markt and Brabo Fountain.
• Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady.
• Wander through the surrounding historic streets.

Afternoon

• Visit Chocolate Nation or spend time shopping.
• Explore Meir and nearby shopping streets.
• Stop for Belgian waffles or chocolate.

Evening

Choose a restaurant that suits your family and enjoy a relaxed evening. If Hard Rock Cafe is part of your plans, this could be a convenient time to visit.

Day 2: Animals, Museums or the Waterfront

Choose your second day according to your family’s interests.

Option A: Animals and architecture

Spend the morning at Antwerp Zoo, then admire Antwerp Central Station in more detail if you haven’t already done so.

Option B: Culture and waterfront views

Visit the MAS and explore the Eilandje district. Continue towards the waterfront and Het Steen if time allows.

Option C: A little history

Visit the Red Star Line Museum and learn about the stories of people who emigrated from Antwerp.

Option D: Parks and relaxed exploring

Spend time in one of Antwerp’s parks, explore a different neighbourhood and enjoy a slower day.
If you’re visiting during the Christmas season, you could adapt the itinerary to include the market and festive lights in the evening.
The advantage of staying for a weekend is that you can choose activities that match your family’s interests rather than trying to fit everything into a single day.

Where to Stay in Antwerp with Kids

If you’re planning a weekend in Antwerp, choosing the right accommodation can make a difference to how much you enjoy your stay.
The best location depends on your budget, whether you’re travelling by train or car, and which attractions you want to visit.

Stay in the City Centre

The historic centre is a convenient base if you want to explore the Grote Markt, cathedral, shops and restaurants on foot.
It’s particularly useful for a short city break because you can return to your accommodation during the day if the children need a rest.

Stay Near Antwerp Central Station

This area can be practical if you’re arriving by train or planning to visit Antwerp Zoo and Chocolate Nation.
You’ll also have convenient access to public transport and the main shopping streets.

Consider the Eilandje District

If you’re interested in the MAS, the waterfront and Antwerp’s maritime history, staying in or near Eilandje may suit your plans.
It’s a different setting from the historic centre, with a mixture of modern buildings, waterfront spaces and restaurants.

What Should Families Look for?

When comparing accommodation, consider:

• Family rooms or apartments with enough sleeping space.
• Proximity to attractions and public transport.
• Breakfast options or access to a kitchen.
• Parking arrangements if you’re travelling by car.
• Flexible cancellation conditions.
• The total cost, including any additional fees.

You can compare [family-friendly hotels and apartments in Antwerp, https://booking.tpk.lu/r9tCvbgU] to find an option that fits your trip.
Our advice is to choose accommodation that makes your itinerary easier, rather than paying extra for a location you won’t really use.

Practical Tips for Visiting Antwerp with Kids

A little preparation can make your family city trip much easier.

1. Decide Whether to Visit for a Day or a Weekend

Antwerp works well for both.
A day trip is enough to explore the historic centre, enjoy some shopping and visit one main attraction. A weekend gives you more time for museums, the zoo, the waterfront and other neighbourhoods.

2. Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll probably do plenty of walking, particularly if you plan to explore the historic centre and shopping streets.
Comfortable shoes will make the day more enjoyable for everyone.

3. Use Public Transport When Needed

Many central attractions can be reached on foot, but public transport is useful for destinations further away.
Check current routes and travel information before setting off.

4. Check Attraction Opening Hours

Museums and attractions may have different opening days, seasonal hours or temporary closures.
Always check official websites before travelling, especially if you’re planning your itinerary around a particular attraction.

5. Book Popular Attractions in Advance

Planning to visit attractions such as Antwerp Zoo or Chocolate Nation? Check ticket availability before your trip, especially if you’re visiting at weekends, during school holidays or around Christmas. Chocolate Nation recommends booking ahead to secure your preferred time slot, while booking Antwerp Zoo tickets online at least one day in advance can also save you money.
Want to plan a few activities before you go? Browse [tickets, tours and experiences in Antwerp on GetYourGuide https://getyourguide.tpk.lu/F5kkJS6t] and see what fits your family’s itinerary.
This is particularly useful during weekends, school holidays and busy periods.

6. Plan for the Weather

Belgian weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers and waterproof outerwear, particularly if you’re visiting during autumn or winter.
A museum or chocolate experience can be a useful backup if the weather isn’t suitable for exploring outside.

7. Leave Time for Shopping and Snacks

If shopping is part of your trip, don’t fill every hour with sightseeing.
Allow time to browse the shops, stop for something to eat and enjoy the city without constantly checking the clock.

8. Keep the Itinerary Flexible

Children’s energy levels, queues and unexpected discoveries can all affect your plans.
Choose a few priorities and treat the rest as optional. A successful family trip doesn’t require ticking every box.

Frequently Asked Questions About Antwerp with Kids

Is Antwerp a good city to visit with kids?

Yes! Antwerp offers a mixture of historic sights, museums, shopping, parks, chocolate experiences and family-friendly attractions. It works well for both day trips and weekend breaks.

What are the best things to do in Antwerp with children?

Popular options include visiting Antwerp Zoo, exploring Chocolate Nation, admiring Antwerp Central Station, discovering the Grote Markt, visiting the MAS and exploring the waterfront. Shopping and Belgian food are also important parts of a family city trip.

How many days do you need in Antwerp with kids?

One day is enough to explore several highlights in the historic centre and visit one main attraction. Two days give you more time for museums, the zoo, shopping and the waterfront without rushing.

Is Antwerp walkable with kids?

Many attractions in the historic centre are within walking distance of one another. However, some attractions are further away, so you may need public transport depending on your itinerary.

Is Antwerp or Brussels better for a family city trip?

Both are good options, but they offer slightly different experiences. Brussels is known for attractions such as the Grand-Place and Manneken Pis. Antwerp offers an impressive railway station, a major shopping scene, a historic port and attractions such as the MAS and Antwerp Zoo.
The best choice depends on your family’s interests. If you have time, both cities are worth exploring.
Read our [Brussels with Kids: Our Family Guide] for more inspiration.

Is Antwerp expensive to visit with children?

Your budget will depend on accommodation, transport, food and the attractions you choose. Exploring the historic streets and shopping areas is free, while museums and the zoo require admission tickets.
You can manage costs by choosing a few paid attractions and balancing them with walks, sightseeing and time in parks.

What food should families try in Antwerp?

Belgian waffles, chocolate and fries are easy favourites. You could also try traditional Belgian dishes such as moules-frites if your family enjoys seafood.

Can you visit Antwerp without a car?

Yes. Antwerp is accessible by train, and many attractions in the centre can be reached on foot. Public transport is useful for destinations further away.

Is Antwerp worth visiting at Christmas?

Yes! The Christmas market, festive lights, seasonal food and additional attractions can make Antwerp a lovely winter destination. The Ferris wheel and other rides are particularly appealing if your family enjoys festive activities.
Check the current dates, opening hours and programme before travelling, as these change from year to year.

Final Thoughts: Is Antwerp Worth Visiting with Kids?

We think Antwerp is a lovely option for a family city trip, especially if you’re looking for somewhere that combines shopping, sightseeing and good food.
We’ve visited with our daughters and enjoy the fact that it’s relatively close to home. It’s easy to turn a day out into a little adventure, whether you’re browsing the shops, exploring the historic centre or stopping for something delicious.
Our Christmas visit was a lovely reminder that family travel doesn’t have to revolve around a long list of attractions. The girls enjoyed the lights, the Ferris wheel, snacks and souvenir shopping, while we could enjoy the city and its festive atmosphere.
And then there’s Hard Rock Cafe, which gives us another opportunity to add to our glass collection. Every city has its priorities, right?
If you want to explore the historic centre, visit a museum or spend time at the zoo, Antwerp offers plenty of options. If your family prefers shopping and a relaxed day out, that works too.
My advice? Choose a few things everyone will enjoy, leave time for snacks and souvenirs, and don’t worry about seeing everything. The best family city trips aren’t always the ones with the longest itineraries.
And if Antwerp inspires you to explore more of Belgium, don’t miss our [Belgium with Kids: The Ultimate Family Travel Guide], featuring more ideas for family trips to Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and beyond.
Prefer to spend less time researching and more time looking forward to your next family adventure? Discover [Let Travelicious plan your trip] and let us help you plan a trip around your family’s interests, budget and travel style.