Touring Antwerpen with an official guide

TOURING Antwerp with an official guide

guided walks, tours, bike tours and coach tours for groups and interactive tours for schools and social-cultural education

TOURING Antwerp with an official guide www.antwerpen.be/visit +32 3 232 01 03

TOURING Antwerp with an official guide

guided walks, tours, bike tours and coach tours for groups and interactive tours for schools and social-cultural education

TOURING Antwerp with an official guide www.antwerpen.be/visit +32 3 232 01 03

CITY CENTRE AND SURROUNDING AREA To Antwerp!

Reaching Antwerp

KAPELLEN A12 Bergen op Zoom

DOEL

N1

aldo

a Kan

BRASSCHAAT

k

N11

E19 Breda - Amsterdam

Churchilldok

Thalys to Amsterdam

Peerdsbos N115 Leopolddok Vierde Havendok

Fortress St. Marie

SCHOTEN MERKSEM

Vijfde Havendok

Sch

P+R

eld

e

Albert

E34 Bruges - Coast

Kanaal N120

N12

ANTWERPEN-DAM

Waasland tunnel

DEURNE

P+R

N70 MELSELE

WIJNEGEM

P+R

ZWIJNDRECHT

Sterckshof

Galgenweel

ANTWERPEN-CENTRAAL

E313 Cologne Aix-la-Chapelle Liège - Hasselt

BORGERHOUT

City Park

BURCHT

E34 Eindhoven

ANTWERPEN

Kennedy tunnel

WOMMELGEM ANTWERPEN-BERCHEM

ANTWERPEN-ZUID

R11 BORSBEEK

BERCHEM

E17 Lille - Courtrai - Ghent

N419

Antwerpen Deurne

Middelheimpark

HOBOKEN KRUIBEKE Schoonselhof

A12 Brussels

WILRIJK

E19 Brussels - Paris

Thalys toMORTSEL Brussels

N10

by car If you are coming by car, follow the P-route to the car parks in the city centre. A parking fee is applicable in most streets in the city centre from Monday up to and including Saturday to ensure that Antwerp is easy to navigate for residents and visitors.

Alternatively you can drive to the edge of the city and park your car in a Park & Ride zone (Metropolis, Sportpaleis or Left Bank) and then take the pre-metro tram into the city centre. Or why not consider an environmentally friendly alternative to your car.

Antwerp encourages residents and visitors to move around the city by bus, pre-metro tram, bicycle or on foot. by coach near the historic city centre There is a large free coach parking at Scheldekaai 19, near Zuiderterras along Plantinkaai.

Easy, affordable and ideally located near the Sint-Jansvliet meeting point (entrance to the pedestrian tunnel) and within walking distance of the Steen Fortress, the Plantin-Moretus Museum/ Prints room and the office of Antwerp Tourism & Convention on Grote Markt! Upon request your guide will wait for you at the guides’ office near the entrance of this coach parking. by train into the heart of the city The glass desk of Antwerp Tourism & Convention on the ground floor of Antwerp’s Central Station is the starting point for many walking tours. From Central Station or ‘Antwerpen-Centraal’ you can easily reach Grote Markt (Groenplaats stop) by pre-metro tram. For the Zurenborg neighbourhood walk (see page 62) we recommend that you take the train to Antwerpen-Berchem.

COLOPHON

Touring Antwerp with an official guide The brochure ‘Touring Antwerp with an official guide’ is a publication of the City of Antwerp and Antwerp Tourism & Convention. It was compiled with great care. Antwerp Tourism & Convention cannot be held responsible for printing errors or changes. No part of this publication may be used by third parties without prior written consent of Antwerp Tourism & Convention.

Publisher & publication: Antwerp Tourism & Convention - Annik Bogaert Grote Markt 15 - BE-2000 Antwerp Coordination: Antwerp Tourism & Convention Patrick Van de Velde - Vera Goossens - Cindy Bollen Copywriting & Concept: Rick Philips with the cooperation of: Antwerp’s official guides the working groups of the Product unit of the Royal Society of Antwerp Guides the Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention Graphic design: 10 Advertising, www.10.be Photos and illustrations: Jan Crab Dave Van Laere Sofie Coreynen Cartography: Nick Van Hee Printed by: Printing office Albe De Coker D/2010/0306/279

Content

Touring Antwerp with an official guide Welcome to our city!

3

Touring Antwerp with an official guide!

5

Overview of the offer

6 6 8>9 10 > 11

Overview of the city walks, tours, bike tours and coach tours according to 8 themes

12 > 63

Symbols Overview Antwerp for beginners

1 City by the river 12 > 27 enjoy light, air, water and space in Antwerp

> Touring the old port neighbourhoods with a map 13 > 27 > Discover the underground canals or ruien 20 > 23 > Tours through the international port 24 > 27

2 Antwerp (re)discovered

28 > 37

3 Rubens immortalised

38 > 41

4 Fashion & lifestyle city

42 > 45

a (first) introduction to Antwerp is a challenge

face to face with the virtuosity of an artist

an ambitious cocktail of creativity

5 Diamantwerp the fascinating world diamond centre

46 > 48 >

INTRODUCTION

1

WelCOME

to our city!

6 Pleasantwerp

49 > 52

7 Monumental spaces the proud witnesses of prosperity and complacency

53 > 55

8 Charming neighbourhoods

56 > 63

a second home for people who are passionate about life

admire the striking differences with a map

General information concerning bookings

Information Rates Terms & conditions Important to know

Specific information about the attractions

Addresses, opening hours, tips

67 > 69

This brochure presents a wide selection of options for discovering Antwerp’s port, neighbourhoods, monuments, churches and museums in a pleasant and interesting way.

The full offer can be found at www.antwerpen.be/visit.

If you are unable to decide, if you require more information, if you are looking for a creative or original custom program, then please contact the Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention for quick and free advice.

Our specialised official guides will take you on a wonderful tour of the city’s different neighbourhoods and show you all the beautiful spots. Their knowledge about the works of art in churches and museums and in splendid exhibitions will amaze you. Their facts and tips are invaluable and will make your visit to the city by the Scheldt a successful and memorable occasion. So do not hesitate to share your exact needs and expectations so the Guides’ Association can book the right guide for your group!

INTRODUCTION

64 > 66 64 64 > 65 65 > 66 66

This brochure contains a selection of our extensive and renewed offer for groups visiting Antwerp. Are you planning an excursion for your friends, association, company or school to the largest and most diverse city in Flanders? Then here is an indispensable tool to help you organise it!

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3

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TOURING ANTWERP with an official guide!

The Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention

In the city of Rubens, diamonds, fashion and many other specialties, art and architecture, large-scale urban renewal and last but not least your own Antwerp city guide are bound to surprise you.

Appointment with your guide “, You will meet your guide at the meeting point “ which is mentioned in the description of each tour, unless the Guides’ Association has confirmed a different meeting point after consultation. Most meeting points have been marked on the maps on pages 14 > 15 or 58 > 59 or on the foldable map as you open the brochure.

Read more about how to book an official Antwerp guide on pages 64 > 66.

4

INTRODUCTION

You will notice that we like to put Antwerp in the spotlight as a city by the river. The River Scheldt is the city’s natural lifeline. The opening of MAS | Museum Aan de Stroom, the urban renewal in the old port district, ‘Eilandje’, and the planned redevelopment of the Scheldt quays are some of the important changes in the city. But the beautifully restored St. Paul’s Church in the charming ‘Schipperskwartier’ or red-light district is also definitely worth a visit. And then there is the adventurous exploration of the Antwerp ‘ruien’, or the city’s underground canal system...

So come enjoy light, air, water and space in Antwerp and its impressive international port. You are more than welcome!

The official Antwerp city guides all wear a badge with the - logo. This solid team of Antwerp hosts and hostesses will give you a friendly and helpful welcome and are passionate when it comes to telling you more about their city and port. They know the exact facts, the fascinating history, lots of funny stories and anecdotes and can also provide correct information and figures.

The Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention works exclusively with these qualified multilingual guides, who have been certified by Tourism Flanders.

Their training and experience guarantee quality.

The Guides’ Association knows the skills and specialties of each of these guides and will gladly select the right guide for your group.

5

Overview of the offer

An overview of the offer follows on pages 8 > 9.

You can brush up your knowledge of Antwerp in ‘Antwerp for Beginners’ on pages 10 > 11.

Symbols CITY WALKS

INTERACTIVE TOURS AND CITY WALKS

TOURS

6

In addition to more information about the city walk or tour each section also includes other useful information such as the duration, the booking code and the start and end points. Be sure to read the tips in ? .

The tours and city walks with this logo can be particularly interesting for schools and social-cultural associations.

Participants are interactively involved in the themes.

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Á

what you need to know about the walks, tours, bike tours and coach tours

your guide will highlight meeting point end destination

BIKE TOUR

TOURS with your own coach

Broaden your horizons and discover Antwerp by bike!

On page 36 you will find a bike tour through the historic city centre.

A guided coach tour gives you the opportunity to become quickly acquainted with a selection of major attractions.

You can choose from four tours in the city and/or port.

You can find these tours on pages 25, 27, 37 and 57. Be sure to read the tips in ? on page 24.

Be sure to read the tips in ? on page 36.

The underground canals or ‘ruien’ walks Since 2005 you can explore the monumental heritage of the underground canals or ‘ruien’ in Antwerp. This unusual sensory adventure in the underbelly of the old city is a fun and phenomenal experience in a unique space.

Be sure to read the tips in ? on pages 20 > 21.

INTRODUCTION

In order to facilitate your choice the city walks, tours, bike tours and coach tours have been divided into 8 themes.

These themes are listed in the table of contents and in the overview of the offer on the following pages. You will find a bike tour through the historic city centre under the ‘Antwerp (re)discovered’ theme, a pub crawl under ‘pleasantwerp’, a walk through the trendy Zuid district under ‘charming neighbourhoods’. Sounds easy enough, no?

7

Overview 3 Rubens immortalised

RUBENS’ HOUSE

310

39

IN RUBENS’ FOOTSTEPS

301

40

42 43

4 Fashion & lifestyle city title

1 City by the river

type booking code page

12

Touring the old port neighbourhoods

Map of the old port neighbourhoods

401

FASHION WALK

410-411-412

44

46

470

47

13

5 Diamantwerp

14

A BRILLIANTWERP STORY

201

16

THE JEWISH COMMUNITY HERE

TOURING AROUND (AND IN) MAS

221

18

6 Pleasantwerp

THE PAST OF THE OLD PORT DISTRICT ‘EILANDJE‘

222

19

CULTURAL PUB CRAWL

Discover the underground canals or ‘ruien’

20

FUN WITH BEER

THE RUIEN ADVENTURE

230

22

FUN WITH BEER AND ELIXIR

THE ‘rui’ nocturne

235

23

YUM YUM

24

261

THE PORT CITY BY THE RIVER SCHELDT

2 Antwerp (re)discovered

38

HIP AND FUN

PORT TOUR

8

BANK AND EMBANKMENT RECREATED

Tours through the international port

-

711

48

49

511

50

501

50

502

50

520

51

YUMMY YUMMY

521

51

25

7 Monumental spaces

53

263

27

THE CATHEDRAL

610

54

28

MUSEUM PLANTIN-MORETUS/PRINTS ROOM

620

55

The ANTWERP LOCALS WELCOME YOU

101

29

8 Charming neighbourhoods

56

PETRIFIED GLORY

103

30

THE REVALUED CITY

860

57

ARCHITECTURE MOSAIC

102

31

Map of charming neighbourhoods

58

-

IN THE SHADOW OF THE TOWERS

110

32

THE TRENDY ZUID DISTRICT

801

60

STROLLING ALONG THE MEIR

120

34

ZURENBORG

871

62

HISTORICAL BIKE RIDE

150

36

COGELS-OSYLEI

872

63

CLASSIC CITY TOUR

160

37

INTRODUCTION

In 2010 and 2011 the spotlight is on the Scheldt, the port and the port neighbourhoods of Antwerp.

Come enjoy light, air, water and space here!

9

Antwerp

for beginners 51

32, 34

an Art Deco office building, and Europe’s oldest skyscraper

Brabo

29

a beautiful fountain for a legendary hero

Central Station

35

Antwerp’s impressive Central Station, a massive monument

Cogels-Osylei

63

you won’t know where to look in this stately street in the Belle Epoque Zurenborg neighbourhood

Diamond Square Mile

47 > 48

Antwerp’s diamond district is world renowned

10

1 City by the river

18

Festival Hall 35, 43, 45 transformed into a shopping centre full of glamour and glitz Golden Age 30, 32, 55 > 56 Antwerp became a resplendent metropolis in the cultural golden age between 1480 and 1585 Kievit neighbourhood 57 a striking example of urban renewal near Central Station MAS 17 > 19, 36, 57 the architecture of this brand-new building in the old port neighbourhood ‘Eilandje’ is simply impressive Meir 31, 34 > 35 this wide pedestrian zone is a fantastic place to shop with monumental and even majestic architecture ModeNatie 44 > 45 this unique property is a symbol of Antwerp as a leading fashion city

Red Star Line

As a major port city with several maritime buildings and monuments Antwerp for centuries has been linked to its powerful lifeline, the river Scheldt.

Lodged between the impressive international port and the city’s historic city centre, old port neighbourhoods are patiently waiting for a new future along this river. These special neighbourhoods are an attractive place to live or simply to enjoy light, air, water and space thanks to audacious urban renewal projects and amazing restorations.

19, 25

the legendary shipping line which ferried millions of emigrants to America Rubens 29, 32, 34 > 36, 38 > 41 this brilliant artist is Antwerp’s most famous citizen Ruien 16, 20 > 23 the vaulted canals form a giant underground monument Scheldt 16, 18, 25 > 27, the main access route to the 37, 39 > 40 international port is also a beautiful river along which you can cycle Steen 17, 27, 30 > 31, 36 > 37, 52 the old medieval fortress along the Scheldt Theaterplein and Vogelenmarkt 43 the large and popular market on refurbished Theaterplein Vlaeykensgang 27, 29, 30, 37, 44, 52 discover this charming alley dating back to Antwerp’s Golden Age near Grote Markt World port 24 > 27 Antwerp is the second largest port of and for Europe Zuid 27, 37, 45, 60 > 61 a trendy neighbourhood for those who love art, fashion and terraces Zurenborg 62 > 63 where you can enjoy the Belle Epoque

INTRODUCTION

Boerentoren

Park Spoor Noord the much-discussed new urban landscape park between the city and the port

this city symbol is one of the many delicacies that you really should try

INTRODUCTION

Antwerp hand

11

12

Photo Sarah Blee / © Neutelings Riedijk Architects

13

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Between the old town and the new international port there are a few neighbourhoods where port and city blend into one another: the Red-Light District and the ‘Eilandje’ neighbourhood. Here you can still find beautiful warehouses, captain’s dwellings, sailor’s residences and pubs, and the beautifully restored St. Paul’s Church near centuries-old quays.

The special atmosphere in this neighbourhood is a tangible testimony of the city’s unique maritime past. You can also explore the trail of the famous Red Star Line.

And you will be able to witness the fantastic ongoing urban renewal in this part of the city: the old port neighbourhoods are reviving as a trendy residential neighbourhood-by-thewater. The city rightly prides itself on achievements such as MAS and the Felix municipal archive in the ‘Eilandje’ neighbourhood, the revalued Red-Light District and the ‘Park Spoor Noord’ project, where disused railway marshalling yards were transformed into a real urban landscape park. In addition, Antwerp is harbouring grand plans for the refurbishment of the Scheldt quays.

City by the river

Touring the old port neighbourhoods

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Map of the old port neighbourhoods PORT 1 Montevideowijk Kattendijkdok

Cadixwijk

Kempisch Dok

Lobroekdok Asia Dok

ANTWERPEN-DAM

Londenbrug Rijnkaai

Park Spoor Noord

EILANDJE Willemdok MAS 2

HELD T

LEFT BANK

R SC

SCHIPPERSKWARTIER

QUA YS O F

RIVE

9

4

5

3

6

LEGEND // 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Red Star Line MAS | Museum Aan de Stroom St Paul’s Church Steenplein Ruihuis, the underground canals Information desk Antwerp Tourism & Convention Coach park Scheldekaai 19

7 14 125x200_Gidsen_EN_02.indd 2

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2/12/10 12

1 BANK AND EMBANKMENT RECREATED A a dive into the old port districts |

3 hours with a stop for refreshments

This is the city-by-the-river walk par excellence! Your guide will tell you a fascinating tale about the origin and growth of the historic city centre by the Scheldt as you follow a quirky and unusual route along the river bank, across ‘Eilandje’ and through the Red-Light District.

Step by step you will learn how the river bank, the dunes and canals were transformed throughout the centuries. Hidden parts of the city walls, strange place names, vaulted canals - known as ‘ruien’ - and historic facades reveal the fascinating past of these old port districts. Dive into the history of the Antwerp as a canal city, Gilbert van Schoonbeke’s Nieuwstad, the picturesque Napoleonic docks, the sieges of 1814 and 1830 and the straightening of the Scheldt quays in the nineteenth century during which part of the city even disappeared into the river...

Fortunately the beautiful St. Paul’s Church survived a major fire in 1968 and this restored monument is now an eyecatching feature along our route.

Nostalgic sailor’s bars, high brick warehouses and imposing port buildings as well as the tolerance zone for prostitution showcase the proud maritime past and vibrant present of

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this renewed part of the city by the river. The future plans for these port neighbourhoods are also addressed. Along the way you stop on a terrace with stunning views of MAS for refreshments or get a taste of the atmosphere of a real sailor’s pub.

?

> Because of the longer distance, some stairs and bumpy cobble­ stones this walk is less suited to people who are not that mobile. > Wear good walking shoes. > The trail also takes you through the Red-Light District.

This may not be an ideal family outing. > Refreshments during the stop are not included in the price.

Á > history and anecdotes of the old port districts.

> The trail takes you along: STEEN - PILOTAGE BUILDING - MAS (‘Eilandje’) - FALCONPLEIN - ST. PAUL’S CHURCH. It includes a short visit - if open to: the reception area of MAS and St. Paul’s Church. > Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13

CITY BY THE RIVER

Code 201 |

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Photo Sarah Blee / © Neutelings Riedijk Architects

1 TOURING AROUND

1 THE PAST OF THE ‘Eilandje’ C a story of people, ships and old docks

B (AND IN) MAS

the ‘Eilandje’, a blue lung for the city |

Moving statues, rusty port cranes, sturdy bollards, old bridges and locks, scenic docks and historic warehouses pay tribute, with a hint of nostalgia, to an eventful past.

Along Rijnkaai you will be able to discover traces of the legendary Red Star Line shipping company.

Like the drawings of artist Eugene Van Mieghem, an enthusiastic guide will tell you all about the busy activity of shipping companies, nations, dock workers, sailor’s bars and the impressive steam ships of yesteryear. You will relive the unique history of the ‘Eilandje’ where the stories of people reflect the major technical, economic and social changes.

Á

> urban renewal, renovation, contemporary architecture and future plans.

> The trail takes you along: GODEFRIDUSKAAI - NAPELSSTRAAT - LONDEN BRIDGE - NASSAU BRIDGE - MAS. It includes a short visit - if open to: the reception area of MAS and the Felix archive.

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> until the end of May 2011: you can also find out more about the urban renewal process in the Cadix and Montevideo neighbourhoods in the ‘Eilandje’.

> from June 2011: you can ascend the galleria of MAS - if open - via the escalators and enjoy an unforgettable panorama of the city and port!

2 hours

2 hours

Just north of the Red-Light District the old port district of the ‘Eilandje’ is getting a second chance. Port operations are making way for water tourism and a spectacular urban renewal process. Between the Scheldt, the picturesque old docks and the new ‘Park Spoor Noord’ landscape park the town council and real estate developers are building an attractive neighbourhood. Here you are witness Photo Sarah Blee / © Neutelings Riedijk Architects to a real urban metamorphosis!

Along a beautiful waterfront you can admire the splendid galleria of MAS | Museum Aan de Stroom, which will open to the public in May 2011.

Elsewhere in the neighbourhood you will encounter historic warehouses which were refurbished and now have a new role, such as the Felix archive. The ‘Eilandje’ is slowly but surely becoming a comfortable haven of water, space, magnificent contemporary architecture, cosy pavement pubs and culture.

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CITY BY THE RIVER

Code 221 |

Code 222 |

> MAS square, Hanzestedenplaats 1

?

Á

> Wear good walking shoes. > historical background related to various traces of the past in this old port area. > The trail takes you along: NAPOLEONIC DOCKS - PILOTAGE BUILDING - RIJNKAAI (old port cranes and buildings of the Red Star Line) - KATTENDIJK (lock and dock) - NASSAU BRIDGE. > MAS square, Hanzestedenplaats 1

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Discover the underground canals OR ‘RUIEN’ The medieval city of Antwerp was a water city with an extensive network of navigable streams and canals, city canals even. Centuries later they were vaulted and the canals disappeared from the cityscape and from memory.

Since 2005, you can rediscover and explore this long-hidden heritage under the safe guidance of experienced guides. In 2008 the unique underground heritage of the ‘ruien’ won the Flemish Monument Prize.

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Information and bookings Additional information is available at www.ruihuis.be.

Contact the call centre of Antwerp Tourism & Convention by calling + 32 3 232 01 03 to book a ‘ruien’ walk.

Request a free quote for a ‘rui’ nocturne with the application form at www.ruihuis.be.

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> Not available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Christmas Day and New Year. The ‘rui’ nocturne cannot be booked on Sundays and public holidays. > Not suitable for children under 12 years and for people who are not very mobile. > Maximum 15 participants per guide. Larger groups should therefore be split among multiple guides and start at different times. > Do not wear your best clothes, a skirt or a thick coat! > Avoid bringing handbags or umbrellas: there is no cloakroom. > A light protective suit and a backpack for your shoes and coat are included in the admission price. > The ‘Ruihuis’ provides flashlights and boots from size 35 to size 47.

People with other sizes or large calves should bring their own boots. > Take a pair of extra socks. > In case of heavy rain or unforeseen circumstances the walks may have to be cancelled. In such a case you will be offered a walk aboveground. > All bookings are always on request and subject to change. > Refreshments during the stops on a ‘ruien’ walk are not included in the price.

> ‘Ruihuis’, Suikerrui

> for the 3-hour ‘ruien’ adventure: ‘Ruihuis’, Suikerrui 21 > for the 2-hour ‘rui’ nocturne: Stadsmagazijn, Keistraat 5-7 > for the 3-hour ‘rui’ nocturne: ‘Ruihuis’, Suikerrui 21

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1 THE ‘ruien’ ADVENTURE D an underground journey through the vaulted canals

TIP THE ‘rui’ nocturne

an exclusive idea Code 235 |

|

2 or 3 hours

| 3 hours with a stop for Code 230 | refreshments

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Go to www.antwerpen.be/visit to find out all you need to know about this walk.

CITY BY THE RIVER

Naturally Antwerp has much more to offer than the usual classics. The best example is the ‘ruien’ walk, an unusual sensory adventure in the underbelly of the old town. Every part of the underground tunnel system is different. Old vaults, foundations and bridges reflect the historical city centre above your head.

Originally dug as a defence for the city, the ‘ruien’ were subsequently used as an inland port and water system and were finally used as vaulted city sewers. Thanks to a radical remediation of the Antwerp wastewater network, groups can now securely explore the canals with an experienced guide. Two thirds of the exploration of this gigantic monument consists of a sometimes muddy, underground tour with many interesting facts and mysterious anecdotes. The group chooses how the tour will end, together with the guide, who can best assess the possibilities and conditions. Maybe you will discover the secrets of Lange Wapper on Koolvliet, or would you prefer to retrace your route aboveground, or are you interested in walking along the ancient tracks of the city’s moat after some refreshments?

The choice is yours!

Antwerp Tourism & Convention, the staff of the ‘Ruihuis’ and the guides will monitor your safety and comfort and guarantee a convivial atmosphere during a special experience in a unique space.

This variant of the ‘ruien’ adventure can be booked by companies or organisations as an evening activity from 5 p.m.

Perhaps an original gift idea for business associates or as a teambuilding activity for your employees?

The short ‘rui’ nocturne only includes the underground portion of the guided tour. Aboveground exploration and a stop for refreshments are not provided in this 2-hour formula.

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Tours THROUGH the international port

1 PORT TOUR E sightseeing in an international port Code 261 |

To the north of the city you will explore the second largest port in Europe. This giant nerve centre of world trade is difficult to explore on foot or by bike.

The string of terminals, warehouses, container docks, bridges, docks, locks and industry stretches to the border with the Netherlands! A tour of the port guided by one of our specialist guides is an unusual journey through a strange world, where you will be amazed at the nature, scale and innovation.

>

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> >

>

>

>

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>

>

You have to provide your own coach with a driver.

Only one guide per vehicle required for tours.

The guide has to be able to use the sound equipment on board.

During short stops in which participants disembark, the guide will limit his explanations when the group has more than 20 participants and no additional guides were provided (unless the participants wear an individual headset).

Due to traffic problems or delays at locks and bridges, the program may be modified or shortened.

If the group wishes to introduce an extra stop or unforeseen stop for refreshments, the program has to be modified or shortened in consultation with the guide.

Refreshments during a stop are not included in the price.

coach parking at Scheldekaai 19 (entrance from Plantinkaai near Zuiderterras); upon request this can be changed

2 hours

The port of Antwerp is one of the largest industrial areas in the Benelux, but the huge port docks and the largest locks in the world are really the eye-catchers of this tour. A guide who knows the port inside and out will tell you more about the revolutionary world of the container and will explain the port’s operations as well as providing you with amazing facts and figures.

But he or she will also pay attention to the unprecedented past and ambitious dreams of the port. You will be told the fascinating story of the Napoleonic docks, the emigrants of the Red Star Line, Antwerp nations, the silent witnesses of the disappeared polder villages, the expansion plans and the deepening of the Scheldt, the lifeline of our vibrant international port.

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The tour is merely a sightseeing tour and will take you to: SCHELDT QUAYS - PILOTAGE BUILDING - OLD PORT - FRUIT PORT - CHURCH SHIP - BERENDRECHT LOCK - PETROLEUM PORT - OOSTERWEEL - MARITIME ACADEMY.

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26 27 28

INTRODUCTION

2 THE ANTWERP LOCALS WELCOME YOU A ... and take you on a tour of the most beautiful spots in the world

1 THE PORT CITY F BY THE RIVER SCHELDT

Code 263 |

|

3 hours

Are you short on time but do you still want a quick taste of the best of the city and the port? Then this is the ideal formula for you! Your tour of the international port will be followed by a sightseeing tour of the main attractions in the city centre. You will end in beauty with a pleasant short walk through the historic city centre from the Scheldt quays to the beautiful surroundings of the Market Square or Grote Markt.

Hopefully you will still find some time to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady or enjoy a drink on a pavement terrace with a view of the town hall.

2

Antwerp rediscovered

Code 101 |

Would you like to be a tourist in your own city? Or do you live elsewhere and do you occasionally visit Antwerp to go shopping? Do you have pleasant but somewhat vague memories of a school trip from your childhood? Or did you really never visit the city? What a fantastic challenge! Let yourself be pleasantly surprised by our city guides, (re)discover the beautiful city centre, dive into a fascinating past... and fall in love (again) with Antwerp.

>

The subsequent tour will visit: VRIJDAGMARKT - VLAEYKENSGANG - GROTE MARKT.

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2 hours

The Antwerp locals are known for their indiscretion, frankness and glib conversation. They are friendly and proud to show you the most beautiful parts of their ‘metropolis’. This walk takes you along charming alleys and squares to the majestic Market Square or Grote Markt and the convivial Groenplaats. After this interesting introduction you will immediately feel at home in the heart of the city and you can go on to explore the city yourself.

> The tour takes you along: STEEN - OLD PORT - OOSTERWEEL - PETROLEUM PORT - BOUDEWIJN LOCK - LILLO BRIDGE - LUCHTBAL - NOORDERLEIEN - QUARTIER LATIN - GROENPLAATS - ZUID - SCHELDT QUAYS (to the coach parking at Scheldekaai 19).

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This is an interesting and entertaining introduction to the historic city.

>

Á >

anecdotes, interesting facts and legends.

The trail takes you along: VRIJDAGMARKT - VLAEYKENSGANG - GROTE MARKT (town hall and Brabo Fountain) - H. CONSCIENCEPLEIN - GROENPLAATS (Cathedral of Our Lady and Rubens statue).

It includes a short visit - if open to: the monumental pedestrian tunnel under the Scheldt, the quiet courtyard of the Museum Plantin-Moretus/Prints Room and the Baroque interior of St. Charles Borromeo’s Church.

>

at the guides’ office near the coach parking at Scheldekaai 19 (Plantinkaai) or at the entrance of the pedestrian tunnel on Sint‑Jansvliet or on Groenplaats at the Rubens Statue

>

Groenplaats or Sint-Jansvliet or coach parking at Scheldekaai 19

>

ANTWERP rediscovered

port tour and visit of the city with a short walk

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2 ARCHITECTURE MOSAIC B from Roman art along the Scheldt to Rococo on Meir

TIP PETRIFIED GLORY

the proud monuments of the Golden Age |

2 hours

Code 102 |

In the sixteenth century Antwerp was one of the largest and most prosperous cities in Europe. At the time the port city acquired an unparalleled reputation as a centre for commerce and art. During this classic tour you will step back in time to the amazing glory days of the city by the Scheldt and your guide will spotlight the history, art and architecture of this period.

Go to www.antwerpen.be/visit to find out all you need to know about this walk.

|

|

2 hours

During this original tour your guide will show you the historic city centre in a playful manner and identify some of the architectural styles. You start with a hint of Roman architecture at the Steen fortress, discover the Gothic style (Butcher’s Hall or Museum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City and Cathedral of Our Lady), Renaissance (town hall) and Baroque (St. Charles Borromeo’s Church) and end with Rococo and even Art Deco. Finally, you can try your luck and guess the architectural styles of some of the buildings on Meir and Wapper.

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Á

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> This is an original introduction to the most important buildings and squares of the old city. > This walk can also be guided interactively.

> The trail takes you along: STEEN - Museum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City - GROTE MARKT - H. CONSCIENCEPLEIN - GROENPLAATS - MEIR. It includes a short visit - if open to: the Gothic hall of the Butcher’s Hall and the baroque interior of St. Charles Borromeo’s Church.

> Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13

> At Rubens’ House on Wapper

ANTWERP REDISCOVERED

Code 103 |

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2 IN THE SHADOW OF THE TOWERS C historical walking tour with a short visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady |

3 hours

Antwerp was not built in one day. For centuries the town experienced chaotic growth. Like elsewhere, buildings were built, rebuilt and, unfortunately, destroyed or demolished.

In the last centuries the medieval heart of the city was subjected to an irreversible facelift. During this city walk past some prominent towers you can explore the beautiful historic centre. Strolling along winding streets you can experience first-hand how a relatively small town grew into a sixteenth-century metropolis, the jewel in the crown of the Habsburgs. The Butchers’ Hall, Town Hall and towering guild houses will bring to life the splendour of the Golden Age. But you also walk past the elegant tower of St. Charles Borromeo’s Church, a Rubentian Baroque campanile. Elsewhere the contours of the modernist Boerentoren, the oldest skyscraper in Europe, will surprise you. The many different architectural styles bear testimony to a very eventful history and contribute to Antwerp’s individual style. The highlight of this program is your guided visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady, the huge sacred shrine for the worship of the Virgin Mary in Antwerp and four masterpieces by Rubens. The imposing building with

its magnificent gothic tower and splendid interiors are like a summary of the growth and prosperity, decline and resurrection of our proud city.

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> The Cathedral of Our Lady is closed to tourist visits during religious services. > Tickets for the Cathedral of Our Lady are not included. > More information can be found on page 69 or www.antwerpen.be/visit.

Á > history and architecture of the most important buildings in the city centre, works of art in the Cathedral of Our Lady. > The trail takes you along: GROTE MARKT - Museum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City - H. CONSCIENCEPLEIN - MEIRBRUG - GROENPLAATS. This includes a short visit to: the Cathedral of Our Lady (more details on page 54).

> Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13

ANTWERP REDISCOVERED

Code 110 |

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Code 120 |

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|

2 hours

Did you know that in Antwerp you can walk from one cathedral to another past some of the best-known places in the city: the convivial Groenplaats, the Boeren­toren skyscraper, Antwerp’s long shopping ­boulevard Meir and the bustling De Keyserlei? During this walk your guide will take you from the Gothic Cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary to Antwerp’s monumental Central Station, which is often referred to as the Railway Cathedral. Architectural gems such as the recently restored royal palace ‘Paleis op de Meir’, sparkling window displays and the painters Rubens, Van Dyck and Teniers make for a varied walk. For centuries walking along the Meir has been synonymous of a pleasant stroll.

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Á

> You can choose to go in one of two directions on this walk: from west (Grote Markt) to east (Central Station) or from east to west. > This pleasant walk passes through large pedestrian zones and gives you a nice overview of the city centre. An excellent introduction to the city! > The trail takes you along: GROTE MARKT - GROENPLAATS - MEIR - DE KEYSERLEI - KONINGIN ASTRIDPLEIN. It includes a short visit - if open to: Antwerp’s Festival Hall and the hall of Central Station. > Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13 or desk in Central Station (ground floor Pelikaanstraat entrance)

ANTWERP REDISCOVERED

2 STROLLING ALONG the MEIR D walking from Grote Markt to the Station

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2 HISTORICAL BIKE RIDE E discover the city by bike [5 km] Code 150 |

|

Á > The trip takes you along: STEEN - ‘Eilandje’ (MAS) - BEGUINAGE - Rubens’ House - QUARTIER LATIN - VRIJDAGMARKT - GROTE MARKT. It includes a short visit - if open to: the beguinage and the courtyard of the Museum Plantin-Moretus/Prints Room (UNESCO world heritage).

2 hours

A bike is your best and fastest bet to get around the city.

It’s amazing what you can do and see in such a short time and what’s more, cycling is fun, healthy and cheap! Travel along a fairly low-traffic route and see some of the historic highlights of various districts with your guide. Naturally, you will cover the most important attractions, such as the Steen Fortress, the new MAS museum near the Napoleonic port docks, the Rubens’ House, Museum Plantin-Moretus/Prints Room and Grote Markt. But you will also be charmed by more picturesque spots such as the peaceful Beguinage and the Elzenveld centre.

>

Steenplein, near the slope of Zuiderterras.

On request you can meet elsewhere.

2 CLASSIC CITY TOUR F sightseeing tour and short walk in the historic city centre Code 160 |

|

2 hours

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This is a short bike ride with many stops, each with a word of explanation, but no detailed information. > Bring your own bike or book a rental bike. > Contact the Guides’ Association for more information about bike rentals. > Make sure you are at the meeting point on time.

So pick up your rental bike early and make a short test drive. > Maximum 15 participants per guide. Book several guides for a large group. > The group leader should come equipped with a first aid kit and at least one fluorescent jacket. >

Á

> The tour takes you along: STEEN - PILOTAGE BUILDING - ‘Eilandje’ - NOORDERLEIEN - QUARTIER LATIN - GROENPLAATS - ZUID - SCHELDT QUAYS (to the coach parking at Scheldekaai 19).

The subsequent tour will visit: VRIJDAGMARKT - VLAEYKENSGANG - GROTE MARKT.

> Important information about coach tours can be found on page 24.

Other tours on pages 25 and 57.

ANTWERP REDISCOVERED

This formula gives you the opportunity to quickly become acquainted with a selection of major attractions in Antwerp.

After a guided tour of the charming neighbourhoods of Antwerp, including ‘Eilandje’, Quartier Latin and Zuid, your city guide will take you on a nice short stroll through the historic city centre from the Scheldt quays to the beautiful surroundings of Grote Markt.

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3 Rubens’ House A a palazzo by the Scheldt Code 310 |

|

1.5 hours

The Italian flair of this pretty palazzo comes as somewhat of a surprise; today it is a unique museum. Discover the home and soul of Rubens, wander around this stately artist’s dwelling with elegant Renaissance garden in the company of your guide and enjoy the southern Baroque of the imposing studio.

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3 Rubens immortalised

The Antwerp locals cherish the heritage of their Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) in several places around the city. The virtuosity of this scion of the city is revealed in historic churches, beautiful museums, and naturally in his own home, the Rubens’ House, a beautiful town dwelling with a large studio which the master had converted into a gorgeous palazzo in the city. Centuries later, thanks to the city guides, you can still come face to face with this artistic genius...

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> Not possible on Mondays (except Easter and Whit Monday) and on certain public holidays. > Tickets are not included. > More information can be found on page 68 or at www.antwerpen.be/visit.

Rubens immortaliSed

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3 IN RUBENS’ FOOTSTEPS B past the Rubens’ House, the Cathedral of Our Lady and Grote Markt |

3 hours

This Rubens’ walk begins near the Scheldt, the lifeline of the city. Make your way to an attractive part of the historic city centre through narrow streets with the former dwellings of stonemasons and Lombardian bankers. Today this is the place to be for antiques stores and trendy fashion stores. Visit the Rubens’ House on Wapper. With your guide, you will enter the home and studio of Antwerp’s most famous inhabitant, the artist Peter Paul Rubens. Rubens and his family lived in this unique city palace with its sweeping Renaissance garden; it is here that he created some of his most immortal works. It becomes clear, during a visit to the Cathedral of Our Lady, that art can elevate the mind. On the outside, the old lady reveals some beautiful lacework in stone, on the inside it is a shrine with impressive art treasures.

Among others the Cathedral prides itself on its four magnificent paintings by Rubens. The tour ends on Grote Markt, the most beautiful square in the historic city. Do not be surprised to discover that you have completely lost your heart to Rubens and Antwerp.

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> Because of the distance this walk is less suitable for people who are not so mobile. > Not possible on Mondays or during services in the Cathedral of Our Lady. > Tickets for the Rubens’ House and the Cathedral of Our Lady are not included. > More information can be found on pages 68 > 69 or at www.antwerpen.be/visit.

Á

> Rubens’s life and his significance to Antwerp and to the arts in general. > The trail takes you along: SINT-JANSVLIET - WILDE ZEE - WAPPER - MEIR - GROENPLAATS (Rubens’ statue) - GROTE MARKT. This includes a short visit to: the Rubens’ House and the Cathedral of Our Lady.

> at the guides’ office at the coach parking at Scheldekaai 19 (Plantinkaai) or at the entrance of the pedestrian tunnel in Sint‑Jansvliet

> Grote Markt

RUBENS IMMORTALISED

Code 301 |

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4 HIP & FUN A a stylish and fun trail

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4

If you are interested in exploring the hip lifestyle spots in the centre of Antwerp without being inundated with historic dates and architectural styles, then this is the tour for you! A relaxing and surprising city tour and some time to stop en route for some tasty snacks. A city guide will take you from the most beautiful spots near Grote Markt through the bustling fashion district and the elegant Quartier Latin to the beautifully renovated Festival Hall, which is now a fashionable and gilded shopping paradise. Discover ancient alleys, beautiful squares, the elegant window displays of Antwerp’s fashion mavens, the glorious botanical garden and the huge, somewhat futuristic canopy of the remodelled Theaterplein. A great deal of variety and lots of entertaining anecdotes. Moreover, your guide will let you choose from a range of possibilities for the perfect break! Will you have coffee in a chocolate salon?

A typical beer on a sunny terrace? Tea with cake in the foyer of a charming old theatre? Or a hint of luxury with a glass of sparkling champagne or exotic cocktails in a sophisticated bar?

You decide!

Fashion & lifestyle city

Can you compare Antwerp with London, Paris or Milan? No, not really… but this pocket-sized metropolis has become a hip cocktail of all of the above, in an unpretentious and ambitious manner. Good taste, quality and creativity dare to really assert themselves here. The influential fashion school, the many designer shops and stylish urban renewal have turned the city into a pleasant, trendy place, a magnet for fashion designers and architects, an unequalled shopping paradise.

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> Wear appropriate shoes for this longer walk. > The information is always short and sweet. > Refreshments during the drinking stop are not included in the price. > The program can be reduced to a 2-hour walk. In that case, there will be no stop for refreshments and no visit to the Gallery of MoMu or Elzenveld. We therefore recommend the 3-hour program!

FASHION & LIFESTYLE CITY

| 3 hours with a stop for Code 401 | refreshments

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Á

> Fun anecdotes, facts about delicacies and shopping in Antwerp, information about Antwerp fashion and urban renewal. > The trail takes you along: VLAEYKENSGANG - MODENATIE - KAMMENSTRAAT - ELZENVELD - THEATERPLEIN. It includes a short visit - if open to: The Gallery of the MoMu (Fashion Museum) and the Festival Hall.

> Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13

> Festival Hall

4 FASHION WALK B a pattern of daring and international success Code 410 - 411 - 412

|

|

2 hours

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Á

> This is not a shopping trip. You will not actually visit any shops, but you will focus on their window displays. > You can choose from three different end points for this walk: Groenplaats, Festival Hall or Leopold de Waelplaats. The route and therefore a part of the contents of the walk depend on the chosen endpoint. > The trail takes you along: VRIJDAGMARKT - DRUKKERIJSTRAAT - MODENATIE - KAMMENSTRAAT - ...

It includes a short visit - if open to: the hall and the gallery of MoMu (Fashion Museum).

> at the guides’ office at the coach parking at Scheldekaai 19 (Plantinkaai) or at the entrance of the pedestrian tunnel in Sint‑Jansvliet

> Endpoint Groenplaats in the historic centre [Code 410]: the shortest fashion walk with the most time for explanations > Endpoint Festival Hall in Meir [Code 411]: this walk takes you past the Latin Quarter to the elegant Meir shopping street. > Endpoint Leopold de Waelplaats in Zuid [Code 412]: this walk takes you along the famous Nationalestraat to the trendy Zuid district

Find out more about Antwerp as a vibrant lifestyle city on this cultural exploration of the city, which focuses on contemporary design, architecture and history. The emphasis is on the more recent past when the city developed into a leading fashion centre. This reputation is largely due to the talent and perseverance of fashion designers such as the legendary Antwerp Six, who from the 80s onwards managed to carve out a niche for themselves in the fashion world.

During this walk you will stop at shops, buildings and other places that were instrumental in the development of Antwerp as an international fashion city.

And who knows, the specialised guide may reveal the fashion freak in you.

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5 A BRILLIANTWERP STORY A sparkling diamonds in the neighbourhood and museum

5 Diamantwerp

The beautiful precious stone that every woman - and probably many fashion-conscious men too – dreams of is a daily reality in Antwerp. The age-old flirtation between man and diamond has often been discussed but nowhere is it more palpable than here.

Antwerp is the fascinating world diamond centre. ‘Antwerp Cut’ and ‘Antwerp Quality’ are international trade terms that are synonymous with perfect diamond processing and a quality product.

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Code 470 |

|

|3

hours

During this walk you will walk around the world diamond centre. Through the fascinating story of your guide you will relive the glory days, the near collapse and finally the resurrection of the Antwerp diamond industry in the nineteenth century. From Central Station you walk to the ‘Diamond Square Mile’, the Antwerp diamond district.

A motley of different nationalities finds its way through the streets here, busily negotiating from one transaction to another. Diamond workers, jewellers and diamond merchants feel at home here in their own world of grinding shops, showrooms and exhibitions. The icing on the cake in this tour is a visit to the interactive diamond museum. Look, listen and feel ... almost all the senses are stimulated here as you learn more about diamonds. Your guide will assist you here on a wonderful trip from rough to beautifully cut diamonds, a story that mainly centres on the people in the industry.

Finally, you can admire the unique creations of historical and contemporary diamond jewellery in the three dazzling treasure chambers of the museum.

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> What you should know about your introduction to the Antwerp diamond industry: > Trading activity is rather limited in the diamond district on Friday

afternoon and on weekends. > The Diamond Museum is closed on Wednesdays (except on public

holidays). > Entrance tickets for the Diamond Museum are not included.

> More information can be found on page 67 or www.antwerpen.be/visit.

Á

> The trail takes you along: CENTRAL STATION - VESTINGSTRAAT - HOVENIERSSTRAAT - APPELMANSSTRAAT - DE KEYSERLEI. Also included is an interactive visit of: the Diamond Museum.

> Diamond Museum Province of Antwerp Koningin Astridplein 19–23

> The above formula is actually a combination of a walk in the

diamond district [Code 471] and an interactive visit to the Provincial Diamond Museum [Code 475]. You can also book the individual visits.

6

Pleasantwerp

“Fun is what you make it” or so they say. And yes, we all know that there is an element of truth to this but there are places which lend themselves better to this than others.

Antwerp is known as a really pleasant city.

Where else are there so many terraces and are the days and nights all about the good life?

Enjoy some delicious Antwerp specialities during our world-famous pub crawls and fun gourmet tours. Discover why our city is like a second home for people who enjoy life!

5 THE JEWISH COMMUNITY HERE B a walk through the Jerusalem of Europe Code 711 |

|2

hours

For centuries, there has been a large Jewish community in Antwerp. What does it mean to be Jewish and what is kosher? What is so special about the religion, customs, lifestyles and celebrations of our Jewish fellow citizens?

These questions and more will be answered during this theme walk past the shops and buildings of a visible Jewish community in the heart of a cosmopolitan city.

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> Not possible on Friday evenings, Saturday and Jewish holidays. > What you should know if you wish to visit a synagogue: > please explicitly mention this when booking this walk. > only possible from Monday until Thursday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. > your visit is only guaranteed after your request has been approved. > please provide a voluntary contribution. > Antwerp Tourism & Convention, desk in Central Station.

When visiting a synagogue the walk ends there.

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6 CULTURAL PUB CRAWL A exploring the city for thirsty people about two to three stops Code 511 |

|

3 hours

During this pub crawl, the emphasis is less on the history of the pubs or the brewing process. The main sights of the historic city centre where this pub crawl takes place is the main subject of this tour. In short, you will drink less but enjoy the sights more.

TIP > If you want to be initiated into the world of regional beers and their brewing process, then the 2-hour pub crawl ‘Fun with Beer’ has been created just for you.

6 YUM YUM B taste and tradition Code 520 |

|

3 hours

Each city has its own snacks and drinks, which are unique and which you won’t find anywhere else. In Antwerp, some of the things that immediately come to mind are the Antwerp hands or handjes, the bolleke beer or filet d’Anvers (smoked meat).

But there’s much more to enjoy! Your guide will take you on a tour through Antwerp’s historic city centre. En route you will get a taste of the city, its delicacies and all your senses will be stimulated. You will stop in eight locations to listen to the origin and success of some of Antwerp’s best-known delicacies.

A guided gourmet walk? An ideal combination!

For those who have less time or less appetite, there is also a TIP > light 2-hour version ‘Yummy Yummy’ [Code: 521]

[Code 501]

Elixir’, where, in addition to the local beer, you will also taste some headier beverages such as Antwerp genevers or herbal liqueurs. [Code 502]

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> Large groups should bear in mind that on Friday evening or Saturday afternoon pubs and terraces can be rather busy and that not everybody may be able to find a place to sit. > Refreshments are not included in the price. > You cannot pay individually. The group’s bill will be paid on location by the person in charge of the group. > There is time for 1 drink only at every stop, after which you will continue your walk. > Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13

Pleasantwerp

> A longer and stronger variant is ‘Fun with Beer and

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Á

> Not available on Sundays and public holidays. > The delicacies are not included. Collect the contribution for the delica­ cies from participants beforehand and pay the guide upon departure.

The contribution is: > € 10 per participant for a Yum Yum walk, > € 5 per participant for a Yummy Yummy walk, or € 7.50 if the tour includes an elixir or shot of genever. > You will not be served a full meal, but will taste snacks and beer. > There is no time for shopping. We recommend that you shop after your walk. > The trail takes you along: GROTE MARKT - Museum Vleeshuis | Sound of the City - STEEN FORTRESS - VLAEYKENSGANG - KORTE GASTHUISSTRAAT.

> Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13

> The trail and the endpoint depend on the agreements made that day with the shops and pubs. Your walk always ends in the historic city centre.

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7

Monumental spaces In the sixteenth century, Antwerp was one of the most

important cities of the world! From the late nineteenth century onwards the port and the city experienced a second period of great economic prosperity. The Antwerp locals are easily accused of being rather unabashedly proud when they talk about this period. But the outsize scale, the craftsmanship, creativity and the splendour of monumental spaces such as Antwerp’s cathedral, museums and train station bear testimony to the great fortune and justified pride of the locals.

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7 THE CATHEDRAL A monumental Gothic |

B MORETUS/PRINTS ROOM

exceptional world heritage

1.5 hours

Code 620 |

Antwerp’s Cathedral of Our Lady is the largest Gothic church in the Low Countries. Its northern spire, a lacework of stone, is 123 metres high and the pride of the city. In the monumental sacred inner space the dominant vertical lines symbolize the pursuit of something higher, heavenly even. The pure Gothic bathes in a heavenly light here and is ornamented and emphasised with paintings from the seventeenth-century Baroque and the nineteenth-century Gothic Revival. The four masterpieces by Rubens are world-class heritage, but your guide will also pay attention to the cupola, the magical stained glass windows and a number of somewhat sinister tombstones of rarely equalled quality.

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|

2 hours

This museum is located in a stately patrician dwelling with a pleasant, sunny courtyard. This authentic house with the old workshops of a famous family of printers and publishers is the only museum on the UNESCO World Heritage list (since 2005). Your guide will gladly show you around the protected world of the intelligentsia of the Antwerp Golden Age. Style rooms with tapestries, gilt leather and paintings by Rubens, precious libraries, the room with the oldest printing presses in the world and an intact type foundry will make you forget about all sense of time.

> The Cathedral of Our Lady is closed to tourist visits during religious services. > More information can be found on page 69 or www.antwerpen.be/visit.

> main portal along Handschoenmarkt

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> Possible every day except Mondays and certain public holidays.

The reading rooms are closed during the weekend. > Tickets are not included. > More information can be found on page 68 or www.antwerpen.be/visit. > at the entrance, Vrijdagmarkt 22

Monumental Spaces

Code 610 |

7 MUSEUM PLANTIN-

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8

Charming neighbourhoods

Code 860 |

Factors such as the port, the diamond business, the fashion industry, urban planning interventions and the rich cultural heritage of the Golden Age and other major periods of prosperity today determine the appearance of our city.

However, Antwerp is a metropolis and as a result, several districts were able to develop their own individual style.

Let yourself be surprised by the striking difference between our distinctive charming neighbourhoods. Popular or elegant, hip and charming, centuries-old or brand-new?

You’ll find it all here!

|

3 hours with stops

For ten years Antwerp was known as ‘the Construction Site of the Century’. The slew of ambitious urban renewal projects has not yet stopped. The city is rightly proud of a range of achievements that have also put it on the map as a modern metropolis where it is a pleasure to live, shop and work. Your guide accompanies you on a fascinating tour through several neighbourhoods past much discussed projects, ongoing projects and future sites. An excellent way to discover a city that has been revalued through restoration, renovation and reconstruction. charming neighboUrhoods

8 THE REVALUED CITY A a major round of urban renewal

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? Á

> Read the general comments about our coach tours on page 24. > In some places you will get off the bus and walk. > You will find a more traditional tour on page 37. > The tour takes you along: ‘Eilandje’ (MAS among others) - ‘Park Spoor Noord’ - KIEVIT NEIGHBOURHOOD AND CENTRAL STATION - ZUIDERLEIEN (new Law Courts) - SCHELDT QUAYS.

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MAP OF Charming neighboUrhoods 1

ANTWERPEN-DAM

EILANDJE

Park Spoor Noord

Deurne Sportpaleis

MAS 2

SCHIPPERSKWARTIER

SCH

ELDT QUA YS O

F RI

VER

3

5

4 6

HISTORIC CITY CENTRE

CENTRAL STATION DISTRICT

7 8

11

12

14

10

SINT-ANDRIES DISTRICT

9

15

LEGEND //

ANTWERPEN-CENTRAAL

QUARTIER LATIN

1 2 3 4

ZUID DISTRICT 13

ZURENBORG 58

16

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

17 ANTWERPEN-BERCHEM

16 17

Antwerpen Borgerhout Deurne

Red Star Line MAS | Museum Aan de Stroom St. Paul’s Church Information desk Antwerp Tourism & Convention Steenplein Ruihuis, the underground canals Cathedral of Our Lady Groenplaats Rubens’ House Museum Plantin-Moretus/ Prints room Sint-Jansvliet Coach park Scheldekaai 19 Royal Museum of Fine Arts 59 Antwerp Diamond Museum Information desk Antwerp Tourism & Convention Draakplaats Station Antwerpen-Berchem

Antwerpen Borgerhout Deurne

INTRODUCTION

LEFT BANK

8 THE TRENDY ZUID DISTRICT B elegant, artistic and always surprising |

3 hours with a stop for refreshments

At the end of the nineteenth century the town council developed a new neighbourhood just south of the old city centre. The town council commissioned a Belle Epoque neighbourhood with docks as well as elegant streets and broad boulevards lined with major public buildings. After a difficult period this district is now experiencing a second youth, and with its trendy image the Zuid district is now even internationally - known as one of the hot spots in the lifestyle and fashion city of Antwerp. The PhotoMuseum ‘FoMu’, the World Culture Centre ‘Zuiderpershuis’, Cinema Zuid and the Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp ‘M HKA’, some of the best art galleries, hip restaurants and trendy concept stores in converted warehouses will definitely appeal to culture enthusiasts and trendsetters. Your guide uses the star-shaped street pattern as a compass to unravel the history of this neighbourhood with Parisian allure. The beautiful, broad streets end in squares with statues and fountains. The most impressive buildings on your route are the majestic Royal Museum of Fine Arts ‘KMSKA’ and the somewhat futuristic new law courts. A true temple of the arts and what is now called the ‘Butterfly Palace’ in Antwerp are the real eye-catchers here. Other striking features are the maritime references in the many architectural details and many proud monuments. Because there ‘s plenty to do and see in Zuid, this walk comes with a pleasant break. The Zuid district has a

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variety of sophisticated watering holes. Choose from a glass of wine on the beautiful terrace of an elegant Art Nouveau wine bar, delicious raspberry cake with your coffee in a cosy bistro, an excellent beer in a spacious Antwerp brewery, Turkish apple tea near the triumphant Waterpoort gate...

At any rate, the Zuid is packed with surprises!

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> Refreshments during the drinking stops are not included in the price. > The program can be reduced to a 2-hour walk.

In that case, there is no drink stop and the route is shortened.

You will not walk past the new law courts, but will be able to see it from a distance. We therefore recommend the three-hour program.

> history and architecture of key buildings and monuments in this district > The trail takes you along: VOLKSSTRAAT - MARNIXPLAATS - BOUWMEESTERSSTRAAT (synagogue) - BOLIVARPLAATS - LAMBERMONTPLAATS - GILLISPLAATS (Waterpoort).

> water pond in front of KMSKA, Leopold de Waelplaats

CHARMING NEIGHBOURHOODS

Code 801 |

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8 ZURENBORG C enjoying the Belle Epoque |

3 hours with a stop for refreshments

On the eastern edge of the core city you will find the Zurenborg district, without a doubt one of the nicest and most pleasant neighbourhoods of Antwerp. It exuberantly shows off its Belle Epoque grandeur and charms visitors with its quiet, elegant streets and lively squares. The icing on the cake is of course the famous Cogels-Osylei, a superb showcase of civil architecture on the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. For architects working here was a joy as they could showcase the versatility of their craft. Nowadays, this monumental street is a true pleasure to behold. Your guide will first lead you through less known but equally fine examples of palatial architecture in the streets near Cogels-Osylei and into the Beau Quartier. Here lies the real beating heart of Zurenborg, the pleasant Dageraadplaats with its trees and starry sky and trendy restaurants. The somewhat alternative, hip look of the residents, the stylish unit of the somewhat more modest neo-Classic terraced houses and the Florentine arch frames in Stierstraat are but a few things to watch out for. Before your guide ends the walk with some Art Nouveau gems, enjoy a welcome stop in one of the many pubs in Dageraadplaats or one of the spacious pavement terraces in sunny Draakplaats. Another way of enjoying the Belle Epoque!

above walk:

COGELS-OSYLEI

Zurenborg’s Meir Code 872 |

|

2 hours

Cogels-Osylei and its side streets are like an architectural sample of the Belle Epoque in our city. Take a walk past stately homes and which include some the most beautiful town palaces of the Antwerp bourgeoisie.

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> Provide appropriate shoes for this longer walk. > Refreshments during the stop are not included. > If you only have two hours to explore Zurenborg or are less mobile, we recommend that you choose the shorter ‘Cogels-Osylei’ walk.

(Burgemeester E. Ryckaertsplein)

TIP > Prefer something shorter? There is an alternative to the

?

> history of the neighbourhood, zeitgeist and architectural styles of the Belle Epoque. > The trail takes you along: WATERLOOSTRAAT - TRANSVAALSTRAAT - GROTE HONDSTRAAT - DAGERAADPLAATS - STIERSTRAAT - COGELS-OSYLEI > hall of the railway station Antwerpen-Berchem

Á

?

> Your guide will emphasise zeitgeist and architecture.

No stop for refreshments and no visit of Dageraadplaats and the surrounding area.

CHARMING NEIGHBOURHOODS

Code 871 |

>

Visit www.antwerpen.be/visit to find out all you need to know about this walk.

63

GENERAL INFORMATION CONCERNING bookings Information For any additional information about the programs listed in this brochure contact the Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention directly from Monday until Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Naturally we will gladly advise you about the creative combination of programs and we are your best partner to develop a custom program for your visit to Antwerp!

For city walks, guided tours, cycling tours and coach tours you can contact the Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention Grote Markt 13 BE-2000 ANTWERP Phone: +32 3 338 95 30 Fax: +32 3 338 95 08 E-mail: guides@stad.antwerpen.be Book your guide directly through our website: www.antwerpen.be/visit

Rates

Attractions More information about the museums, churches and other buildings visited during city walks or tours can be found at www.antwerpen.be/visit.

The underground canals or ‘ruien’ Check the ‘De Antwerpse Ruien’ brochure, go to www.ruihuis.be or contact the call centre for more information about the rates for the ‘ruien’ walks.

Booking and payment Please contact the Guides’ Association or the call centre of Antwerp Tourism & Convention no later than three weeks before the scheduled visit. Upon booking you will receive a confirmation with a transfer form.

All reserved guided tours must be paid beforehand by bank transfer or credit card (Visa or MasterCard only). Any bank transfer costs are borne by the customer.

The payment has to be made at the latest ten days before the visit, otherwise the booking is not final.

Cancellation Cancellations are free of charge until 10 days before the date of visit. After this date the full amount of the booking will be charged. Any administrative costs are always borne by the customer.

Group size The number of city guides that you need to book depends on the size of your group. The maximum number of people per tour guide can be different from your booking.

GENERAL INFORMATION CONCERNING BOOKINGS

Terms & conditions

For ‘ruien’ walks (pages 20 > 23) contact the call centre of Antwerp Tourism & Convention by phone at +32 3 232 01 03.

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Guided tour by an official city guide The Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention works exclusively with qualified guides who have been certified by Tourism Flanders and applies the following rates: Basic rate: € 65 per guide

> Includes a tour of maximum 2 hours with a guide.

> For each subsequent hour € 28 will be charged.

> The rate is not split into smaller time units.

> For exhibitions and special tours other rates may apply.

Night rate: for tours between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., the rate is doubled.

Pickup surcharge: for picking up groups outside the city centre - meaning in the districts beyond the Antwerp Ring Road - a surcharge of € 28 is applicable.

Administrative costs: a € 5 administrative fee will be charged for every new booking and/or order.

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SPECIAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE ATTRACTIONS

‘Ruien’ walks and cycling tours For your safety and comfort we limit groups to a maximum of 15 participants per guide. You can read more about this on the respective pages 20 > 23 and 35 > 36.

Coach tours For (small) bus, coach or tram tours only one tourist guide per vehicle is required. The vehicle must be equipped with a sound system with microphone.

If the tour is a coach tour with several walking stops, we recommend that you book several guides when 20 or more participants participate in the walks.

Please also refer to the information on guided coach tours on page 24.

Important to know For tours, the group needs to arrange its own transport (e.g., a coach for a port tour). Participants will provide their own (rental) bicycles for cycling tours.

The entrance fees for churches and museums visited during the city walks and tours should be paid at the respective ticket desks. If the tickets for special tours and exhibitions need to be booked and paid in advance Antwerp Tourism & Convention will inform you about this.

The ‘contribution for snacks’ during the ‘Yum Yum’ and ‘Yummy Yummy’ walks (see page 51) should be collected from participants beforehand and paid to the guide at the start of the walk.

For pub crawls (see page 50) you cannot pay individually. Your group’s bill will be paid in the pub in cash by the person who is in charge of the group.

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The Cathedral of Our Lady, the historic churches and synagogues are sometimes closed for ceremonies, celebrations and/or meetings.

Beguinage and Beguinage church Rodestraat 39, 2000 Antwerp Central Station Koningin Astridplein, 2018 Antwerp Diamond Museum Province of Antwerp Koningin Astridplein 19 - 23, 2018 Antwerp www.diamantmuseum.be > Open: daily, except Wednesdays, from 10 a.m. until 5.30 p.m. > Closed: Wednesday (except on public holidays), 25 and 26 December.

Festival Hall Meir 78 - Hopland 31, 2000 Antwerp www.stadsfeestzaal.be > Open: daily except Sundays from 10 a.m. until 6.30 p.m. > Closed: Sundays KMSKA | Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp GOOD TO KNOW! The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp will be closing for refurbishment from 4 October 2010 until 2017. Part of the museum’s important Rubens collection will travel around the world or will be temporarily housed elsewhere in Antwerp.

MAS | Museum Aan de Stroom [from 17 May 2011] Hanzestedenplaats 1, 2000 Antwerp www.mas.be > Open: daily, except Mondays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Exceptionally open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. > Closed: Mondays, 1 and 2 January, 1 May, Ascension Day, 1 and 2 November, 25 and 26 December.

MoMu | Fashion Museum Province of Antwerp Nationalestraat 28, 2000 Antwerp www.momu.be > Open: daily except Mondays, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Exceptionally open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. > Closed: Mondays, 1 and 2 January, 25 and 26 December.

Tip: every first Thursday of the month evening opening until 9 p.m.

SPECIAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE attractions

City walks and tours A default maximum of 20 people per tour guide applies in this case. You may be required to visit exhibitions and or take special tours with smaller groups.

The Guides’ Association will gladly inform you about this.

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Museum Vleeshuis (Butcher’s Hall) | Sound of the City Vleeshouwersstraat 38 - 40, 2000 Antwerp www.museumvleeshuis.be > Open:

daily, except Mondays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Exceptionally open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. > Closed:

Mondays, 1 and 2 January, 1 May, Ascension Day, 1 and 2 November, 25 and 26 December.

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Town hall Grote Markt 1, 2000 Antwerp > Open: on request and subject to change.

Churches

Paleis op de Meir | Former Royal Palace Meir 50, 2000 Antwerp www.paleisopdemeir.be > Open:

daily from 9 a.m. until 5.30 p.m.

Visit after booking through Antwerp Tourism & Convention.

St. Charles Borromeo’s Church Hendrik Conscience Plein 6, 2000 Antwerp www.mkaweb.be > Open: church: Monday > Saturday from 10 a.m. until 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. lace room: individual visitors: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. until 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Thursdays: on request. groups: daily on request with the exception of Sundays and public holidays.

Red Star Line [from 2012] Rijnkaai 15, 2000 Antwerp www.redstarline.be

St. Joseph’s Church ship Haven 526, Noorderlaan 499, 2030 Antwerp www.kerkschip-Antwerpen.be

Rubens’ House Wapper 9 - 11, 2000 Antwerp www.rubenshuis.be > Open:

daily except Mondays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Exceptionally open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. > Closed:

Mondays, 1 and 2 January, 1 May, Ascension Day, 1 and 2 November, 25 and 26 December.

Tip: free entrance every last Wednesday of the month!

Your ticket also grants you free admission to Museum Mayer van den Bergh.

St. Paul’s Church Veemarkt 14, 2000 Antwerp www.mkaweb.be > Open: April 1 > 31 October, daily from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. > Closed: for tourist visits during religious services.

‘Ruihuis’ The underground canals | short visit Suikerrui 21, 2000 Antwerp www.ruihuis.be > Open:

Monday and from Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. > Closed:

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, 25 December and 1 January.

The Cathedral of Our Lady Handschoenmarkt, 2000 Antwerp www.dekathedraal.be > Open: Monday > Friday from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., Sundays and public holidays from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. > Closed: for tourist visits during religious services.

SPECIAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE attractions

Museum Plantin-Moretus/Prints Room Vrijdagmarkt 22, 2000 Antwerp www.museumplantinmoretus.be > Open:

daily, except Mondays, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Exceptionally open on Easter Monday and Whit Monday. > Closed:

Mondays, 1 and 2 January, 1 May, Ascension Day, 1 and 2 November, 25 and 26 December.

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THE ‘RUIEN’ ADVENTURE

an underground journey through the vaulted canals

MAS | MUSEUM AAN DE STROOM

Opening of this brand-new contemporary Museum on May 17th 2011!

Opening exhibition:

MASTERPIECES IN THE MAS | FIVE CENTURIES OF THE IMAGE IN ANTWERP The exhibition shows how Flanders and Antwerp figure as a cradle of current visual culture as demonstrated by the confrontation of the works of old masters with that of contemporary artists.

Explore the belly of the city and find out some interesting facts and hear the mysterious tales!

In 2008, the ruien were awarded the Flemish Monument Prize.

Visit for groups every day [except Tuesday, Wednesday, December 25th and January 1st] at 10 AM and at 2 PM.

Only telephone reservation possible at: +32 3 232 01 03

Book your tickets now at +32 3 232 01 03!

For more information contact: Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13 - BE-2000 Antwerp www.antwerpen.be/visit

For more information contact: Antwerp Tourism & Convention, Grote Markt 13 - BE-2000 Antwerp www.antwerpen.be/visit

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CITY CENTRE AND SURROUNDING AREA To Antwerp!

Reaching Antwerp

KAPELLEN A12 Bergen op Zoom

DOEL

N1

aldo

a Kan

BRASSCHAAT

k

N11

E19 Breda - Amsterdam

Churchilldok

Thalys to Amsterdam

Peerdsbos N115 Leopolddok Vierde Havendok

Fortress St. Marie

SCHOTEN MERKSEM

Vijfde Havendok

Sch

P+R

eld

e

Albert

E34 Bruges - Coast

Kanaal N120

N12

ANTWERPEN-DAM

Waasland tunnel

DEURNE

P+R

N70 MELSELE

WIJNEGEM

P+R

ZWIJNDRECHT

Sterckshof

Galgenweel

ANTWERPEN-CENTRAAL

E313 Cologne Aix-la-Chapelle Liège - Hasselt

BORGERHOUT

City Park

BURCHT

E34 Eindhoven

ANTWERPEN

Kennedy tunnel

WOMMELGEM ANTWERPEN-BERCHEM

ANTWERPEN-ZUID

R11 BORSBEEK

BERCHEM

E17 Lille - Courtrai - Ghent

N419

Antwerpen Deurne

Middelheimpark

HOBOKEN KRUIBEKE Schoonselhof

A12 Brussels

WILRIJK

E19 Brussels - Paris

Thalys toMORTSEL Brussels

N10

by car If you are coming by car, follow the P-route to the car parks in the city centre. A parking fee is applicable in most streets in the city centre from Monday up to and including Saturday to ensure that Antwerp is easy to navigate for residents and visitors.

Alternatively you can drive to the edge of the city and park your car in a Park & Ride zone (Metropolis, Sportpaleis or Left Bank) and then take the pre-metro tram into the city centre. Or why not consider an environmentally friendly alternative to your car.

Antwerp encourages residents and visitors to move around the city by bus, pre-metro tram, bicycle or on foot. by coach near the historic city centre There is a large free coach parking at Scheldekaai 19, near Zuiderterras along Plantinkaai.

Easy, affordable and ideally located near the Sint-Jansvliet meeting point (entrance to the pedestrian tunnel) and within walking distance of the Steen Fortress, the Plantin-Moretus Museum/ Prints room and the office of Antwerp Tourism & Convention on Grote Markt! Upon request your guide will wait for you at the guides’ office near the entrance of this coach parking. by train into the heart of the city The glass desk of Antwerp Tourism & Convention on the ground floor of Antwerp’s Central Station is the starting point for many walking tours. From Central Station or ‘Antwerpen-Centraal’ you can easily reach Grote Markt (Groenplaats stop) by pre-metro tram. For the Zurenborg neighbourhood walk (see page 62) we recommend that you take the train to Antwerpen-Berchem.

COLOPHON

Touring Antwerp with an official guide The brochure ‘Touring Antwerp with an official guide’ is a publication of the City of Antwerp and Antwerp Tourism & Convention. It was compiled with great care. Antwerp Tourism & Convention cannot be held responsible for printing errors or changes. No part of this publication may be used by third parties without prior written consent of Antwerp Tourism & Convention.

Publisher & publication: Antwerp Tourism & Convention - Annik Bogaert Grote Markt 15 - BE-2000 Antwerp Coordination: Antwerp Tourism & Convention Patrick Van de Velde - Vera Goossens - Cindy Bollen Copywriting & Concept: Rick Philips with the cooperation of: Antwerp’s official guides the working groups of the Product unit of the Royal Society of Antwerp Guides the Guides’ Association of Antwerp Tourism & Convention Graphic design: 10 Advertising, www.10.be Photos and illustrations: Jan Crab Dave Van Laere Sofie Coreynen Cartography: Nick Van Hee Printed by: Printing office Albe De Coker D/2010/0306/279

TOURING Antwerp with an official guide

guided walks, tours, bike tours and coach tours for groups and interactive tours for schools and social-cultural education

TOURING Antwerp with an official guide www.antwerpen.be/visit +32 3 232 01 03