Antwerp, Belgium 4-Day Trip Itinerary

Train to Antwerp

Depart from Amsterdam Centraal and enjoy a scenic train ride to Antwerp Centraal.

Intercity trains are generally dog-friendly, allowing your furry companion on a leash. Smaller dogs in carriers often travel free.

Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up

Arrive at your hotel, check in, and settle in before heading out to explore the city.

Casual Lunch Near Station

Grab a quick and casual lunch at one of the many cafes or eateries around Antwerp Centraal Station, many with outdoor seating suitable for you and your dog.

Explore the Diamond District

Take a leisurely stroll through Antwerp's famous Diamond District, right next to the train station.

Marvel at the sparkling shop windows and soak in the unique atmosphere.

Grote Markt & City Hall

Head to the historic Grote Markt, Antwerp's 'Great Market' square.

Admire the stunning Renaissance architecture of the City Hall and the guild houses. Find a dog-friendly cafe with outdoor seating to enjoy a drink and people-watch.

This is a prime spot for social interaction and enjoying the city's pulse. Many cafes have blankets for outdoor seating in cooler weather. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188636-d273960-Reviews-Grote_Markt-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html?m=66827

Cathedral of Our Lady (Exterior)

Walk around the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

While dogs aren't allowed inside, its Gothic architecture is stunning from the outside, and the surrounding area is lovely for a stroll.

Admire the exterior and the surrounding Groenplaats square. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188636-d242682-Reviews-Cathedral_of_Our_Lady-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html?m=66827

Dinner in the Old City

Savor Belgian cuisine at a dog-friendly restaurant in the charming old city, or choose a cozy pub for a relaxed dinner.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to start your day.

Plantin-Moretus Museum (Exterior & Courtyard)

Visit the historic Plantin-Moretus Museum.

While dogs are not permitted inside, you can admire its beautiful courtyard and the historic facade, immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a 16th-century printing house. The area is lovely for a walk.

Enjoy the exterior and surrounding streets. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188636-d242684-Reviews-Museum_Plantin_Moretus-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html?m=66827

Rubenshuis Walk

Walk by the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of the famous Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.

Admire the exterior and the charming street it's on.

Lunch in 't Eilandje

Head towards the trendy 't Eilandje district for lunch.

This revitalized port area offers many modern cafes and restaurants, some with outdoor seating overlooking the docks.

MAS Museum & Port House Area Walk

Explore the area around the MAS - Museum aan de Stroom.

While the museum itself doesn't allow dogs, you can walk your dog up the escalators to the panoramic rooftop for incredible views of Antwerp and the port. Then, take a leisurely stroll around the modern Port House (Havenhuis) for impressive architecture.

The public route to the MAS rooftop is free and dog-friendly. Enjoy the contemporary architecture of the Port House.

Scheldt River Walk

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the banks of the Scheldt River.

The scenic promenade offers fresh air and great views, perfect for you and your dog.

Social Drinks at a Bar

Find a cozy, dog-friendly bar for a pre-dinner drink.

Antwerp has many establishments that welcome well-behaved dogs, especially in the quieter early evening hours.

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Discover a charming local restaurant or brasserie for dinner, perhaps trying some traditional Belgian stew or mussels.

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel to start your day.

Zurenborg Art Nouveau District Walk

Explore the stunning Zurenborg district, known for its beautiful Art Nouveau and fin-de-siècle architecture.

This residential area is perfect for a leisurely dog walk, admiring the unique buildings and quiet streets.

Take your time to soak in the architectural beauty. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188636-d501651-Reviews-Zurenborg-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html?m=66827

Cogels-Osylei Architectural Stroll

Continue your architectural exploration along Cogels-Osylei, a street within Zurenborg famous for its eclectic and grand mansions.

It's a picturesque walk.

An extension of the Zurenborg experience. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188636-d523330-Reviews-Cogels_Osylei-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html?m=66827

Lunch in Berchem

Enjoy lunch in the Berchem area, near Zurenborg.

You'll find a variety of local eateries, many with outdoor seating options.

Relax in Stadspark

Head to Stadspark (City Park) for a relaxing afternoon.

This beautiful park is a green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a long walk with your dog, relaxing on a bench, and enjoying the tranquility.

Stroll down Meir Shopping Street

Take a walk along the Meir, Antwerp's main shopping street.

Even if you're just window shopping, the architecture of the buildings is impressive, and the lively atmosphere is great for people-watching.

A pedestrian-friendly street. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g188636-d2716976-Reviews-Meir-Antwerp_Antwerp_Province.html?m=66827

Farewell Dinner & Belgian Beer

Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a highly-rated dog-friendly restaurant.

Consider pairing your meal with one of Belgium's renowned beers.

Breakfast at Hotel & Check-out

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel and complete the check-out process.

Explore Antwerp Central Station

Before you leave, take some time to admire Antwerp Centraal Station, often called the 'Railway Cathedral'.

Its grand architecture is a sight to behold and worth a final look.

Last Dog Walk or Souvenir Shopping

Enjoy a final leisurely walk with your dog in a nearby park or do some last-minute souvenir shopping in the area around the station.

Lunch Before Departure

Have a final Belgian lunch before heading to the train station for your journey back to Amsterdam.

Return Train to Amsterdam

Board your train at Antwerp Centraal for your comfortable journey back to Amsterdam Centraal.