Weekend in Antwerp
This weekend itinerary offers a perfect balance of free outdoor fun and engaging ticketed attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family without breaking the bank. From Halloween-themed activities to exploring a world of chocolate and animals, your kids will be delighted. Practical tips on transport, dining, and age suitability are included to make your planning seamless. Remember to check specific opening hours and event details closer to the date, as some schedules are subject to change.
Friday Evening - Spooky Family Fun
Friday, October 31Halloween Expedition
Embark on the 'Halloweentocht: Expedition Fear', a kid-friendly Halloween tour perfect for an early evening adventure. This organized event at a playground offers a fun and mildly spooky experience suitable for young children. It's a great way to celebrate Halloween in a community setting.
This event is designed for families with children, offering a safe and exciting Halloween experience. Expect some walking. Check the exact start times and details on their website closer to the date. There will likely be basic facilities available at the playground. Suitable for ages 3-12.
Zwijndrecht is a short drive or public transport ride from central Antwerp. Check local bus schedules to Steenakkerstraat. Parking may be available nearby.
Family Burger Dinner
Enjoy a casual, family-friendly dinner at Burgerij Eilandje, known for its delicious burgers and a dedicated indoor play area for younger children.
This allows parents to relax while kids have fun after their Halloween adventure.
Kids will love the indoor playground, which is visible from the dining area, so parents can keep an eye on them. High chairs are available, and the menu offers kid-friendly options. Restrooms are accessible. It's ideal for winding down after an exciting evening, ensuring an early bedtime.
Located in the Eilandje neighborhood, it's accessible by tram or a short drive. Public parking garages are available in the area (e.g., Q-Park Godefriduskaai).
Saturday - Wild & Wonderful Day
Saturday, November 1Antwerp Zoo Adventure
Spend the morning at Antwerp Zoo, one of Europe's oldest and most beautiful zoos, conveniently located next to Central Station.
Kids will love seeing gorillas, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and many smaller animals. It’s an immersive outdoor experience with historic buildings and plenty of space to explore.
Perfect for energetic kids, with playgrounds inside the zoo and numerous exhibits. Stroller-friendly paths and restrooms are widely available. Allow 3-4 hours for a good visit. The zoo is a fantastic educational experience for all ages. All Saints' Day (Nov 1) is a public holiday, but zoos are typically open.
Easily accessible by public transport as it's right next to Antwerp Central Station. Public parking garages are available nearby (e.g., Q-Park Astrid).
Park Picnic & Play
After the zoo, head to the nearby Stadspark for a relaxing picnic lunch and some free play.
This urban oasis features extensive lawns, a picturesque pond with ducks and swans, and a large, well-equipped playground that kids will adore.
A great spot to let the kids burn off energy after a morning of walking. Pack your own snacks and drinks for a budget-friendly lunch. Plenty of green space for running around, and benches for parents. Restrooms are available in the park. Suitable for all ages.
Stadspark is a short walk from Antwerp Central Station and the zoo. Accessible by public transport, and some street parking may be available in the surrounding area.
Chocolate Nation Experience
Immerse yourselves in the delicious world of Belgian chocolate at Chocolate Nation, the largest Belgian chocolate museum.
Located directly opposite Central Station, this immersive experience takes you on a 60-90 minute journey through 14 themed rooms, culminating in a tasting of 10 different chocolate flavors.
Kids aged 3-12 will love the interactive elements and, of course, the ample chocolate tasting! The museum is stroller-friendly and has restrooms. It's a great indoor option in case of rain or cooler weather. Plan for approximately 1.5 - 2 hours. Workshops are available at an extra cost if desired.
Extremely convenient, located directly opposite Antwerp Central Station. Easily accessible by train, tram, or bus. Public parking garages are available nearby.
Early Family Dinner
Enjoy an early, relaxed family dinner at a child-friendly restaurant.
Consider 'De Melkerij' in Nachtegalenpark for a meal near a playground, or 'Café Kamiel' which is noted for its family atmosphere and proximity to a small city park and playground.
These locations offer good food in a relaxed setting, with options for kids. De Melkerij is situated directly in Nachtegalenpark with an adventure playground nearby, allowing kids to play before or after the meal. High chairs are typically available. Perfect for an early dinner before heading home.
Nachtegalenpark is accessible by tram or bus from the city center. Limited street parking might be available, or a short walk from public transport stops.
Sunday - Relaxed Explorations
Sunday, November 2MAS Kids' Treasure Hunt
Visit the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) for a family-friendly cultural experience.
The MAS offers special treasure hunts like 'MASafari' for children aged 5-10, where they search for animals in the museum while completing assignments. Children under 18 have free access to the permanent collection.
This activity is both engaging and educational. Kids will love the interactive treasure hunt, and the panoramic view from the rooftop is a highlight for the whole family. Restrooms and stroller access are excellent. Allow 2-3 hours. A temporary exhibition, 'Universal Tongue', will also be running.
The MAS is located in the Eilandje district, easily reachable by tram or bus. Public parking is available in nearby underground garages (e.g., Q-Park Godefriduskaai).
Park Spoor Noord Play
Head to Park Spoor Noord, a trendy urban park with extensive playgrounds and green spaces.
Kids will enjoy the variety of equipment, including areas for skating and a large fountain for play (weather permitting). It's a vibrant spot popular with local families.
A great free option for active kids, offering plenty of space to run, climb, and explore. There are often food trucks or casual eateries in the park for snacks. Restrooms are available. Ideal for all ages, with specific areas catering to different age groups. In case of rain, there are covered areas, but it's primarily an outdoor park.
Accessible by tram or bus lines. Some street parking might be available in the surrounding residential areas.
Sweet Treat & Departure
Conclude your weekend with a delightful sweet treat at a local patisserie or ice cream parlor in the city center.
This is a perfect way to relax and reflect on the memorable family adventures before heading home.
Let the kids choose their favorite treat – ice cream, waffles, or a piece of famous Belgian pastry. This offers a relaxed end to the weekend, ensuring everyone leaves with a sweet memory. Many places have family-friendly seating and restrooms.
Centrally located options are easily accessible by foot, tram, or bus. If driving, utilize public parking garages in the city center.
This weekend itinerary for Antwerp can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.