Getting Around In Antwerp

Antwerp is a city that was built for exploring on foot, and many of the main attractions are within easy walking distance of most lodgings. This means that you will rarely need to use the efficient city transit service, which consists of a fledgling Metro system of trams and underground trains as well as a very extensive public bus network. Taxis are available, but are not as numerous as in other main European cities and are best called in advance when you need one.

By Metro

 Antwerp’s Metro system is currently formed by trams that run routes through both above ground and underground stations. This system will be gradually expanded in the future to mature into a proper subway network. The Metro is the best way to reach the other side of the Scheldt River, a line which links Centraal Station (Diamant Metro Station) to the Cathedral area (Groenplaats Metro Station) and across the river to Linkeroever Metro Station. You can buy special passes that allow unlimited travel on all of the city public transportation for specified periods.

By train

Antwerp’s magnificent Centraal Station has services to smaller stations in outlying areas as well as to Berchem Station (Antwerp International Airport). Centraal Station is connected to all areas of the city by a network of buses, trams and subway trains.

By bus

De Lijn operates the city’s extensive bus network as well as services to towns and cities across Belgium. Within the city, there are very reliable and frequent services linking all the main tourist destinations as well as Centraal Station and the airport. Generally, local buses operate between 06:00 and midnight, and there are special passes available for various time periods that allow unlimited travel on the city’s buses, trams and Metro.

Taxis

There are clearly marked taxi stands in all popular locations around the city, but sometimes it’s quicker just to call one and have it pick you up. You can also try your luck at flagging one down. Being a walking city, there are not that many taxis in central parts of Antwerp waiting around hoping for a fare.

Tourist services

Antwerp is well geared for tourists, and the city runs plenty of guided tour services for visitors. These can be walking tours throughout the old city district, guided tours of a particular attraction, or scenic boat tours along the Scheldt. Information on various tours can be obtained from the tourist information booths at the airport and at Grote Markt.

From the airport

There are frequent and regular shuttles running between Antwerp International Airport and popular locations around the city, with the journey taking around 15 minutes. Berchem Station is very convenient to the terminal, and offers access to both Antwerp’s Centraal Station and other train stations on the main line running between Paris and Amsterdam. There are always plenty of taxis on standby at designated areas immediately outside the terminal exit, while those wanting to have their own transportation during their stay can pick up a rental car.