Discover the Best Day Trips from Antwerp

Antwerp is a treasure trove of historic sites and museums, but the adventure doesn't stop there. Belgium's compact size makes it easy to explore the surrounding areas with convenient day trips.

Whether you're journeying from Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, or Brussels, a host of Belgian highlights await. Discover the top destinations within a short drive from Antwerp.

1. Mechelen

Just 23 kilometers south of Antwerp, Mechelen boasts a medieval charm with its circular old town and preserved architecture. The Grote Markt features 16th to 18th-century gabled houses and the Stadhuis, a blend of the 1320-built Lakenhalle and a 1529 addition by Charles V. Nearby, the Sint-Rombouts Cathedral and its towering clock are not to be missed. Explore further to discover the Huis de Zalm, an art and craft museum, and the Haverwerf's historic houses.

2. Lier

Lier, a quaint town 19 kilometers from Antwerp, survived WWII's destruction and retains its historic charm. The Grote Markt's 18th-century Town hall and Gothic belfry stand out, along with the Vleeshuis and notable guild houses. Don't miss the Begijnhof monastery complex and the Sint-Gummaruskerk, a Gothic masterpiece housing art treasures, including works by Rubens and the silver Shrine of St. Gummarus.

Guided tours in Antwerp

3. Aalst

Aalst, nestled between Ghent and Brussels, is rich in history and architecture. The vibrant Aalst Carnival is a highlight, while the Grote Markt's Belforten Van de Arbeid and Borse van Amsterdam are architectural gems. Castle Terlinden's storied past and St. Martin's Church with Rubens' paintings add to the allure. Aalst is 64 kilometers from Antwerp.

4. Turnhout

Turnhout, 42 kilometers northeast of Antwerp, flourished as a medieval trade hub. The town's 12th-century castle and 13th-century Beguinage are highlights, along with the Church of St. Peter and its intricate 19th-century pulpit.

5. Willebroek

Willebroek, known for Fort Breendonk, is a poignant WWII site. The fortress, built between 1906 and 1914, became a concentration camp under German occupation. Today, tours reveal the fort's grim history.

6. Sint-Niklaas

Sint-Niklaas, 27 kilometers west of Antwerp, is famed for its vast Grote Markt and the neo-Gothic Stadhuis. The town's patron church, Sint-Niklaaskerk, dates back to 1238 and has been expanded over the centuries.

7. Dendermonde

Dendermonde, 38 kilometers from Antwerp, showcases its textile industry heritage through well-preserved historical monuments and the Grote Markt's enclosed Flemish square.

8. Diest

Diest, a market town 60 kilometers from Antwerp, is surrounded by farmland. The town hall's cellars host the Stedelijk Museum, and the Church of Sint Sulpitius is a prime example of Brabant Gothic.

9. Geel

In Geel, 40 kilometers east of Antwerp, the late Gothic Sint-Dimpnakerk is known for its art treasures and unfinished massive tower.

10. Vordenstein Park

Close to Antwerp, Vordenstein Park is a local favorite for outdoor activities, featuring 33 nature trails and a diverse array of wildlife.

Belgium and Antwerp: After exploring Antwerp, consider visiting other Belgian attractions. For more ideas, check out our articles on the Top Tourist Attractions in Antwerp and the Top Tourist Attractions in Belgium.