Privat biltransfer från Brussels till Antwerp

Whether you take the direct or scenic route, you'll know you've reached the end of this trip when mouthwatering confectionary stores stand on almost every corner. This short and sweet voyage resembles Antwerp's most sought-after features: diamonds and chocolate. To uncover how to make the most of this Belgian road trip, continue reading our in-depth guide with insider travel tips and tricks below!

Due to its location and vast size, it became a crucial hub for trade between the British, German, and French empires. Although wines, clothes, and spices were arguably its most significant exchanges during this period, the diamond market put it on course for what people most know the city for today.

Recent and modern Antwerp

Sandwiched between France and Germany, Antwerp was the epicenter of WW1 and WW2. Nazi Germany had invaded on both occasions, and it became one of the nation's most heavily inflicted cities, with over 3,000 deaths in the first six months. Fortunately, British troops liberated the town in September 1944. From then on, Antwerp's economy underwent an exceptional economic resurgence, most notably with the help of its diamond industry.

Today, Antwerp still has close ties to its historical roots. It has one of the world's largest ports, serving over 800 destinations, and many welcome cruise liners from across the globe. The city also has the most extensive diamond district worldwide. Whether it's lavish megastores or cozy shops, it's just rows and rows of dazzling jewelry stands. Although Antwerp is a wealthy city, it retains a lively personality, especially in its old town, where beautiful Renaissance-style buildings hide its bustling Red Light District.

• Language: Dutch, German, French
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Time zone: GMT+1
• Climate: temperate maritime
• Plug types: C and E
• Fun Fact: Antwerp trades over 85% of the world's production of rough diamonds

Try to travel during the weekend and avoid the rush hours of 6:30–9:00 AM and 3:30–6:00 PM. Also, consider visiting the cities during the shoulder seasons rather than the busy summer months.

Delve back in time

Believe it or not, some modes of transportation can transport you back thousands of years (sort of). Just a stone's throw from the free-flowing E19 Brussels to Antwerp highway, you can visit sights that illustrate what life was like in previous centuries.

The Waterloo battlefield showcases the location that ended Napoleon's reign through Europe. Fort Breendonk, a former German concentration camp, gives a small insight into the dark side of modern history.

Understand Flanders

Although Belgium is one small nation, it has three distinctly unique regions with different cultures and ways of life. When you travel from Brussels to Antwerp, you'll ride from the capital region, where most people speak French, to the Flemish territory, where Dutch is the mother tongue.

The food, architecture, and tipping culture change as you cross this imaginary border. So, speak to your local Daytrip driver to uncover the secrets, or bring a reliable travel guide if you opt for public transport.

You can purchase a ticket online or at the station from Brussel-Centraal Railway Station to Antwerpen-Centraal Railway Station. On average, 72 direct services run between the cities daily, but traveling outside peak hours will be quieter and more wallet-friendly.

• Cheapest/highest train fare: $12-$30
• Fastest/average train duration: 34 minutes; 46 minutes
• First/last departure times: 12:30 AM-11:56 PM

Buses from Brussels to Antwerp

If you're traveling on a budget, the bus is the best mode of transportation for you. Thanks to numerous budget-friendly bus firms operating on this journey, you can find seats for rock-bottom prices.

Flixbus and Infobus are the two primary providers. The most convenient route for most travelers is from Brussels Gare du Nord to Antwerp van Ertbornstraat, both centrally located. However, there are dozens of pickup points around the city. So, double-check your ticket before the day of travel.

If you're arriving at or staying near Brussels Airport, you can travel directly to Antwerp with Flibco without a transfer to downtown Brussels.

• Cheapest/average bus fare: $3.50-$12
• Fastest/highest bus duration: 40 minutes; 1 hour, 10 minutes
• First/last departure times: 12:20 AM-10:25 PM

Daytrip from Brussels to Antwerp

Daytrip's private door-to-door service is by far the easiest and most comfortable travel method from Brussels to Antwerp. In an hour, your professional driver will greet you at your hotel, manage your luggage, and whisk you directly to your new accommodation in Antwerp. As this is your private vehicle, you don't need to worry about noisy passengers and can unwind with modern conveniences like reclinable seats and air conditioning.

But you're not obliged to go straight from Brussels to Antwerp. At Daytrip, we add luxury but never compromise on adventure. Our optional sightseeing packages allow you to appreciate fascinating cities you have arguably never heard of. You can stop at Mechelen, home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or Leuven, housing two UNESCO landmarks and the Stella Artois Brewery, a must for beer enthusiasts!

Wherever you choose, you can do it in the vacationing spirit. With your luggage safely stored in the trunk, you won't need to hurdle it over brick-paved lanes or search for a storage locker!

• Seats from: $29
• Flexible schedule
• English-speaking driver
• Clean, sanitized, smoke-free vehicle
• equipped for pets, kids, groups, or those with limited mobility
• 24/7 customer support
• Free cancelation 24 hours before departing

Inside, you can admire magnificent works by the renowned artist Peter Paul Rubens, including The Elevation of the Cross and The Descent from the Cross. The cathedral's grandeur and stunning stained glass windows make it a must-visit.

Stroll through Zoo Antwerpen

Dating back to the 1840s, Antwerp Zoo is the oldest animal park in Belgium. Since World War II, the space has dedicated itself to helping wildlife meet aesthetic standards.

Today, it’s home to over 5,000 animals on its vast 25 hectares of land. You can be part of the 1.1 million visitors witnessing various creatures, from buffalos to reptiles and apes to lions. When traveling as a family, you better ensure you have enough space on your timetable for this animal-lover paradise!

Learn history at Het Steen

Het Steen will undoubtedly be one of the most exciting history lessons you've ever experienced. Don't worry if you're not a history buff, as you can get lost in its eerie alleyways and enjoy the scenes from the panoramic terrace.

This might not seem like the largest medieval castle in Europe. However, what you see today was just the gateway to the collapsed structure that housed the Dukes of Brabant! You can learn about how a fire destroyed this fort and much more in your free self-tour!

Climb the MAS Museum

Built in 2011, the MAS Museum was and still is the most extensive museum in the city. Its eye-catching artistic style hides exhibitions displaying artifacts and stories about the Antwerp Port's rich history.

But the highlight of this building is the rooftop terrace, which gives a 360-degree view of the city and is where you'll find locals gathering for a picnic in the sunshine!

Residents will also appreciate you visiting in the shoulder months rather than the busy season. In the summer, crowds can interfere with daily lives, whether on public transportation or finding a seat on their lunch breaks. So, by visiting from mid-May to mid-June, you'll contribute to sustainable travel and help businesses become less reliant on the peak season!