Attractions Nearby Antwerp, Day Trips and Excursions

(Antwerp, Antwerpen, Flanders, Belgium, BE

Eastern Flanders is an appealing part of Belgium and contains many popular attractions close to Antwerp. Also known as Pallieterstad, Lier sits close to the meeting point of both the Grote River and the Kleine Nete, within striking distance of Antwerp.

Lier is home to attractions such as its central square of the Grote Markt, its beautiful rococo-style Town Hall (Stadhuis) and the adjoining 14th-century Belfort, which is famed for its grand turrets. The Belgian capital of Brussels is surprisingly close to Antwerp and many people choose to pay a visit to this vast metropolis and its endless attractions, which include the Brouwerij Belle Vue Brewery, the Oceadium and the magnificent Royal Palace (Palais Royal).

Brussels

Located some 56 km / 35 miles directly south of Antwerp, Brussels is the proud Belgian capital and filled with an array of prominent landmarks, such as the 11th-century St. Michael and Gudula Cathedral, the Grand Place (Grote Markt), and the Brouwerij Belle Vue Brewery, where quality Belgian beer can be sampled and purchased. During the summer, the Oceadium water park within the Bruparck is always busy, along with its further attractions of Mini Europe (Mini Europa) and the iron molecule structure that is the Atomium.

Lier

A relatively small town with a population approaching 35,000 people, Lier is extremely close to Antwerp and a mere 18 km / 11 miles to the south-east. Lier has a definite vibe when the sun begins to set and has become famous for its lively nightlife throughout the Flanders area, with many people congregating here to party, particularly in the holiday season.

Lichtaart

Located approximately 47 km / 29 miles east of Antwerp, most tourists visit the town of Lichtaart for one thing and one thing only, its thrilling roller coaster within the Bobbejaanland theme park. Founded in 1961, Bobbejaanland grew to stand amongst Europe's most popular amusement parks of its kind and is home to endless attractions for thrillseekers, which are often housed within themed western-style village areas. Look out for the 4D theatre, the El Rio, Locomotion and also the Thrillenium Ride. The park is open daily during the summer months, from 09:30 to 18:30.

Mechelen (Mechlin)

A large and bustling Dutch-speaking city with a population of almost 80,000 residents, Mechelen can be reached in around 20 minutes, lying just 26 km / 16 miles to the south of Antwerp. Many tourists choose to take a day trip to Mechelen and come to see its many sights, of which the St. Romboutskathedraal (St. Rumbolds Cathedral) is one of the main attractions. This much-photographed cathedral was completed in the mid-16th century and is situated on Mechelen's central Grote Markt square, featuring a tower stretching almost 100 metres / 328 feet high. The tower can be climbed, although this will need to be arranged in advance. Also look out for the 13th-century Brusselpoort gateway, the town's interesting municipal museum (Museum Hof van Busleyden) and the popular Tou Museum (Speelgoedmuseum) along Nekkerspoel.