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Antwerpen Travel Tips

Antwerpen Travel Tips

Antwerpen Flanders, Belgium Travel Guide

Stay Connected

Maintain connectivity with various communication options suited for travelers in Belgium.

Communication Options

  • Airalo for eSIMs provides data plans for international travel.
  • Solis Wi-Fi for portable WiFi ensures connectivity wherever you go.
  • Rosetta Stone for language learning can enrich your experience.

Money & Banking

Belgium uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. You can easily find an atm throughout Antwerp.

Financial Tips

  • The local money is the Euro (€).
  • Credit and debit cards are generally accepted everywhere.
  • ATMs are widespread for cash withdrawals.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Belgians appreciate politeness.

Cultural Pointers

  • A firm handshake is common upon greeting.
  • Table manners include keeping hands over the table.
  • A simple 'hello' (goedendag/bonjour) and 'thank you' (dank u wel/merci) is customary.

Tipping & Service

In Belgian restaurants, a service charge is typically included in the price. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is a sign of appreciation.

Service Etiquette

  • Service charge is usually included.
  • Tipping is not required, but appreciated.
  • Consider rounding up or leaving €2-€5 for good service.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

  • Priority Pass provides independent airport lounge access globally.
  • Membership can improve airport experience for those who travel often.

Flight Disruption Compensation

  • Compensair assists with claims for flight delays or cancellations.
  • Seek compensation for denied boarding situations.
  • They process claims for disruptions within their terms.

Quick Tip

Keep a small amount of cash for smaller purchases, though card payments are widely accepted.

Antwerp Dining Overview

Belgian cuisine is known for quality ingredients and generous portions, blending French, Dutch, and German influences.

Staple Ingredients

Potatoes (especially for fries), mussels, various seafood, and meats (beef, pork, chicken) are common.

Dining Customs

Bread often accompanies meals. Use fork and knife. Keep hands above the table. Dinner usually starts from 7:00 PM.

Beverages

Beer is a central part of Belgian culture, used in cooking and widely enjoyed. Jenever is a traditional juniper-flavored spirit.

Signature Dishes

Experience classic Belgian flavors with these essential dishes. Each one offers a real flavor of the region.

Must-Try Food

  • Moules-Frites (Mussels and Fries): Steamed mussels with Belgian fries.
  • Belgian Fries (Frietjes/Frites): Double-fried, served with various sauces.
  • Carbonnade Flamande (Stoofvlees): Beef stew braised in Belgian beer.

Iconic Snacks & Desserts

Indulge in Antwerp's sweet and savory treats that are known worldwide.

Sweet Delights

  • Belgian Waffles: Pick between Liège (chewy) or Brussels (crispy).
  • Belgian Chocolate: Renowned for its quality, find pralines and truffles.
  • Antwerpse Handjes: Hand-shaped biscuits or chocolates, a local symbol.

Dining Choices & Dietary Needs

Dining Options

  • Fine dining establishments include Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Mid-range restaurants and brasseries offer quality meals.
  • Budget eateries include "frituurs" (fries stands) and sandwich shops.

Dietary Accommodations

  • Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available.
  • Halal restaurants are present in areas with larger Muslim communities.
  • Growing awareness for gluten-free and other allergen needs.

Seasonal Treats

Asparagus, called "white gold," is a spring delicacy. Mussels are best enjoyed in months ending in 'r' (September-April).

Culinary Experiences

Beyond dining, immerse yourself in Antwerp's food culture through hands-on experiences.

Cooking Classes & Tours

Engage directly with Belgian culinary traditions through interactive workshops and guided food explorations.

Hands-on Fun

  • Chocolate Making Workshops: Learn to create Belgian pralines.
  • Beer Tasting Sessions: Guided tastings of various Belgian beers.
  • Food Tours: Explore culinary neighborhoods and taste local specialties.

Unique Dining Concepts

Antwerp features special dining moments that transcend the typical restaurant setting.

Novelty Dining

  • Dinner in the Dark: A unique sensory dining experience.
  • Hidden Courtyard Restaurants: Explore lovely places in historic courtyards.
  • Culinary Festivals and Events: Check local calendars for year-round events.

International Flavors

Antwerp's a varied population means a wide array of international cuisines are available throughout the city.

Global Tastes

  • Italian, Asian (Thai, Japanese, Chinese), Middle Eastern, and Turkish cuisines.
  • The multicultural aspect is especially noticeable around Central Station.
  • Find a vast selection of worldwide culinary experiences.

Markets & Food Halls

Explore Antwerp's food markets and halls for an informal and diverse meal experience.

Market Delights

  • De Vleeshalle: An indoor food hall with various international and local stalls.
  • Vrijdagmarkt: A historic market square surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
  • Farmers' Markets: Regular markets for fresh produce, bread, and cheese.

Important Considerations

Allergen Awareness

  • Clearly communicate any dietary restrictions to restaurant staff.
  • Think about taking a translation card for specific allergens if language is a barrier.
  • Online platforms can help locate suitable restaurants for specific needs.

Kitchen Hours

  • Many kitchens lock up around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM.
  • The evening meal is generally eaten later, from 7:00 PM or 7:30 PM.
  • Plan your dining times accordingly to avoid disappointment.

Special Occasion Dining

Michelin-Starred

  • Antwerp hosts several Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • The Jane, Zilte, and Dôme are noteworthy examples.
  • Reservations are always needed for fine dining.

High-End Experiences

  • Many focus on present-day Belgian cuisine or international influences.
  • Expect exceptional service and ambiance.
  • These venues provide memorable food journeys.

Enjoy Antwerp's Flavors

Antwerp's diverse plus yummy culinary landscape makes for a satisfying visit for food lovers.

Antwerpen Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker