Antwerpen Flanders, Belgium Travel Guide
Antwerp experiences a temperate maritime climate, molded by its proximity to the North Sea. This results in generally mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. The weather changes, so variations are common.
Temperatures in Spring (April-May) are 8°C (46°F) to 17°C (63°F). Summer (June-August) brings 15°C (59°F) to 23°C (73°F). Autumn (September-October) cools to 12°C (54°F) to 18°C (64°F). Winter (November-March) is the coldest, with 0°C (32°F) to 7°C (45°F).
For cultural sightseeing and city exploration, shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offer good weather and overseeable crowds. Late spring and early autumn provide ideal temperatures for outdoor activities like riding a bike or walking tours.
Plan your visit from late November to early January for the festive Christmas markets.
Belgium is part of the Schengen Area.
No visa needed. Enter and reside freely with a valid national ID card or passport.
Schengen Visa (Type C) for short stays (up to 90 days). Long-Stay Visa (Type D) for stays exceeding 90 days. Apply for a Schengen visa here.
Starting mid-2025.
Travelers from USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Japan, South Korea do not need a Schengen visa for up to 90 days.
Visa-exempt non-EU nationals will need ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization for short stays. This is not a visa, but a travel authorization.
Prepare documents in advance.
Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond departure from Schengen Area. Issued within last 10 years, two blank pages.
Completed visa form, two passport photos, travel medical insurance (€30,000 coverage), proof of accommodation, sufficient financial means, round-trip itinerary. Find visa application details.
The standard Schengen visa fee is €80. Reduced fees or exemptions apply for certain categories. The anticipated fee for ETIAS authorization is €7.
Upon arrival at international airports or land borders within the Schengen Area, you will undergo standard passport control. Customs checks are separate and focus on goods.
Generally, no special permits are needed for tourism in Antwerp beyond your visa or ETIAS.
As of early 2024, Belgium has no specific health-related entry requirements for travelers beyond routine international travel vaccinations.
Always check official Belgian government travel advisories close to your departure date for any updates.
If you are an EU citizen, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) gives access to state-provided healthcare at a reduced cost or free.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. SafetyWing for nomads or World Nomads for adventurers are good options. Also consider Insubuy for US visitors.
Antwerp provides encounters for every budget, from frugal backpackers to luxury travelers.
The Euro (€) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available and accept major international debit plus bank cards. Inform your bank of your travel plans.
These are estimated daily costs per person, excluding international flights.
Optimize your budget with these local tips.
Antwerp is a safe city for travelers. Being aware of your surroundings remains a good practice, as in any major city.
No particular vaccinations are needed for entry to Belgium for most travelers. Your routine vaccinations (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Polio, Hepatitis B) should be up-to-date. See your doctor or a travel clinic for personalized advice.
Common colds and flu are prevalent, notably in the wintertime. Practice good hand hygiene. If you plan to spend time in wooded or rural areas, be aware of ticks, notably during warmer months. Use Insect repellent.
Tap water in Antwerp is safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle. Food hygiene standards are high in restaurants, cafes, and markets, making dining safe.
Tap water is safe and potable.
Food poisoning from reputable establishments is rare.
Antwerp maintains a safe environment. Petty crime like pickpocketing occurs in crowded tourist areas (Central Station, Grote Markt, Meir, public transport). Be watchful, keep valuables secure. The Diamond District has high security. The Red Light District (Schipperskwartier) is generally safe, but use caution at night.
Generally safe for travelers.
Avoid displaying a lot of cash or leaving belongings unattended.
Belgium has a low risk of major natural disasters. Icy conditions occur in winter, making sidewalks slippery; wear appropriate footwear. Heatwaves happen in summer, requiring hydration and shade.
Low risk of major natural disasters.
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly advised for all travelers.
| Service | Number | Details |
|---|---|---|
| General Emergency | 112 | For police, fire, ambulance (European emergency number). |
| Local Police (non-emergency) | 101 | For non-urgent police matters. |
| Embassy/Consulate | Refer to your nation of origin's official website | Contact details for lost passports or serious incidents. |
