The Best Hotels in Antwerp Old City, Belgium
Antwerp, Belgium’s second city, is a magnet for art and history lovers, who enjoy visiting its diamond district, museums, such as the Museum aan de Stroom, and the Cathedral of Our Lady. For a holiday in historical surroundings, stay in the old city, brimming with charming hotels. Here’s our pick of the top hotels in Antwerp Old City – bookable with Culture Trip.
In Antwerp, wander medieval cobbled lanes lined with Flemish Renaissance architecture, sip coffee in hipster cafes and watch the city lights reflect off the Scheldt River by night. When you’re ready to rest, the old city has excellent places to stay – many of them set in historic buildings – whether you’re looking for sumptuous suites, snug B&Bs or spa getaways.
1. Hotel O Kathedral
Independent Hotel
Savour views of the Cathedral of Our Lady from this classy hotel in the heart of the city. Its lavish romantic rooms have been decorated with Rubens-inspired art on the walls and ceilings, making it feel like you’re sleeping beneath a famous painting. Opt for a romantic, deluxe or tower room for views of the cathedral; all feature ensuites, designer furniture and hardwood floors. If you have a sweet tooth, Hotel O Kathedral has an in-house chocolate shop where you can enjoy a coffee and a selection of Belgian treats.
2. Banks
Independent Hotel
Banks hosts ever-changing art exhibitions created by young Belgian artists, with some of their work displayed in the walled courtyard. This outdoor space is part of the Daytime Café, where you can take advantage of free drinks and snacks between 4.30pm and 8pm. In cooler weather, there’s also the Lazy Lounge, complete with a fireplace. Book an executive room on the top floor for a cathedral view, a rooftop terrace and even an outdoor sauna. Banks sits in the centre of Antwerp near the market squares and cathedral.
3. Gulde Schoen
Luxury, Boutique Hotel
The Gulde Schoen (Golden Shoe) is a high-end all-suite hotel in an Antwerp landmark that once served as a monastery, a palatial home and an antique dealer’s residence. Today, the fully restored 14th-century building features a baroque entrance arch and tranquil inner courtyards. Decadent suites come with living rooms, and many also have kitchenettes, fireplaces, wood-beamed ceilings and views of the cathedral bell tower. Nothing is too much trouble for the concierge, who can arrange private butler service, babysitting and massages.
4. Hotel Franq
Independent Hotel
Stay in a neoclassical building, once housing a bank, with a Michelin-star restaurant in the centre of Antwerp. Named after Belgium’s former currency, Franq features interiors with marble pillars, fine wine cellars and cavernous atriums, with original beams visible in some of the rooms. Don’t miss chef Tim Meuleneire’s Belgian-French menu at Restaurant Franq; there’s also a chic, Parisian-style bar with an outdoor patio that buzzes in summer. Take advantage of the fitness area and central location on Kipdorp Street.
5. Hilton Antwerp Old Town
Hotel
6. Hotel De Witte Lelie
Hotel
7. Bed and Breakfast Rosier 10
Hotel
8. Hotel ‘t Sandt
Hotel
9. Hotel Julien
Hotel
10. Hotel Rubens
Hotel
11. Hotel Les Nuits
Hotel
12. The Soul Antwerp
Hotel
The Soul Antwerp, overlooking the Neptune sculpture on Marnixplaats, offers luxury studios in the Zuid (South) area. Each studio is contemporary in design and has all the comforts of home, with an open kitchen, a sitting area, a sleeping area and a bathroom with a walk-in shower. Rates for extended stays are possible. This option is good for people looking for an independent experience of Antwerp.
13. Boutique Hotel Diamonds and Pearls
Hotel
This is an updated version of an article originally by Niall McGrade.
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.