How long does it take to walk through Antwerp's historic center?

This specific route takes approximately 90 to 120 minutes depending on how long you spend at the museum courtyards and the library square.

Is the Plantin-Moretus Museum worth visiting?

Yes, it is the only museum in the world with UNESCO World Heritage status and houses the world's oldest printing presses, making it a must-see for anyone interested in history and technology.

Is Antwerp a walkable city?

Antwerp is extremely walkable, especially the historic center. Most major landmarks, including those on this route, are located within a short distance of each other on flat terrain.

Can I see the Nottebohm Room at the Heritage Library?

The Nottebohm Room is often closed for preservation but is occasionally open for exhibitions and guided tours. However, the exterior and the Hendrik Conscienceplein are accessible daily.

What is the Vrijdagmarkt famous for?

The Vrijdagmarkt is famous for its weekly Friday morning auction of second-hand furniture and goods, a tradition that has continued for over 400 years.

What is the best time to start this self-guided walk?

Starting around 10:00 AM is best, as this aligns with the opening times of the museums and libraries, and allows for a lunch break in the historic center.

Are there many stairs on this Antwerp walking route?

The route itself is flat and step-free, though some historic buildings like the Maagdenhuis may have small steps at their entrances.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step back into the Golden Age of Antwerp, a time when the city was the printing capital of the world. This self-guided walk explores the indelible mark left by the Plantin-Moretus family, whose legacy is preserved in the only museum in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, you will discover how the invention of the printing press transformed human knowledge and fueled the Renaissance. This walking route is not just about books; it is about the power of ideas and the individuals who risked everything to spread them. Your journey begins at the legendary Plantin-Moretus Museum, where the world’s oldest printing presses still stand. From there, you will stroll through the Vrijdagmarkt, a square that has witnessed centuries of trade and public auctions. As you move toward the Sint-Andries district, once known as the 'Parish of Misery,' the narrative shifts to the social fabric of the city and the lives of the workers who kept the presses running. The route also introduces you to the Maagdenhuis, a former orphanage that highlights the city's long-standing commitment to social welfare and education. To conclude this literary exploration, you will visit the Heritage Library Hendrik Conscience. Named after the man who 'taught his people to read,' this library is a treasure trove of Flemish history and culture. This neighborhood stroll offers a profound look at how Antwerp became a beacon of intellectual freedom. Whether you are a bibliophile, a history enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, this experience allows you to explore at your own pace, uncovering the hidden stories etched into the city's walls and courtyards. Experience a walking tour Antwerp enthusiasts recommend for its deep dive into the city's intellectual soul.

Highlights

The world's oldest printing presses at the Plantin-Moretus Museum

The historic Vrijdagmarkt and its centuries-old auctioning tradition

The social history of the 'Parish of Misery' in Sint-Andries

The Maagdenhuis, a former 16th-century orphanage with a rich art collection

The stunning Heritage Library Hendrik Conscience and its Jesuit origins

Tour Stops (6)

Plantin-Moretus Museum

Begin your self-guided adventure at the doorstep of the Plantin-Moretus Museum. This isn't just a museum; it was the home and workshop of Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus, the most influential printers of the 16th century. In an era when books were hand-copied or rare, this family established a printing empire that produced Bibles, maps, and scientific texts for all of Europe. Inside these walls sit the two oldest printing presses in existence. The building itself, with its stunning Renaissance courtyard and leather-clad rooms, feels as though the printers have just stepped out for a break. It is the only museum in the world recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, symbolizing the global impact of the printed word.

Vrijdagmarkt

Step into the Vrijdagmarkt, or 'Friday Market.' For over 400 years, this square has been the site of a weekly market where second-hand goods and furniture are auctioned off. Look for the statue in the center—it depicts Catherine of Alexandria, the patron saint of the cloth dyers. During the time of Plantin, this square was a bustling hub of commerce and social interaction. Imagine the noise of auctioneers calling out prices as residents bid on household items. Today, it remains one of Antwerp's most atmospheric squares, surrounded by charming cafes and traditional facades, serving as a perfect example of how the city blends its medieval past with modern life.

Sint-Andriesplaats

As you walk toward Sint-Andriesplaats, you enter the heart of the Sint-Andries district. Historically known as the 'Parish of Misery,' this neighborhood was home to the city's working class and dockworkers. While the Plantin-Moretus family lived in luxury, the people here faced harsh conditions. However, this area also fostered a strong sense of community and rebellion. Today, the square is a vibrant community hub, but if you look closely at the architecture and the nearby church, you can still feel the grit and resilience of Antwerp’s history. It’s a stark contrast to the intellectual wealth of the printing houses, reminding us of the diverse social layers that built this city.

Oudaan

The Oudaan street serves as a bridge between the old city and the developing 19th-century districts. Here, the historic fabric of Antwerp meets modern civic life. You'll notice the striking contrast between the traditional brick buildings and the 1950s police tower that looms nearby. Historically, this area was a transition zone for trade and administration. As you walk along, consider how the city has expanded and modernized while keeping its medieval core intact. This street highlights the evolution of Antwerp from a walled fortress town to a sprawling European port, where the legacy of the Golden Age still influences urban planning and cultural identity.

Maagdenhuis

The Maagdenhuis, or 'Maidens' House,' is a hidden gem on the Oudaan. Founded in the 16th century, this building served as an orphanage for young girls, teaching them skills like lace-making and sewing to ensure they could support themselves. The courtyard is a peaceful sanctuary, and the museum inside houses a remarkable collection of art and historical artifacts donated by wealthy patrons over the centuries. It reflects the philanthropic spirit of Antwerp’s elite during the Renaissance. The wooden 'foundling drawer' near the entrance is a poignant reminder of the social challenges of the past and the city's efforts to care for its most vulnerable citizens.

Heritage Library Hendrik Conscience

Your walking route concludes at the Heritage Library Hendrik Conscience, located on one of the most beautiful squares in Antwerp. Named after the famous Flemish novelist, this library has been collecting books since 1481. The highlight is the Nottebohm Room, a breathtaking 19th-century library hall filled with old globes and thousands of leather-bound volumes. The building originally served as a Jesuit sodality, and the adjacent Carolus Borromeus Church is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. This site represents the culmination of Antwerp’s literary journey—from the first printed pages of Plantin to the preservation of Flemish identity through literature. It is a fitting end to a walk dedicated to the power of the written word.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 'Ink and Ideas' route is ideal, as it connects the UNESCO-listed Plantin-Moretus Museum with the Heritage Library, covering the city's Golden Age and literary history over a 2km walk.