Is the St. Anna Tunnel free to use?

Yes, the Sint-Annatunnel is completely free for pedestrians and cyclists. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing a vital link between the two banks of the river.

Where is the best place to take a photo of the Antwerp skyline?

The best views are found immediately after exiting the Sint-Annatunnel on the West Bank (Linkeroever). The area known as the Boeienweide offers an unobstructed panoramic view of the Cathedral and city center.

Can I bike this walking route?

Yes, this entire route is very bike-friendly. The tunnel has dedicated space for cyclists, and the paths along the Galgenweel and Wandeldijk are wide and paved.

Are there places to eat on the Left Bank?

Absolutely. The Sint-Annastrand area is famous for its 'mosselrestaurants' (mussel restaurants) and casual cafes, many of which offer outdoor seating with river views.

Is the walking route accessible for strollers?

Yes, the route is very accessible. The Sint-Annatunnel has large elevators for strollers and wheelchairs, and the paths on the Linkeroever side are mostly flat and well-paved.

What is the Galgenweel known for?

Galgenweel is Antwerp's largest lake and is primarily known as a center for sailing and water sports. It offers a peaceful natural setting with a unique view of the city's residential architecture.

How do I get back to the city center from the beach?

The easiest way is to take the free 'Sint-Anna' ferry which runs between the Left Bank and Steenplein near Het Steen. Alternatively, you can walk back through the tunnel.

Is it worth visiting Linkeroever?

Yes, it is highly recommended for those who want to see the city from a different perspective. It offers the best views, more green space, and a quieter atmosphere than the busy historic center.

Can you swim at Sint-Annastrand?

No, swimming in the Scheldt river is strictly prohibited due to dangerous currents and heavy shipping traffic. However, the sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the bustling cobblestone streets of the city center and discover the 'other side' of the Scheldt. This self-guided walk invites you to explore Linkeroever, or the Left Bank, a neighborhood that offers the most breathtaking skyline views of Antwerp and a surprisingly lush, natural landscape. Your walking route begins in the historic heart of the city, taking you through an engineering marvel before emerging into wide-open spaces that feel worlds away from the urban core. What makes this route special is the transition between the medieval and the modern. You will experience the iconic Sint-Annatunnel, a 1930s pedestrian passage beneath the river, famous for its original wooden escalators. On the other side, the path leads you along the riverside, past the sailing enthusiasts at Galgenweel and toward the sandy shores of Sint-Annastrand. This neighborhood stroll is a favorite for locals looking for fresh air and the perfect sunset photograph. While many visitors stay within the shadow of the Cathedral, this walking tour Antwerp experience provides a different perspective on the city's maritime heritage. From the ancient stones of Het Steen to the breezy Wandeldijk, you will witness how the river Scheldt has shaped the city’s identity. Whether you are interested in mid-century architecture, harbor history, or simply finding a quiet spot in nature, this self-guided adventure offers a refreshing alternative to a standard guided tour Antwerp experience. Prepare for wide horizons, maritime breezes, and the best photography spots in the city.

Highlights

Ride the iconic 1930s wooden escalators in the Sint-Annatunnel

Snap the perfect Antwerp skyline photo from the Left Bank

Discover Het Steen, the city's oldest fortress

Watch sailboats on the Galgenweel, a massive urban lake

Relax on the sandy Sint-Annastrand 'city beach'

Walk the scenic Wandeldijk for panoramic river views

Tour Stops (6)

Sint-Annatunnel naar Linkeroever

Start exploring with Zigway at the entrance to one of Antwerp's most beloved landmarks. Completed in 1933, the Sint-Annatunnel was a feat of engineering, designed to connect the city banks without obstructing the busy shipping traffic with a bridge. As you descend, notice the authentic wooden escalators. These are rare survivors from the Art Deco era and still function perfectly today. The tunnel itself stretches 572 meters beneath the Scheldt river. It is a quiet, echo-filled space used daily by commuters and cyclists. Feel the temperature drop as you walk deep underground, moving from the historic center toward the open spaces of the Left Bank.

Het Steen

Before crossing the river, take a moment at Het Steen, the oldest building in Antwerp. This fortress dates back to the 11th century and has served as a castle, a prison, and even a sawmill. Today, it stands as the gateway to the city, housing a visitor center and an interactive museum about Antwerp’s history. Look for the statue of Lange Wapper out front—a legendary giant said to terrorize the city's residents. From this vantage point, you can see the scale of the river Scheldt, the lifeblood of Antwerp's economy for centuries. This is a perfect spot to appreciate the city's medieval roots before you head into the more modern landscapes across the water.

Sint-Annatunnel (West Bank)

After walking through the tunnel, you emerge on the Linkeroever side. The first thing you will notice is the transformation of the view. From here, the Antwerp skyline unfolds in all its glory. You can clearly see the spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady, the modern MAS museum, and the various church towers that define the city's silhouette. This side of the river was originally intended to be a massive residential expansion in the 1920s, but today it remains a peaceful, green alternative to the city's right bank. It is the premier location for photography enthusiasts, especially during the 'golden hour' when the sun sets behind you, illuminating the city in a warm glow.

Galgenweel

Head south to reach Galgenweel, a large brackish lake that is a hub for water sports. Its name, which translates to 'Gallows Lake,' hints at a darker past when executions were carried out nearby, but today the vibe is entirely recreational. This is the largest lake in Antwerp and is incredibly popular for sailing, windsurfing, and wakeboarding. As you walk the perimeter, you'll see several sailing clubs and a park-like atmosphere that draws nature lovers. The contrast between the white sails on the water and the tall residential towers of Linkeroever in the background creates a unique urban-nature aesthetic that is quintessential to this neighborhood.

Sint-Annastrand

Now, make your way north toward Sint-Annastrand, Antwerp's very own city beach. While you might not want to swim in the Scheldt, the sandy shore is a favorite summer hangout for locals. This area has a distinct 'vacation' feel, lined with casual cafes and restaurants famous for serving fresh mussels. In the mid-20th century, this was the place for the city's working class to spend their Sundays. Even today, it retains a nostalgic, relaxed charm. It’s an ideal spot to take a break, grab a drink, and enjoy the feeling of the sand between your toes while still being within sight of the city's industrial port in the distance.

Wandeldijk

Conclude your neighborhood stroll along the Wandeldijk. This long, paved dike offers a scenic path along the river's bend. To your left, you have the wide Scheldt and the passing container ships; to your right, the green parklands of Linkeroever. This path is perfect for a brisk walk to clear your head. As you walk, you'll notice how the city center slowly recedes, replaced by the vastness of the port area. It is a place of constant movement where you can truly feel the maritime pulse of Antwerp. From the end of this dike, you can easily find your way back to the tunnel or catch the ferry to return to the city center.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full self-guided walk takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, covering about 6-7 kilometers. This includes time to stop for photos at the skyline and a short break at the beach.