Antwerp is a city that invites exploration. Its compact medieval core, bustling port, and striking architecture make it ideal for guided tours that cover history, culture, and contemporary life. Unlike many tourist cities, Antwerp’s best tours often include active experiences—think biking through the dockyards or wandering cobblestone streets—giving you a more authentic feel of local life. We especially like the Antwerp Bike Tours for their friendly guides and flexible routes, and the Dark Side of Antwerp Private Tour for a more offbeat, atmospheric peek into the city’s shadowy past. Whether you enjoy pedaling, strolling, or uncovering secrets, Antwerp has a tour to match.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of guided experiences—from bike rides and walking explorations to e-scooter adventures and specialty tasting tours. For those who want a thorough overview, the Antwerp Bike Tours and Guided Bike Tour are excellent picks. History lovers will appreciate the Walking Tour of Antwerp Old City, while those craving something unique might enjoy the Dark Side Private Tour. Foodies can indulge in the Tasting Tour, and families or casual visitors might find the E-kickscooter Tour to be lively and fun. Now, let’s take a closer look at each experience and what makes it special.
1. Antwerp Bike Tours
At number 1 on our list, the Antwerp Bike Tours is a top choice for its comprehensive 3-hour exploration of the city. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 200 reviews, it’s clear travelers love the friendly guides and tailored routes. This tour covers the bustling docklands, medieval architecture, and Art Nouveau buildings, giving you a well-rounded introduction. What makes it distinct is the choice to cycle along subterranean cycleways and enjoy rooftop city views—an active, immersive way to learn about Antwerp’s layers of history and modern development.
The tour is family-friendly and small-group focused, which means more personal attention. Reviewers mention that guides like Stefano and Steven go above and beyond to customize the experience, asking what you’ve already seen and adjusting accordingly. The highlight is cycling through different neighborhoods, experiencing the city’s rhythms firsthand. The price—$34.76 per person—offers excellent value for a flexible, three-hour guided adventure.
Bottom line: If you want a dynamic, personal, and active way to see Antwerp, this bike tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys physical activity and wants a broad, engaging overview of the city.
2. Historical Walking Tour in Antwerp Old City
Number 2 is the Historical Walking Tour in Antwerp Old City, which weaves through cobbled streets, iconic squares, and historic landmarks. Priced at just $3.47 per person, it offers remarkable value. The 2.5-hour walk is led by knowledgeable guides like Shanmon and Luc, who share rich stories about Antwerp’s past from the Grote Markt to the Cathedral of Our Lady.
This tour excels at offering a deep dive into Antwerp’s architecture and legends, with stops at the 190-year-old train station, the Opera House, and the renovated Stadsfeestzaal. Reviewers praise the guides for their engaging storytelling and attention to interests, making it accessible for first-timers and history buffs alike. It’s ideal if you prefer to explore on foot and want a detailed narrative that ties together the city’s medieval and modern layers.
Bottom line: For those wanting an affordable, leisurely overview packed with stories and history, this walking tour is hard to beat.
3. Antwerp: Guided Bike Tour
Coming in at number 3, the Antwerp: Guided Bike Tour offers a spirited way to cover the city in 2 hours. It includes visits to Grote Markt, Het Steen fortress, and the Cathedral of Our Lady. This tour stands out for its insider stories, fun facts, and a route that swings past Viking-era sites and modern landmarks.
Led by a local guide, the ride provides a balanced mix of history, legends, and contemporary Antwerp. Reviewers mention the seamless experience, with some noting the ferry crossing and tunnel ride as highlights, adding an element of adventure. The tour is well-paced, with enough time to get a feel for the city without feeling rushed. It’s a good choice for active travelers who want a quick but thorough overview, and the price makes it accessible for most budgets.
Bottom line: If you’re looking to see the main sights with added stories and a bit of fun travel logistics, this guided bike tour is a smart pick.
4. Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp
Number 4, the Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp offers a focused 2-hour exploration led by charismatic guides like Dirk and Marijke. Priced at $22.51, it hits the sweet spot for a quick, enriching city overview. The tour takes in the Grote Markt, Vlaeykensgang alley, and Antwerpen-Centraal station, sharing stories that bring these landmarks to life.
This tour is especially appreciated for its storytelling and the way guides personalize the experience. Reviewers love the detailed explanations of architecture and legacies, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time. It’s walkable, relaxed, and gives a solid foundation for further exploration.
Bottom line: Perfect for a short, engaging introduction to Antwerp’s highlights, combining storytelling with easy walking.
5. Private Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp
Number 5, Private Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp offers a different angle—exploring the city’s mysterious, less-known stories. This 2-hour private experience takes you past landmarks like Grote Markt, Het Steen, and DIVA Museum, with a focus on medieval legends and hidden gems.
A private tour allows for more tailored storytelling, and reviewers like Luc and Marleen highlight the engaging, personable guides who share spicy tales and secrets of Antwerp’s darker history. It’s ideal if you prefer a more intimate, flexible experience and enjoy stories that aren’t in the brochure. The $101.59 price is justified by the personalized attention.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in Antwerp’s mystery and stories behind the scenes, this private tour offers a memorable, customized experience.
6. Antwerp: The Big Five City Highlights E-kickscooter Tour
Number 6 is the E-kickscooter Tour, perfect for active travelers who want to cover more ground quickly. In 2 hours, you’ll zip through the Het Eilandje port, Diamond District, and along the Scheldt River, with stops at iconic spots like the Opera House and Het Steen.
This guided electric scooter ride offers smooth, safe driving, with the opportunity to enjoy spectacular river views and city vistas. Reviewers appreciate how the scooter makes navigating the city easier and more fun, especially on a sunny day. It’s a lively, modern way to see Antwerp, suited for those comfortable on a scooter or wanting an energetic alternative to walking or biking.
Bottom line: Good for explorers who prefer a fast-paced, less physically demanding experience that shows a broad slice of Antwerp’s highlights.
7. Tasting Tour: A Taste of Antwerp – by Legends
Number 7, the Tasting Tour: A Taste of Antwerp is a delicious journey through Belgian culinary traditions. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll sample chocolates, waffles, fries, beer, and more, all while hearing stories about their origins. It’s a relaxed, flavorful way to get to know the city’s guilty pleasures.
Reviewed as excellent value, this tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who shares insights alongside tastings. It’s ideal for food lovers who want a hands-on experience with Belgian specialties, and the stops at iconic spots make it both tasty and educational.
Bottom line: If you enjoy food and storytelling, this tour provides a delightful and savory introduction to Antwerp.
8. Antwerp: Dark Side of Antwerp Private Tour
The Dark Side of Antwerp Private Tour offers an evening exploration of the city’s mysterious, secret history. It’s a private experience that takes you past Het Steen and the medieval prison, with stops at the DIVA Museum for insight into the city’s diamond trade’s dark side.
One reviewer raved about the guide’s adaptability and knowledge, making this an intimate way to see Antwerp’s shadowy corners. It’s perfect if you prefer a tailor-made experience and enjoy storytelling that’s a bit darker and more atmospheric.
Bottom line: Best suited for those intrigued by mysteries, legends, or seeking a personalized, evening adventure.
9. Antwerp: Private Christmas Market Tour
Rounding out our list, the Private Christmas Market Tour offers a cozy, festive walk through Antwerp’s enchanted holiday stalls. In about 1.5 hours, you’ll savor mulled wine, listen to carol singers, and explore stalls filled with crafts and seasonal treats.
Perfect for holiday travelers or those seeking a relaxed, atmospheric outing, this tour highlights centuries-old traditions and the city’s charming winter decorations. Reviewers cherish the magical atmosphere and personal attention, making it ideal for families or couples visiting during the festive season.
Bottom line: If you’re in Antwerp during winter, this tour delivers a warm, festive experience that complements the city’s timeless charm.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you want a rundown with some physical activity, the Antwerp Bike Tours or Guided Bike Tour are excellent. For a deep dive into the city’s architecture and legends, the Walking Tour offers a relaxed, detailed experience.
If you’re fascinated by mysteries and dark history, the Private Dark Side Tour is perfect, especially in the evening. Food lovers should consider the Tasting Tour, while families or those wanting a quicker, energetic ride will enjoy the E-kickscooter Tour.
Booking early is wise, especially for private or seasonal tours like the Christmas Market Tour. Always check availability and consider your preferred pace—active tours suit energetic travelers, while more relaxed options are better for leisurely explorers.
Final Thoughts
Antwerp offers a diverse array of tours that showcase its history, food, and modern vibrancy. From energetic bike rides to atmospheric walks and private dark history adventures, there’s something for every traveler. For a comprehensive experience, the Antwerp Bike Tours are hard to beat, especially if you enjoy active exploration. For those interested in local legends and secrets, the private dark history tours will satisfy your curiosity.
Remember, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out, especially during peak seasons or special events. Whichever tour you choose, Antwerp’s charm is best appreciated with a good guide—so get planning and enjoy the journey through this lively Belgian city.