Cycling in Antwerp

Cycling through Antwerp is surprisingly fun and convenient. Not all main attractions are located in the city centre and this way you can see a lot in a short time. The advantage of the bicycle is that you can cover more ground than on foot and you can easily reach hidden treasures. There is plenty to discover. Feel like cycling in the centre of Antwerp or beyond? With these tips, we will help you get going.

Renting bikes in Antwerp

You can choose to take your own bikes on the train, but it is a lot more practical to rent bikes in Antwerp. You will find bike rental companies all over the city. If you stay overnight in the centre, it is most convenient to rent bikes at Fietspunt Antwerpen Centraal at the Central Station. Feel free to walk in and rent a bike.

Another good option is Velo. It is simple: you buy a day pass for a city bike, find a bike in your area and off you go. You can find more information about the Velo collection points and buying a day pass on the Velo website.

Another great system is Blue-bike, the Belgian public transport bike. You can find the bikes at the station.
Read more about Blue-bike in Belgium

Routes for cycling in Antwerp

You bike a number of beautiful routes through Antwerp and its surroundings. Visit Antwerp has mapped out various cycling routes that will take you past the most beautiful places so you won't miss a thing. With the Easy-going cycle route, you will pass all the highlights of the city and enjoy panoramic views, concealed green spots and the most beautiful works of art along the way. Are you fond of architecture? Then cycle past the most impressive buildings with the cycling architecture tour. The newest route to cycle from Visit Antwerp is the Urban Jungle cycle route (as yet Dutch only). On this route, you will cycle in Antwerp city as well as in the port area. You can easily plan a day for this, because you will definitely stop and enjoy the surroundings along the way.

Cycling in Antwerp via nodes

Would you prefer to map out a route yourself that suits your wishes? Then discover the Antwerp area via the various cycling nodes. Both in the centre of Antwerp and in the surrounding area, there are many beautiful roads that connect these nodes. There are several handy apps you can download to help you plan your own route using the nodes. You can plot a route via Routeyou.be or via Vlaanderen Fietsland. On both websites, you will also find routes created by other users. Useful for inspiration and so you don't have to reinvent the wheel.
A bit peckish after all that cycling? Find the best restaurants in Antwerp to relax and unwind.

Tips voor biking in Antwerp city

Fair is fair. Antwerp is not the easiest city to cycle in. Especially in the centre, the route regularly goes over cobblestones and tram tracks. Fortunately, the Dutch residents are used to a lot of things, so don't let this stop you from getting on your bike. Please remember that it is very busy in the centre of Antwerp. It is advisable to use a phone holder. This way, you will be able to follow your route safely. As in the Netherlands, traffic from the right always has the right of way, unless otherwise indicated. And just like in the Netherlands, wearing a helmet is not compulsory. Antwerp is a big city and there are always road works going on somewhere. Before you leave, check whether your mapped-out cycle route is fully accessible on Slimnaarantwerpen.be. It would be a shame to discover that (part of) the route is blocked while on route.
Read more tips for your city break to Antwerp here

© Visit Flanders

Travel to Antwerp by train

Did you know that you can also bring your own bike to Antwerp when travelling by train? If you take your bicycle with you on Intercity Brussels, you will need a bicycle ticket. Read more about your taking bicycle on board. Want to take the train to Antwerp? Book your train tickets to Antwerp online.

Intercity Brussels becomes Eurocity Direct and EuroCity from 15 December

From 15 December 2024, the name and route of Intercity Brussels will change. The fast train to Brussels will soon be called Eurocity Direct. In addition to the Intercity, there will also be an extra train to Belgium, EuroCity. Until that date, you can continue to travel on the current trains.
More information about the new trains between the Netherlands and Belgium

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