Citytrip Antwerp

Day 1: Arrival and dinner

Arrive whenever suits you and take your time to soak up the city. Go for a stroll, pop into a museum or settle straight away on a terrace. In the evening, take a seat at Fine Fleur or Bar Bulot, where seasonal produce and Belgian finesse take centre stage.

Day 2: diamonds, fashion and evening atmosphere

Today, the diamond district is on the agenda, with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour. You’ll discover how craftsmanship and tradition have kept Antwerp sparkling for generations. Back at Botanic, enjoy a festive high tea with Maison Ruinart ‘R’ Brut, finger sandwiches, scones and patisserie by Roger van Damme. Anyone who says no to this has only just eaten. The afternoon is yours to spend as you wish: the fashion district, the KMSKA, the Rubens House or simply strolling through the city as the lights slowly come on. In the evening, soak up the atmosphere in the historic centre, with a fine glass of wine within reach.

Day 3: relaxation, brunch and a personalised piece of jewellery

Start the day with some time in the spa or gym at Botanic Sanctuary. Next up is the famous Sunday brunch: oysters, Belgian cheeses, hot dishes and live music. Round off the day at Elliot & Ostrich, with a visit to The Nest workshop. Amidst gold, gemstones and stories, something personal takes shape here: a piece of jewellery with character.

Frequently asked questions about this Antwerp city break

When is the best time for this city break?

Antwerp is charming all year round, but May to September offer the best weather for sitting outside. Want to catch the famous fashion sales? Then plan your trip for January or July. Bear in mind that most museums are closed on Mondays, so it’s best to plan your cultural visits at the weekend.

Is the city easy to explore on foot from the hotel?

Absolutely. The Botanic Sanctuary is situated in a central, green location. The fashion district, the diamond district and the historic centre are all within a 10 to 15-minute walk. A car is more of a hindrance in the city centre; Antwerp is best explored on foot, by shared bike or with a short taxi ride if the typical Belgian weather is a bit of a nuisance.

What about reservations for Sunday brunch and dinners?

As hotspots such as Fine Fleur and the luxury Sunday brunch at the Botanic Sanctuary can be fully booked months in advance, Caractère prefers to secure these tables for you at the time of booking. This way, you’re guaranteed a spot and all you need to do on arrival is sit down and enjoy the oysters and champagne.