Antwerp Free Tour
Grote Markt, Het Steen, Rubens and the Vlaeykensgang, with a guide in English
Reserve your free spotQuick answer
Yes, it is free: no ticket, you tip the guide at the end. Antwerp Free Tour meets at Brabo Statue, Grote Markt (Market Square), lasts about 2h and is guided in English; rated 9.3/10 from 630 reviews on Civitatis.
Start times vary by date and are confirmed when you book.
A two-hour walk through the historic centre of Antwerp, led in English from the Brabo statue on the Grote Markt, the main square in front of the town hall. The guide explains how the city rose to wealth and global importance in the 16th century, then moves on to Het Steen, a medieval fortress by the port, St Charles Borromeo Church with its Rubens works, and the Boerentoren. The route also takes in Rubens's house and the Vlaeykensgang, a lane little changed since the 16th century.
The Grote Markt shows Antwerp's 16th-century golden age, when it was a hub of world trade. From there you reach Het Steen, the old fortress that protected the port the city lived on, and St Charles Borromeo Church, known for its Rubens artwork. The Boerentoren, officially the KBC Tower, stands for modern Antwerp and was one of Europe's early skyscrapers. Around Rubens's house the guide talks about the painter's ties to the city, and the Vlaeykensgang is a lane that has barely changed since the 16th century.
Tour highlights
- Grote Markt and Brabo statue
- Het Steen
- St Charles Borromeo Church
- Boerentoren (KBC Tower)
- Rubens's house
- Vlaeykensgang
Good to know before you go
- The tour is limited to 6 participants; larger groups need a private tour.
- A brochure with a map and discounts is included; hotel pick-up is not.
- If you cannot attend, cancel the reservation so the guide does not wait for you.
Meeting point
Brabo Statue, Grote Markt (Market Square)
Brabo Statue, Grote Markt (Market Square)
After the tour
This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Antwerp Free Tour really free?
Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.
Where does the Antwerp Free Tour start?
The tour meets at Brabo Statue, Grote Markt (Market Square) (Brabo Statue, Grote Markt (Market Square)). The exact meeting point and how to spot your guide are confirmed in your Civitatis booking.
How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?
It lasts around 2h and is guided in English. One booking covers up to 6 people; larger parties need a private tour. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
Is the Antwerp free tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is listed as wheelchair accessible.
How do I recognise the guide?
The guide carries a big red umbrella and waits in front of the Brabo statue on the Grote Markt. Arrive about 10 minutes before the start.
Can I join with a large group?
No. The free tour takes a maximum of 6 participants. For larger groups a private tour of Antwerp is the option.