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Antwerp Shore Excursion
This
Antwerp shore excursion includes a visit to the medieval town of Ghent where you enjoy a walking tour and visit to its important cathedral. Then in the afternoon you explore the historic center of Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world.
After meeting your guide in Antwerp you start your day by driving to Ghent. Upon arrival you enjoy a short drive through the city and then you begin a more in depth look with a walking tour. At St. Michael's bridge you enjoy the city's most beautiful views in every direction. You see the Old Harbor with its Guild Houses and St. Michael's Church. It is by far the most photogenic spot in town.
You continue your walk in the "Kuip" or heart of the old city where many beautiful buildings are seen at each corner. In the heart of Ghent you see the Gothic Belfry Tower which dates from 1425. Almost as impressive is the Town Hall, which is a mix of architectural styles due to the various centuries through which it was built.
Later this morning you visit the highlight of Ghent, the gothic Cathedral of Saint Baaf. The cathedral is a living museum of sculpture, carvings, wrought iron work and art. The most important painting is "The Adoration of the Lamb of God" by the Van Eyck brothers. Your guide will provide descriptions of the many scenes in this triptych.
Before leaving Ghent you have free time to enjoy lunch (meal not included) in one of the many cafes.
Next you drive to back to Antwerp, which is not only a European cultural city, but also the world center for diamonds and the second largest port in Europe.
The focus of your time is a walking tour devoted to the Market Square with the Town Hall and the beautiful "Golden Age" Guild Houses, the Cathedral of Our Lady with the "Elevation of the Cross" and the "Descent from the Cross" by Rubens, Saint-Paul's Church, the harbor and the Jewish district.
Antwerp was the home town of the Flemish baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens and if you are interests a visit to Rubens' former house is possible (entry not included). In the former home and studio of the master, you set off on a fascinating journey back in time and into the world of this great baroque artist.
Every working day 250 million dollars worth of diamonds are traded in Antwerp. Next to the historic town hall the new diamond and silver museum, DIVA, boasts a fine collection of historical and contemporary jewels and silverware. If this interests you a visit is possible (entry not included). Or maybe just a stop in the museum shop is enough.
There is also a lot of modern architecture in Antwerp which can be seen on the drive back to the port. For example, the new Palace of Justice by Richard Rogers, the "Museum aan de Stroom" by Neutelings & Riedijk and the new Port House by Zaha Hadid.
Mobility: NO wheelchairs
If you cannot find what you are looking for, our
Antwerp shore excursions can also be customized to fit your needs. If you have a larger group, we can offer you a private Antwerp tour using a mid-size bus or full size coach. Please contact us with any questions or to receive a customized quote.
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Shore Trip Timing is approximate based on your interests & traffic
- Drive to Ghent - 1 Hour
- Ghent Tour - 2 Hours
- Free time for Lunch - 1.5 Hour
- Drive to Antwerp - 1 Hour
- Antwerp Tour / Free Time - 2 Hours
- Return to pier - 15 Minutes
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