The best hiking routes in Antwerp

Antwerp is a low-lying city shaped by its wide river, the Scheldt, and its massive industrial port. Walking here does not offer deep forests or rolling hills, but rather a stark contrast between paved historic alleys, concrete docklands, and flat, grassy polders. The terrain underfoot is mostly hard asphalt, cobblestones, and packed gravel, with occasional sandy patches near the riverbanks.

Because the city has no large natural parks within its core, walkers must choose between two distinct atmospheres. To the west, the pedestrian underpass leads to the Left Bank, where wide, grassy dikes and muddy tidal flats offer open views of the shipping channels and the city skyline. In contrast, walking through the old center means navigating narrow stone passages, interior courtyards, and busy quaysides where the city meets the water.

In late autumn, particularly around November, the damp river mist often settles over the harbor docks, turning the cranes and brick warehouses into gray silhouettes. The waterfront paths are highly exposed to the elements, while the narrow streets of the old town offer more shelter. You will find that the central historic lanes are often busy with shoppers and visitors, whereas the northern docklands and the far ends of the river dikes are much quieter.