Boutique Hotels in Antwerp: Hip Design in Belgium

Antwerp is one of Belgium’s most historic cities, but it’s also known as the coolest and most progressive city in the country.

In this guide, we recommend where to stay with a focus on boutique hotels with unique design features.

Boutique Hotels in Antwerp

Antwerp is centred around the Grote Markt, the most beautiful square in the old town that is known for its incredible Flemish Renaissance architecture. My top pick is just near here.

While my top pick stands out for its exceptional qualities, I understand the importance of variety in finding your ideal stay.

Below, you’ll find a curated selection of hotels categorised by style to match your specific needs.

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• Next Best: A standout alternative.
• Unique: Cool design aesthetics.
• Value: Great features vs price.
• Luxury: A 5-star experience.
• Where to Stay: Explore the city’s districts.

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Next Best

August
Address: Jules Bordetstraat 5, Antwerp
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Lovely minimalist design in beige and black adds to the August hotel’s warm and cosy atmosphere. Located in the lovely Green Quarter, the hotel is a peaceful oasis away from the bustling city centre.

Cool and Unique

Hotel De Witte Lelie
Address: Keizerstraat 16-18, Antwerp
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If you love a hotel with unique and eclectic design features, Hotel De Witte Lelie is quite special, like no other hotel in Antwerp. The lush furnishings, colourful wallpaper and quirky bathrooms add to the appeal.

The hotel is also known for its wonderful staff, who go above and beyond. Located near Groenplaats, it is ideally situated for most trips to Antwerp.

Hotel Julien
Address: Korte Nieuwstraat 24, Antwerpen, Belgium
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Hotel Julien has been one of Antwerp’s top boutique hotels for quite some time. You’ll find light-filled rooms with open beams and high-quality fittings and furnishings.

Located in a former palace, the historic building has been wonderfully transformed into a calm and restful hotel in the city centre.

Luxury Stay

Hotel Franq
Address: Kipdorp 10-12, Antwerp District, Belgium
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This luxury boutique hotel is one of Antwerp’s finest. Their focus is on exceptional service and attention to detail.

Located 5 minutes from the Grote Markt, it’s central to many of the city’s sights, museums and restaurants, including the hotel’s own restaurant.

Bike rental is available, and the hotel has an electric vehicle charging station.

This article is part of our series on the best places to visit in Belgium.

Where to Stay in Antwerp

When considering where to stay in Antwerp, various areas cater to different interests and preferences.

Here’s an overview of the best areas for visitors:

Historic City Centre: The heart of Antwerp, known for its stunning architecture, including the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Grote Markt. The area is rich in history, with cobblestone streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and antique shops.

Zuid (South): Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, Zuid is a trendy neighbourhood with a mix of modern art galleries, stylish bars, and eclectic eateries. It’s also home to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, making it a favourite among art enthusiasts.

Het Eilandje: This revitalised docklands area is perfect for those interested in Antwerp’s maritime history and modern development. Attractions include the MAS Museum and the Red Star Line Museum.

Berchem: Just outside the city centre, Berchem is known for its Art Nouveau architecture and peaceful residential streets. Berchem’s Cogels-Osylei is a must-visit for architecture buffs.

Plan Your Trip

For more information, Visit Antwerp is a great resource regarding sightseeing and itineraries.

Responsible Travel Tips

Here are a few tips on how we can travel more responsibly in Antwerp.

• Renewable energy: Look for places to stay that are powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or green energy providers. This helps reduce your carbon footprint while staying in Antwerp.
• Food waste: When dining out, order portions you can finish and if you can’t, ask to take leftovers away.
• Sustainable diets: Pick restaurants and cafes that serve locally sourced, organic, vegetarian, or vegan options. Antwerp has a growing number of places focused on sustainable eating, with dishes featuring local Belgian produce.
• Transport options: Take advantage of Antwerp’s extensive bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes to explore the city. Public transport is another efficient way to get around, with trams and buses offering extensive coverage. Walking is also a great option in the compact city centre.
• Avoid flying: Consider alternative modes of transport to reach Antwerp if you’re coming from nearby places. The city is well-connected by train to other major cities in Belgium and neighbouring countries, providing a more eco-friendly travel option than flying.
• Local community: Shop at local markets and boutiques for unique finds and support local artisans. Visit cultural sites and museums to appreciate and contribute to preserving Antwerp’s rich heritage.

By following these steps, you contribute to a more sustainable visit to Antwerp, ensuring that the city remains vibrant and beautiful for future visitors.

If you have questions or want to leave a hotel review, please do so in the comments.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.