Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis) Tours
A candy-striped confection of white sandstone and red brick, the 14th-century Gothic Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis) originally served as a meat market but now fulfills the more refined role of music museum. Today, you can admire exquisite antique musical instruments such as Delftware mandolins at Museum Vleeshuis.
The Basics
The central location of Butcher's Hall, just off Grand Market Place (Grote Markt van Antwerpen), makes it a popular stop on most Antwerp sightseeing tours, which typically cover Grand Market Place, the Diamond District, and Antwerp Cathedral. Inside the museum, dedicated to the history of music, intricately painted mandolins sit beside harpsichords and pianofortes, while the lower floor houses a workshop that makes brass instruments. It’s also possible to visit the historic center of Antwerp on a day trip from Brussels or Bruges.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Vleeshuis is a must-visit for lovers of Gothic architecture and music.
- There is a small admission fee to enter the museum.
- Day trips from Bruges and Brussels only take around half a day.
- Butcher's Hall is surrounded by buildings that epitomize the city’s Golden Age style.
How to Get There
Butcher's Hall is located at Vleeshouwersstraat 38–40, which is best reached on foot from Grand Market Place but is also accessible by tram 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 15.
When to Get There
The Museum Vleeshuis is open from Thursday to Sunday between 10am and 5pm. The exterior of the building can be enjoyed at any time of day; however, the light for photography is best around sunset.
The Architecture of Antwerp
The grand buildings of central Antwerp were built during the city’s Golden Age, a period spanning the 16th and 17th centuries, when trade was expanding and Antwerp’s citizens were becoming incredibly wealthy. Grand Market Place is surrounded by opulent sandstone buildings that provide insight into the industrial history of Belgium’s second-largest city.
Address: Vleeshouwersstraat 38–40, Antwerp, Flanders 2000, Belgium
Admission: Varies
5 Tours and Activities to Experience Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis)
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Private Tour "Antwerp by Dark”
Get off the beaten track and discover the dark side of Antwerp with your private guide.
This private tour is a great way to skip the touristy trail and get to know the more obscure side of Antwerp. During the 2h tour you will discover the city from a different perspective with its hidden gems and unique sights.
Are you looking for adventure and breathtaking panoramic views? Would you like to hear some medieval legends or “spicy” stories from the Red Light District? Then this tour is for you! Our experienced guides are eager to share with you their knowledge and passion for the city to make your time truly special!
Included:Grote Markt, The Stone Castel, Red Light District, rooftop of MAS Museum, The Old Port, St. Paul’s Church, a trendy modern area “The Island” and many more
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From
$100.40
Price varies by group size
From
$100.40
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
TukTuk tour through historic Antwerp of 1.5 hours
Welcome to Antwerp! With our e-tuktuks we will explore historic Antwerp in a different way: motivated city guides show you the most beautiful places in our city. Our e-tuktuks have a maximum occupancy of 6 people + driver / guide.
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From
$98.27
Price varies by group size
From
$98.27
Price varies by group size
TukTuk Tour through historic Antwerp 2.5h
Welcome to Antwerp! With our e-tuktuks we will explore historic Antwerp in a different way: motivated city guides show you the most beautiful places in our city. Our 2 e-tuktuks have a maximum occupancy of 6 people + driver / guide. The maximum number of people per group is 12 people
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From
$104.57
Price varies by group size
From
$104.57
Price varies by group size
Walk & Explore Antwerp with the interactive Qula City Trail
Price per group of 2-6 people. Within 2 hours the Antwerp City Trail will guide you along the best spots in Antwerp, while playing fun riddles and assignments on your smartphone. Try to set a top score with family or friends and explore the city. There are no fixed starting times or reservations, you pick your own day and time. The Trail is available 24/7 and there is no time limit - you can start, pause and stop whenever it suits you! It's offered in multiple languages (Eng, Ger, Fr, Ned, Sp, It and more).The City Trail is great fun and the most affordable outing for families and groups of friends.
How does it work?
With your booking, you will receive an e-mail with instructions on how to play the Trail on your smartphone. Android or IPhone compatible. Once at the starting point, you begin your quest through the city, it's that easy!
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From
$35.62
per group
From
$35.62
per group
Legends of Antwerp Private Walking Tour
One of Europe’s richest cities during its 16th-century Golden Age, Antwerp is steeped in history. Yet exploring alone can mean skimming over its past, and medieval legends and secrets. This private walking tour ensures you cover the musts—from sights to stories—with a guide. Hear the tales behind attractions such as Grote Markt and the Cathedral; see Rubens House, and chronicle the city’s Golden-Age heyday through in-depth commentary.
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From
$94.49
Price varies by group size
From
$94.49
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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