Theatre and culture in the heart of Antwerp
Antwerp’s theatre district is centred around Theaterplein. Here, we find Stadsschouwburg and Bourla. Both are renowned theatres in Antwerp. If you want to catch a musical, opera or play, you’re in the right place. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as popular performances can sell out fast.
The theatre district is also home to several smaller theatres, including Fakkeltheater, Arenbergschouwburg and Theater Elckerlyc. They may be smaller, but they’re certainly worth a visit.
Visit the famous Vogelenmarkt
If you’re in the vicinity on Sundays, you should drop by Vogelenmarkt. It’s one of Antwerp’s most famous markets. It has been around since the 16th century and has evolved from a marketplace for birds and poultry to a bustling market where you can find just about everything. From clothes to toys and even antiques, it truly is a treasure hunt!
Discover the Saturday market at Theaterplein
On Saturdays, you can visit another market. Zaterdagmarkt, or as locals call it, Vreemdelingenmarkt, is a market where you can find all sorts of exotic fruits and vegetables.
Mixed with specialties from around the world, you’ll find some quality Flemish products as well.
Restaurants around Lange Gasthuisstraat
Antwerp’s theatre district is home to a multitude of great restaurants and eateries. After a stroll through the botanical garden, you can enjoy a cosy meal at Café Zeppos.
Walk along Arenbergstraat and you’ll reach Lange Gasthuisstraat, a street packed with culinary highlights. Fine Fleur is an excellent choice for a refined culinary experience, while just a few doors down Bar Bulot at Botanic serves refined cuisine inside a stunning five-star hotel.
Both are perfect for a delicious meal or drink after a nice day of shopping on the Meir. Nearby, Le Pristine is also well worth a visit. Chef Sergio Herman offers a distinctive take on Italian cuisine in a stylish setting.
Dining around the Oudaan and Kleine Markt
Continue towards Oudaan and you’ll find Matterhorn Antwerp, ideal for summer tapas on its beautiful terrace. On the other side of Oudaan lies Kleine Markt, home to Bien Soigné, where you can enjoy intimate, gastronomic dishes.
Dine with a view of the Bourla Theatre
Dining at Restaurant Bourla feels like stepping into old-world Paris. Its classic interior and view of the Bourla Theatre make for a delightful experience. You’ll find it on Graanmarkt.
Restaurants around Theaterplein
Theaterplein itself is the beating heart of the district, filled with restaurants and eateries for every taste. Across from Stadsschouwburg you’ll find Restaurant Fons, the place to be for classic Belgian dishes like vol-au-vent or stew, as well as delicious burgers. A little further, near the Britselei, lies De Broers van Julienne. If you enjoy vegetarian and vegan cuisine, this place is a must-visit.
Discover the best restaurants in Antwerp’s theatre district
With its abundance of restaurants, theatres, markets and cosy streets, Antwerp’s theatre district is the perfect place to combine culture and great food.
From Theaterplein and the Bourla Theatre to Lange Gasthuisstraat and Kleine Markt, there are plenty of places to enjoy a delicious lunch, dinner or drink before or after a performance.