Antwerp Bike Tours Specials: Bikes & Boat Tour

If you’re visiting Antwerp and want to experience the city from two vibrant perspectives, this Bikes & Boat Tour might just be your ideal choice. Offered by Antwerp Bike Tours, this 3.5-hour adventure combines a guided bike tour with a relaxing boat cruise through the bustling port. It’s an engaging way to see the city’s highlights while also enjoying some restful moments on the water.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it allows you to cover a lot in a short amount of time—cycling through Antwerp’s charming streets and then drifting along the Scheldt River for stunning views of the skyline and port. Second, it’s eco-friendly, blending physical activity with a scenic cruise, making it perfect for travelers who want to explore sustainably. Third, the experience is guided by knowledgeable locals, adding a layer of authenticity and storytelling that’s hard to beat.

However, a potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for non-cyclists, since you need to be comfortable riding a bike. Also, weather can impact the experience—heavy rain or slippery conditions might lead to cancellations or make parts less enjoyable. This tour suits active travelers, families with older children, or anyone eager to see Antwerp from both land and water in a relaxed, fun way.

Good To Know

• Dual Experience: Combines a guided city bike tour with a scenic boat cruise.
• Time-efficient: Covers major highlights of Antwerp in just 3.5 hours.
• Eco-friendly: Promotes sustainable exploration with biking and cruising.
• Authentic storytelling: Guided by local experts sharing insights and hidden gems.
• Great views: Offers stunning perspectives of Antwerp’s skyline, port, and river.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for those comfortable on bikes; not for non-cyclists.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Antwerp on Two Wheels

The tour kicks off in a centrally located spot on Paradijsstraat, where your guide awaits near a white garage door marked with the Antwerp Bike Tours logo. You’ll hop on a bicycle, equipped with a helmet (if you want one), a basket, and a water bottle, ready to explore the city’s streets. The guided bike ride lasts approximately two hours, and according to reviews, the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge really enhance the experience.

Expect to cycle through Antwerp’s historic neighborhoods, lively streets, and green spaces. Your guide will point out landmarks, share stories about the city’s history and culture, and reveal lesser-known spots. For example, one reviewer, Miriam, described her experience as “a super fun bike tour with an enthusiastic guide,” adding that she “saw a lot of the city.” The small group size or personalized attention helps make this a flexible, engaging exploration.

The route is designed to be manageable for most, but you should be comfortable riding a bike. The bikes are well-maintained, and the guide ensures safety and direction throughout. The tour covers the city’s highlights but also offers glimpses of Antwerp’s local life, making it perfect whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip.

Scenic Boat Cruise on the Scheldt River

Once the bike tour wraps up at the dock, your guide will lead you to the boat, where you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise along the Scheldt River. The boat is described as comfortable, and the guided commentary—available in English and Dutch—adds context to what you’re seeing.

From the water, you’ll get breathtaking views of Antwerp’s skyline, port, and iconic landmarks. The vantage point reveals details that are often missed from the streets—large shipping vessels, cranes, and the shimmering water reflecting the city lights. One review highlights the cruise as “a scenic boat ride along the river,” offering a relaxing contrast to the energetic bike ride.

The boat cruise provides a fresh perspective, especially for photography lovers or those interested in Antwerp’s vibrant port activity. The guides on board will point out notable sights, making it informative as well as scenic. After the cruise, your guide will meet you back at the dock, completing the loop.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $74 per person, this combined experience balances cost and value well. You’re getting more than just a sightseeing tour—a mix of active exploration and relaxing cruising, all led by knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of bikes, helmets, water, and rain ponchos (if needed) adds convenience, making it a hassle-free adventure.

The tour also emphasizes sustainability, planting trees for every booking. This eco-conscious approach appeals to eco-minded travelers who want to reduce their footprint while enjoying authentic experiences.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts about three and a half hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability. Since the experience ends back at the starting point, no transportation is needed after the tour. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for biking, and check the weather forecast to avoid rain cancellations. Heavy rain or snow could lead to cancellations, so keep an eye on the forecast and plan accordingly.

The meeting point is easy to find, marked by the white garage door with green flags. No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan to arrive there directly. If you’re traveling with children, child seats are available, making it accessible for families with older kids.

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Authentic Experiences and Reviews

One reviewer, Miriam, said, “Had a super fun bike tour with an enthusiastic guide! Seen a lot of the city. Highly recommended to start the day in Antwerp.” Her enthusiasm mirrors that of many travelers who appreciate the lively storytelling and the chance to see Antwerp’s diverse neighborhoods.

Another aspect travelers love is the views from the water. The cruise offers a stunning panoramic view of Antwerp’s skyline and port activity, which truly highlights the city’s importance as a European trading hub.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

This Bikes & Boat Tour offers a fantastic way to combine active sightseeing with leisurely cruising. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a bit of exercise, love scenic views, and want a comprehensive introduction to Antwerp’s highlights in a short time. The guided aspect ensures you gain local insights, making it educational as well as fun.

If you’re traveling with family, don’t mind cycling, and love capturing photos of cityscapes, this experience will likely be a highlight of your visit. It’s especially suited for those who value sustainability and authentic local stories over cookie-cutter tours.

While weather can be unpredictable, the overall value, engaging guides, and balanced itinerary make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Antwerp trip. Just be prepared for some physical activity and dress appropriately for the weather.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-cyclists?
No, since cycling is a core part of the experience, it’s best for those comfortable on bikes.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No, bikes are included in the tour, along with helmets and baskets for your convenience.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Heavy rain or snow may cause cancellations.

Is there a minimum age to participate?
While not explicitly stated, the tour requires riding a bike, so children should be comfortable on bikes and may need child seats.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for biking, and check weather conditions—bring a poncho if rain is forecasted.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and extra drinks are not included, but a bottle of water is provided.

How long is the bike tour?
The bike part lasts approximately 2 hours, followed by a 1.5-hour boat cruise.

Where do we meet?
At Paradijsstraat, near the white garage door with green flags.

Is there a guide during the boat cruise?
Yes, the cruise is guided in English and Dutch, providing commentary on sights.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexible planning.

In the end, the Antwerp Bikes & Boat Tour is a well-rounded experience that hits the sweet spot for active, curious travelers wanting to see the city’s highlights from two perspectives. It’s a smart choice for those seeking an engaging, eco-friendly adventure that combines sightseeing with relaxation.

You can check if your dates are available here: