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Stadspark: Antwerp's Urban Oasis

Discover Antwerp's green heart: Stadspark, a historic urban oasis offering tranquility, recreation, and cultural experiences in the city center, easily accessible and perfect for all.

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Escape the urban bustle in Antwerp's Stadspark, a verdant retreat in the heart of the city. This 14-hectare park, designed in the English landscape style, offers winding paths, a serene pond, and a variety of statues and monuments. Originally a Spanish fortification, Fort Herentals, the park was transformed in the late 1860s by architect E. Van Cuyck. Today, it's a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, whether they're jogging, picnicking, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment amidst the greenery. The park also hosts community events and art exhibitions, making it a vibrant hub of activity. Despite its central location, Stadspark provides a welcome respite from the city's noise and offers a chance to connect with nature.

A brief summary to Stadspark

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience before the crowds arrive.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy by the pond, but be mindful of park regulations regarding outside food and drinks during events.
  • Check the park's event calendar for community gatherings, art exhibitions, or seasonal activities.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking or jogging on the park's scenic trails.
  • Take advantage of the park's central location and explore nearby attractions like the Diamond District or Antwerp Central Station.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Stadspark is easily accessible via Antwerp's extensive tram and bus network. From Antwerp Central Station, take tram lines 1, 10, 3 or 5 and disembark at the 'Stadspark' stop, which is directly adjacent to the park. Alternatively, several bus lines also stop near the park, including lines 13, 20, 70 and 72. A single 'm-ticket' purchased via the De Lijn app costs €1.80 and is valid for 60 minutes of travel. A day pass costs €7.50 and allows unlimited travel for 24 hours.

  • Walking

    From Antwerp Central Station, exit onto Astridplein and walk south along De Keyserlei. Continue straight, crossing the Franklin Rooseveltplaats. Turn left onto Rubenslei, and the park will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. From the Grote Markt, walk north along Meir, Antwerp's main shopping street. Turn right onto Wapper, then left onto Leysstraat. Continue onto Maria Henriettalei, which leads directly to the park's southern entrance. This walk takes approximately 20 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available throughout Antwerp. A short ride from Antwerp Central Station to Stadspark typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and surge pricing. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    Driving to Stadspark is possible, but parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. Street parking is limited and primarily reserved for residents. Visitors are encouraged to use underground parking garages. Several parking garages are located within walking distance of the park, including INDIGO Opéra and BEPARK Anvers Meir. Parking rates typically range from €2.30 to €5.70 per hour. Alternatively, consider using a Park and Ride (P+R) facility on the outskirts of the city and taking public transport to the park. P+R Luchtbal offers parking for €1 per day (24 hours) and tram line 1 directly to Stadspark.

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Discover more about Stadspark

Stadspark, Antwerp's beloved city park, offers a tranquil escape from the surrounding urban environment. Spanning 14 hectares, this green oasis is located in the heart of Antwerp, bordered by Rubenslei, Van Eycklei, and Quinten Matsijslei. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. Originally the site of Fort Herentals, a Spanish fortification, the area was transformed into a park in the late 1860s by Antwerp architect E. Van Cuyck. The design, influenced by the English landscape style and landscape architect E. Keilig, features winding pathways, expansive lawns, and a serene pond that traces part of the former fort's moat. This transformation created a romantic and picturesque setting, making Stadspark a unique green space within Antwerp. The park's design incorporates several notable features. A white-painted pedestrian bridge, constructed in 1869, gracefully arches over the pond, offering elevated views and a charming focal point. Artificial rock masses integrate the bridge seamlessly into the landscape. Statues and monuments dot the park, adding historical and artistic interest. These include a World War I memorial and tributes to prominent figures, reflecting Antwerp's rich cultural heritage. Stadspark is more than just a pretty space; it's a vibrant hub of activity. Joggers, walkers, families, and rollerbladers frequent the park, creating a lively atmosphere. Children enjoy the playground, while others relax on benches or picnic by the pond. The park's diverse collection of trees, including yew trees, American linden, cypresses, and a Japanese walnut tree, provides shade and visual interest throughout the year. Throughout the year, Stadspark hosts various community events, art exhibitions, and seasonal activities. These events engage both locals and visitors, fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for cultural enrichment. From open-air concerts to art installations, there's always something happening in Stadspark. While Stadspark offers a welcome escape, its central location means that city noise is still audible. However, the park's beauty and tranquility outweigh this minor drawback. Recent renovations have addressed issues with water levels in the pond, ensuring the park remains a vibrant and healthy ecosystem. Despite being in the city center, the park provides a green lung for Antwerp. It is a place where people can relax, exercise, and connect with nature. The park's historical significance, artistic features, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Antwerp. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a lively community gathering, Stadspark offers something for everyone. Ongoing efforts to improve the park include upgrades to entrances, pathways, and hydrology. These improvements aim to enhance accessibility, preserve the park's historical character, and ensure its long-term sustainability. The park's pond is being revitalized with excess rainwater and groundwater, maintaining a healthy water level and supporting the park's ecosystem. Stadspark is easily accessible by public transport, bicycle, or on foot. Its proximity to Antwerp Central Station and other major transportation hubs makes it a convenient destination for visitors arriving from all directions. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist exploring Antwerp, Stadspark offers a refreshing and enriching experience.

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