De Ruien: Antwerp's Subterranean Secrets
Unearth Antwerp's hidden history with a descent into De Ruien, a subterranean network of medieval canals and waterways offering a unique glimpse into the city's past and architectural ingenuity.
Descend into the depths of Antwerp and explore De Ruien, a network of historic canals and waterways hidden beneath the city streets. These ancient passages, once vital for transport and defense, later served as sewers before being covered over. Now, rediscovered and open to the public, De Ruien offers a unique glimpse into Antwerp's past. Don wellies and journey through vaulted tunnels, across bridges, and past locks, uncovering fascinating stories and surprising facts about the city's evolution. It's an immersive experience that combines history, architecture, and a touch of adventure, revealing a hidden side of Antwerp that few get to see. Guided tours and interactive tablet explorations are available, providing different ways to delve into this subterranean world.
A brief summary to De Ruien
- Suikerrui 21, Antwerp, 2000, BE
- +3233440755
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven and potentially wet surfaces, as wellies are provided but the terrain can be challenging.
- Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability for your preferred tour time.
- Consider the interactive tablet tour for a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace with access to rich historical information.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the underground environment can be cool and damp regardless of the surface conditions.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Sint-Charles Borromeo Church to see the above-ground architectural marvels connected to the Ruien's history.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Antwerp Central Station, take tram lines 3, 5, or 9 to the Groenplaats stop. From Groenplaats, walk approximately 4 minutes east along Groenplaats, then turn right onto Suikerrui. De Ruien will be on your left at Suikerrui 21. A single tram fare is approximately €2.50, and tickets can be purchased at the station or via the De Lijn app.
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Walking
From the Grote Markt (main square), walk south along Grote Markt, then turn left onto Suikerrui. Continue straight for a few minutes; De Ruien will be on your right at Suikerrui 21. The walk is approximately 2 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Antwerp Central Station to De Ruien (Suikerrui 21) will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes around 10-15 minutes.
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Driving
If driving, be aware that De Ruien is located within Antwerp's low-emission zone. Check requirements at www.slimnaarantwerpen.be. Limited street parking is available on Suikerrui, but it is often full. Several paid parking garages are nearby, including Parking Grote Markt (E. Van Dijckkaai 3) and Q-Park Centrum Antwerpen (6 minutes walking distance). Expect to pay around €3.80 per 30 minutes in the red zone and check the parking regulation. Mobypark offers affordable parking solutions near the DIVA Museum.
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