St. Anna’s Tunnel: A Journey Beneath the Scheldt
Descend into history beneath the Scheldt River at St. Anna’s Tunnel, a pedestrian and cyclist haven boasting rare wooden escalators and stunning skyline views, open 24/7.
Descend into the depths of Antwerp's St. Anna’s Tunnel, a remarkable feat of engineering that has connected the city center to Linkeroever (Left Bank) since 1933. More than just a passage under the Scheldt River, this pedestrian and bicycle tunnel is a living museum, boasting original wooden escalators that are among the last of their kind. Experience a unique slice of Antwerp's history as you travel through the tiled tunnel, a favorite spot for photographers and those seeking an unusual urban adventure. Open 24/7 and free to enter, St. Anna’s Tunnel offers an accessible and memorable way to cross the river, providing stunning views of the Antwerp skyline from the other side.
A brief summary to St. Anna’s Tunnel
- Frederik van Eedenplein, Antwerp, Antwerp, 2050, BE
- 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
- Take the time to admire the original wooden escalators, a rare and beautifully preserved feature of the tunnel.
- Visit the Linkeroever (Left Bank) for panoramic views of the Antwerp skyline and a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Check the 'Fietsverbindingen Schelde' app for real-time updates on escalator and lift maintenance.
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the tunnel's unique ambiance.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the Sint-Annastrand, a small beach on the Linkeroever, for a relaxing escape.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Grote Markt, walk north towards the Scheldt River. Follow the Ernest Van Dijckkaai/Plantinkaai, keeping the river on your right. The entrance to St. Anna's Tunnel is located about a block from the water, near the Sunday Flea Market, inside a nondescript building. Look for the signs indicating 'Sint-Annatunnel' or 'Voetgangerstunnel'.
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Public Transport
From Antwerpen-Centraal station, take tram line 3 or 5 towards the city center. Get off at the Groenplaats stop. From there, walk towards the Scheldt River and follow the directions as described in the 'Walking' guidance. A single tram ticket costs €2.50 and is valid for 1 hour.
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Ferry
Alternatively, from Het Steen, you can take the free Sint-Anna ferry to the Linkeroever (Left Bank). The ferry operates every 30 minutes. From the Linkeroever ferry terminal, the entrance to St. Anna's Tunnel is a short walk away. Check the MDK website for the ferry schedule.
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