Explore the Enigmatic De Ruien: Antwerp's Hidden Waterways
Discover the serene beauty of De Ruien, Antwerp's hidden waterways, and experience the city's history from a unique perspective.
De Ruien, a remarkable tourist attraction in the heart of Antwerp, invites visitors to explore the city's hidden waterways, which date back to the 16th century. This network of canals, once crucial for the city's trade and transportation, now serves as an enchanting escape from the urban hustle. Tourists can embark on guided boat tours that provide a unique view of the city’s historical architecture, showcasing the intricate facades and picturesque bridges that line the canals. As you glide through the water, you'll encounter fascinating stories and insights about Antwerp's rich maritime history, making this experience both educational and visually stunning. The serene atmosphere of De Ruien is enhanced by the lush greenery that flanks the waterways, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to relax and soak in the beauty of their surroundings. The tours typically operate daily, with specific hours dedicated to ensuring that visitors can fully enjoy this hidden gem. Make sure to bring your camera, as the scenic views of the canals, paired with the backdrop of Antwerp's historic buildings, provide plenty of photo opportunities. Moreover, De Ruien emphasizes sustainability and preservation, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers. The attraction plays an essential role in highlighting the importance of water management in urban settings. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a quiet escape, De Ruien has something to offer everyone. It’s a must-visit location for tourists wishing to experience Antwerp from a unique perspective and to immerse themselves in the city's rich cultural tapestry.
Local tips
- Book your boat tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons to secure your spot.
- Visit during the late afternoon for a chance to see the sunset reflecting off the water.
- Bring a light jacket, as it can get cooler on the water, especially in the evening.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views along the canals are perfect for stunning photographs.
- Check for special events or themed tours that might be happening during your visit for a unique experience.
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
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from various locations within Antwerpse Kempen, you will want to navigate towards Antwerp city center. Use the A1 highway and follow signs for 'Antwerpen'. Once in the city, follow the signs to the 'Centrum' area. Take the exit towards 'Suikerrui', where De Ruien is located at Suikerrui 21. Parking is available nearby, but please note that there might be parking fees, typically around €2 per hour.
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Public Transportation
To reach De Ruien via public transport, first, head to your nearest train station. Take a train to 'Antwerpen-Centraal'. From there, you can either take tram line 9 towards 'Hoboken' or bus line 17 towards 'Wilrijk'. Get off at the 'Suikerrui' stop. De Ruien is a short walk from there, located at Suikerrui 21. Make sure to purchase a ticket before boarding, which costs around €3 for a single journey.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of Antwerp city center, De Ruien is easily accessible on foot. From the Cathedral of Our Lady, head northwest on Meir Street. Continue onto Suikerrui, where you will find De Ruien at number 21. This is a pleasant walk that should take about 15-20 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to De Ruien
- Diamantmuseum
- DIVA, museum voor diamant, juwelen en zilver
- Antwerp City Hall
- Antwerp Christmas Market
- Museum Eugeen Van Mieghem
- Museum De Reede
- Brabo's Monument
- Legends Walking Tours of Antwerp
- Antwerpen à la Carte
- Grote Markt
- Vlaaikensgang
- Guild Houses
- Nello & Patrasche Statue
- Steenplein
- Lange Wapper Statue
Landmarks nearby to De Ruien
- Regenboog zebra
- AntwerpenAnders.be City Tours
- Grote Markt - Large market
- Antwerp-tuktuk
- Put Quinten Matsijs
- Antwerp City Hostel
- Toeristische Dienst - Visit Antwerpen
- Statue Peter Paul Rubens
- The oldest house of Antwerp
- Saint Paul’s Church
- St. Andrew's Church
- Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites
- Handelsbeurs Antwerpen
- Sapphire House Antwerp, Autograph Collection
- Bnb Antwerp centrum