Maagdenhuis
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Plantentuin: A Tranquil Oasis in Antwerp
Discover a serene botanical garden in the heart of Antwerp, featuring diverse plant species, historic greenhouses, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Escape the city bustle at Antwerp's Plantentuin, a historical botanical garden established in 1825. This compact green space, also known as Den Botaniek, features around 2,000 plant species, a charming greenhouse with cacti, a serene pond, and various statues, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Plantentuin
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
8 am-8 pm
Tuesday
8 am-8 pm
Wednesday
8 am-8 pm
Thursday
8 am-8 pm
Friday
8 am-8 pm
Saturday
8 am-8 pm
Sunday
8 am-8 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From the Meir shopping street, walk south towards the Stadspark. Turn left onto Leopoldstraat. The Plantentuin will be on your right, adjacent to the Saint Elisabeth Hospital. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.
Public Transport
From Antwerpen-Centraal Station, take tram line 9 towards Eksterlaar or tram line 4 towards Hoboken. Get off at the Mechelseplein stop. From there, walk along Leopoldstraat in the same direction as the tram. The Plantentuin will be on your right. A single tram ticket costs €2.50.
Taxi
From Antwerp's Grote Markt, a taxi ride to Plantentuin takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €8 and €15, but fares may vary depending on the time of day. Taxi stands are available at Grote Markt, or you can call a taxi service.
Car
If driving, be aware that the center of Antwerp is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Check if your vehicle is permitted or requires registration. Limited street parking is available. Consider parking at Indigo Parking Leopold or Parking Oudaen, which are near the Plantentuin. Parking rates vary, expect to pay around €1-3 per hour.
Local tips
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Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as it can get busier around exam times when students come to study.
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The greenhouse, which houses a collection of cacti and exotic plants, is closed on Sundays.
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Take a moment to relax on one of the benches and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
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Look out for the statue of Peeter van Coudenberghe, a 16th-century Antwerp pharmacist and botanist.
Discover more about Plantentuin
The Plantentuin, or botanical garden, in Antwerp, also known locally as Den Botaniek, is a serene escape nestled in the city center. Established in 1825, this hortus botanicus spans just under one hectare and offers a tranquil retreat from the urban environment. Originally, the garden served as a medicinal plant source for the adjacent St. Elisabeth's hospital.
Today, Plantentuin showcases a diverse collection of approximately 2,000 plant species. Visitors can explore themed gardens, admire exotic species, and discover historic greenhouses housing tropical and subtropical plants. The garden also features a pond, sculptures, and a picturesque gardener's house dating back to 1870. The main entrance gate, designed by Pierre Bruno Bourla in 1826, adds to the garden's historical charm.
Throughout the year, Plantentuin offers a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and nature appreciation. It's a popular spot for locals seeking a quiet escape, students studying, and tourists exploring Antwerp. The garden's compact size makes it ideal for short walks, while its central location allows for easy access to other city attractions.
A brief summary to Plantentuin
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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