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Meir: Antwerp's Premier Shopping Destination

4.5 (489)

Experience Antwerp's vibrant heart at Meir, a historic shopping street with top brands, stunning architecture, and a bustling atmosphere.

The Meir is Antwerp's most famous and busiest shopping street, evolving from a swampy area in the 13th century to a prestigious commercial center. Today, it's a pedestrianized haven for shoppers, boasting international brands and stunning architecture.

A brief summary to Meir

  • Antwerp, Antwerp, 2000, BE

Local tips

  • Visit during weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, especially if you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience.
  • Explore the Stadsfeestzaal shopping center for a unique experience with its historical architecture and high-end boutiques.
  • Take a break at one of the many cafes to enjoy Belgian waffles or artisanal coffee while people-watching.
  • Check out the surrounding streets like Hopland and Huidevetterstraat for a wider shopping selection.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Antwerp Central Station, take tram lines 3, 5, 9, or 15 to the Meir stop. Alternatively, from Groenplaats, take tram line 5 to Meirbrug. A single fare costs €3. The journey from Groenplaats to Meirbrug takes approximately 1 minute, with trams departing every 5 minutes.

  • Walking

    From Antwerp Central Station, walk straight ahead, following the 'Via Sinjoor'. The Meir is a direct route from the station. From the Grote Markt, walk north towards the Antwerp City Hall, then continue straight onto the Meir. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Antwerp. A short taxi ride from Antwerp Central Station to the Meir typically costs between €12-€15 and takes approximately 7 minutes. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

  • Parking

    Several parking garages are located near the Meir, including Car Park Meir , Car Park Meir-Opera , and Parking Antwerpen Meir. Hourly rates range from €3.24 to €3.60, with daily maximums between €22.50 and €25.00. Parking availability can be limited, especially on weekends. Consider parking at Interparking Meir, which is centrally located.

Discover more about Meir

The Meir is the main shopping street in Antwerp, Belgium, and one of the most important shopping areas in the country. Its history dates back to 1257 when it was a swampy area outside the city borders. The name 'Meir' comes from the old Dutch word 'meere,' meaning lake, as it was once a 'wood lake' where wood for furniture was kept wet. Over the centuries, the Meir transformed into a wide, paved street with a canal in the center by the early fifteenth century. By the 16th century, it became a prestigious street lined with mansions of wealthy patricians and the location of the new stock exchange. The canal was covered, further enhancing its appeal. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Meir continued to evolve, accommodating increasing traffic and the construction of grand buildings like the Stadsfeestzaal. In 1993, it was pedestrianized, solidifying its position as the region's prime shopping street. Today, the Meir is home to major international chains, luxury boutiques, and architectural landmarks. Key attractions include the Stadsfeestzaal shopping center, known for its golden interior, and historical buildings like the Royal Residence and Osterrieth House. The Meir connects Antwerp City Hall with Antwerp Central Station. It attracts over 220,000 visitors on peak days and is known as the Belgian equivalent of New York's 5th Avenue.

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