Living in Antwerp on a day-to-day basis is comfortable, well-organised, and genuinely enjoyable. Here is what to expect once you have found your rental:
Getting around: Antwerp has an extensive public transport network operated by De Lijn, including trams, buses, and a pre-metro system. A monthly public transport pass costs approximately 49 EUR per month (source: De Lijn, 2024). The city is also highly cycle-friendly, with a well-developed network of dedicated bike lanes. Direct trains to Brussels take around 35 minutes from Antwerp Central Station, one of Europe's most architecturally stunning railway stations.
Shopping and daily life: Major supermarket chains including Delhaize, Colruyt, and Lidl are well represented across the city. The Meir, Antwerp's main shopping street, and the boutique-lined streets of the Schuttershofstraat area cater to all retail needs. Weekly markets, including the popular Vrijdagmarkt, offer fresh produce and local goods.
Healthcare: Antwerp is served by several major hospitals, including UZA (Universitair Ziekenhuis Antwerpen) and ZNA (Ziekenhuis Netwerk Antwerpen). EU citizens can access healthcare through the Belgian mutual insurance system (mutualité/ziekenfonds); non-EU residents should arrange health insurance before or immediately upon arrival.
Education: The city has a strong offering of international schools, including the International School of Antwerp (ISA) and several European schools, making it well-suited to relocating families.
Language: Antwerp is in the Flemish (Dutch-speaking) region of Belgium. Dutch is the official language, but English is widely spoken in professional and commercial settings, making the transition straightforward for most international residents.