Handschoenmarkt
A charming square in Antwerp, known for the 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture and its vibrant cafe terraces beside the Cathedral.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, cafes open
Handschoenmarkt
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, cafes open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming square in Antwerp, known for the 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture and its vibrant cafe terraces beside the Cathedral.
"The 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture is a must-see, and the cafe terraces offer a perfect spot to enjoy Antwerp's charm."
☕ Coffee Break at Ray's
Try Ray's Coffee for a great brew and a quieter experience during the week.
🐶 Admire Nello & Patrasche
Don't miss the heartwarming 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture, a local favorite.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nello and Patrasche Sculpture
In front of the Cathedral
A touching bronze sculpture depicting a boy and his dog, a symbol of loyalty and friendship.
Cathedral of Our Lady
Adjacent to Handschoenmarkt
A magnificent Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering stunning architecture.
Charming Cafe Culture
Around the square
Enjoy a coffee or local treat at one of the many inviting cafes lining the square.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Coffee Break at Ray's
Try Ray's Coffee for a great brew and a quieter experience during the week.
🐶 Admire Nello & Patrasche
Don't miss the heartwarming 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture, a local favorite. 
📸 Capture the Cathedral
The Cathedral of Our Lady provides a stunning backdrop for photos of the square.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Relax
Enjoy the ambiance, people-watch, and soak in the local Antwerp vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Coffee Break at Ray's
Try Ray's Coffee for a great brew and a quieter experience during the week.
🐶 Admire Nello & Patrasche
Don't miss the heartwarming 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture, a local favorite.
📸 Capture the Cathedral
The Cathedral of Our Lady provides a stunning backdrop for photos of the square.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Relax
Enjoy the ambiance, people-watch, and soak in the local Antwerp vibe.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Handschoenmarkt to be a charming and picturesque square, particularly loved for its proximity to the Cathedral of Our Lady and the touching 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture. The lively cafe terraces offer a great spot to relax and soak in the Antwerp atmosphere. Some find it can be quiet outside of peak hours.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Handschoenmarkt is centrally located in Antwerp, easily accessible on foot from many city attractions. You can also take a bus to the city center, with many routes stopping near the Cathedral of Our Lady.
Yes, Handschoenmarkt is very close to the Cathedral of Our Lady, which is a major landmark served by numerous bus lines.
While you can drive near Handschoenmarkt, parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. It's often easier to park further out and walk or use public transport.
Absolutely! Handschoenmarkt is a pedestrian-friendly area, perfect for exploring on foot as part of a larger city walk.
From Antwerp Centraal Station, you can take a tram or bus towards the city center, or enjoy a pleasant walk of about 20-30 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Handschoenmarkt is an open public square, so no tickets are required to visit. You can wander freely.
As a public square, Handschoenmarkt is accessible at all hours. However, the surrounding shops and cafes have their own operating hours, typically open from morning to early evening.
There is no entrance fee for Handschoenmarkt. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning or early afternoon. Evenings can also be quieter.
While there aren't specific tours for Handschoenmarkt itself, it's often included in broader walking tours of Antwerp's historic city center.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture, the facade of the Cathedral of Our Lady, and the charming cafe terraces are prime photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in public spaces like Handschoenmarkt. Be mindful of people's privacy when taking close-up shots.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful light. Midday offers bright light for capturing the details of the cathedral.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near historical buildings like the Cathedral. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the square and the cathedral.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Ray's Coffee is a recommended spot on Handschoenmarkt for a good coffee. There are also many other cafes around the square.
Handschoenmarkt itself is more about cafes and terraces. You'll find a wider selection of restaurants in the surrounding streets of Antwerp's city center.
While in Antwerp, try Belgian waffles, fries (frites), and chocolates. Many cafes and nearby eateries will offer these.
Antwerp has a growing number of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options. Exploring the side streets will likely yield good choices.
Prices are typical for a city center location. Expect to pay a few euros for coffee and a bit more for snacks or light meals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider stopping for a treat at one of the cafes, perhaps a Belgian waffle or some famous Antwerp chocolate. The open square allows kids some space to move around, and the general atmosphere is relaxed. It's a good spot for a brief, enjoyable break during a family day out in Antwerp.
☕ Coffee Lovers
Beyond Ray's, the numerous cafes lining the square provide ample opportunities to sample local coffee culture. Enjoying a coffee on a terrace, especially on a sunny day, is a quintessential Antwerp experience that coffee lovers will appreciate.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss capturing the 'Nello and Patrasche' sculpture, which offers a more intimate and narrative subject. The lively cafe terraces, especially during peak hours, provide opportunities for candid street photography. Experiment with different times of day to capture the changing light on the historic buildings.
+2Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Nello and Patrasche
+1This sculpture has become an iconic symbol of Antwerp, representing the city's artistic heritage and its connection to literature. Many visitors are moved by the sculpture's emotional resonance and often pause to reflect on the themes of loyalty and perseverance it embodies. It's a popular spot for photographs, with many people capturing the touching scene against the backdrop of the historic Cathedral of Our Lady.
While the sculpture itself is a draw, its placement in Handschoenmarkt adds to its charm. The square, with its lively cafes and proximity to the cathedral, provides a fitting setting for this beloved monument. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of stories and the deep connections that can form between humans and animals.
+1Handschoenmarkt: A Glimpse into Antwerp's Charm
The square is characterized by its inviting terraces of cafes and restaurants, offering a perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and soak in the lively energy of Antwerp. The presence of the towering Cathedral of Our Lady provides a breathtaking architectural backdrop, making it a visually stunning area. It's a place that truly captures the essence of Antwerp's historic charm and its modern, vibrant spirit.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Handschoenmarkt is a hub for experiencing local life. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee, a leisurely lunch, or an evening drink, the square offers a quintessential Antwerp experience. It’s a testament to how historical spaces can be revitalized to serve as dynamic social centers in contemporary cities.
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