Rubenshuis Antwerp - Amsterdam's Rijks Museum on May 3, 2019.  The museum was holding an exhibition of Rembrants.
1 / 10

Rubenshuis Antwerp

4.4
·7k reviews·Antwerpen, Belgium

Explore the 17th-century home and studio of Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens, featuring his art, sculptures, and a stunning garden.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Rubenshuis Antwerp - Amsterdam's Rijks Museum on May 3, 2019.  The museum was holding an exhibition of Rembrants.

Rubenshuis Antwerp

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the 17th-century home and studio of Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens, featuring his art, sculptures, and a stunning garden.

4.4
(7k reviews)

"A beautiful space with a lovely garden and fascinating architecture and history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check for Renovations

Confirm accessibility before visiting, as parts of the house may be closed for renovations. :information_source:

Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rubens' Studio and Home

Rubens' Studio and Home

Main House

Step into the 17th-century world of Peter Paul Rubens, exploring his living quarters and bustling studio.

Instagram
The Baroque Masterpiece

The Baroque Masterpiece

Main House

Immerse yourself in the life and work of the iconic Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens.

Instagram
The Intact 17th-Century Garden

The Intact 17th-Century Garden

Garden

Wander through a beautifully restored garden, inspired by Italian palazzos, that Rubens himself commissioned.

Instagram
Interactive Exhibitions

Interactive Exhibitions

Various

Engage with fun, interactive games and quizzes that bring Rubens' life and art to life.

Reddit

Planning Your Visit

Check Renovation Status

The Rubens House has undergone significant renovations. Before your visit, confirm which parts of the house and collection are accessible to avoid disappointment, especially if you're traveling for specific artworks. Reddit

Book Tickets in Advance

While tickets can be purchased on-site, booking online can save time, especially during peak seasons. Consider if the ticket price aligns with your expectations, as some visitors found it pricey for partial access. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Garden is lovely in sun
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Five Things to do in Antwerp 🇧🇪 #antwerp #thingstodo #traveltips
@jyptravels
25.7K likes • 1.3M views

Check for Renovations

Confirm accessibility before visiting, as parts of the house may be closed for renovations. Reddit :information_source:

Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. Reddit :ticket:

Interactive museum tip 🍫 Chocolate Nation in Antwerp #museum #experience #antwerp
@chocolatenationbe
18.1K likes • 691.3K views
Visit the Rubens House and discover the home and studio of the brilliant and versatile artist Peter Paul Rubens. Explore an interesting art collection and visit where the master lived and worked. ✨ Bezoek het Rubenshuis en ontdek de woning en het atelier van de geniale en veelzijdige kunstenaar Peter Paul Rubens. Verken een interessante kunstcollectie en bezoek waar de meester woonde en werkte. ✨...
rubenshuisantwerpen
762 likes • 13.6K views

Explore the Garden

Even if the house is closed, the garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to enjoy. Reddit :seedling:

Interactive Fun

Don't miss the engaging games and quizzes that make learning about Rubens enjoyable. Reddit :video_game:

The BAROQUE artist is present !!! 📍Rubenshuis in Antwerp is one of my absolute highlights in Europe to dive deep into art history! I learned so many new things about Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) the most iconic baroque painter of the world.
baroqueblockbuster
3.7K likes • 91.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check for Renovations

Confirm accessibility before visiting, as parts of the house may be closed for renovations. Reddit :information_source:

Book Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. Reddit :ticket:

Explore the Garden

Even if the house is closed, the garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to enjoy. Reddit :seedling:

Interactive Fun

Don't miss the engaging games and quizzes that make learning about Rubens enjoyable. Reddit :video_game:

Combine with City Visit

Antwerp is a great day trip from Amsterdam or Brussels, with the Rubens House as a key attraction. TikTok :train2:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Rubens House for its beautiful garden and engaging interactive exhibits that bring art history to life. However, some reviews mention disappointment when parts of the house are closed for renovation, leading to questions about the value for money. The blend of historical architecture and modern engagement is a recurring theme.

"Rubens' house, unfortunately, the interior is not accessible to tourists. The garden is wonderfully arranged. In the basement, which is part of the entrance to the garden, there are interactive facts from Rubens' life. Tickets are purchased in the entrance itself, as well as souvenirs."

Plamen Mitev

"Unfortunately the house is under renovation (the artworks are currently housed in KMSKA), but you can still see the garden. It's really lovely this time of the year, with all the different varieties of tulips.

We got in with the museum pass, but the standard ticket is a bit pricey perhaps.

Still, a nice quiet spot."

Cristina Panzeri

"A beautiful space in the centre of Antwerp. Lovely garden and fascinating architecture and history. A stunning example of how to mix uber modern with traditional style. Ruben’s didn’t have far to walk to his office :)"

Ken Heptonstall

What People Like

Beautifully restored garden
Engaging interactive exhibits
Historical atmosphere

What People Dislike

Renovation closures
Ticket price concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Rubens House is centrally located in Antwerp, making it easily accessible. Many visitors arrive via public transport. Antwerp Central Station is a major hub, and from there, you can take a tram or bus, or even enjoy a pleasant walk to the museum. It's also a popular day trip destination from cities like Amsterdam and Brussels, with frequent train services available. TikTok

Absolutely! Antwerp is an excellent day trip from Amsterdam, with trains taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes. It offers a different vibe with its stunning architecture and rich art scene, including the renowned Rubens House. TikTok

Antwerp is a very walkable city, especially its historic center where the Rubens House is located. You can also utilize the efficient tram and bus network. Many visitors enjoy exploring on foot to soak in the city's architecture and atmosphere. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, and some visitors have noted that the standard ticket might feel a bit pricey, especially if parts of the house are under renovation. It's recommended to check the official website for current pricing and consider if the access provided matches your expectations. Reddit

Yes, tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance. However, for a smoother experience and to guarantee entry, especially during peak times, booking your tickets online in advance is advisable. Reddit

Some visitors mentioned using a museum pass for entry. It's worth checking if your existing city passes or discount cards are applicable to the Rubens House to potentially save on admission fees. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by renovations. It's best to consult the official Rubens House website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any temporary closures before planning your visit. Reddit

Information on accessibility can be found on the Rubens House website. While the historic nature of the building might present challenges, efforts are often made to improve accessibility. It's recommended to contact the museum directly for specific details. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Rubens House offers a glimpse into the life and work of Peter Paul Rubens. You can explore his former home and studio, admire his art collection, and see where the master lived and worked. The beautifully restored 17th-century garden is also a major highlight. Instagram+1

This depends on your priorities. If you're keen to see Rubens' personal living spaces and studio, renovations might limit the experience. However, the garden is often accessible and praised, and interactive exhibitions can still offer a valuable and engaging visit. Reddit

The Rubens House features several interactive exhibits designed to make learning fun. These can include games where you match poses to Rubens' paintings, quizzes about the value of items in the 17th century, and opportunities to try on historical attire for photos. Reddit

The garden is a meticulously restored 17th-century space, inspired by Italian palazzos, which Rubens himself commissioned. It's a tranquil oasis and an integral part of the original complex, offering a beautiful setting to appreciate the historical architecture. Instagram

While the Rubens House showcases his life and studio, many of his major artworks are housed in museums worldwide. However, the house does display a significant art collection, including sculptures and tapestries, and provides context for his artistic achievements. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary within museums. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use might be permitted in certain areas, but it's essential to check for signage or ask staff for clarification to avoid any issues. TikTok

The beautifully restored 17th-century garden offers picturesque opportunities for photos, especially with its architectural elements and seasonal blooms. The exterior of the house and its courtyards can also provide charming backdrops. Instagram

Some interactive exhibits might offer unique photo opportunities, such as trying on historical collars or posing in themed settings. These can make for fun and memorable pictures to share. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Rubens House offers a surprisingly fun experience for families thanks to its interactive elements. Kids can enjoy games that test their knowledge of art and history, and there are often opportunities for playful engagement with the period. Reddit

While the house itself might be more about historical appreciation, the garden provides a lovely space for children to explore and burn off energy. It's a good idea to check the museum's website for any specific family-oriented activities or guides available during your visit. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the Rubens House is an essential pilgrimage. It offers a deep dive into the life and studio of one of the Baroque period's most significant figures. You'll gain insights into his creative process, his personal collection, and the environment that fostered his genius. Instagram

While major masterpieces might be elsewhere, the house itself, its architecture, and the context it provides are invaluable. The collection of sculptures and tapestries, alongside the understanding of Rubens' daily life, enriches the appreciation of his broader artistic impact. Instagram

🚶 Day-Trippers

The Rubens House is an ideal stop for day-trippers exploring Antwerp. Its central location makes it easy to incorporate into a packed itinerary, especially if arriving by train from cities like Amsterdam or Brussels. TikTok

Plan your visit to include the house, its garden, and perhaps some of the interactive exhibits. Even if renovations limit access to certain areas, the overall experience provides a solid introduction to Antwerp's rich artistic heritage. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Life and Art of Peter Paul Rubens

Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) was a prolific and influential Flemish artist of the Baroque era. His Antwerp home, the Rubens House, was not just a residence but also his studio and a showcase for his extensive art collection. He was renowned for his dynamic compositions, vibrant colors, and dramatic flair, influencing generations of artists. Instagram

Rubens was also a skilled diplomat and businessman, traveling extensively and amassing a considerable fortune. His house reflects this success, designed with a blend of Flemish and Italian Renaissance influences, including a grand courtyard and a semi-circular museum wing for his antique sculptures. Instagram

Visiting the Rubens House offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and understand the environment that shaped one of the most celebrated artists in history. The interactive elements and the preserved architecture aim to bring his world to life for modern visitors. Reddit

Exploring the Rubens House Garden

The garden of the Rubens House is a significant feature, meticulously restored to reflect its 17th-century origins. Inspired by Italian palazzos, it was designed by Rubens himself as part of his grand architectural vision. The garden provides a tranquil escape and a beautiful setting to appreciate the historical context of the house. Instagram

During spring, the garden is particularly vibrant with various tulips, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely stroll. Even when parts of the house might be closed for renovations, the garden often remains accessible and is praised for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

It's a place where visitors can imagine Rubens finding inspiration or perhaps hosting guests. The combination of historical architecture and carefully curated flora makes it a highlight for many who visit, offering a serene counterpoint to the artistic intensity within the house. Reddit

Interactive Experiences at the Rubens House

The Rubens House goes beyond traditional museum displays by incorporating engaging interactive elements. These activities are designed to make the learning experience more dynamic and enjoyable for visitors of all ages. Reddit

Examples of these interactive features include games that challenge you to match poses from Rubens' paintings, quizzes that test your knowledge of 17th-century economics (like the value of goods), and opportunities to virtually try on historical fashion accessories. These elements help to connect visitors more personally with the era and the artist. Reddit

These interactive components are particularly appealing for families or those who enjoy a more hands-on approach to art history. They transform a visit into an engaging exploration, offering memorable moments and a deeper understanding of Rubens' life and times. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2