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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Rubenshuis Antwerp
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

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.
"A beautiful space with a lovely garden and fascinating architecture and history."
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

The Baroque Masterpiece
Main House
Immerse yourself in the life and work of the iconic Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens.
The Intact 17th-Century Garden
Garden
Wander through a beautifully restored garden, inspired by Italian palazzos, that Rubens himself commissioned.

Interactive Exhibitions
Various
Engage with fun, interactive games and quizzes that bring Rubens' life and art to life.
Planning Your Visit
Check Renovation Status
Book Tickets in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:Explore the Garden
Even if the house is closed, the garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to enjoy.
:seedling:Interactive Fun
Don't miss the engaging games and quizzes that make learning about Rubens enjoyable.
:video_game:Tips
from all over the internet
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:Explore the Garden
Even if the house is closed, the garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot to enjoy.
:seedling:Interactive Fun
Don't miss the engaging games and quizzes that make learning about Rubens enjoyable.
:video_game:Combine with City Visit
Antwerp is a great day trip from Amsterdam or Brussels, with the Rubens House as a key attraction.
:train2:What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
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.
🚶 Day-Trippers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Life and Art of Peter Paul Rubens
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.
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.
Exploring the Rubens House Garden
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.
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.
Interactive Experiences at the Rubens House
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit