St. Paul's Church Sint-Pauluskerk
A Gothic masterpiece adorned with Baroque splendor, housing works by Rubens & Van Dyck, and a serene sculpture garden.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St. Paul's Church Sint-Pauluskerk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Gothic masterpiece adorned with Baroque splendor, housing works by Rubens & Van Dyck, and a serene sculpture garden.
"The most stunning church I have ever seen. Absolutely incredible inside!"
🎟️ Entry Fee Worth It
A small entry fee (around 5 euros for foreigners) is well worth it for the art and history inside.
🖼️ Explore the Art
Don't miss the hallways with paintings and the incredible wood carvings; they are a highlight for many visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Baroque Tower
Exterior
A striking Baroque addition to the Gothic structure, offering a unique architectural contrast.

Rubens and Van Dyck Masterpieces
Interior
Admire stunning works by Flemish masters, including breathtaking paintings and exquisite wood carvings.

Sculpture Garden
Rear Garden
A serene and unique outdoor space featuring intriguing statues, offering a peaceful retreat.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Beyond the Altar
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Entry Fee Worth It
A small entry fee (around 5 euros for foreigners) is well worth it for the art and history inside.
🖼️ Explore the Art
Don't miss the hallways with paintings and the incredible wood carvings; they are a highlight for many visitors.
🌳 Discover the Garden
The sculpture garden out back is a beautiful and unique place to explore after visiting the church.
🗣️ Ask for a Tour
Engage with friendly staff for a journey through time; their insights are invaluable for art and history lovers.
Q: St Paul Church
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Entry Fee Worth It
A small entry fee (around 5 euros for foreigners) is well worth it for the art and history inside.
🖼️ Explore the Art
Don't miss the hallways with paintings and the incredible wood carvings; they are a highlight for many visitors.
🌳 Discover the Garden
The sculpture garden out back is a beautiful and unique place to explore after visiting the church.
🗣️ Ask for a Tour
Engage with friendly staff for a journey through time; their insights are invaluable for art and history lovers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Paul's Church for its stunning beauty, particularly the intricate wood carvings and the impressive collection of art by masters like Rubens and Van Dyck. The peaceful atmosphere and the unique sculpture garden are also frequently mentioned highlights. While generally well-maintained, occasional maintenance work might be present.
"Such a beautiful church
Had a chance to hear the easter Mass
Since i was in Antwerp during Easter
Maintenance work was on one side of the church, but still such beautiful wood work and a very well maintained church with a beautiful holy service during easter..a beautiful experience of the holy communion and baptism together
Also theres a hallway with paintings"
David Peter Fernandes
"The most stunning church I have ever seen. Absolutely incredible inside, with the combination of white, black and gold. Worth visiting! Don’t miss the garden, it is also a beautiful place to see"
Anna Magmel
"St. Paul's church has an incredibly interesting history. Contact one of the friendly employees and she will take you on a real journey through time. If you love history, art and art history this place is a must visit."
Julia Kondaurova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Paul's Church is centrally located in Antwerp. You can easily reach it by public transport, with several tram and bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of Antwerp.
Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging due to its central location. It's advisable to use public transport or consider parking garages a short walk away.
Absolutely! St. Paul's Church is a perfect addition to a day trip in Antwerp, easily accessible and offering a rich cultural experience within a few hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, and maintenance work may affect access to certain areas. It's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit. Some sources suggest it closes around 6 PM, but this might refer to specific museum sections.
There is typically a small entry fee for visitors, around 5 euros for foreigners, which is considered very reasonable given the artistic and historical value.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visits, but it's always a good idea to check for special events or group visit policies.
Yes, there are areas within the church complex that house a museum, featuring a hallway with paintings and historical artifacts.
St. Paul's Church is an active place of worship. You can attend Easter Mass or other services, which can be a beautiful experience, as noted by visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors rave about the stunning wood carvings, high ceilings, massive organ, and the peaceful atmosphere. The works by Rubens and Van Dyck are also major highlights.
While the main church area is generally accessible, some parts like the sculpture garden or upper levels might present challenges. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility upon arrival.
The sculpture garden is described as a beautiful, unique, and interesting place with statues, offering a tranquil escape from the main church.
Even on weekends, some visitors have noted that there are hardly any other visitors, suggesting it can remain relatively uncrowded compared to other major attractions.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always good practice to be respectful of worshippers and any posted signage regarding photography restrictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within St. Paul's Church itself. However, the surrounding area in Antwerp's city center offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to choose from.
You'll find a diverse culinary scene near the church, ranging from traditional Belgian cuisine (like waffles, fries, and chocolate) to international options.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture, especially the contrast between Gothic and Baroque styles, is great for photos. Inside, focus on the intricate wood carvings, the grand organ, and the dramatic lighting on the artworks. The sculpture garden also offers unique photographic opportunities.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules posted within the church. Avoid using flash if it might disturb others or damage artwork.
Weekday mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the details without distractions. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful light, especially on the exterior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit as a 'treasure hunt' for specific carvings or statues. While the museum sections might be less engaging for very young children, the overall atmosphere is peaceful, and the entry fee is reasonable, making it a worthwhile cultural stop on a family outing in Antwerp.
🏛️ History & Art Buffs
Don't miss the chance to explore the hallways dedicated to art and consider the historical context provided by guides or available information. The Baroque tower also adds an architectural layer to appreciate. This church offers a deep dive into Flemish art and religious history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Artistic Treasures of Sint-Pauluskerk
Beyond the paintings and carvings, the church boasts a massive organ, a testament to its musical history and grandeur. The overall atmosphere inside is often described as peaceful and calm, even within the large structure, creating an immersive experience for art and history enthusiasts. The combination of white, black, and gold elements inside contributes to its stunning visual appeal.
The church's history is as fascinating as its art. Engaging with the friendly staff can lead to a 'real journey through time,' providing deeper context and stories behind the artworks and the building itself. This makes St. Paul's Church a must-visit for anyone interested in art history and the cultural legacy of Antwerp.
The Serene Sculpture Garden
Many visitors find the garden to be a beautiful place to see and a peaceful retreat after exploring the church's interior. It's an excellent spot for a moment of quiet reflection or for capturing different photographic perspectives of the church's surroundings. The garden adds an unexpected layer to the overall experience, making a visit to Sint-Pauluskerk more comprehensive.
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