Vlaeykensgang
Discover Vlaeykensgang, Antwerp's enchanting 16th-century hidden alleyways, restored by Axel Vervoordt. A tranquil escape with charming courtyards and...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical ambiance
Vlaeykensgang
Best Time
Magical ambiance

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Vlaeykensgang, Antwerp's enchanting 16th-century hidden alleyways, restored by Axel Vervoordt. A tranquil escape with charming courtyards and unique dining.
"A true hidden gem in Antwerp, not so many people know about this and I honestly don’t mind."
🎯 Find the hidden entrance
Look for the gate at Oude Koornmarkt 16 to discover this charming 16th-century alleyway.
🍽️ Book Estro Armonico
This unique underground restaurant is popular; reservations are highly recommended!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Secret Alleys
Oude Koornmarkt 16 entrance
Wander through a labyrinth of tiny, picturesque streets connecting larger avenues. A true hidden gem!

Courtyard Charm
Central courtyard
Discover peaceful courtyards adorned with climbing plants, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into history.

Estro Armonico Restaurant
Vlaeykensgang
Experience unique underground dining with open-fire cooking in a historic, cave-like setting.
Planning Your Visit
Finding the Entrance
Best Time for Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find the hidden entrance
Look for the gate at Oude Koornmarkt 16 to discover this charming 16th-century alleyway.
🍽️ Book Estro Armonico
This unique underground restaurant is popular; reservations are highly recommended!
🚶♀️ Wander and explore
Take your time to get lost in the tiny streets and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
📸 Perfect for photos
Capture the unique charm of this historic alleyway with its beautiful architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find the hidden entrance
Look for the gate at Oude Koornmarkt 16 to discover this charming 16th-century alleyway.
🍽️ Book Estro Armonico
This unique underground restaurant is popular; reservations are highly recommended!
🚶♀️ Wander and explore
Take your time to get lost in the tiny streets and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
📸 Perfect for photos
Capture the unique charm of this historic alleyway with its beautiful architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Vlaeykensgang is widely praised as a delightful hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape with its charming 16th-century alleys and courtyards. Visitors appreciate its unique atmosphere, historical significance, and the intimate dining experiences available, particularly Estro Armonico. Some find it very small and quick to explore, while others enjoy the tranquility it offers.
"This hidden group of small streets run behind/between 2 bigger streets. If you've visited the Cathedral, look for this little alley nearby. You enter thru the gate at Oude Koornmarkt 16 (it was wide open when I was there). It used to be the shoemakers area but now seems to be mainly filled with cute restaurants.Apparently, it was almost demolished in the 1960s but Axel Vervoordt bought it up and it’s been beautifully restored."
Irma Zandl
"A nice spot hidden between the streets of Antwerp's city center. I recommend to stop by these peaceful courtyards filled with climbing plants. There are also a couple of lovely and quiet restaurants."
Chiara Casiraghi
"Very cool, very tiny. I was lost in my imagination longer than it took me to walk through. Worth the quick walk-through."
Forrest Aguirre
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vlaeykensgang is a hidden gem, best accessed through the gate at Oude Koornmarkt 16. It's a small alleyway tucked between larger streets, often missed by those not looking for it.
Yes, Vlaeykensgang is located in the heart of Antwerp's city center and is easily walkable from Antwerp Central Station. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes on foot, allowing you to see more of the city.
The closest tram stops to Vlaeykensgang are 'Antwerpen Grote Markt' or 'Antwerpen Groenplaats'. From there, it's a short walk to Oude Koornmarkt 16.
While there isn't direct parking within Vlaeykensgang itself, several public parking garages are nearby, such as Grote Markt or Groenplaats. Be aware that parking in Antwerp's city center can be expensive.
Vlaeykensgang is a historic alley with narrow passages and some uneven surfaces. While the main courtyards are relatively accessible, navigating the entire area with a stroller or wheelchair might be challenging.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no ticket required to enter Vlaeykensgang. It is a public alleyway that you can explore freely during daylight hours.
Vlaeykensgang is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the restaurants within may have their own specific opening and closing times.
There is no admission fee to walk through Vlaeykensgang. It's a charming historical area that's free to explore.
While the alleyways themselves are accessible, the atmosphere changes significantly at night. The restaurants are open, and the area can be quite magical with its lighting, but some gates might be closed.
As a historical site, visitors are asked to be respectful of the area and its residents. Please refrain from loud noise and littering.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer beautiful soft light for photography. Evenings are also magical with the restaurant lighting, creating a romantic atmosphere.
The narrow alleys, charming courtyards with climbing plants, and the entrance at Oude Koornmarkt 16 are all excellent photo opportunities. The unique architecture and hidden nature make it very photogenic.
While there are no explicit rules against tripods, it's advisable to be considerate of other visitors, especially during busy times. The narrowness of the alleys might make it difficult to set up.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and historical sites due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to avoid using drones in Vlaeykensgang.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the narrow alleys, while a prime lens can be useful for low-light shots in the restaurants. A versatile zoom lens is also a good option.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Vlaeykensgang is home to several charming restaurants, with Estro Armonico being a notable one known for its unique underground dining experience and open-fire cooking.
It is highly recommended to make reservations, especially for popular spots like Estro Armonico, as they are small and can fill up quickly.
Estro Armonico offers a unique dining experience in a basement setting, with food cooked over an open fire right in front of guests. It's described as a 'cave' restaurant with a very intimate atmosphere.
Options can vary by restaurant. It's best to check the menus online or contact the restaurants directly to inquire about vegetarian or vegan choices.
Dining in Vlaeykensgang can range from moderately priced to more upscale, depending on the restaurant. Estro Armonico is often considered a special occasion dining spot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more substantial family experience, combine a visit to Vlaeykensgang with nearby attractions like the Cathedral of Our Lady or the MAS museum. The restaurants within Vlaeykensgang, particularly Estro Armonico, might be more suited for older children or families looking for a unique dining experience, but it's worth checking their suitability for younger guests beforehand.
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
The unique setting provides a sense of seclusion and discovery, making it feel like you've stumbled upon a secret world. It's the perfect spot for a special occasion dinner or simply a romantic evening escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The ambiance here is unparalleled for creating lasting memories.
📸 Photographers and Instagrammers
Don't miss capturing the entrance at Oude Koornmarkt 16, the ivy-covered walls, and the intimate restaurant settings. The 'secret' nature of this spot makes it highly desirable for unique content. Remember to be mindful of diners and residents while capturing your perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Restoration of Vlaeykensgang
Today, Vlaeykensgang is a testament to successful urban preservation. The restoration has transformed it into a tranquil oasis within the bustling city center. The charming courtyards, adorned with climbing plants, and the beautifully maintained facades evoke a sense of stepping back in time. It's a place where history is not just remembered but actively experienced, offering a peaceful respite and a unique glimpse into Antwerp's past.
Dining Experiences in Vlaeykensgang
Beyond Estro Armonico, other restaurants in Vlaeykensgang offer a more traditional yet equally charming ambiance. Many feature outdoor seating in the picturesque courtyards, making them ideal for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner on a pleasant evening. The focus is often on quality, local ingredients, and creating a cozy, welcoming environment that complements the historic surroundings. It's advisable to check opening hours and make reservations, especially for dinner, as these intimate eateries can fill up quickly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit