Carolus Borromeus Church (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Carolus Borromeus Church?
What makes it 79% Couple-Friendly: Couples can share a free self-guided visit, attend the Artists’ Mass with live music or an evening candlelit prayer, but seats are hard and there is no on-site café for lingering together.
Positives:
- Rich Baroque art: Marvel at intricate ceiling caissons and sculpted woodwork designed by Rubens and leading architects
- Free main entry: No ticket is required for the nave and chapels, allowing for spontaneous visits
Challenges:
- Stair-only access: Upper galleries and the crypt are reached by stairs; there is no elevator
- Limited guided slots: Behind-the-scenes tours are capped at 20 people and require advance email booking
What is Carolus Borromeus Church?
- A Baroque church built in Antwerp between 1615 and 1621, epitomizing the Counter-Reformation’s architectural and artistic ambitions
- A limestone and light-yellow edifice framed by twin octagonal bell towers and an elaborately scrolled pediment
- An interior lavishly adorned with stucco reliefs, sculpted cherubs, original Rubens ceiling caissons and four seasonally rotated altarpieces
What is so special about Carolus Borromeus Church for couple trip?
- Explore Baroque interiors at your own pace with free entry
- Hear live classical music during the Sunday Artists’ Mass
- Descend to the crypt to uncover Antwerp’s lace heritage
- Book a behind-the-scenes tour for exclusive access
- Catch rotating Rubens altarpieces for a unique view
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to explore the main nave, view rotating altarpieces and visit the crypt museum
Couple-Friendly Activities in Carolus Borromeus Church
Self-guided Baroque tour:
Explore the richly decorated interiors, high altar and Rubens chapel at your own pace
Tip: Arrive at opening to enjoy quieter galleries and pick up the free map at the entrance
Artists’ Mass on Sunday:
Attend the 11:30 am service with live classical music by local musicians
Tip: Arrive ten minutes early to secure two adjacent pews
Lace Museum in the crypt:
Discover Antwerp’s lace-making history in a small museum beneath the church
Tip: Buy the €4 ticket on site before heading down to avoid queues
Behind-the-scenes guided tour:
Access the sacristy, crypt, pulpit dais and St. John reliquary on a small-group tour
Tip: Email info@scba.be at least a week ahead to reserve your spot
Candlelit evening prayer:
Join the simple, candlelit service with the Sant’Egidio community at 7:30 pm
Tip: Held Mon/Wed/Fri; arrive early to share a bench and soak in the atmosphere
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Carolus Borromeus Church
- Go off-peak: Visit right at opening or late afternoon to avoid tour groups
- Combine tickets: Buy your lace museum ticket first, then explore the nave while others queue
Reviews of Carolus Borromeus Church
Linda Bailey
A beautiful Jesuit church with much history and beauty! Genuine Rubens artwork and designs, gorgeous woodwork throughout and the original marble floor from the 1600’s. The painting at the altar is changed 4 times a year. Quite unusual and is still done to this day. We were fortunate to be there (2 pm on Sat) when a guide was available for a tour of the church. She was excellent gave such a good i...
Monika Karlińska
Great place to visit. A 17th-century church with ornate Baroque works of art and architecture and four altar paintings replaced each season. Around you can find many nice restaurants
Jarrod Leeds
A truly beautiful Baroque church. The entrance price is well worth it. There are many beautiful paintings, including a Rubens. The woodwork is also amazing.
Caius Bernardi
An amazing and unique baroque church in Antwerp, with some Rubens paintings worth of a visit. The church hosts as well a museum and workshop of artistic laces. The access is included in the Antwerp City Pass. Recommended
Graham Short
The interior with its running balcony set back windows is very unique. The baroque alter full of gold is quite a centerpiece.
When is the best time to visit Carolus Borromeus Church (Antwerp, Belgium)?
Four Rubens altar paintings rotate by season—check the church website for the current display before you go
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Self-guided visit | EUR 0 |
| Lace Museum tickets (2 adults) | EUR 8 |
| Guided behind-the-scenes tour | EUR 101 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 109 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Carolus Borromeus Church
Address: Hendrik Conscienceplein, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
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About Carolus Borromeus Church
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+32 477 62 37 9410 BEST nearby Activities
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