Grote Markt (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Grote Markt?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can hear the giant-hand legend, watch street performers, and skate at the winter rink, but there are no playgrounds or safety railings, so appeal is moderate.
Positives:
- Pedestrian-friendly square: No vehicle traffic makes it safe for children to walk or run freely.
- Central location: Close to cafés and shops, so breaks are easy and quick.
Challenges:
- Uneven cobblestones: Hold younger children’s hands or use a carrier to navigate the stones safely.
- Midday crowds: The square fills up around noon; visit early or late afternoon for more space.
What is Grote Markt?
- A historic public square that anchors Antwerp’s civic core, featuring the 16th-century City Hall and ornate Flemish Renaissance guildhalls
- Brabo Fountain occupies its center, commemorating the legendary hero who vanquished a giant and cast its hand into the Scheldt
- Guildhall façades surround the square, many reconstructed after the 1561 fire to preserve Antwerp’s architectural heritage
What is so special about Grote Markt for with kids?
- Kids engage with the Brabo Fountain legend through storytelling.
- Hand-shaped cookies offer a tasty, cultural snack for all ages.
- Live street performances add free entertainment and fun interaction.
- Safe, pedestrian-only square ideal for family strolls and games.
- Nearby cafes and shops make quick rest and snack stops convenient.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore façades, hear the fountain legend, snack and enjoy street performances without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Grote Markt
Brabo Fountain Legend:
Let kids hear how Silvius Brabo defeated the giant at the central fountain.
Tip: Stand close so children can see the water action and ask them to mimic the heroic throw.
Antwerpse Handjes Tasting:
Buy hand-shaped almond biscuits at a nearby bakery to celebrate the legend.
Tip: Look for gift packs around the square and share one pack between four to try different flavors.
Watch Street Performers:
Enjoy free magic shows or live music often set up on warm days.
Tip: Bring small change in coins and encourage kids to tip performers they enjoyed.
Guildhall Facade Hunt:
Walk around to spot carved statues and ornate guildhall façades.
Tip: Create a simple bingo card of animals or shields for kids to tick off as you go.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Grote Markt
- Early visit: Arrive around 10 AM to enjoy a quieter square and fresh pastries from nearby bakeries.
- Use City Hall restrooms: Stop at Antwerp City Hall (Grote Markt 1) for toilets before exploring, as nearby cafes can get busy.
When is the best time to visit Grote Markt (Antwerp, Belgium)?
Winter (late Nov–Dec) brings an ice rink (€5–€7 skate hire) and festive stalls. In summer, join outdoor concerts and grab ice cream; pack sunscreen and hats for July–Aug.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Drinks at terrace cafés | EUR 12 |
| Pack of Antwerpse Handjes cookies | EUR 5 |
| Ice cream for kids | EUR 4 |
| Tips for street performers | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 26 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Grote Markt
Address: Grote Markt, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Grote Markt (Antwerp)?
About Grote Markt
10 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, with kids
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with kids
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities