St. Anna’s Tunnel (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is St. Anna’s Tunnel?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Kids love the squeaky wooden escalators and nearby playground, yet the 572 m walk, total lack of toilets, and need for close supervision on bikes or escalators mean energy levels and safety checks are essential.
Positives:
- Free Entry: All tunnel and playground access is complimentary, so you won’t pay entrance fees.
- Unique Vintage Escalators: Kids love the wooden escalators, a rare surviving feature from 1931.
- Safe, Flat Passage: The smooth tunnel floor is easy for children to walk without tripping.
Challenges:
- No Seating Inside: The tunnel has no benches or rest spots; plan breaks before or after.
- Elevator Availability: Elevators close occasionally; check status online or at the site.
- Limited Shade Outdoors: Playground and beach have little cover; bring sun protection.
What is St. Anna’s Tunnel?
- A 572-meter pedestrian tunnel beneath the River Scheldt linking Antwerp’s historic right bank with Linkeroever.
- An engineering landmark completed in 1933 that features original wooden escalators and art-deco passenger elevators.
- A tiled, gently curved concrete passage exemplifying early 20th-century industrial design under the river.
What is so special about St. Anna’s Tunnel for with kids?
- Ride the original wooden escalators for a fun descent under the river
- Explore a 572 m art-deco tiled corridor on foot
- Let kids play on the free playground and climb open-air ship parts
- Enjoy a small sandy riverside beach just a short walk from the tunnel exit
- Return via a free ferry for scenic city skyline views
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to ride escalators, explore the tunnel, play at the playground and beach, and return by ferry without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in St. Anna’s Tunnel
Ride the 1930s Wooden Escalators:
Descend on the original wooden escalators into the tunnel for a fun, slightly thrilling start.
Tip: Hold children’s hands and stand clear of escalator edges.
Walk the 572 m Art-Deco Tunnel:
Stroll under the river through curved white-tiled walls and vintage lighting.
Tip: Turn off phone flash and let kids spot patterns on the tiles.
Explore the Linkeroever Playground & Ship Parts:
Let kids climb on buoys, anchors, and other open-air museum pieces.
Tip: Pack snacks and water; there are no shops on site.
Play on the Riverside Beach:
Visit a small sandy area on the riverbank for shallow-water fun.
Tip: Bring towels and a change of clothes; shore can be slippery.
Return on the Free Ferry:
Catch the free ferry every 30 minutes back to the right bank.
Tip: Aim for sunset trips to enjoy the city skyline as you cross.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to St. Anna’s Tunnel
- Start Early: Visit before 10 AM to avoid higher crowds on the escalators.
- Time Your Ferry: Check the ferry schedule in advance to minimize wait times.
- Travel Light: Carry only essentials since the walk is 572 m long under the river.
Reviews of St. Anna’s Tunnel
N P
What a nice experience the wooden escalators The cyclists are far too fast (definitely not 5 kmh). It's pretty dangerous especially when kids run around.
Mike773 U
September 2025: what an unusual place! Apart from the tunnel built deep underground and running under the water, the escalator is made entirely of wood. There are however brass teeth on the steps of the escalator to reduce wear & tear. Initially descending in a lift minus 32 meters down, the first part of the escalator is out of action. We walked through the tunnel and enjoyed the trip up and out ...
David Newman
A free Pedestrian and cyclist tunnel under the Scheldt river. I was using an old tourist photo set to that my late father had which included the tunnel that was and probably still is a matter of pride in Antwerp. The escalators are of the old wood platform design and there is also a lift mostly used by bikes and scooters. It does feel when the lift door opens someone should shout 'and there off' a...
Peter
A fantastic experience! The entirely wooden escalators. A masterpiece of engineering.
James Bryan
Cool tunnel. We walked across and caught free ferry back after a walk in the park. Nice to see the city from across the river.
When is the best time to visit St. Anna’s Tunnel (Antwerp, Belgium)?
Tunnel visits are perfect any season. In summer, plan for beach play and bring sunscreen. In colder months, dress in layers; the tunnel stays cool year-round.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tram tickets for 2 adults + 2 kids | EUR 8 |
| Snacks & water | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 18 |
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 St. Anna’s Tunnel
Address: Sint-Annatunnel, Antwerpen, Belgium
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