St. Anna’s Tunnel (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is St. Anna’s Tunnel?
What makes it 89% Solo-Friendly: The tunnel is free, well-lit, and safe; a solo guest can ride 1930s wooden escalators, walk or cycle 572 m under the Scheldt, capture striking art-deco photos, and exit to riverside paths with minimal planning.
Positives:
- No Admission Fee: Cross the river under the Scheldt for free and explore both banks.
- Unique Perspective: Experience a hidden side of Antwerp in a century-old tunnel.
Challenges:
- Limited Facilities: No restrooms or benches inside; plan stops before and after crossing.
- Escalator Restrictions: Strollers and heavy luggage banned on escalators; use the lift.
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 solo trip?
- Free under-river crossing with art-deco design
- Bike or walk the 572 m tunnel for a unique city link
- Original wooden escalators and vintage lift add charm
- Combine tunnel walk with free ferry for riverside views
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: You can walk the tunnel, take photos, and return by ferry in a single visit.
Solo-Friendly Activities in St. Anna’s Tunnel
Walk the pedestrian tunnel:
Stroll the 572 m under-river passage to Linkeroever.
Tip: Use the original 1930s wooden escalators or the lift for a seamless descent.
Bike through the tunnel:
Rent a Velo day pass or private bike to cycle under the river.
Tip: Bring a bike lock; secure your bike at racks on both banks.
Photo the art-deco details:
Capture clean tiles and vintage lighting against the river glow.
Tip: Visit in the morning for soft light and fewer people.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to St. Anna’s Tunnel
- Pair with Free Ferry: After exiting, board the free ferry (every 30 min) for a skyline view.
- Morning Visits: Arrive early on weekdays to avoid crowds and get best photo light.
- Use a Bike Lock: Secure rented bikes at the tunnels’ bike racks on each side.
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)?
In summer, the tunnel stays cool—great for midday breaks. In winter, escalator entrances can be drafty; bring a light jacket. Check elevator status during off-season for maintenance updates.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Tunnel crossing | EUR 0 |
| Velo day pass | EUR 6 |
| Private bike rental | EUR 16 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 6 |
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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