Attractions and Places To See around the Steldt - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around the Steldt include a diverse range of landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites along the Scheldt River. This prominent waterway flows through northern France, western Belgium, and the southwestern Netherlands, offering varied landscapes. The region is characterized by historic cities, tidal nature, polders, and marshes. There are more than 1600 highlights waiting to be explored.
Best attractions and places to see around the Steldt
- The most popular attractions is Oude Kwaremont, a…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Grote Markt Antwerp
Highlight • Historical Site
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Brabo Fountain
Highlight • Monument
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Het Steen
Highlight • Castle
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Oude Kwaremont
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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Koppenberg
Highlight • Climb
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Groenplaats and the Rubens Statue, Antwerp
Highlight • Monument
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Sint-Annatunnel
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
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Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp
Highlight • Religious Site
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Temse Scheldt Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
The bridges connect landscapes and people.
Trains, cars, cyclists and walkers …
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Antwerp City Hall
Highlight • Historical Site
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Popular around Schelde
Trappist abbeys cycle route – Between beers and heritage
Flanders Divide - Across Flanders
Grande Randonnée GRavel — Western Hainaut
Through the heart of Flanders on a road bike in 2 days – Spartacus Route
Seven-day Cycling tour through the South-Flemish hills – Hilly Route
In the footsteps of den vos Reynaerde – Streek-GR Waas- en Reynaertland
Two days Cycling in the border region – Between de Schelde and Zeeland
Three days of pure cycling pleasure from Spiere to Zandvliet – Schelderoute
Become a Flandrien – take on climbs in the Flemish Ardennes
From station to station through nature – station hoppers in East Flanders
Other adventures around the Steldt
Tips from the Community
The 1955 bridge caused considerable traffic congestion, a problem largely resolved since 2009 by the construction of a second parallel bridge. However, the current bridge complex remains a busy traffic intersection, and it largely defines the skyline of the Scheldt municipality of Temse. Cyclists can safely cross the bridge or cross the N16 under it.
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The Brabo Fountain is one of Antwerp's most iconic monuments and is located on the Grote Markt, in front of the City Hall. The fountain tells the legend of the giant Druon Antigoon and the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo. According to tradition, Druon Antigoon demanded a high toll from ships that wanted to pass the Scheldt. If skippers refused to pay, he chopped off their hand and threw it into the river. Silvius Brabo, a brave soldier, defeated the giant, chopped off Antigoon's hand in turn and threw it into the Scheldt. This legend is said to be the origin of the name "Antwerp" (derived from "hand werpen"). The fountain, designed by Jef Lambeaux and unveiled in 1887, shows Brabo triumphantly throwing away the giant's hand. The sculpture is full of dynamism and symbolism, surrounded by water spouts and smaller figures that refer to the Scheldt and the sea. The Brabo Fountain is not only a tribute to a folk tale, but also a beautiful work of art and a beloved symbol of the city of Antwerp.
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Located directly on the Schlede and centrally in Antwerp, I didn't expect to see this magnificent castle there. The castle looks like one of the medieval castles from the earlier knight films. I found it very fascinating. The castle is also Antwerp's oldest building. Of course, it can also be visited.
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The ceremonial unveiling of the sculpture took place on August 21, 1887. It depicts the young hero Silvius Brabo throwing the severed hand of the giant Druon Antigon, whom he had previously defeated in battle, into the Scheldt. According to tradition, this is where the name of the city comes from, "throwing hand".
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A tunnel for cyclists and pedestrians under the Scheldt.
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Rubens is present in Antwerp, both on the square and with his works in the cathedral.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore along the Scheldt?
The Scheldt region is rich in history. In Antwerp, you can visit the historic Grote Markt Antwerp, surrounded by 16th-century buildings, and Het Steen, Antwerp's oldest building. The Cathedral of Our Lady is another significant historical and architectural landmark. Further along the river, you'll find the Temse Scheldt Bridge, originally designed by Gustave Eiffel, and various castles along the Scheldt Castles Route.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Scheldt region?
Yes, the Scheldt region boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites. In Antwerp, the Plantin-Moretus Museum is dedicated to printing and publishing. Ghent features a UNESCO-recognized belfry, and Tournai is home to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, also a UNESCO site. Additionally, the Flemish Béguinages, such as the one in Dendermonde near the Scheldt drainage basin, are recognized.
What natural areas are there to visit along the Scheldt?
The Scheldt offers diverse natural landscapes. The Scheldt Valley National Park, located between Antwerp and Ghent, features unique tidal nature, polders, and tidal marshes. The Kalkense Meersen in East Flanders is a quiet nature area with floral meadows, lily ponds, and river dunes. You can also explore the Drowned Land of Saeftinghe, a vast brackish water wilderness in the Netherlands, or the polders of Kruibeke.
Are there opportunities for hiking near the Scheldt attractions?
Absolutely! The Scheldt region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find trails like the Rupelmond Creek hiking trail and the Barbier Brook hiking trail within the National Park Scheldt Valley. For more options, including easy and moderate routes, explore the dedicated Hiking around the Steldt guide.
Can I go cycling or mountain biking in the Scheldt region?
Yes, the Scheldt region is excellent for cycling and mountain biking. You can enjoy routes like 'Cycling past castles' near Antwerp or the 'Go with the flow cycling route'. For mountain biking, trails such as 'Route Merelbeke' and loops around the Koppenberg are available. Discover more routes in the Cycling around the Steldt and MTB Trails around the Steldt guides.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The diverse ecosystems along the Scheldt, particularly in areas like the Kalkense Meersen and the tidal mudflats and salt marshes, support a rich variety of bird species. You might spot birds such as the bluethroat and sedge warbler, as well as various migratory birds. The Kalkense Meersen also features grazing cattle that contribute to nature management.
Are there family-friendly attractions around the Scheldt?
Many attractions along the Scheldt are suitable for families. The Grote Markt Antwerp and Het Steen offer engaging historical experiences. Natural areas like the Kalkense Meersen provide opportunities for walks and wildlife spotting. The Sint-Annatunnel in Antwerp, with its original wooden escalators, is also a unique and fun experience for all ages.
What are some unique architectural highlights in the region?
Beyond historical buildings, the Scheldt region features unique architecture. In Antwerp, the Port House, designed by Zaha Hadid in the Het Eilandje neighborhood, is a striking modern landmark. The Cathedral of Our Lady is a prime example of Gothic architecture, and the Sint-Annatunnel is an iconic 1930s engineering marvel.
Where can I experience the Scheldt's tidal nature?
You can experience the Scheldt's tidal nature in several locations. The Scheldt Valley National Park, with its polders and tidal marshes, is an excellent area. The Kalkense Meersen also showcases the interaction of water and land. Additionally, the Zennegat hamlet near Mechelen and the Polders of Kruibeke feature impressive cascades during high tide.
Are there any challenging cycling climbs in the Scheldt area?
Yes, the Scheldt region is famous for its challenging cycling climbs, particularly those featured in the Tour of Flanders. The Oude Kwaremont is the longest cobblestone climb in Flanders, with an average gradient of 4 percent and sections up to 11.6 percent. The Koppenberg is another iconic and challenging climb, featuring a gradient of up to 22% on cobblestones and recognized as a national monument.
What are some notable cities located along the Scheldt?
Several prominent cities are situated along the Scheldt River. Antwerp, Belgium, is a major port city known for its diamond trade and Flemish art. Ghent, Belgium, developed at the confluence of the Lys and Scheldt rivers and is rich in history. Middelburg, Netherlands, at the mouth of the Western Scheldt, boasts gabled houses and canals. Other notable towns include Sint-Amands, Temse, and Bornem in Belgium.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Scheldt region?
Visitors particularly appreciate the Scheldt region's blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The vibrant city life of Antwerp, with its grand squares like the Grote Markt and iconic landmarks, is a major draw. Many also enjoy the tranquility of the natural areas, such as the Kalkense Meersen, and the unique experience of cycling or walking along the river, especially through the Sint-Annatunnel.
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