Is Antwerp safe? 🇧🇪

Antwerp remains a welcoming destination for travelers, with its historic center, Zuid district, and main tourist zones well-policed and safe both day and night. Violent crime against visitors is rare, though isolated incidents such as a fatal shooting in a club in July 2026 and arrests during protests highlight localized risks, particularly after dark in certain areas. Pickpocketing is the most common issue, especially on the Meir shopping street, around Grote Markt, and at Antwerpen-Centraal station during rush hours or summer festivals, where distraction tactics are frequently used.

Scams targeting tourists include pickpocket teams operating on trams and near transit hubs, fake taxis overcharging visitors, and street tricks involving fake diamonds in the diamond district. Travelers should lock bicycles securely, as bike theft is the city’s most reported crime, and avoid leaving valuables unattended on trams or in station overhead racks. Using licensed taxis or ride apps at night, staying alert in crowds, and keeping passports and cash in a money belt are effective precautions.

While Belgium maintains a Level 2 travel advisory due to terrorism and unrest, Antwerp benefits from strong local security measures, visible patrols, and approachable police who often speak English. Solo female travelers generally feel secure, and public transport is reliable. However, visitors should avoid the Schipperskwartier red-light area and parts of Borgerhout late at night, and stay informed about planned strikes or demonstrations, such as the large-scale action noted for October 9, 2026, which could disrupt transit. By staying aware and following basic urban safety practices, most visits to Antwerp remain trouble-free.