Museum aan de Stroom, Belgium Travel Guide

Perched majestically on the banks of the River Scheldt, The Museum aan de Stroom—often called MAS—is a beacon of culture and history in Antwerp. Opened in 2011, the museum quickly became an architectural marvel with its iconic 10-story high red sandstone and curved glass design. This façade, reminiscent of shipping containers, pays homage to Antwerp's rich shipping and trade history.

The Museum aan de Stroom houses over 500,000 pieces, making it a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. Each floor tells a different chapter of Antwerp's story, from the bustling merchant port of the 16th century to modern-day tales of global connections. Dive into the intriguing history of the Red Star Line, where hopeful emigrants once set sail for a new life across the Atlantic.

One of the museum’s most enchanting stories is of the wooden hand of a 15th-century statue, mysteriously washed ashore and believed to be a remnant of Antwerp's legendary giant, Antigoon. This mythical tale is woven into the fabric of the city and adds a touch of magic to your visit. Don't miss the panoramic views from the rooftop terrace, offering stunning vistas of the cityscape and river that have shaped Antwerp's vibrant history.

Situated in the vibrant city of Antwerp, The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) is a marvel of architectural and cultural innovation. The building's design combines modern glass and red sandstone, creating an impressive structure resembling a spiraling tower. An eye-catching feature is the open-air escalators that allow visitors to ascend through the museum, offering panoramic views of the city at each level.

Each floor of MAS is dedicated to exploring Antwerp's rich history and its global connections. The exhibits are not just informative but interactive, encouraging visitors to engage deeply with the city's maritime, cultural, and artistic narratives. The 'visible storage' concept allows visitors to peek into the museum's vast collection, providing a behind-the-scenes look at artifacts not on regular display.

The crowning jewel of MAS is the rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Antwerp's skyline and the Scheldt River. Whether you're an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, MAS's blend of intriguing exhibitions and stunning architecture creates an unforgettable experience that resonates long after your visit.

The Museum aan de Stroom, affectionately known as MAS, is a cultural beacon that captivates visitors with its stunning architectural design and insightful exhibits. One of the museum's most intriguing features is its vertical boulevard; an ascending spiral of escalators lined with floor-to-ceiling windows offers breathtaking panoramic views of Antwerp. This innovative design allows visitors to absorb both the museum's exhibits and the city's skyline simultaneously.

Moreover, the façade of the MAS is a spectacle in itself, adorned with more than 3,000 hand-cut Indian red sandstone panels and an equal number of specially designed glass panels. This intricate exterior tells a story of globalization through its diverse materials sourced from around the world. Inside, the museum houses an impressive collection of over 470,000 objects, yet only a fraction is on display at any given time, ensuring every visit offers something new and exciting.

Discover Museum aan de Stroom, a prime feature of Antwerp, in the vibrant Antwerp. Museum aan de Stroom is situated at Hanzestedenplaats 1, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium, just a short distance from Red Star Line Museum and Cathedral of Our Lady, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Museum aan de Stroom, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Antwerp, a city in Belgium rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Antwerp travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to go to Museum aan de Stroom in Antwerp is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These months offer mild weather, making it comfortable to explore both the museum and the surrounding city. During these times, visitors can enjoy fewer crowds compared to the bustling summer months, allowing for a more intimate experience with the museum's diverse exhibits.

In spring, the city of Antwerp comes alive with vibrant colors and cultural events, enhancing your visit to the museum. Meanwhile, fall provides a picturesque backdrop of autumn foliage, making it a perfect time for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, visiting during weekdays can further minimize crowd levels, giving you more space and time to appreciate the museum's unique architecture and collections.

Explore our extended guide on the best time to visit Museum aan de Stroom for more inspiration on things to do in every season.

Museum aan de Stroom is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Antwerp, Belgium. If you're flying in, Brussels Airport is approximately 22.9 miles (36.8 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Museum aan de Stroom by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Antwerp, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Museum aan de Stroom, which is located 0.6 miles (0.9 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Hanzestedenplaats 1, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Museum aan de Stroom!

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Museum aan de Stroom, perfectly planned travel packages to Antwerp make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Antwerp, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Museum aan de Stroom.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic museum in Belgium.

Upon arriving at Brussels Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Antwerp.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Antwerp.

Choosing the right accommodation near Museum aan de Stroom from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Antwerp can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Museum aan de Stroom, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Museum aan de Stroom, Antwerp boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From church to park, the top attractions in Antwerp offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Antwerp is Cathedral of Our Lady, located at Groenplaats 21, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium. This well-known church enhances your time in the city.

It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium.

This park draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Ellermanstraat, 2060 Antwerpen, Belgium, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Antwerp below to discover even more incredible places to explore.