🇧🇪 Antwerp
Vlaeykensgang
Must-See
★ 4.5 · 2k reviews
The hidden street Vlaeykensgang connects Hoogstraat, Oude Koornmarkt, and Pelgrimsstraat. It is a real street, but only accessible through unassuming medieval front doors in the streets. Originally, it was the medieval equivalent of a gated community. Today, it houses informal restaurants and chic, discrete flats. The easiest entrance is through a porch on Hoogstraat.
Visitor Info
Rating
★ 4.5 1,800 reviews
Visit Time
~20 min
Best Time
Early evening
Insider Tips
- · Enter through the unassuming doorway and do not rush it, because the lane is tiny
- · It is best paired with dinner or drinks nearby
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vlaeykensgang? ▾
It is a hidden 16th-century cobblestone alleyway connecting three streets through a series of small courtyards — one of the best-preserved medieval lanes in Antwerp.
How do I find the entrance? ▾
Look for a low wooden door at Oude Koornmarkt 16; there is also access from Hoogstraat and Pelgrimsstraat — all entrances are deliberately understated.
Who lived here historically? ▾
The alley was originally home to cobblers and shoemakers in the 16th century; the name 'Vlaeykensgang' means 'flatcake alley,' referring to a type of bread sold nearby.
Is it always open? ▾
The passage is publicly accessible during daytime hours, though private residences and the restaurant inside have their own hours.
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Vlaeykensgang — offline map & tips