The Rubens House (Rubenshuis) is the former home and studio of the Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1640), who lived and worked here from 1610 until his death; it has been a museum since 1946 and is one of Antwerp's signature sights. In 2026, however, the historic artist's residence itself is closed for a major restoration and is not expected to reopen before 2030. For now, visitors enter through the new welcome building at Hopland 13 and can experience the recreated Baroque garden, the multimedia 'Rubens Experience', and the library — so plan your visit around the garden and the experience rather than expecting to walk through the original interiors.
The Baroque garden pavilion (portico) designed by Rubens himself, with statues of Mercury and Minerva — the key surviving original structure and the highlight still accessible while the main house is closed
The recreated Baroque garden, replanted with colour and planting advice from Belgian fashion designer Dries Van Noten, offering a different mood each season
The 'Rubens Experience', a multimedia space that tells the story of Rubens's life and work through film and interactive displays
The Rubenianum research library, holding extensive material on Rubens and the art of his era (open on weekdays)
The new welcome building at Hopland 13 by architects Robbrecht en Daem, and the surrounding historic centre of Antwerp
Good to know
RulesMost important: the historic residence where Rubens lived and painted is closed for restoration until at least 2030. You cannot currently view the period rooms and paintings in situ, so check the official website for which areas are open before you go.
SeasonSince the garden is the current highlight, late spring to early autumn is the most rewarding time to visit. Note the usual Wednesday and public-holiday closures and possible shorter winter hours, and bring rain protection as much of the visit is outdoors.
SafetyWatch for pickpockets around Antwerp Central Station, the Meir shopping street, and on crowded trams and the metro. Wear bags in front, keep zips closed, and don't keep your phone or wallet in a back pocket.
MannersDo not touch the plants, statues or structures in the garden, and keep to the marked routes. Stay quiet in the exhibition space and library, and follow the photography rules (e.g. no flash or tripods).
CautionDecline fake petitions or donation requests near stations and tourist spots, and avoid unofficial ticket resellers. Buy admission only through official channels — the website or the on-site ticket desk.
SafetyThe city centre is easy to explore on foot; for public transport, buy tickets in advance via the De Lijn tram and bus app. Use official taxis or a ride app rather than unmetered touts.
Practical info
The entrance is the new welcome building at Hopland 13, about a 10-minute walk from Antwerp Central Station and also reachable by tram (Meir or Stadspark stops) or bus (F. Rooseveltplaats). Opening hours (typically closed Wednesdays and public holidays), ticket prices (combined garden + experience around €12, garden only around €8, free for under-18s), and the residence's reopening timeline (planned for 2030) may change, so confirm the latest details on the official website.
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