Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis)
Vleeshouwersstraat 38–40, Antwerp, Antwerp Province
A candy-striped confection of white sandstone and red brick, the 14th-century Gothic Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis) originally served as a meat market but now fulfills the more refined role of music museum. Today, you can admire exquisite antique musical instruments such as Delftware mandolins at Museum Vleeshuis.
The central location of Butcher's Hall, just off Grand Market Place (Grote Markt van Antwerpen), makes it a popular stop on most Antwerp sightseeing tours, which typically cover Grand Market Place, the Diamond District, and Antwerp Cathedral. Inside the museum, dedicated to the history of music, intricately painted mandolins sit beside harpsichords and pianofortes, while the lower floor houses a workshop that makes brass instruments. It’s also possible to visit the historic center of Antwerp on a day trip from Brussels or Bruges.
The Vleeshuis is a must-visit for lovers of Gothic architecture and music.
There is a small admission fee to enter the museum.
Day trips from Bruges and Brussels only take around half a day.
Butcher's Hall is surrounded by buildings that epitomize the city’s Golden Age style.
Butcher's Hall is located at Vleeshouwersstraat 38–40, which is best reached on foot from Grand Market Place but is also accessible by tram 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 10, 11, and 15.
The Museum Vleeshuis is open from Thursday to Sunday between 10am and 5pm. The exterior of the building can be enjoyed at any time of day; however, the light for photography is best around sunset.
The grand buildings of central Antwerp were built during the city’s Golden Age, a period spanning the 16th and 17th centuries, when trade was expanding and Antwerp’s citizens were becoming incredibly wealthy. Grand Market Place is surrounded by opulent sandstone buildings that provide insight into the industrial history of Belgium’s second-largest city.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!