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Home > Venues > The Ruien | Below the city the secrets flow
The Ruien | Below the city the secrets flow

The Ruien | Below the city the secrets flow

The sewers, otherwise known as the Ruien, are a shadow of the rich history above ground. Sewers, streams and fortifications have crisscrossed Antwerp ever since the Middle Ages. This network of both natural and man-made waterways provided the city with water and an internal harbour. When the sewers were turned into covered drains this unique piece of heritage disappeared both from view and from our memories.

You can now rediscover this hidden patrimony. The subterranean network of passages still gives us an idea of its rich and exciting past. A visit to the Ruien, with its old vaults, canals, bridges, sewers and drains reflects the historic city centre above you, with plenty of interesting facts and curious anecdotes from a distant and more recent past. We take you on a strange walk deep in the belly of Antwerp!

The city of Antwerp has entrusted the management of the Ruien to Werkmmaat vzw, a social employment project. They have provided a new impetus to the Ruien, by investing in the service, infrastructure and experience.

3 reasons why this is worth your visit

  • The Ruien are a unique piece of historical heritage hidden beneath the city of Antwerp.
  • A walk in the Ruien is an unforgettable experience for both young and old!
  • Because of the constant temperature underground (15 °C), a visit to the Ruien is possible all year long.
Suikerrui 21, 2000 Antwerp
Contact details for visitors
Suikerrui 21
2000 Antwerp
Opening hours
Monday: closed
Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00-17:30
Annual closing: 24/12/2024 - 01/01/2025

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts in the Ruihuis on the Suikerrui and ends in the courtyard of the Stadsmagazijn in the Keistraat.

Do I need to provide appropriate clothing for my visit to the Ruien?
A visit to the Ruien is synonymous with a vigorous and muddy walk. To ensure that your underground adventure is safe and dry, we ask you to wear appropriate clothing (long trousers and socks). A protective suit (S to XXXL) and boots (sizes 35 to 50) are available on site.

You will also receive a backpack in which to store your personal belongings. It is not possible to leave personal belongings at the starting point. We therefore recommend that you only bring things that are absolutely necessary.

Is there a minimum age for visiting the Ruien?
A walk in the Ruien is an unforgettable experience for both young and old. The guided group walks and the tablet walks are suitable for everyone from 10 years of age and up. This minimum age is not only for safety reasons, it is also important in order to guarantee a dry walk for the youngest participants, as the water level in the Ruien can be unpredictable at times.

Are the Ruien accessible for wheelchair users?
A visit to the Ruien involves a vigorous, muddy walk and it is therefore not suitable for wheelchair users and people with limited vision and/or mobility.

Can I take pictures in the Ruien?
Yes, you are allowed to take photos in the Ruien.

What are you not allowed to take into the Ruien?
Animals, prams, large backpacks, dangerous objects, food and alcohol are not allowed in The Ruien. The organisation has the right to refuse these items and to check backpacks when visitors enter the Ruien.

Is there a deposit for using a tablet?
For the use of a tablet, a deposit is required in the form of your ID card or other proof of identification.

Is my ticket still valid in the event of flooding?
If your planned tour cannot take place due to flooding, the organisation will contact you personally to rebook your visit.

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