We are on a riverboat cruise that stops in Antwerp for the day with an optional excursion to Brussels. Should we take the 3 hr. bus ride to experience Brussels or spend the entire day in Antwerp? Thank you!

A 3 hour bus ride from Antwerp to Brussels? That implies they are taking you to a lot more places than just Brussels. It takes around an hour to get to Brussels from Antwerp, even allowing for the terrible traffic.
I personally prefer Antwerp to Brussels, but if the trip to Brussels means you get to see more of Belgium it may be worth it.

I've been to both places many times and I love Antwerp -- but that's because of my interests in shopping for the latest fashions. I find shopping in Antwerp much more satisfying than in Paris or Milan.

Aside from that, though, if you're interested in sightseeing, Brussels has more to offer. It really deserves more than a day trip, but if you've never been to either place, I'd recommend Brussels.

Both cities are lovely enough for one day. Unless you're dying to see Brussels, I'd say save the money and stay in antwerp.

Antwerp is an industrial wasteland - go to Brussels.

Never been to Antwerp, but Brussels is very beautiful. Lots of things to see, don´t miss the touristy but funny Manneken Piss, and by all means enjoy a wafer - it´s unforgetable. Little streets to wander, pictures to take. If you do have a little more time, go to Brugges. It´s a wonderful medieval city, romantic, clean, lovely.
Enjoy Belgium!

Hi; If you were not losing travel time [2 hours] between the two cities, it would be Brussels. Antwerp was bombed quite a bit in WW2, but the old town has been restored. Save the two hours travel time and visit Antwerp. Visit Diamondland as we did and my walet became a little 'lighter'. You will find enough to do and see. Stay in the old town and you won't see the 'wasteland. iris1745/dick

Gordon_R - I wonder if we saw completely different sections of Antwerp???