antwerp tourism guide

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Antwerp (Antwerpen/Anvers in Dutch/French) is Belgium’s second city, biggest port and capital of cool. It has long been a powerful magnet for everyone from fashion moguls and club queens to art lovers and diamond dealers. In the mid-16th century it was one of Europe’s most important cities and home to baroque superstar painter Pieter Paul Rubens – as many a museum will regularly remind you. Despite many historical travails thereafter, and severe WWII bombing, Antwerp retains an intriguing medieval heart with plenty of café-filled cobbled lanes, a riverside fortress and a truly impressive cathedral. Today, however, Antwerp’s top drawcards are its vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, along with its startling architectural and cultural contrasts.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museum Plantin-Moretus

The medieval building and 1622 courtyard garden alone would be worth a visit, but it's the world's oldest printing press, priceless manuscripts and…

This delightfully indulgent 1611 mansion was built as a home and studio for celebrated painter Pieter Paul Rubens. It was rescued from ruins in 1937 and…

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal

Belgium’s finest Gothic cathedral was 169 years in the making (1352–1521). Wherever you wander in Antwerp, its gracious, 123m-high spire has a habit of…

Museum Mayer van den Bergh

Styled as a 16th-century town house, this superb place was actually constructed in 1904 as one of the first museums in the world built around a single…

Snijder-Rockoxhuis

Combining the impressive 17th-century houses of artist Frans Snijders and of Antwerp lawyer, mayor and Rubens-patron Nicolaas Rockox, this recently…

Grote Markt

As is the case with every great Flemish city, Antwerp’s medieval heart is a classic Grote Markt (market square). Here the triangular, pedestrianised space…

In a monumental neoclassical building topped with winged charioteer statues, KMSKA holds a world-class collection of artistic masterpieces. However, the…

Opened in 2011, MAS is a 10-storey complex that redefines the idea of a museum-gallery. Floors are designed around big-idea themes using a barrage of…

Latest stories from Antwerp

Festivals & Events

Dec 13, 2019 • 1 min read

Winter in Antwerp is designed to capture the magic of the season. The addition of a fairytale forest this year hopes to enhance visitors' sense of wonder.

Jun 1, 2018 • 4 min read

Jun 1, 2018 • 5 min read

Aug 30, 2017 • 5 min read

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16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Antwerp

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The cultural capital of Flanders, the Dutch-speaking northern area of Belgium, Antwerp is both a bustling industrial port city and an outstanding historic center for Belgian craftwork and artistry.

The city was once home to such famous artists as Rubens, van Dyck, and Jordaens, while centuries of prosperity through trade and commerce have bequeathed an inheritance of architectural beauty, which includes the magnificent cathedral, the town hall, and many other outstanding historical buildings in the old town center.

For art lovers and culture vultures, Antwerp's excellent museums are the main tourist attractions and are a vital stop on any Belgian itinerary.

In particular, the city's paintings – an incomparable collection of 15th- to 17th-century masterpieces from a time when the work of artists of the South Netherlands school attained extraordinary heights – is a highlight of any visit.

Discover the city and the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Antwerp.

See also: Where to Stay in Antwerp

1. Grand Place (Grote Markt)

2. cathedral of our lady, 3. rubens' house (rubenshuis), 4. tour the museum aan de stroom (mas), 5. take the kids to antwerp zoo, 6. learn about chocolate at chocolate nation, 7. plantin-moretus museum, 8. see the collection inside museum mayer van den bergh, 9. royal museum of fine arts (koninklijk museum voor schone kunsten), 10. learn about migration history at the red star line museum, 11. st. paul's church (sint-pauluskerk), 12. the butcher's hall (vleeshuis), 13. check out antwerp-centraal railway station, 14. bike the havenroute (port tour), 15. st. james' church (sint-jacobskerk), 16. diva (the diamond museum), where to stay in antwerp for sightseeing, antwerp, belgium - climate chart.

Antwerp's Grand Place (Grote Markt) with its town hall and numerous guild houses is the heart of the old town. In the middle stands the ornate Brabo Fountain Brabo erected in 1887 by Jef Lambeaux and depicting the Roman soldier Silvius Brabo tossing the severed hand of the giant Antigonus into the Scheldt.

The Town Hall (or Stadhuis) dominates the plaza's western side and was built by Cornelis Floris de Vriendt between 1561 and 1565. Inside, the rooms are hung with 19th-century paintings by H. Leys illustrating the history of Antwerp.

Apart from the Stadhuis, most of the buildings bordering the Grote Markt are former guild houses (gildehuizen), which originally served as headquarters of the city's 16th- and 17th-century guilds.

Among the most interesting guild houses on the north side are the Gildehuis der Kuipers (Coopers' House No. 5), the Huis van de Schutters (Archer's House No. 7), and the Huis van de Kruideniers (Grocers' House No. 11).

Immediately behind the town hall, in the Gildekamersstraat, a former guild house has been turned into a Folk Museum devoted to the many traditional arts and crafts found in the Antwerp area, while nearby is the Ethnography Museum which highlights non-European cultures.

Address: Grand Place, Central Antwerp

The Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwkathedraal), is Belgium's largest Gothic church.

Work was started on the cathedral in 1352, continuing until 1521. Jacob van Thienen, Pieter Appelmans, Jan Tac, Everaert Spoorwater, Hermann and Dominic de Waghemakere, and Rombout Keldermans were among the architects and master-builders who contributed to its construction.

The church has suffered serious damage on a number of occasions over the years, depriving it of many of its most precious works of art. First came a fire in 1533, then despoliation at the hands of dissident iconoclasts in 1566, Calvinists in 1581, and French Republican troops in 1794 and 1800. Sadly, only a few of the lost treasures have since been recovered.

Restoration of the exterior was begun in the 19th century, and all the carved stonework on the outside of the building is therefore recent. Work on the interior began in 1965, starting with the nave where repairs were completed in 1983.

The finest of the remaining works of art are displayed in the nave and aisles as well as in the cathedral treasury.

Address: Groenplaats 21 / Handschoenmarkt, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.dekathedraal.be

Peter Paul Rubens acquired No. 9 in 1610 – a year after his marriage to Isabella Brant – living there until his death in 1640. He arranged the house to his own taste and requirements, making his home to the left of the entrance and turning the right wing into his studio.

Following the French Revolution it was used as a prison, thereafter falling more and more into disrepair. Rubens' House (Rubenshuis) finally came into the possession of the City of Antwerp in 1937 and, between 1939 and 1946, was meticulously restored with the aid of old documents and drawings.

The 10 rooms are furnished in the style of the period and contain a large collection of paintings by both Rubens and his contemporaries. Among the pieces not to miss are Self-portrait , Adam and Eve , and The Annunciation , all by Rubens; Self-portrait by Anthony van Dyke; and Peasant Drinking by Adriaen Brouwer. The large studio contains several works by Rubens and others by his pupils.

Outside, the formal gardens of the house have been restored carefully to try and closely replicate the garden as it was when Rubens was resident at the house. It's a great spot for a stroll after touring the house.

Address: Wapper 9-11, Antwerp

Official site: https://rubenshuis.be/en

Antwerp's municipal museum is housed in a fine example of modern architecture that features a geometric configuration of variegated stone and wave-shaped glass panels. This 10-story building resembles a child's block puzzle, and sits overlooking the harbor on the former site of the Hanseatic warehouse.

The museum's exhibits include a true variety of topics. Local subjects include a gastronomic history of the city on the 5th floor and a look at Antwerp's former role as the largest trade and shipping port in the world.

The rooftop, which is open on top but enclosed with glass walls, affords tourists a full 360-degree view of the city and the port; here is where you will find the Saluting Admiral Couple sculpture created by local artist Guillaume Bijl.

Additional exhibits focus on international topics, including explorations of mankind's approach to death and spirituality throughout various cultures, as well as the ways that cultures around the world celebrate rites of passage.

The 8th floor is dedicated to one of Europe's largest collections of pre-Columbian American art, focusing on the relationship between the native cultures and their gods.

As well as the permanent collection, MAS regularly hosts a program of temporary exhibitions focused on a wide range of subjects.

The museum also has a unique storage area on the second floor, which allows visitors to view the racks filled with over 180,000 items that have yet to be placed into exhibit space. In total, the museum is home to over 500,000 pieces in its collection.

Address: Hanzestedenplaats 1

Official site: https://mas.be/en

Right in the center of the city, Antwerp Zoo was founded in 1843. It is widely regarded as one of the finest zoos in Europe on account of its variety of species; its success in breeding; the care bestowed on the animals, which are kept in the most natural environment possible; and, last but by no means least, its architecture.

While the Art Déco facades of the entrance area are the first features to catch the eye, inside the zoo are several buildings of note, among them the giraffe and elephant house (1855) in the style of an Egyptian temple.

More than 6,000 animals of 950 species live in the zoo, including rare breeds such as the white rhino, okapi, and mountain gorilla.

If you are visiting Antwerp with kids, at trip to the zoo is one of the top things to do.

Address: Kon. Astridplein 26, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.zooantwerpen.be

This museum is a treat for visitors with a sweet tooth. Located just across from Antwerp's Central Railway Station, Chocolate Nation is the largest Belgian Chocolate museum in the world .

Visitors are introduced to every step of the process via a multimedia presentation and interactive exhibits, from the cocoa bean's equatorial origins to the final product - which, of course, you can enjoy to your heart's content via samples and the museum shop.

The museum also explores the special place chocolate has within Belgian culture and tradition, as well as the history of the confection's innovations here and in other countries.

Exhibits look at the many ways that chocolate is used and presented, and visitors can even sign up for a chocolate workshop with take-home goodies.

Address: Koningin Astridplein 7, 2018, Antwerp

Official site: https://www.chocolatenation.be/en/

In 1576, Christophe Plantin the printer who hailed originally from France, moved into a house he christened "De gulden Passer" – the Golden Compasses – south of the Grote Markt Grote . The house, lived in by Plantin and his Moretus family heirs is now a supreme example of Flemish Renaissance architecture.

Today, the building is the Plantin-Moretus Museum incorporating the history of printing as well as showcasing the atmosphere of an Old Flemish patrician house.

The original furnishings, wide-ranging exhibits, and above all, the still tangible atmosphere arising from the proximity of home and workplace make this museum one of Antwerp's most fascinating tourist attractions.

If you're short on time, make a beeline for Room 7, devoted to the history of books and the processes involved in their production, from the earliest forms of writing and development of the alphabet – exhibits include important archaeological finds and manuscripts – to Johannes Gutenberg and the invention of letterpress printing using movable type.

And afterwards, don't miss Room 24 which is a celebration of the art of printing in Europe as a whole, the jewel in the crown being a 36-line Gutenberg Bible on display here.

Address: Vrijdagmarkt 22, Central Antwerp

Official site: www.museumplantinmoretus.be/

In the course of only a short period during the 1890s, a connoisseur of the fine arts, Fritz Mayer van den Bergh, assembled a remarkable collection of more than 3,000 items. These are now displayed on four floors of a Neo-Gothic house at Lange Gasthuisstraat 19 known as the Museum Mayer van den Bergh.

The collection includes some superlative works of art, among them paintings by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, ( Dulle Griet and the earliest of the artist's signed works The Twelve Proverbs , both in Room 26), Rubens, Jordaens, Bouts, van der Weyden, van Ostade, Lucas Cranach, and Quentin Massys.

Also of great interest are the Flemish and French religious statues, the outstanding collection of ivories, and a unique 16th-century Flemish breviary, and in Room 14, a polychrome group Christ with St. John (1300) by Henry of Constance and a Netherlands diptych (ca. 1400).

The second floor features a collection of porcelain, while 17th-century furniture and paintings occupy the third.

Address: Lange Gasthuisstraat 19, Antwerp

The nucleus of the collection inside the Royal Museum of Fine Art (Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten) belonged originally to the Lucas Guild of Painters and Sculptors, founded in 1442.

Following the winding up of the guild in 1773, the works of art accumulated over the years passed into the possession of the Academy of Fine Arts.

In the mid-19th century, however, the collection was swollen by a substantial number of new acquisitions, particularly gifts, mainly of 15th- and 16th-century paintings, from Florent van Ertborn, a former burgomaster of Antwerp.

The academy found itself with insufficient space to accommodate the enlarged collection and the decision was taken to build a new museum.

The collection is housed on two floors. The ground floor is largely devoted to 19th- and 20th-century paintings and sculpture, some 1,500 items in all, providing, among other things, an excellent overview of the development of the plastic arts in Belgium since 1830.

The exhibition of Old Masters on the first floor comprises more than 1,000 works, mostly from the Flemish and Dutch schools.

Address: Plaatsnijdersstraat 2, Antwerp

Official site: www.kmska.be/en/

One of the newer tourist attractions in Antwerp, the Red Star Line Museum was opened in 2013 after over two decades of planning.

The Red Star company's steamers transported emigrants from Belgium and surrounding European countries between 1883 and 1934, bringing them across the ocean to Canada or the United States to escape persecution, poverty, and oppression.

The museum is dedicated to exploring not only the journey and process itself, but the reasons that people chose to leave their home in hopes of a better life.

Among the exhibits are the areas where passengers were selected for passage, some of whom were never given the chance to get aboard a ship. Areas of interest also include personal stories of those who did emigrate, and those who were left behind, and accounts of the passage across the Atlantic.

Address: Montevideostraat 3, 2000 Antwerp

Official site: www.redstarline.be/en

In the central city, the Veemarkt (the plaza that once functioned as a former cattle market) is home to the late Gothic St. Paul's Church (Sint-Pauluskerk), begun in 1517 and not completed until 1639. The Baroque clock tower dates from 1680.

A fire in 1968 badly damaged the church and only the spirited efforts of local people prevented the loss of valuable interior furnishings.

The church is home to paintings by Rubens, Jordaens, and Van Dyck. These include the superb Baroque confessionals by Pieter Verbruggen the Elder and three paintings by Rubens: The Scourging of Christ (1617) in the left aisle and the Adoration of the Shepherds and Disputation on the Blessed Sacrament in the left transept.

Address: Sint Paulusstraat 20/22, Central Antwerp

The elegant rooms of the late Gothic Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis) include the former council chamber of the butchers' guild. The impressive brick building, built in 1501-04, was deliberately sited close to the Scheldt, allowing the blood of slaughtered animals to run off into the river.

The Vleeshuis is now a museum of applied art and archaeology with collections of prehistoric, Egyptian, Roman, and Merovingian artefacts; weapons and armor; ceramics; furniture; sculpture and woodwork; and coins.

Among its most prized possessions are a 16th-century depiction of the conversion of Saul created from Antwerp tiles known as the Averbode Retable by Pieter Coecke van Aelst.

The Vleeshuis is also home to an outstanding collection of musical instruments including the remarkable harpsichord from the workshop of Ruckers the instrument-makers.

Address: Vleeshouwerstraat 38-40, Central Antwerp

Antwerp's railway station (called both Antwerp-Centraal or Antwerpen-Central) is one of the most beautiful railway stations in Europe and is considered to be one of the most impressive train stations in the world .

Its nickname of the Railroad Cathedral is a testament to its grandeur, and even those who are not traveling by rail will appreciate a quick peek at its interior.

Built between 1895 and 1905, it is historically significant as the first station of Belgium's public railway, which was itself, the first of its kind in Europe. Belgian architect Louis Delacenserie cherry-picked from several different architectural forms in his design, resulting in a bold, dramatic building that has a timeless style all of its own.

The entrance hall, with its high brick arches and dome, is the grandest section of the station's interior and a regal introduction to Antwerp if you arrive by train.

The station is an easy two-kilometer walk east from Antwerp's Grand Place in the old town, and just over one kilometer northeast from Ruben's House.

Address: Koningin Astridplein 27

The Havenroute is a sightseeing tour of the port area, marked out by the Antwerp Tourist Office. The central city sections can be easily explored on foot, but if you want to follow more of the route, hire a bike.

The Port of Antwerp is second only to Rotterdam among the major seaports of Europe, fully justifying its claim to be one of the largest in the world.

The harbor installations alone cover an area of more than 10,000 hectares, with a further 3,400 hectares of land in industrial use.

Start the Havenroute tour of the docks area from the Loodsgebouw (Pilot House) on the embankment north of the Steen, from where the route heads northwards, passing almost immediately the two oldest docks, the Bonapartedok and Willemsdok, at the far end, where you can see the massive Koninklijk Stapelhuis.

If you have a car or a bicycle, the Havenroute heads out of the city, past the 17th-century Eenhoorn windmill to Lillo (16 kilometers northwest of Antwerp), one of the few polder villages to have survived engulfment by the port.

At Lillo, there is a choice between driving on to inspect the huge Berendrechtsluis, the world's largest lock, or shortening the tour by turning round and following the Havenroute south again towards Antwerp, via the Frans Tijsmanstunnel beneath the Kanaaldok.

Address: Port house, 1 Entrepotkaai, Antwerp

With its sumptuously ornate Baroque interior, St. James' Church (Sint-Jacobskerk) is one of the richest ecclesiastical buildings in Antwerp, blessed with an exceptional endowment of art treasures.

It was the church at which the city's patrician families worshipped, and they regularly commissioned leading artists to design their private chapels, altars, and tombs.

The Rubens Chapel provides the chief focus of interest for visitors. Located behind the high altar, it contains the tomb of the artist (1640) and those of other members of his family.

Address: Lange Nieuwstraat 73, Antwerp

DIVA (Antwerp's museum of diamonds, silver, and jewelry) explores all the different aspects of the trade in diamonds, including sections on their extraction, processing, and industrial use.

It also focuses on Antwerp's long heritage of silversmithing craftwork and jewelry making and how that heritage led to the city's central role in the global diamond trade.

As well as displays of cut and uncut diamonds (genuine) together with copies of the more famous stones, the museum exhibits include a vast showcase of Belgian silverwork, from intricately embossed tableware to delicate jewelry.

The museum is temporarily closed for renovation until December 2022, but a pop-up DIVA museum, displaying a range of the museum's diamond and silver collection, is open in Antwerp's Grand Place (Grote Markt) for this period.

Address: Suikerrui 17/19

Official site: https://www.divaantwerp.be/en/

If you're visiting Antwerp for the first time, the best area to stay is in the old town, near the Grote Markt or the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady. More affordable hotels tend to cluster around Antwerp Central Station in the Diamond District, about a 20-minute walk away from the old town. This area is especially convenient if you're arriving or departing by train. Below are some highly rated hotels in these central locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• On a quiet street, a few minutes' walk from the old town, the boutique Hotel De Witte Lelie Antwerp occupies a 17th-century building but the flamboyant design within is bold and contemporary.
• Also in a lovely building, with an original 1864 facade, the pet-friendly Hilton Antwerp Old Town , on the historic town square, has elegant guest rooms with marble bathrooms and is right next to the cathedral.
• Not far from here, the hip Hotel Julien is a boutique property with high style and friendly service.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Sleek and contemporary, the Park Inn by Radisson Antwerpen sits steps away from Antwerp Central Station in the Diamond District.
• Also near Central Station, Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel , Antwerp, with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi, and fitness center, is a good option for families, who can walk to the adjacent zoo in less than three minutes.
• If you prefer boutique hotels, the contemporary Leopold Hotel Antwerp , overlooking the city park, is a five-minute walk from the Diamond District and Antwerp Central Station.

Budget Hotels:

• At the top end of the budget hotels, the charming Hotel Diamonds And Pearls is only two minutes on foot from the cathedral.
• Right next to its namesake train station Ibis Budget Antwerpen Central Station is good value with clean, modern rooms.
• In a fabulous location, meters from the cathedral, the family-run Postiljon offers clean, comfortable rooms in an evocative Flemish building, a short walk from the old town attractions.

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Ghent's Flemish Flair : Home to some of Belgium's most impressive architecture, Ghent can be explored easily on foot or by canal. Less tourist-filled than many other historic Flemish cities, this is a good place to go to get a feel for authentic culture.

Bustling Brussels : Like Antwerp, Belgium's capital city of Brussels is home to several fine museums among its many tourist attractions. Tourists visiting Brussels will find a modern and busy city filled with excellent restaurants and cafés.

Lovely Leuven : Home to one of Europe's most prominent universities, Leuven (Louvain, in French) sits east of Brussels on the banks of the Dijle. Despite damage done during the World Wars, Leuven still has many of its original historic buildings, including fine examples of Gothic architecture.

Day Trips from Antwerp : In addition to the larger cities nearby, those looking for good day trip options from Antwerp have plenty of options to choose from, including the beautiful towns of Mechelen, Lier, and Turnhout.

More on Belgium

24 Best Things To Do in Antwerp (+Insider Tips & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 27, 2023

Visiting Belgium’s second-largest city and wondering what to see and do in Antwerp ? In this article, we share the very best places to see and top things to do in Antwerp, coupled with our insider tips and advice. Find out!

First, let me tell you that it’s a great choice to visit Antwerp! In my opinion, Antwerp is one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium and well worth visiting !

We live nearby and I just love Antwerp, so I might be a bit biased. But to me, Antwerp is a perfect mix of history and modern trendy places; it’s a city that has an amazing vibe and keeps on reinventing itself. I’m certain that you’ll love it here as well and I hope that our tips will help you plan a more memorable visit to Antwerp!

In this article, we share the very best things to see and do in Antwerp . It’s an insider’s guide to the best places that you have to see if visiting the city for the first time.

In addition to the most famous landmarks, we also included the best new additions, things to do in Antwerp that you won’t find in the older tourist guides. At the bottom of this article, you can also find the map indicating the best things to do in Antwerp , as well as our suggested walking route. We also share some suggestions on where to stay .

I hope that this will not only inspire you to come to visit Antwerp, spend a bit more time here, and explore deeper but will also help you to get the most out of your trip. Find out!

TIP: If you are short on time and want to experience the best of Antwerp in a nutshell, I recommend joining a city tour with a local. Here are the best-rated 2-3 hour tours that I found:

• Historic Antwerp walking tour
• The highlights of Antwerp by bike
• Private walking tour

Best things to do in Antwerp – how to use this guide

If you only have limited time in Antwerp, you will probably want to see the most famous landmarks that the city is known for. Below are the main highlights, most popular things to do in Antwerp . I listed them in the same order as you would visit if you start walking or biking from the Central Station.

The tasty additions to the best places to see in Antwerp – Antwerp Chocolate Museum and Antwerp City Brewery – are listed in the end. These are not a must but will make your visit to the city even more memorable.

To help you better plan your time in the city, I also created a map with a sample city walk itinerary to help you get the best out of your time in Antwerp.

Even if you are visiting Antwerp for just one day, you can see most of the best places. However, please note that if you want to actually visit (and not just see the exterior) every place on this list, you will need at least two days.

TIP: Renting a bike or joining a guided bike tour is a great way to see the best of Antwerp, especially if you are short on time and want to cover a lot of ground.

Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Antwerp :

1. Central Station – Antwerpen Centraal

The central station of Antwerp is one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. The building’s exterior is very impressive, but to truly appreciate it, you have to see it from the inside.

The most impressive is the main hall (main entrance on the side of Koningin Astridplein) and also the big hall with a clock as seen from the ground level.

Central Station is one of the places you must see in Antwerp. Don’t miss it! If you arrive in Antwerp by train, you will start your city visit here anyway, so don’t rush outside when you arrive and take some time to look around the building.

2. Antwerp Zoo

Established in 1843, Antwerp Zoo is the oldest animal park in Belgium and one of the oldest in the world. This historic zoo is located in the center of Antwerp, right next to the Antwerpen Centraal railway station.

A visit to the zoo is the perfect way to escape the hustle and the bustle of the city, while at the same time being right in the heart of town.

Antwerp zoo can be visited the whole year as there are indoor as well as outdoor attractions. There are all kinds of activities and shows and you can easily spend a good couple of hours here. Don’t miss it if you are visiting Antwerp with kids !

Antwerp Zoo is considered one of the best things to do in Antwerp for locals and tourists alike. However, if you only have one day in Antwerp, I think that there are other places that are worth your time more. But if you have 2-3 hours to spare, it’s well worth a visit.

TIP: In winter, Antwerp Zoo hosts a beautiful light festival . It’s amazing, especially in the evenings. So if you visit Antwerp in the winter, I really recommend the light show at the zoo (best visit after it gets dark, of course). Check out this guide for more practical info and things to do in Belgium in winter .

3. Diamond District

Antwerp has been known as the diamond capital of the world since 1447 and it still is today.

Right next to Central Station is the famous diamond district of Antwerp , the place where rough and polished diamonds are traded. You can’t really visit the trading markets, but there are plenty of shops selling diamond jewelry… I bet you have never seen so many diamonds and jewelry in one place!

The majority of diamond stores are concentrated in a triangle of three streets to the west of the Central Station: De Keyserlei, Pelikaanstraat, and Vestingstraat. Most diamond shops are open every day except Saturday.

TIP: If you want to buy diamonds, make sure to bargain. Negotiating the price is normally not done in Belgium, but Antwerp’s diamond stores are an exception to the rule.

In fact, it might be worth it to make a trip to Antwerp if you are considering buying diamonds. On a bigger purchase, you can save so much that your whole trip to Belgium will easily pay back for itself.

4. City Park

Antwerp City Park is another great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city life.

It’s a nice place to visit with kids or if you have some time to spare. But, to be completely honest, it’s not an absolute must among the things to do in Antwerp. So – as it often goes – it all depends on how much time you have in the city.

The park isn’t big and it’s quite centrally located, so it’s quite easy to check it out on your way between the station and the old town.

5. Meir Shopping Street

The Meir shopping area encompasses the streets surrounding the area from the Cathedral all the way to the Central Station.

Meir is a prime shopping destination in Belgium , but there is more to it than the shops. Thanks to its historic architecture and prestigious character, the Meir makes shopping feel special.

Not only do the buildings make it worth a visit, but the offerings are also first-rate. You’ll find all the major, international brands here. Don’t miss Antwerp’s Stadsfeestzaal , an exclusive shopping center in the beautifully restored city festival hall. It’s one of the hidden gems of Antwerp that most tourists don’t know about.

6. The Rubens House

Closed for renovation (likely until at least 2026)!

If tourists visit just one museum in Antwerp, they usually choose the Rubens House . World-famous Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens lived in this palazzo with his family. He created many of his paintings in this house, in the center of Antwerp.

The museum has an interesting collection of Rubens’ works but also shows how the master lived and worked. It doesn’t require much time and it’s really worth a visit.

On the other hand, there are other really interesting museums in the city, so if you are only visiting Antwerp for a day, you’ll have to choose. The Rubens House is certainly one of the top choices.

For practical information, please check the official website of the Rubens House .

TIP: You can also see lots of Rubens’ paintings inside the Antwerp Cathedral (see below). Also the beautifully-renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts also has some of his works. In fact, this museum is a wonderful alternative to the Rubens House while it remains closed. You can find more information about it further below.

7. Belgium’s Best Boutique Shopping

After leaving the Rubenshuis to continue in the direction of the Graanmarkt . It’s a nice little square and it’s usually amazingly quiet compared to the surrounding streets.

If you are interested in (window) shopping, then you will love the Schuttershofstraat and the Huidevettersstraat . Here, you can find some of the world’s most luxury boutique stores like Hermès, Chanel, or Louis Vuitton to name just a few.

Antwerp is also the fashion capital of Belgium and home to one of the best-known fashion designer schools in Europe. Some of the best Belgian designers also have their shops in Antwerp. If you are looking to buy some unique clothing, this is the place to be.

And if you are looking for some really good Belgian chocolate, you’ll also find some of the best brands in this area. Look for Neuhaus, PIERRE MARCOLINI, Godiva, or Leonidas, and pass on the chocolate that you find at the souvenir shops.

8. Plantin – Moretus Museum

If you like history and somewhat unusual museums, you will enjoy a visit to Plantin – Moretus Museum . This is my personal favorite museum in Antwerp and I highly recommend it to everyone.

It’s the only museum on the Unesco World Heritage list and is the only remaining printing workshop and publishing house in the world, dating back to the 16th century. You can admire the beautiful buildings, the richly decorated interior of this mansion, see an impressive library, and the printing house. You also learn so much about the art of book printing. This is such a fascinating place and it exceeded all my expectations.

If you have some time left in between other great things to do in Antwerp, check it out! Platin-Moretus Museum is also a great place to visit in Antwerp when it rains.

Practical information: Platin-Moretus Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. You can easily spend two hours here. More info here .

9. Groenplaats

Antwerp’s Green Square is the perfect place for those who want to laze around on a warm summer’s day under the sun and enjoy watching the city from the comfort of a cozy café.

If you are looking for McDonald’s or Starbucks, you can find them here, together with many local cafes and restaurants. A little tourist train departs from Groenplaats in summer and is fun for adults and children alike.

Antwerp has an old tradition of open markets and you can find the daily flower market on the Groenplaats. The Antwerp Christmas market is also (partially) located on this square.

10. Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady

Antwerp Cathedral of Our Lady ( Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal ) is the highest Gothic building in the Low Countries. It’s an iconic building, but also a treasury with an impressive collection of major artworks, including several paintings by Rubens.

You can join the guided tour of the Cathedral or explore it at your own pace. There is an 8 EUR fee to visit the Cathedral for adults (kids are free). If you’re coming for the mass, the entrance is free of course, but you won’t be able to see the best parts. There’s also a mass in English; it’s held on Saturdays at 5 PM.

At the moment, the exterior of the Cathedral is being renovated and you can’t see it in all its glory. However, you can still see all the masterpieces inside.

Good to know: The Cathedral is open daily, usually from 10 AM to 5 PM. Opening hours differ on the weekends. For more info, see their website .

11. Grote Markt

Grote Markt is the main square of Antwerp and is one of the most beautiful town squares in Europe. The magnificent 16th-century City Hall (Stadhuis) dominates the square surrounded by the beautiful Guild Houses .

If there is one place you absolutely have to see in Antwerp, it’s the Grote Markt.

You cannot overlook the Brabo Fountain , right in the center of the square. According to the legend, Brabo killed a giant who demanded a high toll for each ship that wanted to enter the city. If the ship’s crew wouldn’t pay the toll, their hands were cut off. The little Brabo fought the giant, cut his hand, and threw it in the river. The fountain’s statue depicts this story that is used to explain the origins of the name of the city – Antwerpen – hand werpen meaning ‘to throw a hand’.

Grote Markt is only empty on cold winter mornings; the rest of the time – it’s always busy here. In summer, it’s buzzing with tourists and locals, and lots of events take place here as well.

Filled with cafes and restaurants, Grote Markt is the place that wakes up around noon. If you come here first thing in the morning, you can often have the whole place to yourself. But its lively atmosphere is part of the charm, so we prefer to visit here in the afternoon.

12. Het Elfde Gebod

The café Het Elfde Gebod (The 11th Commandment) can be found on the Northern side in the shadow of the Cathedral and is worth a short stop for a drink.

It might look strange to include a café in the ‘best things to do in Antwerp’ list, but it’s such a special place that you really should check it out when in Antwerp. The 11th Commandment has a spectacular interior filled with saints, angels, saints, pulpits, etc. and has kept its authenticity for over 40 years.

You will find many traditional Belgian beers here, including the local Antwerp De Koninck beer (‘t Bolleke), the famous Trappist beers, and more. Non-alcoholic drinks are also available, of course.

13. Saint Carolus Borromeus Church & Hendrik Conscience Town Square

Saint Charles Borromeo Church (Carolus Borromeukerk) is one of the most beautiful churches of Antwerp. It’s slightly hidden and out of sight, located on a charming little town square, Hendrik Conscienceplein .

You have to walk through some narrow cobblestoned streets to see the magnificent facade of this 17th-century Jesuit church.

Antwerp is the most distinctive Baroque city of the Low Countries and Saint Carolus Borromeus church is one of the places you really should see in Antwerp. It’s impressive from the outside, but its rich interior is not to be missed either!

Right opposite the church, you can see Hendrik Conscience Library. This library is home to one of the nicest hidden gems of Antwerp – Nottebohmzaal.

14. Vleeshuis

Vleeshuis (literal translation ‘the meat house, also known as the Butcher’s House) is the oldest guildhall in Antwerp. The 500-year-old building is very impressive from the outside and is worth seeing if you are in the area.

Inside, you can find a museum featuring all kinds of musical instruments. This is a great place to learn about the centuries-old history of music and dance in Antwerp. There is also an exhibition where you can see how the church bells are made. It’s quite interesting!

Plus, it’s worth visiting inside to see the interior of this unique building.

For practical information and opening times, consult the official website of the museum .

15. Het Steen Castle & Antwerp Story

Het Steen is Antwerp’s oldest building. It was built at the beginning of the 13th century and served as a city fortress. This impressive castle lies on the Scheldt river and is just a short walk from the Grote Markt.

In the past, Het Steen was home to the Maritime Museum, later – a child-friendly meeting space with all kinds of workshops for kids. Finally, the city has decided to make better use of this beautiful building and it now serves as a visitor center and a nice place to learn more about the history of Antwerp.

Het Steen is now home to one of the newest attractions in Antwerp – the Antwerp Story . I thought that it would be a bit comparable to the Historium in Bruges , but it’s actually a very different concept. You walk through 11 different rooms, each showcasing different facets of Antwerp in original ways.

Antwerp Story is much more focused on the city as it is today and lots of exhibits are videos of the locals telling stories about the city, etc. While it’s interesting to see, I really wonder if it will appeal to many international visitors… To tell the truth, we found it a bit random and disappointing, and much prefer the concept like the Historium in Bruges which showcases the past of the city.

In addition to the interactive museum, you can enjoy nice views from the panoramic roof terrace of Het Steen, and also the building itself is really impressive to see. There is also a nice store inside where you can buy all kinds of local specialties from the city.

All in all, we highly recommend visiting Het Steen – for the building, the views, and the shop – all of which can be visited for free. But I don’t think you’ll be missing that much if you skip the Antwerp Story, the only part that actually requires a ticket.

This is now one of the best places to visit in Antwerp, so be sure to check it out!

Good to know: Het Steen and the visitor center is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. For more information, see here .

16. Antwerp Ferris Wheel ‘The View’

The View Antwerpen, aka Giant Ferris Wheel, is a ‘traveling’ Antwerp attraction. Sometimes you can find it just outside the central station, next to the Zoo, and sometimes next to Het Steen, by the river.

For a few years, it seems to have settled on the Steenplein next to the river, where the views are really nice. However, as I am updating this article, it moved back to the station due to the works that take place next to the river… I indicated both locations on our map, but you can’t really miss it since you’ll likely pass both of these areas when sightseeing in Antwerp.

Either way, a ride on the Antwerp Giant Wheel gives you a different perspective of the city. We prefer it when it’s next to the river as you can see the river on one side, the historic old town right at your feet, and Antwerp harbor in the distance. But it’s also nice in the center – it’s just another perspective.

The ‘giant’ wheel isn’t actually that high, but because the buildings in Antwerp are quite low as well, you have good far views of the entire city.

While this is not an absolute must-do in Antwerp, it’s actually quite enjoyable. And since a ride only takes a few minutes of your time, I think it’s worth it. Because the cabins are closed, it’s something nice to do in Antwerp in any weather and any season.

Good to know: Antwerp Ferris Wheel is open daily, from 11 AM to 11 PM. At the moment of the latest update, a ticket costs 9 euros (5 euros for kids), and usually, you get 4 rounds.

17. Scheldt River and Antwerp Harbor

The harbor has always been of utmost importance to the city of Antwerp. So make sure to take a short walk next to the river Scheldt and get the feel of what this port-city is truly about. Antwerp is Europe’s second-largest seaport and ranks among the world’s top ten. You can usually see some large container ships in the distance.

The cruise ships visiting Antwerp are also docked at the new cruise terminal next to the Steen fortress, right in the center of the city.

If you have a couple of hours to spare, consider a boat tour in Antwerp harbor , or simply take the waterbus for a short ride to St Anna on the other side of the river – see below. But if you only have a day in the city, this is not a must.

TIP: There are now also great boat connections from Steen Castle to the other side of the river by waterbus . And so if you have more time, you could take a boat to St. Anna Beach on the Left Bank ( Linkeroever ). You can then take a nice walk along the river, and have lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants there.

The waterbus runs frequently, the ride to St. Anna takes less than 10 minutes (just one stop), and you don’t have to reserve in advance. It’s something nice to do if you are visiting Antwerp in summer and have at least two days in the city.

18. St. Paul’s Church

St. Paul’s Church is impressive both from the outside as well as from the inside. The 18th-century Calvary with 60 life-sized statues is not to be missed. But also inside the church, there are hundreds of statues and lots of masterpieces by famous Flemish painters such as Rubens, Van Balen, and Van Dyck. Definitely worth a short visit!

We first discovered this hidden gem when exploring some off the beaten path places in Antwerp with kids. But I think it’s one of the unique landmarks that deserves a mention on this list of must-see places in Antwerp as well.

Note that the church is only open in the afternoon from 2 PM to 5 PM, and only in the high season (summer and Christmas).

19. Het Eilandje District and MAS Museum

The modern red building of the MAS museum in the new trendy Het Eilandje district has quickly become one of the landmarks, a must-see place in Antwerp.

MAS has many interesting expositions, but the interior of this modern building is just as impressive. Make sure to also go all the way to the top of the building. The rooftop terrace of MAS has some of the best views of Antwerp.

Practical information: The entrance to the museum building and the rooftop terrace is free of charge; the rest of the museum requires a ticket. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. More info on their website .

20. The Port House

The Port House of Antwerp ( Havenhuis Antwerpen ) is yet another recent addition to Antwerp’s skyline. When it was first opened in 2016, it was called the New Port House. It’s now the head office of the Antwerp Port Authority and is simply called the Port House.

It is one of the most impressive buildings I have ever seen and it’s fascinating to watch this ‘diamond ship’ change in a different light.

Visits inside are possible but require advance reservation and it’s not straightforward (at the moment of the latest update, only group reservations are possible – see here for more info). However, the building is the most impressive from the outside anyway, and therefore easy to visit at any time of day or even at night when it’s nicely lit.

TIP: Because the New Port House is located a bit further away from the city center, it’s easiest to visit with a bike tour or with a rental bike. Some harbor boat tours pass here as well.

21. Red Star Line Museum

Red Star Line Museum is a trip back in time with the stories of people who sailed from here to find a new life in North America. You can also climb to the top of the tower for nice views of ‘t Eilandje district and the harbor.

Together with the Plantin-Moretus Museum (mentioned higher above), this is one of my personal favorite museums in Antwerp, also a good place to visit with kids. A visit here is very touching and eye-opening. Believe me, you’ll never look at emigration with the same eyes after visiting the Red Star Line Museum.

This rather recent museum is, in my opinion, one of the best things to do in Antwerp! Count 1.5-2 hours for a visit.

Practical information: The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. More info on their website .

22. Royal Museum of Fine Arts

The newest addition to the best places to see in Antwerp is the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (or KMSKA – Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten Antwerpen ). I say ‘new’ because it has recently reopened its doors after eleven years of renovations.

This is now one of the best art museums in Antwerp and one that’s definitely worth considering if you have a few hours to spare in the city. It could also be a good alternative for the Rubens House while it remains closed for renovations.

Some of the best pieces not to miss at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts include Rubens’ “The Adoration of the Magi”, a collection of several paintings by James Ensor, Jean Fouquet’s “Madonna Surrounded by Seraphim and Cherubim”, and Jan Van Eyck’s “Saint Barbara”.

But there are many more incredible masterpieces at this museum. And the way it’s been renovated and the artworks are presented, makes it one of the best art museums in Belgium. Recommended!

Good to know: The museum is open daily from 10 AM and has a late opening on Thursday evenings. You can reserve a time slot in advance, but normally, you can just get your tickets there. For more info, see their website . This is one of the few Antwerp attractions that is also open on Monday!

KMSKA is located a bit further away from other main sights and landmarks in Antwerp, so we didn’t indicate a walking route here. But it’s really just a small detour and absolutely worth it.

23. Chocolate Nation

Chocolate Nation is the largest Belgian Chocolate Museum in the world. Opened in 2018, this unique and interactive museum is one of the newest additions to Antwerp’s tourist attractions. It has quickly become one of the most popular places to see in Antwerp.

Interesting fact. The very first Belgian chocolate factory opened in Antwerp in 1831. This new chocolate museum brings history to life and is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Antwerp for all types of visitors, no matter your group size or interests.

Everyone I know who visited Chocolate Nation really enjoyed it, so it’s not just ‘for tourists’. The delicious chocolates that you get to taste (or take home with you) make the visit even better, of course.

We recently took our kids here and the whole family had such a great time! The exhibitions are really well done, with lots of interaction where you can see, feel, smell, and taste chocolate while learning all about it in a fun way.

Good to know: Chocolate Nation is located very close to the Central Station and is open every day (see their website for more practical info). Check it out when in Antwerp!

24. Bolleke Beer & Antwerp City Brewery De Koninck

Belgian beers are world-famous and every city and region has its own special beers that they are proud of. The most famous beer in Antwerp is Bolleke from De Koninck Brewery.

If you like to taste a traditional local beer when visiting Antwerp, be sure to ask for ‘ Bolleke ’ at any café or restaurant. If you prefer light beer (which is actually stronger), you may want to try Tripel d’Anvers – also from the same brewery.

In addition – if you want to know more about these and other Antwerp- and Belgian beers, you can also visit the Antwerp City Brewery De Koninck . Here, you can learn all about the history of Belgian beers, taste Antwerp city beers, and see the entire brewing process.

Here you can find more information and reserve your visit . The interactive tours are self-guided, so you can visit when it suits you. Every tour includes beer tasting as well (two beers).

Good to know: Antwerp City Brewery is open daily except on Mondays. It’s located a bit further from all the other major tourist sights, but still within walking distance from the rest (about 30 minutes walk from the old town). We indicated the location on our map below, but didn’t include a walking route here since there are so many options, depending on where you’re coming from.

TIP: If you don’t want to walk, the easiest way to get here is by taking the metro/tram. You can take line #15 from Groenplaats in the Old Town or line #2 from Antwerpen Astrid Metro near the Central Station.

Best things to do in Antwerp – suggested city walk and map

Below, you can find our custom-made city map featuring the best things to do in Antwerp.

I indicated each location mentioned in this post, as well as the suggested walking route for the main sights and attractions.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to stay in Antwerp

If you want to explore the best that Antwerp has to offer, stay for 2-3 nights. This will give you more time to see the best of Antwerp, visit a few museums, do some shopping, experience some of the best food in Belgium, and maybe also find some hidden gems as well.

If you are looking for the best-located hotels for sightseeing in Antwerp , here are our recommendations.

For the very best location in the heart of Old Town , stay close to Groenplaats/ Antwerp Cathedral. Here are some of the best hotels in this area:

• €€€€€ Gulde Schoen The Suite Hotel – a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the old town.
• €€€€ Hilton on the Groenplaats – one of the best-known, historic hotels in Antwerp.
• €€€ Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt – one of the best price/quality/location 4* hotels in the old town.
• €€ HotelO Kathedral – a very nice 3* hotel.

If you don’t mind walking to the main attractions and rather stay close to where you arrive by train, you may like Radisson BLU Astrid Hotel or NH Collection Antwerp Centre . Both these hotels are located near the central station, the Zoo, and close to many shops and restaurants. Usually, these hotels are cheaper and offer better value than comparable hotels in the old town .

LEARN MORE: Best Areas to Stay in Antwerp

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in Antwerp city center . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals available for your stay. Check it out!

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Antwerp . This is in no way a complete list of everything that Antwerp has to offer, but if you are visiting the city for the first time and looking for must-see places in Antwerp, then this list is a good place to start.

TIP: If you have more time and are looking for more things to do in Antwerp, take a look at our guide to some amazing lesser-known places in the city that most tourists never see (but that are well worth your time). Check it out via the link below!

READ ALSO: Amazing Hidden Gems of Antwerp

Enjoy your trip!

Antwerp FAQ

Antwerp in Belgium is best known as the diamond capital of the world and is the second-largest port in Europe. In the 16th century, Antwerp was one of the biggest and richest cities in the world, and many buildings and art in the city date from Antwerp’s Golden Age. Antwerp is also home to one of the best fashion design schools in Europe and is a great city for culture, shopping, and dining.

Antwerp is a city that truly has something to offer to everyone! With its glorious past reflected in the most beautiful historic buildings and world-famous art, but also modern architecture, interesting museums, and some of the best shopping and dining in Europe, Antwerp is more than worth a trip. It’s one of the most diverse cities in Belgium with a great vibe and fantastic atmosphere. In fact, if you visit just one city in Belgium, Antwerp would be our top recommendation.

If you only have a few hours in Antwerp, be sure to visit the Old Town with the Cathedral and the main town square Grote Markt. Also walk to the Scheldt River and Het Steen castle. If you visit just one museum in Antwerp, most people choose the Rubens House, but we also highly recommend the Plantin-Moretus Museum.

You can see the main landmarks of Antwerp in one day, so if one day is all you’ve got, Antwerp is still worth a trip. However, ideally, you plan at least 2 full days for Antwerp. This will give you more time to explore the city beyond the Old Town, visit a few of the best museums, check out some hidden gems, do some shopping, dine at many great restaurants in town and try local beers.

Antwerp is a year-round destination and you’ll enjoy a visit in any season. For the best weather and fewer crowds, visit in May – June or September – October. July and August tend to be busy, but that’s also when the city really comes to life with various outdoor events, concerts, etc. December is also a nice month to visit Antwerp for Christmas shopping, a great holiday atmosphere at the Christmas market.

In general, Antwerp is a very safe place to visit and we never even think twice before walking around the city center at night. If you stay in the main tourist areas around the Old Town, you’ll feel totally safe. That being said – just as in any other big city – use common sense, watch out for pickpockets in the busy areas, and not wander around areas that you don’t know on your own in the dark.

Antwerp is located in the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium. In general, everyone in Flanders also speaks English, so you will have no difficulties communicating in English in Antwerp. Most museums and tourist attractions have signs and info in four languages: Dutch, French, German, and English. Most restaurants will also have an English menu.

More travel inspiration for visiting Antwerp:

• For families: Best of Antwerp with Kids (fun things to do – not just for kids!)
• By bike: Discover Antwerp by Bike
• Winter visit: Antwerp Christmas Market

Belgium travel guides:

• Belgium Itinerary – how to see the best of Belgium in 3-4 days
• Interesting to know: Belgium Facts
• Best Things to Do in Brussels
• Manneken-Pis Story
• Is Brussels Safe
• Where to Stay in Brussels
• Best Things to Do in Bruges
• Bruges Belfry Tower
• Bruges Christmas Market
• Dinant: Best Things to Do in Dinant
• Bastogne: Best Things to Do in Bastogne
• WWI sites: Ypres & WWI Battlefields
• WWII sites: Bastogne War Museum
• Winter: Best Christmas Markets in Belgium & What to Expect if Visiting Belgium in Winter
• Spring: Hallerbos Bluebell Forest
• Summer: Brussels Flower Carpet
• For families: Best Theme Parks in Belgium

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Amsterdam

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Wednesday 29th of November 2023

This info is great! Are the markets you mention on everyday and do you have info on how to get to Antwerp from Brussels by train? :)

Hi Sek, no, there are no daily markets in the center. The best one is on Saturday and Sunday on the Theater Square and there are a few more, also mostly on weekends. In the summer, there are more options. You can find an overview here. As for the train, it's very simple - you can take a direct train to Antwerp from Brussels (South, Central, North Stations, Airport, etc.) and there are at least a few trains every hour.

Sunday 2nd of April 2023

Thank you for this guide.. Found something to visit for me (chocolate museum) and my bf (beer museum) 😃. Gonna be a good 2 days in Antwerp!

Tuesday 4th of April 2023

Have a great trip!

Wednesday 16th of November 2022

Thank you for your guide. We are visiting soon but on a Monday! I am a bit worried as it seems at lot of places are closed on Mondays! Can you recommend places to go?

@Jurga, massive help thank you! I have put the fine arts museum on the itinerary 😁

Hi Heloise, don't worry - many places in Antwerp will be open on Monday too and most landmarks you just see from the outside anyway. I see that the recently reopened and beautifully renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp is also open on Mondays (see their website for more info). I haven't been myself yet, but everyone says it's beautiful. So maybe something for you? I just checked some tours and indeed, many of them don't run at the moment or don't run on Mondays. There's a private walking tour that's available daily. I also see that the Hard Rock Cafe is open daily if that's your thing. But you'll find some local restaurants open on Mondays too. Also, most shops should be open too. Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

Saturday 16th of July 2022

Thank you so much for the best guide I’ve seen online .. I have been researching places to visit with my family and this was the best(:

Tuesday 19th of July 2022

Glad to help, Manal. Have a great time in Antwerp!

Monday 3rd of January 2022

This is a wonderful guide to Antwerpen! Thank you so much, it’s the best guide I’ve ever seen on the Internet (and I’ve checked far and wide). I’m going to Antwerpen for 3 days for my birthday and I’m sure this guide will help me a lot. Thank you again!

Glad to hear that you found this useful, Arianna. With three days in Antwerp, be sure to visit a few museums (Plantin-Moretus is well worth it, and we also really like the Red Star Line, to mention just a few) and also take a look at our guide to some of the hidden gems in the city. It's a great city to explore deeper, and there are so many nice restaurants and shopping opportunities too. I'm sure you'll have a great time here. Happy travels!

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Accommodation

Some 50km north of Brussels, ANTWERP , Belgium’s second city, lays claim to being the de facto capital of Flemish Belgium, boosting its credentials with an animated cultural scene, a burgeoning fashion industry, and more top-ranking cafés and restaurants than you could possibly sample alongside a spirited nightlife – quite enough to keep anyone busy for a few days, if not more. The city fans out carelessly from the east bank of the Scheldt, its centre a rough polygon formed and framed by its enclosing boulevards and the river. Recent efforts to clean and smarten the centre have been tremendously successful, revealing scores of beautiful buildings previously camouflaged by the accumulated grime. On the surface it’s not a wealthy city, and it’s rarely neat and tidy, but it is a hectic and immediately likeable place, with a dense concentration of things to see, not least some fine churches, including a simply wonderful cathedral , and a varied selection of excellent museums.

Eating and drinking

Entertainment and nightlife, fashion shopping in antwerp, the koninklijk museum voor schone kunsten, mercenary mutinies, modenatie and momu, the onze lieve vrouwekathedraal, the rubenshuis.

North of the centre lies Het Eilandje (the Little Isle), where the city’s old docks and wharves have been rejuvenated and deluxe apartments shoehorned into the former warehouses, the whole caboodle overseen by the soaring modernism of the Museum Aan de Stroom , Antwerp’s premier museum. To the east of the centre, the star turns are the Rubenshuis , one-time home and studio of Rubens, and the cathedral-like Centraal Station , which itself abuts the diamond district – the city has long been at the heart of the international diamond trade. The area to the south of the centre, Het Zuid , is of interest too, a long-neglected but now resurgent residential district whose wide boulevards, with their long vistas and geometrical roundabouts, were laid out at the end of the nineteenth century. The obvious targets here are MuHKA (the Museum of Contemporary Art) and the Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten (Fine Art Museum), though this is currently closed for a thoroughgoing revamp.

Antwerp’s bustling centre is the most engaging part of the city, its mazy streets and cobbled lanes studded with fine old churches, mansions and museums. The logical place to start an exploration is the Grote Markt , still the centre of activities and flanked by the elegant Stadhuis . From here, it’s a couple of hundred metres south to the magnificent Gothic Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal , home to a quartet of paintings by Rubens, with the intriguing old printing house of Christopher Plantin, now the Museum Plantin-Moretus , just beyond. Another short hop, this time to the north, brings up the striking medieval Vleeshuis , one-time headquarters of the guild of butchers, with the sinuous Baroque of St-Pauluskerk beckoning beyond. The city centre finishes off with two other excellent attractions, the charming Hendrik Conscienceplein and the Rockoxhuis , which holds a small but superb collection of paintings.

Brief history

In the beginning Antwerp wasn’t much desired: it may have occupied a prime river site, but it was too far east to be important in the cloth trade and too far west to be on the major trade routes connecting Germany and Holland. However, in the late fifteenth century it benefited from both a general movement of trade to the west and the decline of the Anglo-Flemish cloth trade. Within the space of just 25 years, many of the great trading families of western Europe had relocated here, and the tiny old fortified settlement of yesteryear was transformed by a deluge of splendid new mansions and churches, docks and harbours. In addition, the new masters of the region, the Habsburgs , had become frustrated with the turbulent burghers of Flanders and both the emperor Maximilian and his successor Charles V patronized the city at the expense of its Flemish rivals, underwriting its success as the leading port of their expanding empire.

Antwerp’s golden age lasted for less than a hundred years, prematurely stifled by Charles V’s son Philip II , who inherited Spain and the Low Countries in 1555. Fanatically Catholic, Philip viewed the reformist stirrings of the Low Countries with horror, and his sustained attempt to bring his Protestant subjects to heel brought war and pestilence to the region for decades. Protestantism had taken root in Antwerp early on and the city seethed with discontent as Philip’s intentions became all too clear. The spark was the Ommegang of August 18, 1566, when priests carting the image of the Virgin through the city’s streets insisted that all should bend the knee as it passed. The parade itself was peaceful enough, but afterwards, with the battle cry of “Long live the beggars”, the city’s Protestant guildsmen and their apprentices smashed the inside of the cathedral to pieces – the most extreme example of the “ iconoclastic fury ” that then swept the region. Philip responded by sending in an army of occupation, which sought to overawe and intimidate the local citizenry from a brand-new citadel built on the south side of town. Nine years later, it was this same garrison that sat unpaid and underfed in its fortress, surrounded by the wealth of what the soldiers regarded as a “heretical” city. Philip’s mercenaries mutinied , and at dawn on November 4, 1576, they stormed Antwerp, running riot for three long days, plundering public buildings and private mansions, and slaughtering some eight thousand of its inhabitants in the “ Spanish fury ”, a catastrophe that finished the city’s commercial supremacy. More disasters were to follow. Philip’s soldiers were driven out after the massacre, but they were back in 1585 laying siege outside the city walls for seven months, their success leading to Antwerp’s ultimate incorporation within the Spanish Netherlands . Under the terms of the capitulation, Protestants had two years to leave town, and a flood of skilled workers poured north to the relative safety of Holland, further weakening the city’s economy.

In the early seventeenth century there was a modest recovery, but the Dutch, who were now free of Spain, controlled the waterways of the Scheldt and were determined that no neighbouring Catholic port would threaten their trade. Consequently, in 1648, under the Peace of Westphalia , which finally wrapped up the Thirty Years’ War, they forced the closure of the Scheldt to all non-Dutch shipping. This ruined Antwerp, and the city remained firmly in the doldrums until the French army arrived in 1797 – Napoleon declaring it to be “little better than a heap of ruins…scarcely like a European city at all”. The French rebuilt the docks and reopened the Scheldt to shipping, and the city revived to become independent Belgium’s largest port, a role that made it a prime target during both world wars. In 1914, the invading German army overran Antwerp’s outer defences with surprising ease, forcing the Belgian government – which had moved here from Brussels a few weeks before – into a second hasty evacuation along with Winston Churchill and the Royal Marines, who had only just arrived. During World War II , both sides bombed Antwerp, but the worst damage was inflicted after the Liberation when the city was hit by hundreds of Hitler’s V1 and V2 rockets .

After the war, Antwerp quickly picked up the pieces, becoming one of Europe’s major seaports and, more recently, a focus for those Flemish-speakers looking for greater independence within (or without) a federal Belgium. It has also consolidated its position at the heart of the worldwide diamond trade and developed an international reputation for its innovative fashion designers, from the so-called “Antwerp Six” to new and upcoming talent such as Tim Vansteenbergen, A.F. Vandevorst and Stephan Schneider.

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Antwerp has the range of hotels you’d expect of Belgium’s second city, an ever increasing supply of B&B s and several hostels . Consequently, finding accommodation is rarely difficult, although there are surprisingly few places in the centre, which is by far the best spot to soak up the city’s atmosphere. Many medium-priced and budget places are clustered in the humdrum area around Centraal Station, where you should exercise caution at night, particularly if travelling alone.

The tourist office issues a free and comprehensive booklet detailing the city’s hotels, B&Bs and hostels – and excluding the seedier establishments.

Antwerp is an enjoyable place to eat, its busy centre liberally sprinkled with informal cafés and restaurants which excel at combining traditional Flemish dishes with Mediterranean, French and vegetarian cuisines. There is a good range of slightly more formal – and expensive – restaurants too, though generally the distinction between the city’s cafés and restaurants is blurred.

Antwerp is also a fine place to drink . There are lots of bars in the city centre, mostly dark and tiny affairs exuding a cheerful vitality. Some of them regularly feature live music, but most don’t, satisfying themselves – and their customers – with everything from taped chanson to house. Bar opening hours are elastic, with many places only closing when the last customers leave – say 2 or 3am – and, unless otherwise stated in our listings below, all are open daily. The favourite local tipple is De Koninck, a light ale drunk in a bolleke , or small, stemmed glass.

Antwerp has a vibrant and diverse cultural scene , and the best way to get a handle on it is to pick up the very useful, fortnightly Zone 03 ( w www.zone03.be ), a free Dutch-language newssheet which details all up-and-coming events, exhibitions and concerts; it’s available from the tourist office and at newsstands all over the city centre. The city has its own orchestra and opera companies as well as several good Flemish theatre troupes, and there are occasional appearances by touring English-language theatre companies too. English-language films are almost always subtitled – as distinct from dubbed – and Antwerp has a reliable, city-centre art-house cinema.

Antwerp’s fluid club scene is in a rude state of health, with a handful of boisterous places dotted round the peripheries of the city centre. They get going at around midnight and admission fees are typically modest (€10 or so) except for big-name DJs. There’s a flourishing jazz scene too, with a couple of good places in the centre.

As regards festivals , the city hosts a goodly portion of the Festival van Vlaanderen (Flanders Festival; w www.festival.be ), which runs from May to November and features more than one hundred classical concerts performed in cities across the whole of Flemish-speaking Belgium. There’s also SFINKS ( w www.sfinks.be ), Belgium’s best world music festival, held outdoors over the last weekend of July in the suburb of Boechout, about 10km southeast of downtown Antwerp.

Tickets for most concerts and events are on sale at Info Cultuur ( t 03 338 95 85, w www.infocultuur.be ), which shares its premises with the tourist office at Grote Markt 13. A comparable service is provided at the Fnac store, on the Groenplaats.

The success of Antwerp’s fashion designers has spawned dozens of excellent designer shops and stores. To help visitors get a grip on it all, the tourist office produces the Antwerp Fashion Map , which details several city walks that take you past all the most innovative shops. There is, however, a particular concentration of fashion shops around the ModeNatie complex. Recommended places hereabouts kick off with the men’s and women’s wear of Dries van Noten’s Modepaleis , Nationalestraat 16 – at the corner of Kammenstraat – and continue with the imported designer clothes of Alamode , Nationalestraat 25. Neighbouring Kammenstraat weighs in with the contemporary jewellery of Anne Zellien , at no. 47, and the club and streetwear of Fish & Chips , at no. 36, while Lombardenstraat, just to the east, is home to Maison Anna Heylen , at no.16, Original , at no. 10, and Louis , at no. 2, with the last two featuring the clothes of many designers, from Hilfiger to Junk de Luxe. There are a couple of secondhand/vintage clothes shop in the area too, with women’s stuff at Jutka & Riska , Nationalestraat 87, and all sorts of interesting gear at Episode , Steenhouwersvest 34, just west of Nationalestraat. If you’ve wandered over onto Steenhouwersvest, then also pop into the chichi premises of the Belgian-American Diane von Furstenberg , at no. 44.

Occupying an immense Neoclassical edifice dating from the 1880s, Antwerp’s prestigious Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten (KMSKA; Royal Fine Art Museum), overlooking Leopold de Waelplaats, possesses a first-rate collection of Belgian art from the fifteenth century onwards, but it’s closed for a long-term refurbishment until at least 2014. In the meantime, plans are afoot to display highlights of the collection elsewhere in the city – the cathedral and the MAS museum are two likely locations – and the tourist office will have the latest news. Key paintings in the collection include two tiny but especially delicate works by Jan van Eyck (1390–1441), a Madonna at the Fountain and a St Barbara , and Quinten Matsys ’ (1465–1530) triptych of the Lamentation , a profound and moving work portraying the Christ, his forehead flecked with blood, surrounded by grieving followers including Mary Magdalene, who tenderly wipes his feet with her hair as tears roll down her face. The museum also possesses several enormous canvases by Rubens (1577–1640), most notably an inventive Last Communion of St Francis (1619), showing a very sick-looking saint equipped with the marks of the stigmata, a faint halo and a half-smile: despite the sorrowful ministrations of his fellow monks, Francis can’t wait for salvation. Also from 1619 is Christ Crucified Between the Two Thieves which, with its muscular thieves and belligerent Romans, possesses all the high drama you might expect, but is almost overwhelmed by its central image – you can virtually hear the tearing of Christ’s flesh as the soldier’s lance sinks into him.

The Spanish fury was a disaster for Antwerp, but although the savagery of the attack was unusual, mutinies in the Spanish army were not. The Habsburgs often neglected to pay their soldiers for years on end and this failure, combined with harsh conditions and seemingly interminable warfare, provoked at least a couple of mutinies every year. Indeed, mutinies became so commonplace that they began to develop their own rituals, with the tercio (army unit) concerned refusing orders but keeping military discipline and electing representatives to haggle a financial deal with the army authorities. A deal was usually reached, outstanding wages were paid (at least in part), normal military life was resumed and, remarkably enough, punishments were rare.

Spread over several floors at Nationalestraat 28, ModeNatie ( www.modenatie.com ) is a lavish and extraordinarily ambitious fashion complex, which incorporates both the fashion department of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and the Flanders Fashion Institute. As such, it reflects the international success of local designers, beginning in the 1980s with the so-called “ Antwerp Six ” – including Dries van Noten, Dirk Bikkembergs, Marina Yee and Martin Margiela – and continuing with younger designers like A.F. Vandevorst, Stephan Schneider and Tim Vansteenbergen; all are graduates of the academy. Part of the building contains a fashion museum, MoMu ( www.momu.be ), whose adventurous and thought-provoking temporary displays cover a lot of ground – everything from the walking stick as fashion statement through to the evolution of the trench coat.

One of the finest Gothic churches in Belgium, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal (Cathedral of Our Lady; www.dekathedraal.be ) is a forceful, self-confident structure that mostly dates from the middle of the fifteenth century. Its graceful, intricate spire dominated the skyline of the medieval city and was long a favourite with British travellers. William Beckford, for instance, fresh from spending millions on his own house in Wiltshire in the early 1800s, was particularly impressed, writing that he “longed to ascend it that instant, to stretch myself out upon its summit and calculate, from so sublime an elevation, the influence of the planets”. To help guide yourself around, pick up a free diagrammatic plan just beyond the entry desk.

Inside, the seven-aisled nave is breathtaking, if only because of its sense of space, an impression that’s reinforced by the bright, light stonework. The religious troubles of the sixteenth century – primarily the Iconoclastic Fury of 1566 – polished off the cathedral’s early furnishings and fittings, so what you see today are largely Baroque embellishments, most notably four early paintings by Pieter Paul Rubens (1577–1640). Of these, the Descent from the Cross , a triptych painted after the artist’s return from Italy in 1612 and hung just to the right of the central crossing, is without doubt the most beautiful, displaying an uncharacteristically moving realism derived from Caravaggio. Christ languishes in the centre in glowing white, surrounded by mourners tenderly struggling to lower him. As was normal practice at the time, students in Rubens’ studio worked on the painting, among them the young van Dyck , who completed the face of the Virgin and the arm of Mary Magdalene. His work was so masterful that Rubens is supposed to have declared it an improvement on his own, though this story appears to originate from van Dyck himself. Oddly enough, the painting was commissioned by the guild of arquebusiers, who asked for a picture of St Christopher, their patron saint; Rubens’ painting was not at all what they had in mind, and they promptly threatened him with legal action unless he added a picture of the saint to the wings. Rubens obliged, painting in the muscular giant who now dominates the outside of the left panel.

Above the high altar is a second Rubens painting, the Assumption , a swirling Baroque scene painted in 1625, full of cherubs and luxuriant drapery, while on the left-hand side of the central crossing, the same artist’s The Raising of the Cross is a grandiloquent canvas full of straining, muscular soldiers and saints; this triptych was painted in 1610, which makes it the earliest of the four. On the right-hand side of the ambulatory in the second chapel along, there’s the cathedral’s fourth and final Rubens, the Resurrection , painted in 1612 for the tomb of his friend, the printer Jan Moretus, showing a strident, militaristic Christ carrying a red, furled banner. Among the cathedral’s many other paintings, the only other highlight is Maerten de Vos ’ (1531–1603) Marriage at Cana , hung opposite the Descent from the Cross , a typically mannered work completed in 1597.

The Rubenshuis , at Wapper 9, attracts tourists in droves. Not so much a house as a mansion, this was where Rubens lived for most of his adult life, but it was only acquired by the city in 1937, by which time it was little more than a shell. Skilfully restored, it opened as a museum in 1946. On the right is the classical studio, where Rubens worked and taught; on the left is the gabled Flemish house where he lived, to which is attached his art gallery, an Italianate chamber where he entertained the artistic and cultural elite of Europe. Rubens had an enviably successful career, spending the first years of the seventeenth century studying the Renaissance masters in Italy, before settling in this house in 1608. Soon after, he painted two wonderful canvases for the cathedral and his fame spread, both as a painter and diplomat, working for Charles I in England and receiving commissions from all over Europe.

The Rubenshuis is a tad short of the great man’s paintings, but the reconstruction of his old home and studio is very convincing, and a clearly arrowed tour begins by twisting its way through the neatly panelled and attractively furnished domestic interiors of the Flemish half of the building. Beyond, and in contrast to the cramped living quarters, is the elegant art gallery , which, with its pocket-sized sculpture gallery, was where Rubens displayed his favourite pieces to a chosen few – and in a scene comparable to that portrayed in Willem van Haecht’s The Gallery of Cornelis van der Geest , which is displayed here. The arrows then direct you on into the great studio , which is overlooked by a narrow gallery and equipped with a special high door to allow the largest canvases to be brought in and out with ease. Several of Rubens’ paintings are displayed here, including a playful Adam and Eve , an early work in which the couple flirt while the serpent slithers back up the tree. Also in the studio is a more characteristic piece, the Annunciation , where you can sense the drama of the angel Gabriel’s appearance to Mary, who is shown in her living room complete with wicker basket and a sleeping cat.

Behind the house, the garden is laid out in the formal style of Rubens’ day – the Baroque portico might be familiar from the artist’s Medici series, on display in the Louvre.

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A guide to Antwerp, Belgium's striking second city

​An arresting clash of old-world grandeur and industrial power plays out across Belgium’s unpretentious second city, home to historic dockyards, award-winning cuisine, captivating museums and some of the country’s best beer.

Antwerp has long been at the centre of things. Belgium’s handsome northern city grew wealthy on the profits of its port, trading since the 16th century in glittering diamonds, priceless works of art and the spices and spoils of assorted empires. The Port of Antwerp remains extraordinary: a   Blade Runner -esque noirscape of industrial architecture, where the rusted hulks of old trade ships sit side-by-side with space-age modern buildings, presided over by a steel canopy of creaking girders and looming cranes. Nothing encapsulates the port’s double-edged character like the Zaha Hadid-designed Havenhuis, where a futurist, diamond-like building glitters atop a historic former fire station. In the midst of it all are remnants of the port’s pre-industrial life — lonely church towers, frozen windmills and, most charming of all, the village of Lillo: a pocket of Old Flanders marooned among reed beds and duckboard walkways.

Today, most visitors arrive in Antwerp by train, with the city’s heritage on show in the cavernous marble hallways of Antwerpen- Centraal railway station, a masterwork of art nouveau architecture. This style crops up throughout the city, most notably in the fashionable district of Zurenborg, where eye-catching houses are testament to a boom during the late 1800s. Antwerp is no stranger to fortune, of course; before that, in the 16th and 17th centuries, the city was famed for the riches of its citizens. A wealth of grand Flemish buildings survive from this era, including the home of Peter Paul Rubens, the masterly painter whose work remains the pride of Antwerp.

Despite this grand past, the city is a straightforward kind of place, where bustling cosmopolitanism and commercialism can still be felt everywhere. Car-boot traders cheerfully set up shop in the grand squares of the historic core, and the boxy post-war architecture south of the train station makes a humble setting for the world’s most lucrative diamond district.

The character of the city also reveals itself through food: even with a galaxy of Michelin stars, the favoured local dish remains, reassuringly, a steaming pot of moules with a bucket of frites. This unpretentious spirit pervades the city, whether you’re dining by lamplight in the rarefied surrounds of the historic stock exchange or rubbing shoulders with the bright young things of Belgium’s most vibrant nightlife scene.

Antwerp’s broad, leafy boulevards and outdoor cafes might evoke those of Paris, but in the cobbled, 16th-century alleyways, Flemish townhouses and sprawling, retrofuturist port, Antwerp shows its true face: one which is all its own.

Things to see and do

1. Cathedral of Our Lady Among the treasures in Antwerp’s Gothic cathedral are two vast Peter Paul Rubens triptychs — including his masterwork, The Elevation of the Cross. Little chapels branch off from the ambulatory, adorned with kaleidoscopic stained glass that floods the marble in technicolour on sunny days. You can also worship at the altar of Belgian beer at De Plek, the cathedral’s bistro-bar.  

2. Museum Plantin-Moretus For a vivid illustration of the wealth that flowed through Antwerp in the 16th century, visit the former home and workshop of printing magnate Christophe Plantin. Gorgeous rooms, decked out in dark wood, harbour magnificently wellpreserved artifacts of the printing revolution, including the world’s two oldest surviving printing presses, dating from around 1600. There are also priceless manuscripts, including the grandly illuminated Wenceslas Bible.  

3. Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA) Reopening in September 2022 after being closed for over a decade, the neoclassical building that houses the Royal Museum of Fine Arts has had a top-drawer makeover and will once again be the best place in Antwerp to admire the works of the Flemish Masters. Collection highlights include Hans Memling’s Portrait of a Man with a Roman Medal and Jean Fouquet’s Madonna Surrounded by Seraphim and Cherubim.  

4. Rubenshuis The stereotype of the artist starving in a dark garret wasn’t for painter Peter Paul Rubens, as his former home and workplace attests. Buying the grand property in 1610, he transformed it into something akin to an Italian palazzo, with a neoclassical courtyard and even a miniature ‘Pantheon’ room. Rubens’ own works are also exhibited here, of course; meet the artist’s gaze in his self-portrait.  

5. Red Star Line Museum Antwerp’s most captivating human-interest museum chronicles the lives of some of the two million passengers who departed Europe for the US on the Red Star Line ships, including Albert Einstein and Irving Berlin. The museum outlines the struggles and indignities faced by the passengers, who endured stringent medical examinations and rough living conditions on the journey.  

6. Mas Museum This angular, red sandstoneand- glass confection is the city’s largest museum, with its varied exhibitions spanning everything from Antwerp’s food scene to pre-Columbian art. Those interested in the mechanics of museums will be fascinated by ‘A Look at the Collection’, which tells the human stories behind chosen objects, including who made, used and collected them.  

How to explore like a local  

1. Ulminator Hundreds of Belgium’s famous beers can be sampled at this under-the-radar bar, where the elderly proprietors will only deign to let you in if you ring the bell then utter the password, “I am here to taste beer.” Inside are board games and a quiet atmosphere. One for the purists.

2. Exotic Market The rather vaguely named Exotic Market sees locals descend every Saturday on the Oudevaartplaats, not far from the Rubenshuis, for a worldwide street food tour. Alongside Belgian classics (shrimp croquettes and   stroopwafels ) are stalls selling French cheese and charcuterie, Moroccan small plates, Mexican quesadillas and more.

3. De Roma A sumptuous art deco auditorium is the centrepiece of this 1920s former cinema, which now serves as a multipurpose performance venue. Local bands and singers grace the stage along with international acts on tour; indie films are shown; and there are expos and events on issues as diverse as refugees and mental health.  

4. Seef Brewery There are several great brewery tours to choose from in Antwerp (including at the legendary De Koninck), but Seef’s is the best. Owner Johan Van Dyck is a colourful character who will talk you through his revival of Antwerp’s historic Seefbier, a cloudy buckwheat blonde known as ‘working man’s champagne’. The tour is followed by tastings, naturally.  

Where to eat

Fish a'Gogo It’s a crowded field, but this legendary street shack just off the Grote Markt does the best fish and frites in Antwerp. Perch at a tiny sea-blue wooden table and chair and order the house specialities — mussels in white wine sauce or shrimp croquettes, served with that most Belgian of accompaniments: chips and mayonnaise. Oysters, when in season, are also a fantastic choice.  

InVINcible This relaxed restaurant has a reassuringly slim menu: a creamy pancetta pasta, rich bouillabaisse and lamb sausage are the mainstays, alongside what may just be the finest steak in Antwerp. Opt to sit at the bar surrounding the open kitchen for a lively, sociable dining experience.  

Fiera The grand surroundings of Antwerp’s former stock exchange form the backdrop of this elegant city-centre restaurant, all ornately carved stone archways and wood panelling worthy of a cathedral. Just as spectacular as the setting is the food, including mouth-melting kobe beef and truffle pappardelle.

Where to shop

Luddites Books and Wine Urbane travellers will feel right at home in this charming bookshop, which has a decent English-language selection among its cookery books, novels, poetry and assorted non-fiction. Shopping done, head upstairs to the laid-back bar, where you can enjoy a glass of wine while leafing through your purchases.  

The Chocolate Line Self-described ‘shockolatier’ Dominique Persoone puts a modern, vibrant spin on traditional Belgian chocolate. The purple selection boxes offer a rotating medley of Dominique’s creative offerings, which include treats infused with matcha and bergamot, calamansi and pine nuts, and more. They all look and taste like tiny works of art.  

Dries Van Noten The ‘Antwerp Six’ are the most prominent movers and shakers on the city’s world-renowned fashion scene. Among them, Dries van Noten has garnered particular appeal for his colourful threads. His flagship shop is on Nationalestraat, just a few steps from the ModeMuseum, where you’ll find an informative exhibition of the finest work by Antwerp’s designers.  

Where to go for nightlife

Jazzcafe de Muze Hang out with Antwerp’s hepcats at this glorious, cavernous jazz bar, which resounds with live music five nights a week. Pull up a chair at one of the wooden tables, spread across two floors, and soak up the lounge-like atmosphere while sampling a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits.

Davai If you need a break from Belgian beer, look no further than this voguish cocktail bar, decked out with wooden pallets, potted plants and bare bulbs. The menu spans dozens of classic and creative cocktails; try the oriental blossom, with rum, elderflower and ginger.  

Ampere Antwerp’s clubbing scene outperforms that of sedate Brussels, and Ampere is one of the city’s finest institutions. The emphasis is on house and techno, with world-leading international acts such as Nina Kraviz and Joris Voorn appearing alongside Belgian veterans like Marco Bailey. Workshops in music production, video and photography are held here during the day.

Where to stay

Yust Combining sociability with an eye for design, this ultra-stylish hostel has bookcases lined with arty books, plush banquettes bookended with houseplants and a breezy rooftop garden complete with sofas. The dorms are charming, too, with recessed wooden bunks and cosy window seats. Large private rooms are also available.

Hotel Rubens Down a quiet side street off bustling Grote Markt, Hotel Rubens promises the best of both worlds. The rooms and stylish communal areas have an airy, modern feel that belies their historic surroundings, and some overlook the baroque tower of St Paul’s Church.  

Botanic Sanctuary This exquisite hotel, set in a 12th-century monastery and surrounded by botanical gardens, is the epitome of peace and quiet. Rooms feature splendid wooden beams and period windows, but are otherwise modern and understated, with an earthy colour palette and in-room greenery. There are four excellent fine-dining restaurants, including traditional Belgian offerings at 1238.  

Getting there and around

The quickest and most comfortable way to get to Antwerp from the UK is to travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels and then take one of the many regular trains onwards to Antwerp.  

Average journey time:   2h40m.

British Airways , Brussels Airlines , Lufthansa and Ryanair fly from UK airports, including Manchester and Heathrow, to Brussels, but not directly to Antwerp.  

Average flight time: 1h20m.

It’s possible and enjoyable to explore the majority of Antwerp’s attractions on foot. For sights further afield, use the efficient De Lign transit network — tickets, bought online or at stops, can be used on buses and trams — or Antwerp’s waterbus. Bikes can be rented using the Velo network. delijn.be portofantwerpbruges.com velo-antwerpen.be

Summer is pleasant, with plenty of sun and temperatures generally falling between 20C and 25C. Rainfall is a possibility year-round, and in fact is slightly higher in the summer months, so a waterproof layer is always advisable. Spring and autumn are relatively mild, while December is also a good time to visit as the traditional Christmas markets open.

More information

Antwerp Tourism .   The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg , £9.99

How to do it

Eurostar offers three nights in Antwerp at the NH Collection Antwerp Centre hotel B & B, including trains from London, from £310 per person.

Published in the September 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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Destinations | EUROPE

Best places to visit in antwerp – travel guide.

12 Oct 2021 | Belgium , Destinations , Europe

Wondering about the best places to visit in Antwerp? Keep on reading this local guide!

No matter how much I love traveling, my home always has a special place in my heart. I’m originally from Limburg, but I’ve now lived in Antwerp for almost ten years. 

Antwerp is the fashion city of Belgium, and it’s a bustling city full of culture, architecture, and delicious food. I’ve put together an Antwerp travel guide full of the top spots to visit and the best things to do from a local’s perspective.

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

25 Best Places to visit in Antwerp: Travel Guide

Before I share all of the amazing things to do in Antwerp, here are some planning tips to help prepare for your trip!

Antwerp is located in Belgium , in western Europe. It lies in the Dutch-speaking region of the country, called Flemish. 

It is a port city and is situated on Belgium’s River Scheldt. Antwerp is perfect for culture and nature lovers alike, its history dates back to the Middle Ages, and thanks to its parks and green spaces you can enjoy short hikes and strolls in and around the city!

When is the best time to visit Antwerp? 

The best time to visit Antwerp is during spring or summer – so ideally any time between March and September. Although it will be a little busier, there’s less chance of rain so you can fully enjoy the city without worrying about getting soaked. 

If you want to avoid crowds, I would recommend visiting Antwerp in early January or February. Although this is the coldest time of year, there are plenty of Christmas decorations up and everything looks extra festive. Just make sure to bundle up!

How to move around in Antwerp?

To get into Antwerp, you can take a taxi from our national airport in Zaventem, which will cost around €60. Alternatively, there is also a train station in the airport.

It takes around half an hour to get the train from Brussels to Antwerp – trains leave around every 20 minutes. 

If you want a more low-cost option, the bus is the cheapest form of transport into the city and takes around 40 minutes.

Once you’re in Antwerp, it’s best to explore by bike or on foot. You can rent a bike at A-Velo, they offer day or week passes, and you can ride between the different Velo stations during your rental. Check their website online for more information about renting a bike.

The Botanical Garden

Visit the botanical garden and the conservatory.

The Antwerp Botanical Garden is home to a gorgeous green space that spans three hectares and is home to over 10,000 plants from all over the world!

Address:  Leopoldstraat 24, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Hours: Every day from 8:00 am to 08:00 pm

Middelheim Park 

I love Middelheim Park and I think that it’s one of the best places to visit in Antwerp. It’s a gorgeous, wooded park – originally opened in 1939 – and features sculptures by famous artists such as Rodin and Picasso.

Stroll along former castle grounds of Vogelzoan, Middelheim, and Den Brandt.  

Address: Middelheimlaan 1, 2020 Antwerpen, Belgium

The Scheldt

Antwerp is a city by the water, so ensure you enjoy a picnic along the Scheldt in summer during your stay. Take a picnic blanket and some drinks and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the water.

Address:  Scheldt River in Antwerp, Belgium

The Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady is a Roman Catholic church in Antwerp. It is gorgeous and it has played a pivotal role in our history.

Address: Groenplaats 21, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

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Het Steen is basically a medieval castle right in the city center! It was originally built in 1128 and has been used as a prison for many centuries. In fact, it’s one of the oldest structures that remain standing in Antwerp today. 

Architecture lovers can visit the well-known ‘t Steen or the Palace of Justice.

Address: Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Antwerp’s city hall

Antwerp’s city hall — located on the riverfront – is a great example of northern Gothic architecture. It was originally built in 1533 and features a beautiful, red facade with intricate details.

Over time though, it has been destroyed and rebuilt quite a few times due to fires.

Address: Grote Markt 1, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Pay a visit to the Havenhuis, a design of the late world-famous architect Zaha Hadid. 

Vlaeykensgang

Visit Antwerp’s most hidden (but most beautiful) alley.

More things to do in Antwerp Belgium 

There are plenty of ways to fill your days in Antwerp, from beautiful views to pieces of history. 

On the other side of the water (on the left bank), you’ll find the most beautiful view of the city. You can get there through the pedestrian tunnel at Sint-Jansvliet. 

Want to escape the bustle of the city? Pay a visit to the ‘beach’ of Sint Anneke . The Sint-Anna tunnel is also worth checking out, as it truly is a hidden pearl in our diamond city. It opened in 1933 and the tunnel has managed to retain its authenticity until now.

For theater performances, visit the Bourla or enjoy a wonderful performance of the classical ballet in the Stadsschouwburg. The best concerts take place in the ‘Sportpaleis’, but if you prefer something more intimate, go to Trix or Middelheim. Make sure you plan and book your tickets well in advance to avoid missing out!

Walking Trails and Scenic City Strolls 

Antwerp has both the modern amenities and urban history for the city explorer, and more – there is water, and amazing nature. If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, then go on a stroll or a ride through these trails in Antwerp, 

Scheldenland

The Scheldt flows through the city from south to north and has always played an important role in the history of Antwerp. The city originated along the Scheldt and owes much of its richest tales to the river. It has an important economic function but also plays a major role in local nature and life. 

The river and the green areas connected to it together form the Scheldeland. This landscape is the habitat of many special animal and plant species and belongs almost entirely to the Natura 2000 network, a European network of protected nature reserves. 

You can find more information about the walking area here . 

Groene Bedding

A green ribbon runs around the Antwerp core city. It is largely enclosed by the surrounding infrastructures. Although the roads take up a lot of space, there is still room for quite a bit of open green space. 

In the south, it is still fairly robust, but the further north you go, the more fragmented it becomes. At the Lobroekdok, the Green Ribbon Bedding is completely absorbed into the building fabric. You can find more information about the walking area here.

Hoboken Polder 

My favorite place to go hiking is without a doubt the Hoboken Polder area, which is just outside the city. In the Hoboken Polder, there are several nice walks along indicated pathways. These walks give a wide impression of this beautiful nature reserve and cover approximately 9 km of walking. 

Along the way, you walk among cows and pass ponds where you can admire different bird species. You can find the map here . 

Where to eat in Antwerp? The Best Restaurants and Markets 

Because of the mix of cultures, you can find the best food to suit everyone’s taste buds in Antwerp. There’s absolutely anything, from classics such as veal stew or steak tartare served with French fries to several hipster vegan options.

When in Belgium, you simply need to try our french fries (although they should be called Belgian fries…as we Belgians invented them!). We call them ‘frietjes’ and every Belgian family eats them monthly – or even weekly. 

Antwerp’s most famous spot to eat them is Number 1, which is just around the corner from the City Hall in the historic city center. Since 1980, this place has been open day and night, and it’s a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Want something even more special? 

World-famous chef Sergio Herman opened the Frites Atelier a couple of years ago – here you can eat delicious luxury french fries (for a slightly higher price).

Don’t forget to taste our delicious Belgian chocolate – Neuhaus is my personal favorite. They also have beautiful gift boxes as the perfect souvenir!

Visit the market on the Theaterplein on Saturday where you can eat hand-made cheese croquettes (look for the lighting tower stand), along with yummy Moroccan pizzas or fresh oysters.

My personal favorite spots to eat in Antwerp include:

• De Arme Duivel – Head here for some Belgian classic dishes. Reservation is a must. They also do takeaway (available through the app Deliveroo). The address is Armeduivelstraat 1, 2000 Antwerpen.
• Varelli – Find delicious Greek food here – every dish on the menu is a delight!  
• Graanmarkt 13 – This restaurant is built around seasonal vegetables, and they also have a nice shop with clothes and design articles. Ask for a table on their splendid terrace.
• Het Gerecht – A culinary experience with only fresh homemade products in the perfect setting.
• The Jane – Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience – booking well in advance is a must!
• Het Gebaar – World-famous pastry chef Roger Van Damme will treat you to several magical desserts.
• Yust – The young Belgian chef Laurens Jasperse makes sharing dishes very hard! The menu consists of only fresh ingredients, adapted to every season and inspired by every corner of the culinary world.
• Nathan – Restaurant Nathan rapidly rose to the top of the Belgian food scene with a Michelin star, which was more than deserved. The young couple serves the most delicious menus at affordable prices. Go for lunch and be blown away!

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Where to find the best coffee in antwerp .

More of a coffee fanatic than a foodie? There are so many incredible coffee places in Antwerp, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

• Tinsel – Tinsel is my favorite coffee bar by far in Antwerp. As they say themselves: ‘Tinsel is a small place with a big heart. Serving solely seasonal and homemade dishes, we strive to offer simple yet delicious food. No muss, no fuss’. Breakfast or brunch is worth a try as well. 
• Caffènation – This is my go-to for a coffee on the go! 
• Normo – At Normo, coziness comes first. They also sell their own pastries, coffee beans, and tea. 
• Escobar – Escobar lies in a side ally of the Meir. It’s the ideal stop between shops, where you can enjoy a coffee or a nice lunch on their big fun terrace. 
• Bar Paniek – I don’t really recommend this for the coffee, but more to enjoy the beautiful view over the water. 

Going out in Antwerp

Many visitors flock to Antwerp every year for the world-famous Tomorrowland festival. Is the festival really worth a trip around the world? The short answer is an absolute yes. I’ve now enjoyed ten years there as a visitor myself, and I must say it’s simply a phenomenal festival that will blow you away. 

Not just because of the music, but also because of the breath-taking details like the podium constructions, structures, and much more. Tomorrowland is truly like a fairytale.

Not got tickets for Tomorrowland? Club Vaag or Ampère are both excellent choices for a fun night out.

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I love checking out coffee spots in my travels and the ones you listed sound amazing!

So sweet! Thank you for passing by Natalie!

I totally need to get to Antwerp next time I make my way to Belgium. This is a great article and I will definitely be keeping this handy. 🙂

Thank you so much for reading!

Fab post Stephanie! I love the food recommendations – Graanmarkt 13, Het Gerecht and Yust all sound fantastic. What makes the Jane so special? What kind of food do they serve?

I looove the sound of strolling through both Scheldenland and Groene Bedding. That is my favourite way to explore a city.

Thank you so much for reading Josy! The Jane is a Michelin star restaurant for a once in a lifetime experience!

Have not been to Belgium yet, but when I do Antwerp is definitely on my list 🙂 Love all of these ideas!

Thank you so much Kelly!

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A guide to Antwerp, Belgium's striking second city

The Grote Markt statue that depicts the city’s foundational myth in which Brabo, a Roman soldier, throws a giant’s hand in the Scheldt River.

Antwerp has long been at the centre of things. Belgium’s handsome northern city grew wealthy on the profits of its port, trading since the 16th century in glittering diamonds, priceless works of art and the spices and spoils of assorted empires. The Port of Antwerp remains extraordinary: a Blade Runner -esque noirscape of industrial architecture, where the rusted hulks of old trade ships sit side-by-side with space-age modern buildings, presided over by a steel canopy of creaking girders and looming cranes. Nothing encapsulates the port’s double-edged character like the Zaha Hadid-designed Havenhuis, where a futurist, diamond-like building glitters atop a historic former fire station. In the midst of it all are remnants of the port’s pre-industrial life — lonely church towers, frozen windmills and, most charming of all, the village of Lillo: a pocket of Old Flanders marooned among reed beds and duckboard walkways.

Today, most visitors arrive in Antwerp by train, with the city’s heritage on show in the cavernous marble hallways of Antwerpen- Centraal railway station, a masterwork of art nouveau architecture. This style crops up throughout the city, most notably in the fashionable district of Zurenborg, where eye-catching houses are testament to a boom during the late 1800s. Antwerp is no stranger to fortune, of course; before that, in the 16th and 17th centuries, the city was famed for the riches of its citizens. A wealth of grand Flemish buildings survive from this era, including the home of Peter Paul Rubens, the masterly painter whose work remains the pride of Antwerp.

Despite this grand past, the city is a straightforward kind of place, where bustling cosmopolitanism and commercialism can still be felt everywhere. Car-boot traders cheerfully set up shop in the grand squares of the historic core, and the boxy post-war architecture south of the train station makes a humble setting for the world’s most lucrative diamond district.

The character of the city also reveals itself through food: even with a galaxy of Michelin stars, the favoured local dish remains, reassuringly, a steaming pot of moules with a bucket of frites. This unpretentious spirit pervades the city, whether you’re dining by lamplight in the rarefied surrounds of the historic stock exchange or rubbing shoulders with the bright young things of Belgium’s most vibrant nightlife scene.

Antwerp’s broad, leafy boulevards and outdoor cafes might evoke those of Paris, but in the cobbled, 16th-century alleyways, Flemish townhouses and sprawling, retrofuturist port, Antwerp shows its true face: one which is all its own.

Vrijdagmarkt Square, home to a Friday antiques market.

Things to see and do

1.  Cathedral of Our Lady Among the treasures in Antwerp’s Gothic cathedral are two vast Peter Paul Rubens triptychs — including his masterwork, The Elevation of the Cross. Little chapels branch off from the ambulatory, adorned with kaleidoscopic stained glass that floods the marble in technicolour on sunny days. You can also worship at the altar of Belgian beer at De Plek, the cathedral’s bistro-bar. 

2.   Museum Plantin-Moretus For a vivid illustration of the wealth that flowed through Antwerp in the 16th century, visit the former home and workshop of printing magnate Christophe Plantin. Gorgeous rooms, decked out in dark wood, harbour magnificently wellpreserved artifacts of the printing revolution, including the world’s two oldest surviving printing presses, dating from around 1600. There are also priceless manuscripts, including the grandly illuminated Wenceslas Bible. 

3.   Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA) Reopening in September 2022 after being closed for over a decade, the neoclassical building that houses the Royal Museum of Fine Arts has had a top-drawer makeover and will once again be the best place in Antwerp to admire the works of the Flemish Masters. Collection highlights include Hans Memling’s Portrait of a Man with a Roman Medal and Jean Fouquet’s Madonna Surrounded by Seraphim and Cherubim. 

4.   Rubenshuis The stereotype of the artist starving in a dark garret wasn’t for painter Peter Paul Rubens, as his former home and workplace attests. Buying the grand property in 1610, he transformed it into something akin to an Italian palazzo, with a neoclassical courtyard and even a miniature ‘Pantheon’ room. Rubens’ own works are also exhibited here, of course; meet the artist’s gaze in his self-portrait. 

5.  Red Star Line Museum Antwerp’s most captivating human-interest museum chronicles the lives of some of the two million passengers who departed Europe for the US on the Red Star Line ships, including Albert Einstein and Irving Berlin. The museum outlines the struggles and indignities faced by the passengers, who endured stringent medical examinations and rough living conditions on the journey. 

6.  Mas Museum This angular, red sandstoneand- glass confection is the city’s largest museum, with its varied exhibitions spanning everything from Antwerp’s food scene to pre-Columbian art. Those interested in the mechanics of museums will be fascinated by ‘A Look at the Collection’, which tells the human stories behind chosen objects, including who made, used and collected them. 

The grand, art deco Antwerpen-Centraal railway station.

How to explore like a local 

1.   Ulminator Hundreds of Belgium’s famous beers can be sampled at this under-the-radar bar, where the elderly proprietors will only deign to let you in if you ring the bell then utter the password, “I am here to taste beer.” Inside are board games and a quiet atmosphere. One for the purists.

2. Exotic Market The rather vaguely named Exotic Market sees locals descend every Saturday on the Oudevaartplaats, not far from the Rubenshuis, for a worldwide street food tour. Alongside Belgian classics (shrimp croquettes and stroopwafels ) are stalls selling French cheese and charcuterie, Moroccan small plates, Mexican quesadillas and more.

3.  De Roma A sumptuous art deco auditorium is the centrepiece of this 1920s former cinema, which now serves as a multipurpose performance venue. Local bands and singers grace the stage along with international acts on tour; indie films are shown; and there are expos and events on issues as diverse as refugees and mental health. 

4.   Seef Brewery There are several great brewery tours to choose from in Antwerp (including at the legendary De Koninck), but Seef’s is the best. Owner Johan Van Dyck is a colourful character who will talk you through his revival of Antwerp’s historic Seefbier, a cloudy buckwheat blonde known as ‘working man’s champagne’. The tour is followed by tastings, naturally. 

Dinner is served at Invincible restaurant.

Where to eat

Fish a'Gogo It’s a crowded field, but this legendary street shack just off the Grote Markt does the best fish and frites in Antwerp. Perch at a tiny sea-blue wooden table and chair and order the house specialities — mussels in white wine sauce or shrimp croquettes, served with that most Belgian of accompaniments: chips and mayonnaise. Oysters, when in season, are also a fantastic choice. 

InVINcible This relaxed restaurant has a reassuringly slim menu: a creamy pancetta pasta, rich bouillabaisse and lamb sausage are the mainstays, alongside what may just be the finest steak in Antwerp. Opt to sit at the bar surrounding the open kitchen for a lively, sociable dining experience. 

Fiera The grand surroundings of Antwerp’s former stock exchange form the backdrop of this elegant city-centre restaurant, all ornately carved stone archways and wood panelling worthy of a cathedral. Just as spectacular as the setting is the food, including mouth-melting kobe beef and truffle pappardelle.

At work in the Chocolate Line.

Where to shop

Luddites Books and Wine Urbane travellers will feel right at home in this charming bookshop, which has a decent English-language selection among its cookery books, novels, poetry and assorted non-fiction. Shopping done, head upstairs to the laid-back bar, where you can enjoy a glass of wine while leafing through your purchases. 

The Chocolate Line Self-described ‘shockolatier’ Dominique Persoone puts a modern, vibrant spin on traditional Belgian chocolate. The purple selection boxes offer a rotating medley of Dominique’s creative offerings, which include treats infused with matcha and bergamot, calamansi and pine nuts, and more. They all look and taste like tiny works of art. 

Dries Van Noten The ‘Antwerp Six’ are the most prominent movers and shakers on the city’s world-renowned fashion scene. Among them, Dries van Noten has garnered particular appeal for his colourful threads. His flagship shop is on Nationalestraat, just a few steps from the ModeMuseum, where you’ll find an informative exhibition of the finest work by Antwerp’s designers. 

Where to go for nightlife

Jazzcafe de Muze Hang out with Antwerp’s hepcats at this glorious, cavernous jazz bar, which resounds with live music five nights a week. Pull up a chair at one of the wooden tables, spread across two floors, and soak up the lounge-like atmosphere while sampling a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits.

Davai If you need a break from Belgian beer, look no further than this voguish cocktail bar, decked out with wooden pallets, potted plants and bare bulbs. The menu spans dozens of classic and creative cocktails; try the oriental blossom, with rum, elderflower and ginger. 

Ampere Antwerp’s clubbing scene outperforms that of sedate Brussels, and Ampere is one of the city’s finest institutions. The emphasis is on house and techno, with world-leading international acts such as Nina Kraviz and Joris Voorn appearing alongside Belgian veterans like Marco Bailey. Workshops in music production, video and photography are held here during the day.

Lounge space in the stylish Yust hotel.

Where to stay

Yust Combining sociability with an eye for design, this ultra-stylish hostel has bookcases lined with arty books, plush banquettes bookended with houseplants and a breezy rooftop garden complete with sofas. The dorms are charming, too, with recessed wooden bunks and cosy window seats. Large private rooms are also available.

Hotel Rubens Down a quiet side street off bustling Grote Markt, Hotel Rubens promises the best of both worlds. The rooms and stylish communal areas have an airy, modern feel that belies their historic surroundings, and some overlook the baroque tower of St Paul’s Church. 

Botanic Sanctuary This exquisite hotel, set in a 12th-century monastery and surrounded by botanical gardens, is the epitome of peace and quiet. Rooms feature splendid wooden beams and period windows, but are otherwise modern and understated, with an earthy colour palette and in-room greenery. There are four excellent fine-dining restaurants, including traditional Belgian offerings at 1238. 

Handschoenmarkt Square, near the Cathedral of Our Lady.

Getting there and around

The quickest and most comfortable way to get to Antwerp from the UK is to travel by Eurostar  from London St Pancras to Brussels and then take one of the many regular trains  onwards to Antwerp. 

Average journey time: 2h40m.

British Airways , Brussels Airlines , Lufthansa  and Ryanair  fly from UK airports, including Manchester and Heathrow, to Brussels, but not directly to Antwerp. 

Average flight time: 1h20m.

It’s possible and enjoyable to explore the majority of Antwerp’s attractions on foot. For sights further afield, use the efficient De Lign transit network — tickets, bought online or at stops, can be used on buses and trams — or Antwerp’s waterbus. Bikes can be rented using the Velo network. delijn.be portofantwerpbruges.com velo-antwerpen.be

Summer is pleasant, with plenty of sun and temperatures generally falling between 20C and 25C. Rainfall is a possibility year-round, and in fact is slightly higher in the summer months, so a waterproof layer is always advisable. Spring and autumn are relatively mild, while December is also a good time to visit as the traditional Christmas markets open.

More information

Antwerp Tourism .  The Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg , £9.99

How to do it

Eurostar  offers three nights in Antwerp at the NH Collection Antwerp Centre hotel B&B, including trains from London, from £310 per person.

Published in the September 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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• Travel and Adventure

Ultimate Travel Guide to Antwerp

Antwerp is Belgium’s second largest city. It’s a major port and is the centre of life and culture in the Flanders region.

The city is well known for its contrasting mix of old and new, being one of the most historic destinations in Belgium, and also being one of the most modern metropolises in the country.

16th-century buildings stand in the shadow of skyscrapers, creating an eclectic fusion that represents much of the character of Flanders today.

With great transport links, Antwerp makes for an excellent hub to explore northern Belgium and to even branch off into neighbouring Holland, and there are plenty of exciting day trips to be made from the city.

This ultimate travel guide to Antwerp will show you all the most beautiful places in Antwerp, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Antwerp and things to do in Antwerp which will help you in planning a trip to Antwerp.

It’s a great city to visit, and to inspire your visit to Flanders, here’s our ultimate guide to Antwerp.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Antwerp  

Antwerp is found in northern Belgium, on the border with the Netherlands. The city is located on the River Scheldt, which flows into the North Sea and which gave rise to the importance of Antwerp’s harbour over the centuries.

It’s one of the largest ports in Europe, but these days, you’re more likely to be arriving overland, or by air, rather than on the water.

Antwerp’s small airport is located on the outskirts of the city, but only offers flights to a few European destinations, such as London, due to the fact that Brussels Airport is just 45 minutes away to the south.

There are regular buses to the centre of Antwerp, and regular trains direct from Brussels Airport to Antwerp Central Station.

In fact, Antwerp Central Station is used enough by travellers flying into other airports that it has an airport code, allowing you to book tickets on the rail line as part of your flight ticket, and allowing for seamless transfers.

There are direct trains from Amsterdam Schipol Airport, which is one and a half hours away, and even further afield to Paris.

There are great rail connections, and bus connections too, across the rest of Belgium and to most of Western Europe as well.

What to expect in Antwerp

As the largest city in Flanders, Antwerp is the centre of the Flemish community in Belgium. For travellers, that means that the primary language spoken by residents is the Flemish dialect of Dutch.

Belgium is a multilingual country though and you’ll find that many locals also speak French and that these days, the majority of the population also speak English to a high level.

As part of the European Union, Belgium adopted the Euro as their currency, and you’ll find that there are plenty of money changers and ATMs around Antwerp where you can get hold of cash. You’ll also find that credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere.

How to get around Antwerp

Antwerp is a large city, with a population reaching to well over 500,000, and there are countless different districts and suburbs within the metropolitan area.

Many of the best attractions are found within the historic city centre, between the river and Antwerp central station, but many are also found further south, in Antwerp Zuid.

It’s very safe to walk through Antwerp, however, for longer journeys, you may want to make use of the local public transport.

There are buses and trams which run set routes across the city, and which offer great fares. If you are using lots of public transport, you can purchase multiple tickets to use at your leisure.

If you are also visiting lots of different tourist attractions though, then you may want to consider purchasing an Antwerp City Card.

For a one-off cost, the card includes entrance to many museums and attractions, as well as giving you unlimited access to public transport. The cards can be valid for a period of 24, 48 or 72 hours, depending on the length of your stay.

The best time to visit Antwerp

Antwerp is very much a city break destination, and for that reason, you can really visit any time of the year.

The busiest times of the year are generally the summer season, between June, July and August, or the winter season, over the Christmas holidays.

Summer brings great weather to Antwerp, with long days and lots of sunshine, and the city comes alive, with parks overflowing with people and bars and restaurants spilling out onto the streets.

Winter, but in particular, the festive period, sees the Christmas markets opening up for business and people travel to Antwerp specifically to shop, eat and drink over the holidays.

It’s a wonderful time of the year to be in the city, but just remember to wrap up warm.

The shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – can be quieter times to explore the city, and you’ll find there are fewer tourists around.

The weather can be unpredictable, however, and at times dreary, but considering many of Antwerp’s best attractions are found inside, this may not be too much of an issue.

Things to do in Antwerp 

Grote markt.

Any Antwerp travel guide will tell you to start your tour through the city at the Grote Markt, or the market square. This is the centre of the historic Old Town, and it’s a marvellous place to get acquainted with Antwerp.

At the Grote Markt, you can find many of the most iconic buildings in the city, including the grand city hall which dates back to the 16th century.

Some of the coolest restaurants in Antwerp are found around the square, as are some of the best cafes and bars too.

Peter Paul Rubens’ House

Peter Paul Rubens is one of the most influential Flemish artists to have ever lived. He was prominent during the 16th century and operated from a studio in the city of Antwerp.

The house where he lived is now a museum, combining both history and art to give visitors an insight into local culture.

Mode Museum

The MoMu, or Mode Museum, is an intriguing museum that focuses on the fashion scene in Antwerp.

The city has a huge legacy when it comes to contemporary fashion, with many famous local designers such as Dries van Noten propelling Belgian fashion onto the international scene in the past few decades. You can learn all about it at the Mode Museum.

Red Star Line Museum  

Antwerp has one of the largest ports on the continent, and during the era of transatlantic passenger ships, the city was a major embarkation point for European emigrants heading to the United States.

One of the most iconic passenger liners in operation from the port was the Red Star Line, which transported several million people across the Atlantic in search of new lives in the USA. 

The Red Star Line Museum is a moving tribute to the ships and the people that travelled from Antwerp, across the Atlantic, from the 1870s until the early 1930s. It’s an insight into emigration, and why so many people left Europe for the Americas.

Cathedral of our Lady

The Cathedral of our Lady is the most iconic church in Antwerp and is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the extensive Belfries of Belgium and France submission, which protects 56 churches across the two countries.

Construction of the medieval church began far back in the 14th century, although there had been a place of worship in the same location for hundreds of years prior to this too.

The interior is beautiful to see, and the spires stretch to over one hundred metres in height, ensuring that the cathedral has long been a permanent fixture on the Antwerp skyline.

The MAS Museum, or Museum aan de Strom, is one of the newest, and largest museums in the city.

The distinctive building is found looking over the water, and its aim is to promote the history and culture of the city of Antwerp. The museum focuses on the harbour and the connection of the people to the oceans.

Plantin-Moretus Museum

The Plantin-Moretus Museum takes visitors on a journey through the world of print and through the historic printing presses pioneered in Antwerp by locals Plantin and Moretus in the 16th century.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most intriguing museums in the city, and you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the power of the printed word.

What to eat in Antwerp

Any Antwerp food guide will advise you to try the local Flemish dishes when you are in the city, and you should begin your culinary journey by enjoying a hearty Flemish stew, complete with slow-cooked meat and vegetables.

Many of the best restaurants in Antwerp Old Town will serve up great traditional dishes, and as well as the stew you should indulge in a plate of mussels, garnished with the ubiquitous Belgian fries and mayo, and finished off with a bowl of Flemish mousse for dessert.

Where to stay in Antwerp

Antwerp, as a modern city and popular tourist destination, has a wide range of accommodation for travellers.

Many of the most upmarket establishments are found in the Old Town, and there are some lovely boutique hotel options on offer amongst the historic streets.

One of the best boutique options is the Hotel de Witte Lelie , which dates back to the 17th century.

The centre tends to be pricier, however, and if you are looking for budget hotels or for hostels or Airbnb, then the area outside of the Old Town, towards the central station, has some great value accommodation.

Tours to do in  Antwerp

Hop on hop off tour bus.

Buying a ticket for the Antwerp Hop On Hop Off Tour Bus can be a great way to see the city, particularly if you are pressed for time, and are only on a short getaway.

The tour bus has designated stops at the most popular and important tourist attractions in Antwerp, allowing you to easily travel between all the highlights without getting lost, and while being provided with intriguing information about the city and its history.

There are few things more European than cycling through the city, and Antwerp is perfectly composed for a bike tour. This is a great way to experience the city, while at the same time enjoying the crisp Flanders air and getting a bit of exercise.

You’ll be cycling through the streets of Antwerp, led by a local guide , and stopping off at points of interest both well known and off the beaten track.

Belgium is well known for its excellent beers, and if you are into your brews then why not join a beer tour when you are visiting Antwerp? Learn about the city’s long history as you walk from one location to the next, sampling some of Antwerp’s best beer at each stop.

Beer walks in Antwerp are part drinking and part storytelling, and you’ll learn from the local guides about the city’s relationship with beer, the future for beer and the history of beer. It’s a unique way to see the city and enjoy a few beverages at the same time.

Day trips from Antwerp

Belgium is a small country, and you’re never too far away from other major cities when you stay in Antwerp. The capital, Brussels , is less than one hour away on the train and makes for a great day trip.

Visit the royal palaces, explore the European Parliament, wander through marvellous art galleries and enjoy some great tasting beer and food.

The historic, medieval streets of Ghent are also just an hour away by train from Antwerp and offer you the chance to explore one of the most historic cities in Belgium.

Quite simply, Ghent is stunning. This is historic European architecture at its best, in a supreme riverside location. There are castles, cathedrals, spires and towers, and the city really is straight out of a fairy tale.

Mechelen is a small city that sees few tourists in comparison to Belgium’s other major tourist destinations, but this under visited location boasts one of the finest cathedrals in the country.

Just a twenty-minute train ride from Antwerp, and you can spend the day exploring historic sights and, like everywhere in Belgium, trying the local beers!

Recommend tours in Antwerp

• 3-Hour Private Highlights with Non-Classic Stories Tour in Antwerp
• 3-Hour Antwerp Bike Tour
• Private Beer Tasting Tour with a Local in Antwerp
• 1 Hour Antwerp Citytour Hop On Hop Off
• Walking Tour: Historic Antwerp
• Legends of Antwerp – Private Tour
• 3-Hour Private Tour with Highlights in Antwerp
• 2 Hour Segway City Tours Antwerp Belgium

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Antwerp Travel Guide: History, Attractions, Hotels, Restaurants and Markets

September 15, 2023 | Posted in: Belgium

Antwerp, located in Belgium's northern part, sits on the Scheldt River, 55 miles from the North Sea. As Belgium's most populous city after Brussels, it boasts a population exceeding 500,000. Historically, Antwerp flourished as a significant port city during the late Middle Ages and early modern period, particularly in the diamond trade. By the 16th century, it had become the de facto capital of the Low Countries. Today, Antwerp's reputation as a port remains and it's renowned for diamonds, fashion and design. The city also stands as the capital of the province of Antwerp in the Flemish Region of Belgium. 

Where is Antwerp?

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Antwerp's history traces back to the Middle Ages, originating as a modest settlement on the Scheldt River's banks. Its strategic location on the river enabled it to evolve into a pivotal trade and transport hub to the North Sea. By the 16th century, it had become one of northern Europe's largest cities, recognized for industry, banking and merchant trading. The city's prosperity was particularly tied to trading spices, silk, luxury items and later, diamonds. However, the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule in the late 16th century led to the Scheldt River's blockade, impacting Antwerp's trade significance. Despite this setback, Antwerp persisted as a crucial port city. World War II saw its occupation and damage from bombing raids, but post-war efforts led to significant rebuilding and revitalization. Dutch, specifically the Flemish variety, is the primary language spoken in Antwerp. The city, being the Flanders region's capital, predominantly speaks Dutch. Research shows that about 85% of the population speaks Dutch as their first language. Antwerp operates within the Central European Time Zone. Specifically, it observes Central European Standard Time (CET) during winter and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during summer months with daylight saving time. CET is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).

Antwerp is globally recognized for its diamond traders and cutters. Historically, its strategic location on the Scheldt River made it a dominant commercial center. Even today, the city remains a global leader in the diamond industry, with over 84% of the world's rough diamonds and 50% of cut diamonds passing through it. Some of Antwerp's top attractions include the Plantin Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, FOMU Antwerp (Photo Museum of Antwerp), ZOO Antwerp, Red Star Line Museum and Muhka, the Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp. A typical visit to Antwerp spans 2 days.  Antwerp offers a culinary journey reflecting Belgium's rich food culture. Local specialties include Belgian waffles, chocolates and beer. The city's diverse food scene encompasses fine dining restaurants, casual eateries and street food vendors.

Top hotels in Antwerp include Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites, YAYS Antwerp Opera, Boutique Hotel Maison Emile and Hotel NH Collection Antwerp Centre. Antwerp is easily accessible by various means, including train, plane, car, or bus. Direct Eurostar trains from London's St Pancras International Station to Antwerp Central Station offer a swift route, taking around 3 hours. Antwerp's Christmas markets, especially “Winter in Antwerp” on the Grote Markt, tend to be crowded, particularly during weekends and peak times. However, the festive atmosphere and attractions like food and drink stalls, an ice skating rink and a Ferris wheel make the experience worthwhile.

Antwerp is one of the cities in Belgium located in the northern part. It lies on the Scheldt River, 55 miles (88 km) from the North Sea. Antwerp, with a population of more than 500,000 people, is the most populous city in Belgium after the capital Brussels. Historically, Antwerp grew prosperous as a major port city during the late Middle Ages and early modern period. It was a centre of industry and trade, particularly the diamond trade. In the 16th century, Antwerp was even the de facto capital of the Low Countries. Today, Antwerp remains an important port and is known for diamonds, fashion and design. It also has a vibrant cultural scene with historical architecture, museums and events. Antwerp is the capital and most populous city of the province of Antwerp in the Flemish Region of Belgium. Geographically, it is located in the north of the country near the border with the Netherlands. Antwerp is a major city and port along the Scheldt River known for its history in trade and diamonds. 

What is the history of Antwerp?

Antwerp has a long and rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It originated as a small settlement on the banks of the Scheldt River and grew to become one of the most important commercial and cultural centres in Europe. In the 11th and 12th centuries, Antwerp was just a small trading post and port under the Duchy of Brabant. However, its location on the Scheldt River allowed it to become an important centre for trade and transport to the North Sea. As a result, Antwerp grew quickly during the late Middle Ages and became one of the largest cities in northern Europe by the 16th century. It was a major centre of industry, banking and merchant trading. Much of its wealth came from being the main trading port for spices, silk, luxury items and later diamonds. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Antwerp experienced its golden age and was arguably the most important trade centre north of the Alps. It attracted many Dutch, Portuguese, German, Italian and Spanish merchants.

The city also became a hub for arts and culture during this period. However, the city began to decline after the Scheldt River was blockaded during the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule in the late 16th century. This damaged Antwerp's role as a trade centre. Although Antwerp no longer reached the same heights as before, it remained an important port city. Antwerp, in more recent history, during World War II, was occupied and damaged by bombing raids. Since then, Antwerp has undergone significant rebuilding and revitalisation efforts. Today it continues to function as a major port, focus of international trade, centre of fashion and design and destination for tourism. The evidence indicates Antwerp has a rich history and it became a major commercial centre during its golden age in the 16th and 17th centuries when it was a hub of industry and merchant trading. 

The primary language spoken in Antwerp is Dutch. Specifically, most people in Antwerp speak the Flemish variety of Dutch. Flemish, sometimes called Flemish Dutch, belongs to the West Flemish dialect group of Dutch. It is native to the northern region of Belgium, including provinces like Antwerp and East and West Flanders. Flemish has over 6 million native speakers in Belgium and is recognised as one of the country's three official languages, alongside French and German. Antwerp, as the capital of the Flanders region, is a predominantly Dutch-speaking city.

Research indicates that approximately 85% of the population speaks Dutch as their mother tongue. The remainder of the population speaks other languages like French, English, Spanish, Arabic, Berber and Turkish. This language diversity reflects Antwerp's history as an international trading centre and port city that attracted many immigrants over the centuries. While the main language is Dutch, many Antwerp natives will also speak French and English as second languages. French is Belgium’s other official language and English is widely studied and used in international business. Signs, menus and documents in Antwerp will often be presented in Dutch, French and sometimes English to accommodate different language speakers. 

Antwerp is pronounced AN-twerp, emphasising the first syllable “AN” and a silent “w”. The “A” sounds like the vowel in “cat” or “at”, the “N” is pronounced clearly, the “t” is soft like in “butter” and the “erp” rhymes with “curb” or “burp”. No “L” sound at the end. The local Flemish dialect puts more emphasis on the “r” sound, almost sounding like “ant-werrep”, but standard English keeps the “r” soft. The proper way to say Antwerp is by stressing the first syllable and leaving the “w” silent – “AN-twerp”. 

Antwerp, Belgium, falls within the Central European Time Zone or Central European. More specifically, Antwerp observes Central European Standard Time (CET) in the winter months and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during the summer months when daylight saving time is in effect. The Central European Time zone is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). When daylight saving time is not in effect, Antwerp's time zone is UTC +1. During daylight saving time between late March and late October, Antwerp switches to CEST, which is UTC +2. Antwerp is 1 or 2 hours ahead of UTC, depending on the time of year. Some major cities that also fall in the CET/CEST time zone include Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Paris and Vienna. So Antwerp shares the same standard time as most of Western Europe and mainland European countries. Antwerp is currently 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) in North America. This time difference helps facilitate international business and travel.

According to recent estimates, the city of Antwerp in Belgium has a population of over 1 million people. More specifically, the population of the municipality of Antwerp is around 559,000 residents as of 2022. However, the metropolitan region that includes the greater Antwerp area has an estimated population of over 1 million residents. The current metropolitan area population of Antwerp in 2023 stands at 1,057,000 individuals. This figure represents a modest growth of 0.38% compared to the previous year, 2022, when the population was 1,053,000. Tracing back to 2021, the population was 1,048,000, marking a 0.48% increase from 2022 and a 0.58% increase from 2020.

The gender breakdown of Antwerp is fairly even, with women making up approximately 51% of the population and men around 49%. In terms of age, about 15% of the population is under 15 years old, while 18% are over the age of 65. The majority of the population, approximately 67%, falls between the ages of 15 and 65. Antwerp is a culturally diverse city with sizable immigrant communities adding to the population. 

In addition to native Belgians, there are people of North African, Turkish, Eastern European, South Asian and East Asian descent living in Antwerp. The city attracts many foreign workers and students. Overall, Antwerp’s population continues to grow steadily each year. Its current metro area population is over 1.05 million in 2023, up from just over 1 million in 2010. Antwerp remains the second most populous metro area in Belgium, behind Brussels. 

Around 1 million people reside in the greater Antwerp metropolitan area as of 2023, with an even gender split and diversity across age groups and cultural backgrounds.

Listed below are the most interesting facts of Antwerp:

• Currency: The currency used in Antwerp and in the rest of Belgium is the Euro. As one of the facts of Belgium, the Euro plays a significant role in the European and global economy. Being part of the European Monetary Union, the Euro facilitates trade and economic integration across many European nations.
• Timezone: Antwerp operates under Central European Time, one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). During the summer months, the city observes Daylight Saving Time and switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST, UTC+2). This alignment with most of Central Europe ensures synchronicity in regional business and social activities.
• Language: Dutch is the official language spoken in Antwerp, reflecting the Flemish heritage of the region. However, other languages such as French, English and German are also widely spoken due to their cosmopolitan nature and historical ties. This multilingualism adds to the city's rich cultural diversity and is one of the intriguing facts of Belgium.
• Power Plugs: In Antwerp, the power plugs and sockets used are of type C and E, with a standard voltage of 230 V and a standard frequency of 50 Hz. This is consistent with the electrical standards across much of Europe. Visitors should be aware of these specifications to ensure compatibility with their electronic devices, reflecting the practical aspects of life in one of Belgium's most vibrant cities.

Antwerp is famous for diamond traders and cutters. For much of its history, Antwerp served as an influential commercial centre due to its strategic location on the Scheldt River. Antwerp was a leader in global trade during the 16th and 17th centuries when Spanish, Portuguese, German, Italian and Dutch merchants conducted business there. Much of the wealth and prominence Antwerp enjoyed during this golden age stemmed from it being the most important diamond market at the time. Even today, Antwerp remains a global leader in the diamond industry. Over 84% of the world's rough diamonds and 50% of cut diamonds pass through the city. Antwerp is home to diamond trading houses, brokers, cutters and polishers. Many monumental buildings and landmarks around the city also testify to Antwerp's prosperous history as a diamond capital. Beyond diamonds, Antwerp is also famous for its deep-rooted fashion scene. It nurtured famous fashion designers like the avant-garde Antwerp Six and cultivated new talent from its famed fashion academy. Antwerp has several museums spotlighting its artistic heritage, including works by native Peter Paul Rubens. The city boasts stunning Gothic architecture blended with vibrant cosmopolitan culture. 

What are the best things to do in Antwerp?

Listed below are the best things to do in Antwerp: 

• Plantin Moretus Museum: Plantin Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrates the history of printing and publishing in Antwerp. Visitors can explore the original printing presses, rare manuscripts and beautifully preserved interiors of this Renaissance-era treasure. With its rich collection and historical significance, Plantin Moretus Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the world of literature, technology and intellectual life.
• FOMU Antwerp (Photo Museum of Antwerp): FOMU Antwerp is a leading institution dedicated to photography, showcasing both contemporary and historical works. With diverse exhibitions and a vast collection, the museum offers a thought-provoking exploration of photography as an art form and a medium of expression. FOMU Antwerp is a must-visit destination for photography enthusiasts and anyone interested in visual arts and culture.
• ZOO Antwerp: ZOO Antwerp, also known as Dierentuin, is one of the oldest zoos in the world and a beloved attraction in Antwerp. With a wide variety of animals from around the globe, beautifully landscaped gardens and conservation efforts, it offers an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Whether exploring the exotic animal exhibits or enjoying a leisurely stroll through the gardens, ZOO Antwerp provides a delightful day out for families and nature enthusiasts.
• Red Star Line Museum: Red Star Line Museum tells the poignant story of the millions of European emigrants who sailed to America with the Red Star Line. Through personal testimonies, artefacts and interactive exhibits, the museum brings to life the hopes, dreams and challenges faced by those seeking a new life. Red Star Line Museum offers a moving and insightful experience that resonates with the universal themes of migration and identity.
• Muhka: Muhka, the Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp, is a vibrant hub for contemporary visual arts. With its ever-changing exhibitions, the museum showcases cutting-edge works by local and international artists. Among the things to do in Antwerp is visiting Muhka which provides a platform for artistic experimentation and dialogue, making it a stimulating destination for art lovers seeking to explore the latest trends and ideas in contemporary art.

Listed below are the best museums in Antwerp:

• The Plantin Moretus Museum: The Plantin Moretus Museum is a fascinating tribute to the printing world. Housed in a 16th-century building that was once the Plantin Moretus Antwerp printing company, it showcases old books, maps and printing tools. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds the two oldest printing presses in the world and offers a unique insight into the history of printing. The museum's architecture and garden are also worth exploring.
• FOMU Antwerp (Photo Museum of Antwerp): FOMU Antwerp is a renowned photography museum that celebrated its 50th birthday in 2015. It hosts various exhibitions, including works by famous photographers and a collection of photographs, photography equipment and books. From contemporary art to historical pieces, FOMU offers photography enthusiasts a diverse and engaging experience.
• The Red Star Line Museum: The Red Star Line Museum tells the poignant story of over 2.5 million Europeans who migrated to North America between 1873 and 1934. Housed in the original Red Star Line company buildings, the museum offers a comprehensive view of the migration process, including medical checks, personal stories and the transformation of migration ships. It's considered one of the best museums in Antwerp , providing a deep and thoughtful exploration of migration history.
• Muhka (Museum of Contemporary Art, Antwerp): Muhka is Belgium's Museum of Contemporary Art in Antwerp, offering a diverse range of contemporary visual art exhibitions, lectures, cinema and workshops. With over 32,000 books, catalogues and magazines, it's a hub for contemporary art research and appreciation. Whether you're a fan of contemporary art or just curious, Muhka provides an intriguing and multifaceted experience.
• The Rubens Museum (Rubenshuis): The Rubens Museum, also known as Rubenshuis, is dedicated to the life and work of the legendary Belgian artist Peter Paul Rubens. Located in Rubens' former home, it showcases his artwork and offers a glimpse into his daily life through various objects and architectural designs. The museum's collection includes works by Rubens' peers, making it one of the best museums in Antwerp with unique art.

What to do in Antwerp for a day?

Listed below are things to do in Antwerp in a day:

• Museum Vleeshuis: Museum Vleeshuis is a fascinating destination that delves into the musical history of Antwerp. Housed in a stunning Gothic building, the museum showcases a wide array of musical instruments and explores the city's musical heritage. Visitors can learn about the region's music evolution and even experience live performances. Museum Vleeshuis offers an engaging and melodious journey that appeals to music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
• Museum aan de Stroom: Museum aan de Stroom, also known as MAS, is a striking modern museum focusing on the city's culture, history and art. With its innovative architecture and interactive exhibits, MAS provides a comprehensive insight into Antwerp's identity. The museum's rooftop offers breathtaking city views, adding to the unique experience. Museum aan de Stroom is a must-visit for those looking to understand the essence of Antwerp.
• Museum Mayer van den Bergh: Museum Mayer van den Bergh is a hidden gem that houses an impressive collection of art, including works by renowned artists like Pieter Bruegel the Elder. The museum's intimate setting allows visitors to explore the art in a peaceful and contemplative environment. With its rich collection and personal touch, Museum Mayer van den Bergh offers an inspiring and enriching experience for art enthusiasts.
• FOMU Antwerp (Photo Museum of Antwerp): FOMU Antwerp is a leading museum showcasing contemporary and historical photography. With rotating exhibitions and a vast collection, the museum offers a diverse and thought-provoking exploration of the medium. From artistic expressions to social commentaries, FOMU Antwerp provides a visual feast that challenges and inspires. It's a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and anyone interested in visual arts.

The ideal visit duration for a trip to Antwerp is typically 2 days. This time frame allows visitors to explore the city's rich cultural heritage and arts scene and taste tge local cuisine. In 2 days, one can comfortably visit key attractions such as the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Antwerp Zoo and the Museum aan de Stroom. It also provides ample time to stroll through the historic streets, shop for famous Belgian chocolates and diamonds and even enjoy a leisurely cruise on the River Scheldt. While a longer stay would certainly enable a more in-depth exploration, 2 days in Antwerp offers a well-rounded experience, capturing the city's essence and providing a glimpse into the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines this Belgian gem. With 2 full days, tourists can sufficiently explore Antwerp's major attractions like the Grote Markt, Cathedral of Our Lady, riverfront castle Het Steen, Rubens House museum and the fashion district. Two days provide opportunities to shop for Belgian chocolates, fashion and antiques in between sightseeing. Staying overnight enables trying more restaurants, bars and cafes while also experiencing Antwerp's nightlife. An overnight stay also avoids rushing or cramming activities into one hectic day.

Antwerp significantly contributes to the country's tourism industry. Antwerp is a popular tourist destination and the second latest city of Belgium. It attracts both domestic and international visitors throughout the year. In 2022, it is estimated over 11.6 million day tourists visited Antwerp, representing a 56% increase from 2021. The city also recorded over 2 million overnight hotel stays during the first 10 months of 2022, returning to pre-pandemic levels seen in 2019.

Annually, Antwerp attracts millions of leisure and business travellers who visit its historic sites, vibrant culture, restaurants, events and shopping. Some of Antwerp's major tourist draws include architectural landmarks like the Gothic Antwerp Cathedral, the mediaeval castle Het Steen and the opulent train station. The city also has a celebrated fashion and design scene, numerous art museums featuring works by Rubens and other Flemish painters and Belgium's largest port. Antwerp's reputation as the “diamond capital” adds to its appeal. In addition to traditional sightseeing, Antwerp offers trendy cafés, Michelin-star dining, Belgian beers and sweets, Christmas markets, music festivals and high-end shopping. Many tourists make Antwerp a day trip from Brussels, but it has abundant hotels to accommodate overnight guests.

As a culturally-rich destination with diversity, history and modern amenities, Antwerp significantly boosts tourism revenue and appeal for Belgium . The evidence indicates Antwerp is an increasingly popular tourist destination that draws millions of domestic and foreign visitors yearly to its historic landmarks, museums, restaurants, events and shopping. This makes the city a vital contributor to Belgium's tourism industry.

What are the top restaurants in Antwerp?

Listed below are the top restaurants in Antwerp:

• The Jane: The Jane is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in a historic military chapel from the early 1900s. Chef Nick Bril serves innovative modern European cuisine using seasonal ingredients and complex flavours.
•  Zilte: Zilte specialises in seafood with a menu featuring oysters, lobster, turbot and other fresh catches in a sophisticated setting. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers seaboard delights paired with an extensive wine list.  
• Sir Anthony Van Dijck: Sir Anthony Van Dijck is among the best restaurants in Antwerp and overlooks the river in the museum district, serving refined Belgian cuisine like smoked eel, grilled sole and premium steaks. The dining room evokes old-world elegance with velvet chairs and chandeliers.

In Antwerp, one can enjoy a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich food culture in Belgium. Visitors can try both traditional Belgian dishes and international cuisine. One must not miss trying local specialities like Belgian waffles, chocolate and beer. Seafood lovers can enjoy fresh mussels, while those looking for comfort food can opt for stoemp, a mashed vegetable dish. The city's vibrant food scene also includes fine dining restaurants, casual eateries and street food vendors, ensuring something for every palate and budget. Whether it's a quick snack or a lavish meal, the food in Belgium , particularly in Antwerp, promises a gastronomic adventure that satisfies both the taste buds and the soul.

What are the best bars and cafes in Antwerp?

Listed below are the best bars and cafés in Antwerp .

• Dogma: Dogma is a renowned cocktail bar in Antwerp known for its creative and expertly crafted drinks. The interior exudes a vintage charm, with dim lighting and classic decor that creates an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. The bartenders at Dogma are true artisans, using premium ingredients and innovative techniques to create unique and memorable cocktails. Whether a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Dogma offers an exceptional experience that leaves a lasting impression.
• Jones & Co: Jones & Co is a trendy coffee bar and eatery in the heart of Antwerp. Focusing on quality and sustainability, they serve freshly brewed coffee from carefully selected beans, delicious pastries and light meals. The ambience at Jones & Co is relaxed and welcoming, making it a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or afternoon break. The friendly staff and commitment to excellence make Jones & Co a must-visit destination for coffee lovers.
• Beerlovers Bar: Beerlovers Bar is a haven for beer enthusiasts in Antwerp, offering an extensive selection of local and international craft beers. The knowledgeable staff are passionate about beer and always ready to guide guests through the impressive menu. With a laid-back vibe and communal seating, Beerlovers Bar encourages socialising and exploring new flavours. Whether a craft beer aficionado or a curious taster, Beerlovers Bar provides a delightful and educational experience that celebrates the rich beer culture of Belgium.

Antwerp has a lively nightlife scene with a diverse range of bars, pubs, dance clubs, live music venues and late-night eateries. The nightlife in Antwerp reflects Antwerp's multicultural makeup and youthful creative energy. While Antwerp may not be as renowned as some European party cities, it still offers fun nights out for all tastes.

The historic centre around the Grote Markt provides a classic backdrop for Antwerp's nightlife. Grand ornate buildings house traditional pubs and bars where locals and tourists unwind over Belgian beers, wines and gin. Trendy cocktail lounges can also be found in this area. For dancing, head to clubs near Groenplaats playing electronic, hip-hop, rock and pop music into the night. The university district brings a youthful vibe with inexpensive bars and cafés that get lively late at night. Live jazz, blues and rock music are on tap at venues like De Muze.

The hipster Zuid neighbourhood also draws those looking for alternative and underground nightlife. Many restaurants, gastropubs and brasseries throughout Antwerp stay open until 1 or 2 am. After dark, Antwerp offers entertainment hubs where one can dance the night away at a club, enjoy craft beers at a classic pub, listen to live bands, or simply relax over cocktails and conversation. The diversity and culture of Antwerp is reflected in its moderate but captivating nightlife scene.

What are the best areas to stay in Antwerp?

Listed below are the neighbourhoods stay in Antwerp

• ‘t Zuid: ‘t Zuid is an upscale residential neighbourhood south of the city centre, known for its elegant accommodations along stately boulevards. The area is home to the Antwerp Zoo and Central Station, offering a sophisticated ambience with beautiful architecture. Art galleries, upscale dining options and proximity to key attractions make ‘t Zuid a refined and convenient place to stay.
• Central Station Area: Central Station Area is a bustling part of Antwerp, centred around the city's main railway station. It's a convenient base for exploring the city with a wide range of hotels, restaurants and shops. The Central Station Area's excellent transport links and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular choice for tourists and business travellers.
• Meir and “Wilde Zee: Meir and “Wilde Zee” is the main shopping district in Antwerp, known for its pedestrian boulevard filled with stores and restaurants. The area can be busy and lively, offering various shopping opportunities from high-end brands to local boutiques. Meir and “Wilde Zee” are perfect for those who enjoy being in the heart of the action and want easy access to dining and entertainment options.
• Grote Markt: Grote Markt is the historic heart of Antwerp, home to the city's stunning Cathedral and iconic square. With a high concentration of hotels, restaurants and nightlife, it's ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history. Grote Markt's cobblestone streets, historic buildings and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit area for tourists wanting a classic Antwerp experience.
• Quartier Latin: Quartier Latin is a trendy and artistic neighbourhood in Antwerp, filled with bars, cafes and boutique shops. Known for its bohemian vibe and cultural richness, it's a great place to explore the city's creative side. Quartier Latin's unique character, vibrant street life and proximity to cultural attractions make it a favourite among young and creative travellers.

Listed below are the best hotels in Antwerp:

• Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp: Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and top-notch service. The hotel offers a serene retreat in the city's heart, with beautifully designed rooms and lush gardens. Guests can indulge in the hotel's spa and wellness facilities, dine in its exquisite restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and make reservations to ensure a special culinary experience. The personalised attention of the staff adds to the hotel's appeal, making it ideal for those seeking elegance and tranquillity in a bustling city.
• Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites: Maison Nationale City Flats & Suites offers a modern design and comfort blend, providing a unique and stylish stay in Antwerp. The hotel features spacious suites with contemporary furnishings and all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Its central location makes exploring the city's attractions convenient and guests can find delightful places to eat nearby, including breakfast, lunch, or dinner options. The attentive staff ensures a pleasant experience and can help with reservations at local restaurants.
• YAYS Antwerp Opera: YAYS Antwerp Opera is located near the famous Antwerp Opera House and offers a chic and sophisticated stay. The hotel's elegant rooms are designed with attention to detail, providing a luxurious experience. Guests can enjoy the city's vibrant cultural scene and have lunch or dinner at the nearby theatres, museums and galleries. Reservations for special dining experiences can be made through the hotel's friendly staff and the excellent service makes it popular among travellers seeking culture and elegance.
• Boutique Hotel Maison Emile: Boutique Hotel Maison Emile is one of the best hotels in Antwerp and it is a charming hotel that exudes warmth and character. Situated in a historic building, the hotel offers uniquely decorated rooms that reflect the artistic spirit of Antwerp. Guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast in the cosy dining area and explore nearby boutiques and cafés for lunch or dinner. The hotel's intimate atmosphere, personalised service, recommendations and reservations for local dining make it a perfect choice for a boutique experience.
• Hotel NH Collection Antwerp Centre: Hotel NH Collection Antwerp Centre is part of the renowned NH Collection and offers a luxurious stay in the heart of Antwerp. With modern and spacious rooms, top-tier amenities and a convenient location near major attractions, it's a favourite among business and leisure travellers. The hotel's restaurant serves delectable cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner and reservations are accepted for special dining experiences. The fitness centre allows guests to maintain their routine while away from home and the professional staff and excellent facilities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

How to get to Antwerp?

Antwerp is easily accessible by train, plane, car or bus from major European cities, including London. There are multiple transportation options for reaching Antwerp, depending on departure point and preferences. The most direct option from London is taking the Eurostar train from St Pancras International Station directly to Antwerp Central Station. This high-speed route takes around 3 hours. Alternatively, travellers can take a Eurostar to Brussels then transfer to a local train or bus for the roughly 45-minute journey between Brussels and Antwerp. Regular flights from London airports like Heathrow and London City to Brussels Airport also exist. From there, trains to Antwerp are quick and frequent. Some budget airlines like RyanAir also offer direct flights from London Stansted Airport to Antwerp Airport. Driving to Antwerp from London takes 8–9 hours to cover the roughly 500 km (310.69 miles) distance. Travellers can take ferry crossings from southern England to France or Belgium. Another option is the direct Eurolines bus between London and Antwerp which takes around 8.5 hours. Train and air travel provides the fastest and most direct routes for getting to Antwerp from London or other cities. The well-connected transportation network makes Antwerp very accessible for European travellers.

Yes, there is a small regional airport located in Antwerp called Antwerp International Airport. However, it is not a major airport and only handles some commercial passenger flights as well as general aviation traffic. Antwerp Airport is located 5 km (3.1 miles) southeast of the city centre in the district of Deurne. It has one passenger terminal, aircraft stands, freight facilities and a flight school. The single runway is only 600 metres ( 0.37 miles)  long, allowing it to accommodate small passenger aircraft. There are no regular long-haul or intercontinental flights to and from Antwerp Airport. It mainly handles domestic routes and flights to select European cities operated by smaller budget airlines like CityJet. Major airlines fly into Brussels Airport instead, which is the largest international airport serving the Antwerp region. Regarding passenger traffic, Antwerp Airport served around 250,000 passengers in 2019 before the pandemic. This is quite modest compared to the major airports. Still, Antwerp does have its own airport within city limits, even if it is small-scale and connects mostly to domestic destinations and a handful of European hubs. Travellers coming from further abroad will need to fly into Brussels and take ground transport to Antwerp.

Listed below are the steps someone needs to follow in order to get from Antwerp to Brussels.

• Firstly, one must determine the preferred mode of transport. Options include train, car, bus, taxi, or bicycle. Factors such as travel time, cost and convenience should be considered to choose the best option for the journey from Antwerp to Brussels.
• Secondly, one should head to Antwerp's central train station if choosing the train . A ticket to Brussels must be purchased from a ticket machine or the ticket counter. After checking the schedule and waiting for the next available train, one can board the train and enjoy a comfortable ride. The journey typically takes around 40-50 minutes.
• Thirdly, one can rent a car or use a personal vehicle if opting to drive . Following the E19 motorway from Antwerp to Brussels and using a GPS or map for guidance if needed, the drive usually takes 45 minutes to an hour. The distance between Antwerp and Brussels is 45 km (28 miles) by road.
• Fourthly, for bus travel, one must find a bus station in Antwerp that offers services to Brussels. A ticket can be purchased online or at the station and the bus ride may take around 1-2 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Fifthly, If choosing a taxi or ride-sharing service , one can book a ride using a taxi service or app like Uber. The destination must be provided as Brussels and the ride may take 45 minutes to an hour.
• Lastly, upon arrival in Brussels , one should use local transportation, such as trams, buses, or the metro, to reach the specific destination in Brussels . Maps or locals can be consulted for directions if needed.

Yes, Antwerp City Pass is definitely worth it. The Antwerp City Pass is the official tourist pass for the city of Antwerp in Belgium. It offers free or discounted admission to museums, attractions, public transportation and other services in Antwerp. It can save money for visitors planning to see multiple sights and use public transit during their stay. The Antwerp City Pass costs €29 (£25, $30) for 24 hours, €40 (£34, $43) for 48 hours and €48 (£41, $51) for 72 hours. The pass is activated when used for the first time, not when purchased.

There are three options to buy the Antwerp City Pass. These are, online through the Visit Antwerp website, the visitor centers in Antwerp and at the FOMU Photo Museum shop. The two visitor centers where people can buy the Antwerp City Pass. The first one is at Grote Markt 13, which is open daily 10am-5pm. The second visitor center is at Antwerp Central Station and is open daily 9am-5pm.

The Antwerp City Pass offers free admission to over 15 museums and attractions including Rubens House, Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), Plantin-Moretus Museum, Cathedral of Our Lady, De Ruien, St. Paul's Church.

It also offers free public transportation on trams and buses operated by De Lijn. Discounts of 10-25% on additional attractions like the Antwerp zoo, boat tours, Segway tours and more. Buyers will also get a voucher booklet for discounts at shops and restaurants across Antwerp.

What are the markets in Antwerp?

Antwerp has several weekly, monthly, seasonal and annual markets. The weekly markets are Vogelenmarkt, Exotic market, Friday market, Antiques market, Bio market. The monthly or seasonal markets in Antwerp are the Boekenplein market, the Lambermontmartre, the Brocantwerpen and the Grote Markt. The yearly markets in Antwerp are the Rubens market and the famous Antwerp Christmas market.

Listed below are the markets in Antwerp.

• Rubens market. Rubens is a market that takes place yearly, in Grote Markt on August 15 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. At the Rubens market, all merchants are dressed like 17th-century merchants and their stands are decorated in that way as well. At the end of the market day, the best-dressed merchant with the best-decorated stand is chosen. The items being sold are of this age, though, which might be a good thing if you're looking to buy some produce.
• Antwerp Christmas market. Every year the city of Antwerp organizes the Antwerp Christmas market with lots of food and drink stands but also stands selling seasonal products, an ice skating rink and even a Ferris wheel. It's a good place to do some Christmas shopping.
• Boekenplein market (“Books Square”). Boekenplein market is more than just a books market. There are always some musicians playing and there are stands where you can grab a bite or a drink. To be consumed while reading your newly bought book, of course. Boekenplein market is taking place every third Sunday of the months March to October, in De Coninckplein, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Lambermontmartre market. Lambermontmartre market is a square where (mostly graphic) artists display their work and often there's also someone drawing portraits of people. Lambermontmartre wants to recreate the same ambiance in the south neighborhood (“‘t Zuid”) of Antwerp, but also includes acoustic concerts. It is considered similar to Montmartre in Paris. It is taking place every last Sunday, from May to  September, from 12 p.m. to 5 pm.
• Brocantwerpen. Brocantwerpen is a flea-market where you can also find some vintage and antiques. People can buy furniture, dolls, film posters, clothing, handbags, matchboxes, vinyl records, stamps and much more. Most things are unique. It is taking place about 6 times a year at the Grote Markt. People should check more information on the Brocantwerpen website for dates and hours to visit.
• Vogelenmarkt (“Birds market”).   The Vogelenmarkt is one of my favorite markets in Antwerp as it's so diverse and definitely not a typical farmers market. The stands at the Vogelenmarkt sell flowers, fabrics, antiques, jewelry and more. You can even find small animals, like hamsters, here. It is taking place every Sunday from 8am to 1pm, at the Oudevaartplaats, Theaterplein and surrounding streets.
• Exotic market. The exotic market is – as you could have guessed – a very multicultural market where you can buy and taste all kinds of Mediterranean specialties. It's a great place to find Turkish and Moroccan food. It is taking place every Saturday (except on public holidays) from 8am to 4pm, at the Oudevaartplaats, Theaterplein and surrounding streets.
• Friday market. On Fridays, old furniture and small antiques are auctioned at the Friday Market. It's always a lively event and fun to attend, even if you just go to watch. It is taking place every Friday from 9am to 1pm at the  Vrijdagmarkt.
• Antiques market. At the Antiques market people can find antiques and other old/second-hand stuff at the antique market on Saturday and Sunday. This market is aimed more at “casual” buyers than the Friday market. It is open on Saturdays at Lijnwaadmarkt from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (except on public holidays). Also on Sundays Sint-Jansvliet from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (also on public holidays)
• Bio market. Bio is hip, also in Antwerp. At the Sunday bio market, only products with a bio quality label are being sold. It is taking place every Sunday from 8am to 4pm at Falconplein.

Are Christmas markets crowded in Antwerp?

Yes, Antwerp's Christmas markets do tend to get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak times. However, the lively atmosphere is part of the appeal. The Antwerp Christmas market is taking place yearly and attracts locals and tourists to their festive stalls. The biggest is the “Winter in Antwerp” market running for over a month on the Grote Markt main square and adjacent streets. With over 200 stalls, this bustling market attracts crowds browsing gifts, ornaments, food and drinks. The historic centre also hosts an intimate, authentic Christmas market at the wharf, bringing seasonal cheer with carols, crafts and local cuisine. The zoological gardens hold a family-friendly Santa's Village market as well. During evenings and weekends, these markets overflow with visitors soaking up the Christmas spirit, meaning congested foot traffic and queues are common. However, the cheerful ambience and twinkling lights help offset the crowds. Visiting on weekdays or mornings provides a more relaxed experience. The extended duration of Antwerp's Christmas markets also spreads out attendance. Lively crowds are integral to enjoying the festive atmosphere that makes Antwerp's Christmas markets so popular yet worth braving the masses.

Yes, live musical performances are central to the festive atmosphere at many Christmas markets throughout Belgium, including in cities like Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent. The markets often have special stages for live music and carol singers. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, holiday music fills the air at Belgium's Christmas markets. Shoppers can listen to choirs singing traditional carols or bands playing upbeat festive tunes as they browse the stalls. Some markets have pianists or organists playing Christmas songs as well. Daily music schedules in Bruges, Brussels and Antwerp feature local school and church choirs and professional musicians. Brass bands and other ensembles may provide live entertainment too. The music adds to the seasonal spirit and provides warmth during the cold winter nights. The sound of classic Christmas carols sung by choir groups as shoppers sip warm mulled wine and gather around food stalls is an integral part of the traditional European Christmas market. The evidence indicates live musical performances from choirs, singers, bands and other musicians are commonly incorporated into Christmas markets throughout Belgium to provide a festive holiday atmosphere.

What are the best music festivals in Belgium?

Listed below are the best music festivals in Belgium:

• Tomorrowland: One of the most popular Belgium music festivals, Tomorrowland is held in Boom, near Antwerp. It attracts music lovers from all over the world, featuring a wide array of electronic music genres. The festival is known for its elaborate stage designs and top-notch production.
• Rock Werchter: Rock Werchter is a Belgium music festival located near Leuven that offers a diverse lineup of rock, pop and electronic music. It has been a staple in the Belgian music scene for decades and continues to draw large crowds. The festival's commitment to quality and variety has earned it numerous awards.
• Pukkelpop: Pukkelpop is a Belgium music festival held in Hasselt, known for its eclectic mix of genres. From indie rock to hip-hop, the festival caters to a wide audience. Its innovative approach to programming and emphasis on emerging talent make it a favourite among music enthusiasts.
• Gent Jazz Festival: The Gent Jazz Festival is a celebration of jazz music in Ghent, Belgium. It showcases both local and international jazz talents. As one of the premier Belgium festivals for jazz lovers, it offers a rich and diverse program that appeals to both purists and newcomers.

Antwerp has a maritime temperate climate with mild winters and summers. According to the weather data, Antwerp's warmest month is July when average high temperatures reach 23°C (73°F) and nighttime lows average 12°C (54°F). The weather is mostly comfortable in July with some humid days. Antwerp's coldest month is January when daytime highs average only 5.9°C (43°F) and lows drop to 0.3°C (33°F) so winter weather is very cold. The best months for pleasant weather in Antwerp are June, August and September. In June, Antwerp enjoys warm daytime highs of 20.2°C (69°F) and mild nights of 10.5°C (51°F). August brings high temperatures of 22.7°C (73°F) and evenings are comfortable with lows of 12°C (54°F). Antwerp weather in September remains warm with average highs of 19.1°C (66°F).

In terms of rainfall, November is Antwerp's wettest month with precipitation averaging 81mm over 12 days. October also brings substantial rainfall while December, January and May each average 60-70mm of precipitation per month. April is Antwerp's driest month when rainfall decreases to just 40mm over 7 wet days. Summertime weather is more settled with July averaging only 35mm of rain. Antwerp's prevailing winds come from the west and south between September and February bringing wet and stormy weather off the North Sea. Northerly winds are more common in late spring.

Antwerp's warmest weather comes in July but June to September offer mild temperatures and lower rainfall. Winters are cold and wet. November sees the most precipitation while April is the driest month. Antwerp's weather is changeable year-round due to its maritime location.

Yes, Antwerp is absolutely worth visiting. As Belgium's second-largest city, Antwerp has a wide variety of historic sites, museums, architecture, shopping, food and nightlife, making it an engaging destination for tourists. The beautiful mediaeval centre is filled with guild houses, the impressive Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady and stunning architecture dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Antwerp also has popular art museums like the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum Mayer Van Den Bergh with significant collections. The famed Antwerp Central train station, built in 1905, is a sight. For shopping, Antwerp is the world capital of diamond trading and cutting and has an array of boutiques and markets. The dining scene is excellent, with Belgian specialities like waffles, chocolate, fries and beer. Antwerp has trendy fashion and design districts and lively nightlife venues. The port area along the river is also of interest. Easy to navigate and relatively compact, Antwerp can be seen in a couple days or provide enough museums, historic sites, restaurants and cafés to occupy many more days. To sum up, Antwerp makes for a rewarding and memorable urban getaway with something for all interests.

No, Antwerp is generally not considered an expensive city compared to other major European destinations. The cost of living and travelling in Antwerp and Belgium is moderately priced. Basic goods like milk, cigarettes, water and beer are reasonably priced. For example, a pint of beer at a pub in Antwerp costs around €2-4, comparable to other cities like Brussels. Hotel rooms, restaurant meals, groceries and public transportation also tend to cost slightly less than in other major cities like London, Paris, or Amsterdam. However, prices are higher compared to more budget-friendly destinations in Eastern Europe. The average cost of a basic breakfast in Antwerp is €8-12 and dinner for two is around €40-60. While Antwerp has some pricier luxury hotels and dining, budget options are widely available. Rental accommodation, food from markets and supermarkets and free attractions help keep travel costs low. Summing up, the cost of living and travelling in Antwerp and Belgium is relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries. Moderate prices in Belgium on most goods and services make it a reasonable destination for travellers looking to stretch their budgets further.

Is Antwerp safe?

Yes, Antwerp is generally considered a safe city to visit and live in. Antwerp has relatively low crime rates compared to other major cities in Europe. Violent crime rates are minimal and petty crimes like pickpocketing or theft are more common. However, violent incidents are rare and most visits to Antwerp are trouble-free. As with any large tourist city, visitors should take normal safety precautions like being aware of their surroundings, securing valuables and avoiding isolated areas at night. Areas like the red light district can attract more petty crimes, but increased police patrols have improved safety in recent years. Antwerp is as safe as most European cities and its compact, walkable layout makes it easy to stay in safe, populated areas. If visitors exercise basic street smarts and caution, they are highly unlikely to encounter any issues regarding criminality or theft while travelling in Antwerp, Belgium. The city has strong law enforcement and low crime levels compared to many other destinations. For these reasons, Antwerp can be considered a very safe place to visit.

Yes, Antwerp is easy to visit with children. Antwerp has many family-friendly attractions and activities, making it an enjoyable destination for kids and toddlers. The Antwerp Zoo is a top attraction, housing over 9000 animals in a beautiful park setting. The Aquatopia indoor water park is next to the zoo, with slides, pools and play areas for all ages. The calm canals with boat tours and cruises provide a unique way to see the city. Kid-focused museums like the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) and the Museum of Diamonds have interactive exhibits and programs. Antwerp also has great public parks like Nachtegaalplaats Park with playgrounds and the beautiful 19th century Central Station with its main hall, zoo mosaic floor and train watching. Sweet treats like Belgian waffles and chocolate shops also delight young ones. The compact city centre makes it walkable for families, plus there is a large number of family-oriented attractions. Also, most attractions are accessible via public transport. Visiting Antwerp with kids and toddlers is easy and recommended.

Are there any beaches near Antwerp?

Yes, there are a few beaches located not too far from the city of Antwerp in Belgium. However, Antwerp has no beaches directly, as it is inland and along the Scheldt River. The nearest beach town to Antwerp would be Blankenberge, which has a long stretch of sandy beach along the North Sea. Blankenberge is about 30 km (18.6 miles) or a 30-minute from Antwerp. Other beach towns within an hour's drive of Antwerp include Knokke-Heist to the northeast and De Haan to the west. The coastline of Belgium is not very extensive, but these beach resort towns offer some nice options for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the sand and sea breezes during the summer months. They provide a nice seaside getaway without travelling too far from Antwerp. While Antwerp city does not have beaches, the Belgium beaches near the city can provide enjoyable beach days for those looking to visit the coast while based in Antwerp.

Listed below are the UNESCO world heritage sights in Belgium:

• The Grand Place in Brussels: The Grand Place in Brussels, with ornate mediaeval guildhalls, town hall and vibrant commercial atmosphere, was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1998. The Grand Place testifies to the vitality of the commercial role and the importance of the municipal institutions of the historic cities of Belgium. It is an outstanding example of a historical public square.
• The Flemish Béguinages: The Flemish Béguinage consists of 13 béguinages across Flanders, including those in Bruges, Antwerp and Ghent, which were added to the UNESCO list in 1998 as well. These architectural complexes originated in the Middle Ages when they housed lay religious women called Beguines. They are exceptional examples of the traditional architecture of Western Europe.
• The Four Lifts on the old Canal du Centre: The Four Lifts on the Old Canal du Centre and their Environs in La Louvière and Le Roeulx were inscribed in 1998 and 1999. They are hydraulic boat lifts on the historic Canal du Centre. They are an exceptional example of a late 19th-century industrial landscape in good condition. 
• The historic centre of Bruges: The historic centre of Bruges, whose public and commercial buildings date from the 12th to the 15th centuries, was added to the UNESCO list in 2000. Bruges has managed to preserve its historic fabric, including mediaeval buildings, remarkably well. It is an outstanding example of an architectural and cultural ensemble.
• The Neolithic Flint Mines at Spiennes: The Neolithic Flint Mines at Spiennes covers over 100 hectares and were inscribed in 2000. They constitute the largest and earliest concentration of ancient mines in Europe, dating back over 6000 years. They provided high-quality flint across the continent for thousands of years.

Find below the most important pages about Antwerp.

14 Best Hotels in Antwerp and Best Neighbourhoods to Stay

17 Best Restaurants in Antwerp to eat like a local

14 Top Antwerp Museums: History, Photo & Art Galleries

Antwerp Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

14 Best Cafés and Bars in Antwerp

26 Best Things to do in Antwerp, Belgium

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Travelsito says

Great post Sofie. Many fashion designers have learned there business in Antwerp as well.

Thank you! Yup, it’s definitely the fashion capital of Belgium and people come from everywhere to study at the fashion school of Antwerp.

Well I did ask if you had anything on Antwerp… great post Sofie. Extremely helpful. Thanks

Hahaha, truth! You’re very welcome. Glad you like it:)

Culinaire wandeling Antwerpen says

Wat een fantastische stad toch! Vol leuke hotspots… Tijdens onze jaarlijkse teambuilding met de collega’s deden wij onder andere een culinaire wandeling in Antwerpen. Van een leuke ervaring gesproken…

Ben ik helemaal met je eens! Ik ben zelf niet zo’n fan van rondleidingen… behalve als het culinaire rondleidingen zijn :) Geen betere manier om een plek te leren kennen dan middels haar eetcultuur!

Marcin BWZ says

hello Sofie, I came to your blog because I’m looking for information about Antwerp. It’s great that you write blog in 2 languages, because I’m currently learning Dutch :) I think I’ll stay here longer. Greetings, Marcin

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• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By bicycle
• 3.1 By public transportation
• 3.2 By taxi
• 3.4 By bicycle
• 3.5 By kick scooter
• 3.6 On foot
• 3.7 By horse tram
• 4.1.1 Museums and galleries
• 4.1.2 Churches
• 4.1.3 Animal interest
• 4.1.4 Other buildings of note
• 4.2 South of Antwerp
• 5.1 Tours and cruises
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 10.1.1 Hotels
• 10.1.2 Other accommodation options
• 10.2.1 Chain hotels
• 10.2.2 Independent and boutique hotels
• 10.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe
• 13.1 Belgium
• 13.2 Netherlands
• 13.3 France

Antwerp [dead link] ( Dutch : Antwerpen , French : Anvers ) is the capital of the eponymous province in the region of Flanders in Belgium . At a population of just over half a million people (2018), it is the second largest city in Belgium (after Brussels ), and it has a major European port. Due to its long and culturally rich history, the city of Antwerp houses many interesting historical buildings from different historical periods, and many interesting museums. Antwerp is also known as the global diamond trade hub - more than 70% of all diamonds are traded in Antwerp.

Antwerp has grown to become a trendy city, attracting many Flemish and foreign artists, writers, intellectuals, and actors. This is reflected in the city's many trendy bars and shops. Antwerp is a city with many faces. While it may not be as historically preserved as Bruges or Ghent , it is a very dynamic city, offering a perfect mix of history and present-day modern life. The friendliness of the people of Antwerp and their innate penchant for good food and good living, combined with their low stress lifestyle, makes it a desirable and relaxing place to visit.

Understand [ edit ]

The origins of the name of Antwerp comes from aan de werpe , which is Dutch for "at the throw", referring to where the river throws its sand. The name also has a funny anecdote saying it comes from Hand werpen , which translated is "throwing hands". In the city flag, the castle "het Steen" and the hand of Antwerp are shown.

In the 16th century, Antwerp was one of the most important financial centres of the world, where traders from all over Europe and Asia sold and bought their goods. After the siege of Antwerp in 1585 by the Spanish, this role as a financial centre was taken over by Amsterdam. Nevertheless, since the 19th century and especially the 20th century, Antwerp has made a serious economic comeback.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

• Hourly direct trains link Antwerpen Centraal station with this airport in 25 minutes (45 minutes on weekends and public holidays). Single adult tickets are €11.30.
• There is also a direct bus between Brussels Airport and Antwerp which costs €10 and has two stops in Antwerp at Hotel Crowne Plaza and in the city centre, at Franklin Rooseveltplaats at platform B5. A schedule can be found here
• There is a regular intercity train Amsterdam - Brussels that connects Schiphol Airport directly with Antwerpen Centraal station in approximately 1 hr 50 min. You can buy tickets with credit card at the automatic ticket booths in the Schiphol arrival hall. Payment with cash is also possible at the counter. Or you can book through Belgian Railways (SNCB/NMBS) [dead link] or NS International . A single ticket costs about €25.
• A second option is the bright red high-speed Eurostar train Amsterdam - Paris, which stops at Schiphol and Antwerpen Centraal station, in about half the time it takes the regular train, but at double the price. Contrary to regular trains, reservations on Eurostar are required. Best reserve your seat a week or so beforehand, since buying a ticket on the spot will turn out to be even more expensive. The Eurostar journey from Schiphol to Antwerpen Centraal can also be booked as a part of a SkyTeam flight (IATA code for Antwerpen Centraal is ZWE  IATA ), usually costing less than when booking the flight and the Eurostar ride separately.
• KLM also maintains a direct shuttle bus connection between Antwerpen Centraal and Schiphol Airport, which can be booked as a KLM flight segment under the code KL320/KL321. The bus takes 2½ hr to get between Antwerp and Schiphol, but there is usually no difference in price between flight tickets using the bus and the Eurostar, so book carefully.

By train [ edit ]

Belgium has an extensive rail network, and for intercity travel within Belgium, trains are always the best option. Tickets can be bought on the website of the Belgian railways and at the ticket counters in most stations. There are good train connections to and from Brussels Airport and Schiphol airport in Amsterdam. To plan your trip, you can consult the website of NMBS (SNCB) [dead link] for national and international travels. If you cross multiple borders, it is often possible to book your entire trip at once through Deutsche Bahn .

Antwerp-Central is a major stop on the Paris-Amsterdam high-speed line. International trains from France and the Netherlands stop in Antwerp-Central station only, and not in Antwerp-Berchem anymore. The same train services that call at Schiphol Airport also call at Amsterdam Centraal and Rotterdam Centraal. Tickets for train journeys originating from the Netherlands are bookable through Belgian Railways (NMBS/SNCB) [dead link] , Eurostar , or NS International but remember that some tickets (especially Eurostar tickets) are valid only on specific trains. Passengers coming from the UK via Eurostar can transfer at Brussel-Zuid to any regular NMBS-operated train bound for Antwerp provided that at the time of booking, Antwerp was selected as the final destination. Through Brussel-Zuid railway station, there are also high-speed connections to other destinations in France with TGV, or destinations in Germany with ICE. If you have a mobile device, the SNCB (Belgian Railways) App (in English) is useful and also shows you how to get to the station.

By bus [ edit ]

Several bus operators offer long-distance connections to Antwerp:

By car [ edit ]

The overall city centre of Antwerp is a low-emission zone and foreign vehicles require registration which should generally be made before entering and can exceptionally be made up to one day after the first move into the city. You will need your registration details and potentially car documents; depending on the age of the car you will need exception permits which are €35 per day (valid until 06:00 next morning). For more information see the information by the relevant authorities here [dead link] . Driving into the (video surveilled) LEZ without registration is subject to fine ranging from €150 to €350.

Many streets in the centre are narrow and driving there is slow and rather uncomfortable anyway. The Ring road around Antwerp is often congested. Works at the Oosterweellink are in progress since 2021, some exits are closed till 2030.

By bicycle [ edit ]

• From Brussels : exit Brussels towards the north via the Havenlaan and the Willebroek Canal bike route, up to the tall iron Buda Bridge. Cross the canal and continue on the other side through the town of Vilvoorde, until you reach the river Zenne. The F1 cycle superhighway (Fietssnelweg) continues towards Mechelen along the Zenne. Past Mechelen, the F1 runs along the Antwerp-Brussels railway and terminates at Antwerp-Central Station. Total distance from Brussels to Antwerp is around 50 km.
• From Ghent : the F4 cycle superhighway (55 km) starts at Gent-Dampoort railway station. The first part runs on ordinary roads, but once in the countryside outside of Ghent, it runs on a dedicated bike lane along the Antwerp-Ghent railway. It passes through Lokeren and Sint-Niklaas , the capital of the Waasland (the region between Antwerp and Ghent). For the time being, the F4 terminates at Zwijndrecht railway station, 4 km short of Antwerp. From there, follow the street and path towards the Blancefloerlaan, which has good bike lanes and leads straight to the St.-Anna Pedestrian Tunnel on the Antwerp Left Bank - with its quaint historic wooden escalators - through which you can cycle underneath the river Schelde into central Antwerp.
• From the seaside : the nearest town on the Belgian coast is Knokke-Heist (100 km), although some towns on the Dutch coast (Cadzand at 90 km and Breskens at 75 km) are even closer to Antwerp. Anyway, the shortest, most scenic and most comfortable bike route to Antwerp passes partly through the Netherlands (Zeelandic Flanders). From Knokke, a fabulous bicycle path runs around the Zwin nature reserve at the NL border, continuing along the Dutch seaside via Cadzand towards Breskens. The bike path runs right on top of the dunes, with great views over the beach and sea on your one side and the polders on your other. Past Breskens, the bike lane leaves the North Sea and continues along the Westerschelde, which is over 5 km wide at this point. Once you reach the industries around the port of Terneuzen, following the river becomes impossible, so you have to turn inland and continue to and through Terneuzen. From Terneuzen, follow ordinary roads with good Dutch bike lanes to Hulst. From Hulst, take the former railway bike path (F411 cycle superhighway) to Sint-Niklaas . From Sint-Niklaas, follow the F4 to Antwerp as described above.
• From NL/Holland : from wherever you are in Holland (e.g. Amsterdam, Rotterdam), first make your way south to the border town of Roosendaal. Continue for another 10 km south to the Belgian border town of Essen. From there, the F14 cycle superhighway gets you to Antwerp in no time, running along the old Antwerp-Amsterdam railway. It terminates at Luchtbal, from where you can complete the last few kilometres into central Antwerp on ordinary roads. From more eastern parts of the Netherlands, it will be shorter to travel via Tilburg (NL), starting point of the 'Bels Lijntje' - a 30-km disused railway bike trail through the curious Belgian exclave Baarle-Hertog - to Turnhout (B), from where you can follow the F15 cycle superhighway along the canal to Antwerp.
• From Germany : the nearest German city is Aachen (143 km), right next to the border tripoint of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. From Aachen, cross into the Netherlands at Vaals and continue to Maastricht. Cross Maastricht towards the west and cross into Belgium at Lanaken, where you reach the Albert Canal. From this point, a cycle superhighway runs along the Albert Canal all the way to Antwerp, through the Belgian Limburg and the Kempen (the region east of Antwerp). It is numbered as the F72 until Hasselt, then as the F5 Hasselt-Antwerpen.
• From Luxemburg : follow the award-winning Vennbahn bike path, one of the longest bicycle trails on disused railway tracks in Europe (125 km). Starting in northern Luxemburg, it leads through East Belgium, the German-speaking and highest part of the country (it actually snows there in winter). After a long descent through forested hills, the Vennbahn terminates in Aachen, Germany. From there, continue to Antwerp as described above.
• From Wallonia : from Charleroi, follow the Ravel bike lane along the Brussels-Charleroi Canal to and through Brussels until you reach the F1 to Antwerp. From Liège, follow the Ravel bike lane along the river Meuse and Albert Canal, until you reach the F72 and F5 to Antwerp.
• From France : France is not so bicycle-friendly; (intercity) bike lanes are almost non-existent. If you really must travel from France by bicycle, the nearest major French city is Lille. From there, make your way to Kortrijk in Belgium, from where the F7 cycle superhighway (still partly under construction) gets you to Ghent. From there, follow the F4 as described above to reach Antwerp.
• From the United Kingdom : take your bike on the ferry from Dover to Dunkerque (France, 20 km from the Belgian border, from the ferry port is actually over 30 km) and follow the coastal road from there until you reach De Panne (Belgium). Continue along the Belgian coast until Knokke and continue to Antwerp as described above, or (shorter) cut through via Diksmuide towards Deinze, then F7 to Ghent followed by F4 to Antwerp.

Get around [ edit ]

By public transportation [ edit ]

The public transportation company De Lijn has a dense network of buses, trams, and pre-metro (underground tram) connections in the city and wide area around it. Tickets can be purchased through the mobile app . You can also buy cards of €17 (10 fares) or alternatively 1 or 3 day tickets at fixed points in town; inside transportation payment of tickets is only possible via contactless payment (cards or via smartphone); buying tickets in cash is not possible anymore. For one fare, you can ride up to an hour.

The tram system operates with low-floor articulated units (refer to the above photo), mostly in tunnels under the centre, & older high-floor tramcars, mostly on ground-level routes.

The central bus station is the Franklin Roosevelt plaats , near the central train station. Most buses leave from there or from the train station. Maps of the bus/tram network in the entire region can be found in PDF format here [dead link] .

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis are available, but they can be quite expensive. They await customers at specific locations around town (waving your hand will seldom work) like the Groenplaats or the railway station. You can recognize these places by an orange TAXI sign. The prices are fixed in the taximeter.

Mabo Taxi Antwerpen provides taxi rides in Antwerp for those who wish to avoid public transportation.

Driving in Antwerp is not as difficult as many big cities in the world, but crossroads can seem very chaotic for foreigners. There are few free parking spaces, but many spaces where you have to pay (on the street or in underground car parks). The underground car parks are well-signposted. The prices are typically €2 to €4.80 per hour, depending on the area. As of August 2023, parking on the streets is only allowed for residents and permit holders; visitors have to park in a car park downtown, or at one of the 9 park-and-rides (€1) at the border of the city, with connections on public transport to the centre.

There are many one-way roads, that can make it difficult to get to a specific place. Try to park your car as close as possible and go on foot.

Antwerp has introduced a Low Emission Zone, which applies to domestic and foreign registered cars. The latter have to jump through hoops to demonstrate their emission status. The zone seems to be inside but excluding the ring-road, but the official map is dreadful, so beware.

The city has many special paths for cyclists. Most one-way roads can be accessed both ways. Make sure to lock your bike to a fixed object, however, or it will be stolen! Around town there are a few places that are specially prepared for hosting bicycles for free, like at the Groenplaats .

Antwerp's bike-sharing scheme is called Velo . You can get a day pass for these bikes in the Central Station and pick up your bike at more than 80 places in Antwerp. The first 15 minutes are free, then the price gradually increases. Bicycles can also be rented at several places in town like Ligfiets, Windroos, Fietsdokter (verschransingsstraat), or Fietshaven (government initiative, under the central station).

By kick scooter [ edit ]

Shared electric kick scooters [dead link] that can be used in combination with an app, are available from 3 operators: Bird, Lime and Poppy. Minimum age is 16, some areas are no go, no park or low speed zones (8 km/h). Follow the same traffic rules as cyclists and drop the scooter after use in a drop-off zone or at a convenient spot.

On foot [ edit ]

Most things to see are near or within the Boulevards , the half-moon of avenues where there were once 16th-century city walls. This old town centre, with a diameter of about 1.5 km, can be walked, and there is also excellent public transport. The centre is densely signposted to aid those discovering it on foot [1] [dead link] .

By horse tram [ edit ]

A "Horse tram" (i.e. a horse and carriage) leaves from the Grote Markt every hour. It is an approximately 40-minute/2.5-km ride through the city.

See [ edit ]

• Antwerp City Pass . With the Antwerp City Card you can visit all museums and three monumental churches over a 48-hour period. It also features a 25% discount on attractions, sightseeing and bicycle rentals. In the free guide you find vouchers that you can use to enjoy benefits on typical Antwerp and Belgian products including chocolate and chips. €45/€55/€65 . ( updated May 2023 )

Centre [ edit ]

• 51.2078 4.397 4 Bouwmeester synagogue , Bouwmeestersstraat 7 ( close to the "Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp" ). ( updated Oct 2021 )
• 51.2094 4.4239 5 Romi Goldmuntz Synagogue ( Van Den Nest synagogue ), Oostenstraat 2 ( corner Van Den Nestlei ), ☏ +32 3 232 01 87 . The main synagogue of Antwerp. ( updated Oct 2021 )
• Red light district . Like cities such as Amsterdam and Hamburg, Antwerp has a red light district. If you want to visit, consider going during the day. When Villa Tinto set up, Antwerp's little red light district became Europe's most high tech brothel. If you intend to be a patron of the district, be wary of women who beckon you to their kamers and invite you in without discussing a price. In many cases, these women will charge a greatly inflated rate once they have you inside their kamer. Even if you have no intention of partaking in the festivities, it is worthwhile just to see the spectacle that the district is. 200 women all in their own window dressed for action. Be wary of beggars in the Red Light District: while few of them are particularly hostile, they can be bothersome and should be ignored. There is very little illegal activity as there is a constant police presence, which you can expect to see.  

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

• 51.24059 4.43954 9 Mineralogical Museum ( Museum van de Academie voor Mineralogie, ACAM ), Frans de l’Arbrelaan 12 ( take tram 6 direction Luchtbal and get off at Gasthuishoeve ), ☏ +32 3 658 62 83 , [email protected] . Sa 13:30-17:30 . Museum for mineralogy, paleontology and gemology. Largest collection of fluorescent minerals in Europe. Permanent collections of systematic minerals and fossils. Guided tours are free and highly recommended. Only open on Saturday afternoon. €4, free for children, students and teachers .  

Churches [ edit ]

• 51.22397 4.40128 15 Saint Paul's Church ( Sint-Pauluskerk ). A beautiful mixed gothic and baroque church formerly part of a nunnery. Noted for its Calvary monument. It is a short distance north of the Grote Maarkt on Zwartzustersstraat.  

Animal interest [ edit ]

Other buildings of note [ edit ].

• 51.21882 4.40394 19 Boerentoren ( Farmers' Tower ). Now called KBC Tower after the company that owns it, this 97-m skyscraper in the historical centre of town is said to be the oldest one on the European continent. It was built between 1929 and 1932. It is at the end of the Meir shopping street. The tower is renowned for its typical art-deco sculptures. It is not a skyscraper on the same scale as some that were erected in North America; for example the Empire State Building in New York, built at the same time, is 381 m.  
• Central Station is worth a look even if you're not travelling by train. In 2014, the British-American magazine Mashable has chosen Antwerpen-Centraal to be the most beautiful railway station in the world.

South of Antwerp [ edit ]

Since the restoration a couple of years ago, the south of the city is known as the trendy part.

The centre of this piece of the city is a huge square called de gedempte zuiderdokken which simply means, 'the filled-up southern docks'. In the 1960s, this was an abandoned trade dock. They filled up the dock in an attempt to expand the city. The high crime rate in the region made it a very cheap place to live. This was a blessing for the local art world, which started to flourish, making the region trendy and safe over the years. Today, it is known as a "yuppie stronghold".

• Het Muntplein . A place where graffiti artists can make artwork without being chased by police. There are often very nice creations. Graffiti contests occur on a regular basis.  
• 51.20398 4.38743 27 Palace of Justice ( Justitiepaleis ). There are actually two of these. The old one is a 19th-century red brick building on the Britselei. The new one is a dominant, modern, white building in the south of Antwerp (Bolivarplaats). You can hardly miss it once you're there. The architect of this building was Richard Rogers, who also built the Centre Pompidou in Paris and the Millennium Dome in London.  

Do [ edit ]

• Pelgrom , ☏ +32 3 234 0809 . This building combines both an impressive bar in the basement, plus the 'poortershuis', which is a replica of the house of businessmen in Antwerp during the 17th century.  
• Antwerp by Bike — Discover Antwerp with a bike. The inner city is perhaps too crowded, but the green outskirts are really worth visiting. For bike rental, see [2] [dead link] and " Vélo ". "Antwerp by Bike" [3] has a charming tour with all the highlights of Antwerp, like the cathedral, the Butterfly Palace and the MAS museum (from July till September). For other tours, see [4]
• Baja Bikes ( Bike Tours Antwerp ). Antwerp is a perfect city to explore by bike. An English or Dutch guide will show you around and tell you all about the city. Besides that the guide knows where to go in Antwerp and can recommend you nice bars and restaurants. It is possible to do a highlights tour or book a private tour so that you will have your own guide. ( updated Dec 2015 )
• Football: Royal Antwerp play soccer in Pro League, Belgium's top tier. Their home ground Bosuilstadion (capacity 16,100) is 5 km east of city centre.

Tours and cruises [ edit ]

• Port of Antwerp . Take a boat tour of the second largest port in Europe and 5th largest in the world. There are various companies offering tours of differing price and length. ( updated Jan 2018 )
• Ghostly Nighttime Tour, ( Antwerp Ghostwalk ). Take the ghost tour and learn about the dark history of Antwerp. €15 . ( updated Dec 2022 )
• Jan Plezier Boottochten . Themed cruises including the pancake cruise (pancake boat), the spare ribs cruise and the shrimp cruise.  

Events [ edit ]

• Zomer van Antwerpen : 15 mid-June – early September. A great festival that takes places throughout the city for the whole summer. Cheap or free activities such as dancing, theater, performances, circus and outdoor movies are organised. Reservations are often a must, especially for free activities.  (date needs fixing)

Buy [ edit ]

• The main shopping area is the Meir , a street that stretches out from the Keyserlei (close to the central station) to the Groenplaats. It is one of the most famous shopping streets in Belgium. Don't forget to visit the mall Stadsfeestzaal (between Meir and Hopland ), which was beautifully restored and reopened in 2007 after it was partially destroyed by a fire ten years earlier. You will see a lot of gold on the ceiling, and all sorts of stores. The streets Hopland and Schuttershofstraat are the shopping terrain of the rich and famous with exclusive fashion shops like Cartier, Hermes, Scapa, and Armani. The Huidevettersstraat , Nationalestraat , and Kammenstraat (all close to the Meir) are also very interesting shopping streets to visit.

• Purchasing a diamond at one of the many tourist jewelry shops around the Central station can be an unpleasant experience. Like any big diamond city in the world, there are many tourist trap diamond shops around the actual diamond district centre, though it is fair to say that if you are prepared to bargain you can purchase jewellery here for significantly less than in countries such as the UK. Wealthy diamond buyers should do their investigative shopping online prior to visiting Antwerp. For tips on buying diamond rings, see Diamond rings in Antwerp . If you're less wealthy and someone asks you to bring back some diamonds from Antwerp, buy diamond-shaped chocolate pralines at e.g. Burie ( Korte Gasthuisstraat 3 ), Château Blanc [5] ( Torfbrug 1 ) or Del Rey ( Appelmansstraat 5 ).
• Trendy shopping can be done in the Kammenstraat and surroundings. In this area, you will also find the Fashion Museum [6] and many shops of famous Antwerp fashion designers, such as Walter van Beirendonck and Dries van Noten.
• The Kloosterstraat has many antique shops, with often bizarre items for sale.
• Chinatown can be found about 300 m north of the Central Station (see also Eat ). A lot of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese products can be found here.
• Weekend Markets take place on the Theaterplein Square (follow Wapper or Meistraat south from the Meir) in front of the Stadsschouwburg theatre. The markets are very popular with stalls offering everything from food (fruit and veg, meat, fish, nuts, cheese ethnic specialities) to household goods to bicycles to antiques to clothes. Sunday tends to see a lot more stalls compared to Saturday. Take a break from browsing at the stall at the centre of the square, where you can buy a cheese roll with a glass of chilled cava to wash it down, most convivial!
• At Ploegstraat 25 you can find a "give-away shop", where you can bring and take stuff as you please without any monetary interaction. Open M-F 14:00-18:00.

Learn [ edit ]

Antwerp has several colleges and a university.

• University of Antwerp .
• Artesis [dead link] (formerly Hogeschool Antwerpen).
• KU Leuven campus Carolus and Sint-Andries [dead link] (formerly Lessius Hogeschool).
• Karel de Grote Hogeschool .
• Antwerp Maritime Academy.

Due to very strict language requirements imposed by the Flemish government, all Bachelor courses are offered in Dutch only (except for the Maritime Academy which enjoys a special international status). However, the University of Antwerp offers 9 fully English-taught Master programmes, 7 advanced Master programmes, and 7 postgraduate degrees, in topics ranging from Linguistics and Computer Science to Marine Transport [7] [dead link] .

Antwerp hosts over 30,000 students, and therefore boasts a vibrant student life that also has many traditional aspects. Well-connected in the centre of Europe, offering a varied city day- and nightlife, and having a very reasonable cost of living compared to the surrounding capitals, it's a popular destination for Erasmus students. Current and prospective Erasmus students should get in touch with ESN Antwerp [8] , part of the global Erasmus Student Network and very active in organizing activities to help international students find their way around.

Eat [ edit ]

Antwerpse handjes are little biscuits or chocolates in the shape of a hand. Invented by a Jewish baker in 1932.

As with most Flemish towns, you can find many frietkoten in the city. These are places of which the Belgians are really proud of. Here you can buy the famous Belgian fries and other fried food for a reasonable price.

For lunch people often go eat a "smos", a sandwich with several layers of garniture in it. The name refers to the mess you make when trying to eat it. You can find them in several stores like Panos or Foodmaker.

De Keyserlei ( the street that runs west from Central Station ) is a street with a varied choice of restaurants. The side streets on the north side of De Keyserlei offer even more options, with Lebanese, South-African, Mexican, Italian and Vietnamese (to name but a few) restaurants all rubbing shoulders with each other. With so many restaurants in a small area the prices tend to be pretty competitive.

Chinatown takes up a couple of streets on the north side of Koningin-Astrid-plein (the large square to the north of Central Station). Look for the 2 lions guarding the entrance to Van Wesenbekestraat . Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai and Nepalese restaurants are here as well as lots of Chinese options.

Budget [ edit ]

Broodje/Boterkoken (sandwiches) are local and inexpensive.

• 51.21518 4.41759 1 Aahaar ( Vegetarian Indian Cuisine ), Lange Herentalsestraat 23 ( Minutes from Antwerp's main train station Central Station ), ☏ +32 3 226 00 52 . M-F 12:00-15:00 and 17:30-21:30, Sa Su 13:00-21:30 . Serves only vegetarian Indian cuisine, including a buffet with a daily changing menu. ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.22034 4.399773 2 D’Oude Stad , Oude Koornmarkt 13 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.220478 4.398945 3 Kumpir Eethuis , Hoogstraat 10 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.219864 4.396762 4 The Yellow Window Coffee House , Vlasmarkt 8 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.221674 4.409209 5 Komida - City Campus UAntwerp , Koningstraat 8 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.210333 4.409588 6 Brasserie lambik , Lange Leemstraat 16 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.21994 4.398363 7 Falafel Tof , Hoogstraat 32 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

Try one of the Indian restaurants on Lange Herentalsestraat.

• 51.220114 4.400094 8 Rooden Hoed , Oude Koornmarkt 25 ( Corner of Oude Koornmarkt and Tempelstraat ), ☏ +32 3 289 09 09 . The oldest restaurant in Antwerp, specializing in seafood, especially mussels. Very popular with locals, but few tourists, so you know it's good. Mains starting at €20 (June 2017) ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.21617 4.40832 9 Bourla , Graanmarkt 7 , ☏ +32 3 232 16 32 . A "Havanna style" restaurant in an old theatre. They serve a mix of Belgian and French style food. Not cheap, but excellent value for money ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.21278 4.42002 10 Hoffys ( Kosher Yiddish cuisine ), Lange Kievitstraat 52, , ☏ +3 234 35 35 , [email protected] . 10:00-22:00 . Traditional Yiddish cuisine, focusing on kosher Yiddish dishes based on simple ingredients. €30-40 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
• 51.216528 4.413413 11 Tropicos ( at Tabakvest and Hopland ), Van Cuyckstraat 2 , ☏ +32 3 231 9964 . Known for its lively South American atmosphere, caipirinha cocktails, and tasteful Brazilian Mexican kitchen. €30-40 . ( updated Jan 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• 51.19567 4.399346 12 Sombat , Desguinlei 196 , ☏ +32 3 226 21 90 . Thai haute cuisine €70-80 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Wherever you are in Antwerp, you will always be near a pub or another drinking facility. Not surprising in the city that has the most pubs per capita in the world. The pubs do not have a closing hour.

Drinks originating here are De Koninck (commonly called "Bolleke") beer, and Elixir d'Anvers – a liquor based on plants.

• Den Engel — Most famous traditional cafe in Antwerp. Situated at Grote Markt .
• De Vagant — A famous Belgian cafe serving about 300 kinds of Jenever.
• De Muze — A jazz café in Melkmarkt. Relaxed atmosphere and live (jazz) music played on a regular basis. Beyond typical Belgian beers, coffee lovers can enjoy a true Italian Espresso or, if willing to drink something bigger, a "Koffie Verkeerd".
• Caffénation — Most friendly bar in Antwerp. They have very nice specialized coffee creations and a cozy outdoor with lots of green. Good music. Say hi from "TheKitt" for a special, double shot cappuccino.
• 51.21442 4.4033 1 Kulminator , Vleminckveld 32 . Kind of off the beaten path, this bar has a neat hole in the wall atmosphere and an amazing selection of beer, (around 700 beers, with 200-300 aged over 10 years) ranging from expensive to about average. All in all, a great time, and a great value.  
• Paeters Vaetje , (in the Cathedral Square). Here you can order more than 100 kinds of beer. In summertime, you can also sit outside.
• Pelgrom , Pelgrimsstraat 15 , ☏ +32 3 234 0809 . A cafe in an old underground storage place right next to the vlaaikesgang with medieval finishes.  
• Kassa4 , in the student neighborhood, on the Ossenmarkt. Very popular student pub with a good choice of alternative music. Can be very crowded at times.
• Den Hovenier — Typical Antwerp pub near the Sint-Jacob Church .
• Café Beveren , near the river. Enjoy the automatic Decap Organ.
• Stanny — Non-smoking café close to the station of Antwerp-Berchem.
• Copa Cava — a cava bar on the vlasmarkt, with a cosy atmosphere and which serves relatively cheap and exclusive cava from Barcelona.
• La Treille — intimate wine bar and shop at Haarstraat 23, close to the Grote Markt, serves and sells authentic wines (straight form the vineyard) out of Italy, Belgium and France.
• t Vervolg — between the "groenplaats" and the "Grote Markt", very friendly prices mixed with house & RnB always ensures there's something going on Monday through Saturday evening.
• SIPS . A cocktail bar.  
• Witzli-Poetzli (Blauwmoezelstraat 8, Meir. From 10:00 daily.) The Witzli-Poetzli is a very small café in the centre of city centre. It is next to the great cathedral. In the summer there's a unique terras in the shadow of the cathedral. In the winter it is a cosy place where people come to drink coffee and read a newspaper.
• Café Den Joker , Kleine Markt 16 . The one and only comedy bar in Antwerp. A lot of Belgian stand-up comedians started their career in this small bar. Comedy organized weekly. Also improvisation sessions and quizzes. Often in Dutch.  

Clubs [ edit ]

• 51.24285 4.41892 2 Noxx . Hosts famous DJs. You can find it close to the Kinepolis Antwerp ('Metropolis'), just outside the centre of Antwerp.  
• Café d'Anvers . The most infamous club in Antwerp. In the middle of the red light district. Known for its progressive music.  
• Café Local . In 't Zuid. Free entrance on Thursdays.  

Sleep [ edit ]

Hotels [ edit ].

• 51.21343 4.42351 1 ibis budget Antwerpen Centraal Station ( formerly "Etap Hotel" ), Lange Kievitstraat 145 ( in a cluster of modern residential buildings behind the Antwerpen Centraal station, not on the square in front of it. ), ☏ +32 3 202 50 20 .  
• Hotel Rubenshof , Amerikalei 115 ( from Antwerpen Centraal, take trams no. 12 or 24 ), ☏ +32 3 237 07 89 . Run by a friendly couple, it offers a combination of lush, authentically historic interiors with a budget price (and standards). from €52 (shared bathrooms) .  

Other accommodation options [ edit ]

• Antwerp Mabuhay Lodgings , Zurenborg, Draakstraat 32 . Bed and breakfast, guesthouse in cozy neighborhood of Antwerp. Rooms available for two. Apartments and studios available for short term staying visitors, expats, or students.  
• Camping Vogelzang , Vogelzanglaan 7-9 . 10 minutes by tram from the heart of the city and good for low-budget travellers.  
• Scoutel . A scouting youth hostel that is open to everyone and offers affordable accommodations in the centre of the city, just around the corner of the central train station.  
• The Swan B&B , Huikstraat 25 . A self-contained apartment for up to 3 guests in a quiet part of the historic city centre, a 5-minute walk from the main square. The owner Nadine gladly provides directions and tourist advice. Minimum stay of 2 nights. From €65 .  

• Astoria Hotel Antwerp , Korte Herentalsestraat 5 2018 Antwerp Belgium , ☏ +32 3 227 31 30 , [email protected] . ( updated Dec 2018 )

Chain hotels [ edit ]

• 51.23174 4.41271 2 Best Western Hotel Docklands , Kempischdok-Westkaai 84-90 2000 Antwerpen , ☏ +32 3 231 07 26 . The name is absolutely correct - the Best Western is in the docklands area. The hotel could use an update to contemporary standards, but can be cheaper than more central hotels.  
• 51.19031 4.40409 3 Crowne Plaza Antwerpen ( at the intersection of the R1, A1 and A12 highways, on the outskirts of the city ). It can be inexpensive for a hotel of its class, but it comes at the expense of the less-than-handy location and rather aged decor in the cheapest rooms. On the flip side, the large pool with artsy decorations and forest vistas is a treat. from €70 .  
• 51.22903 4.41278 4 Holiday Inn Express Antwerpen City North , Italiëlei 2, 2000 Antwerpen . The hotel faces one of the port basins in the docklands area in the north of Antwerp, offering a view of the Museum aan de Stroom from some of its rooms. Despite the modern facade, the hotel was built to the brand's previous standards, so it may not be comparable to newer HIExpress properties in terms of furniture and fitouts, but all hotels in the chain it offers free breakfast and WiFi included in the room rate. €97 .  
• 51.21468 4.41097 5 Ibis Hotel Antwerpen Centrum ( good location in the city centre, near the Stadschouwburg theatre and the Vogeltjesmarkt ), ☏ +32 3 2318830 . While the room rates tend to be low, the breakfast in the hotel tends not to be, but there are plenty of cafes in the immediate area and a market on the Theaterplein square in front of the hotel Saturday and Sunday mornings. If you're a very light sleeper try to get a room on the side that doesn't face onto the Theaterplein as the market traders start setting up pretty early!.  
• 51.218769 4.420528 6 Ibis Styles Antwerpen City Centre , Koningin Astridplein 43 , ☏ +32 33 69 59 99 . This hotel offers a great location next to the Antwerp Centraal railway station. From €103 .  
• 51.220199 4.415299 7 Quality Hotel Antwerpen Centrum Opera , Molenbergstraat 9 , ☏ +32 32 32 76 75 . This hotel is on a side street, a reasonable distance from the central train station. It may not be easy to find, so look for the huge sign atop the corner building. From €85 .  
• 51.26781 4.40167 8 Novotel Antwerpen , Luithagen - Haven 6 . This is an old-style low-rise suburban Novotel, complete with a garden with an outdoor pool. The good news is that it was completely renovated, so expect reasonably fresh, nice appointments and features such as the inBalance gym and a game station for kids. The location is north of the docklands, which makes it a reasonable choice pretty much only for those arriving by car.  
• 51.21802 4.42128 9 Park Inn by Radisson Antwerp , Koningin Astridplein 2018 Antwerp ( right on Koningin Astrid Square 100 m from the Antwerpen Centraal station ), ☏ +32 3 202 31 70 , [email protected] . Some rooms feature Nespresso machines. The heated pool and fitness centre at the Radisson Blu Astrid, 100 metres away, can be used free of charge. €99 .  
• 51.1946 4.40638 10 Ramada Plaza Antwerp , Desguinlei 94 . The Ramada Plaza is a glazed highrise tower overlooking a park, with 210 elegantly appointed rooms, geared towards business travellers. It is in the very south of the city, right next to the Berchem motorway junction. While the location is remote, there is a tram station next to the hotel.  
• 51.20913 4.44612 11 Scandic Antwerpen , Luitenant Lippenslaan 66, Borgerhout . If you are looking for minimalistic Scandinavian design, this is not the place - the Scandic Antwerpen looks every bit like a 1990s Hilton inside, a bunch of which the chain once operated. It is in Borgerhout, right outside Antwerp's motorway ringroad, which is convenient for those arriving by car and not for others.  
• 51.20925 4.43063 12 Tryp By Wyndham Antwerp ( formerly "SIR Plantin" ), Plantin en Moretuslei 136 . The Tryp is a bit farther from the city's main attractions than some other hotels, but it compensates for that with attractive pricing and artsy decor, including renderings of traditional Dutch paintings as headboards. From €69 .  

Independent and boutique hotels [ edit ]

• Elzenveld , Lange Gasthuisstraat 45 . A former hospital that advertises itself as a conference centre, but also offers accommodation.  

• Hotel Firean
• 51.21924 4.40261 13 Hilton Antwerp , Groenplaats 32 . The Hilton is in an 1885 listed building that used to be the Grand Bazar du Bon Marché department store. The hotel has a restaurant and a rootfop cafe overlooking the Groenplaats . €156 .  
• HotelO Antwerpen Kathedral . €139 .  
• HotelO Antwerpen - Sud . €145 .  
• Hotel Julien . €205 .  
• 51.213611 4.4166 14 Leopold Hotel Antwerp , Quinten Matsijslei 25 , ☏ +32 3 203 1234 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . 4-star hotel overlooking the city park. 5 minutes' walk from diamond district and central station.  
• 51.21333 4.42287 15 Lindner Hotel & City Lounge Antwerpen , Lange Kievitstraat 125 . This hotel belonging to a German upscale chain is hidden in a tower in a modern mixed development behind the Centraal station, and affords nice views of the city from its upper-floor lounges and gym, as well as comfortable rooms outfitted in a subdued, modern fashion. €140 .  
• Maison d'Anvers . €134 .  
• 51.21924 4.42135 16 Radisson Blu Astrid Hotel, Antwerp , Koningin Astridplein 7 ( across from the main rail station ), ☏ +32 (3) 203 12 34 , [email protected] . Some might say that the biggest benefit of staying at the Astrid is not having to look at its peculiar postmodern facade. More tangible benefits include splendid location on the Astridplein just by the Antwerpen Centraal and large rooms with modern comforts.  
• Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt . €170 .  
• Hotel 't Sandt . €170 .  
• Hotel De Witte Lelie . €295 .  

Connect [ edit ]

As of July 2022, Antwerp has 5G from all Belgian carriers. Wifi is widely available in public places.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Most parts of Antwerp are safe, but some neighborhoods are to be avoided in the evening, especially the area around De Coninckplein and the neighborhoods of Borgerhout, Seefhoek and the Schipperskwartier. Still, these neighbourhoods have a very lively atmosphere and so are definitely worth a visit during the day.

Moreover, it is of utmost importance to lock your bike properly if left outside on the street throughout the city. If you need police assistance, the direct police number is 101. If you need a non-urgent police inquiry or the most nearby police station you can dial 0800/12312 for free. Most police officers in Antwerp are friendly and professional.

Antwerp used to be a major stronghold of Flemish independence. Though most people are indifferent towards this movement nowadays, do not be surprised if you get occasional death stares if you speak any amount of French. This only concerns a minority (mostly older people and ultra-nationalists), but do refrain from assuming that everyone in the Antwerp area speaks (or is willing to speak) French.

Like most of the rest of Europe, the number for emergencies (ambulance, police and fire) is 112.

Go next [ edit ]

Antwerp is a key railway hub on the high-speed line from the Netherlands to France , so you can get relatively quickly and easily not only around Belgium, but also to its two neighbours.

Belgium [ edit ]

Getting around Belgium is relatively easy from Antwerp, as the country is small and featuring one of the densest railway networks in the world. Some of the more popular destinations that can be visited on a day trip from Antwerp are:

• Bruges (Brugge) — Very nice medieval town. Often called "Venice of the North", because of the many canals that flow through and under it. Well worth an overnight stay, since it is most romantic at night and very safe.
• Brussels — The capital of Belgium and some say, the capital of Europe. Multicultural and multilingual. Unfortunately, some of the city's historic (medieval) centre was destroyed at the end of the 19th century when Belgium seceded from the Netherlands and Brussels was made capital of the new country. Nonetheless, Brussels is known as a city of "hidden gems," where you can turn a street corner in a less-than-breathtaking area and come face-to-face with an opulent and unexpected Art Deco or Art Nouveau building. Its popularity with tourists has been steadily increasing.
• Ghent — A medieval town a bit like Bruges, with more emphasis on cathedrals and other big buildings. Great centre of medieval paintings exhibited in and around the cathedral of Sint-Baafs.
• Namur — The regional capital of Wallonia.
• Leuven — Nearly as lively as Antwerp or Brussels is this college town, home to one of the world's oldest universities is here. Many hotels also cater to businessmen who find Brussels too expensive.

Netherlands [ edit ]

• Amsterdam — You can take a direct train to Amsterdam in the Netherlands. There is about one train an hour and it will take you about two hours to get there. Amsterdam is well known for its grachten , many bicycles, and coffee-shops. There also is the Eurostar high-speed train which is a bit more expensive but you will get there a lot faster.
• Rotterdam — You can take a direct train to Rotterdam in the Netherlands. There is about one train an hour and it will take you about one hour to get there. Rotterdam is well known for its harbour.
• Den Bosch — You can go by train to this medieval city (change trains in Roosendaal ).
• Zeeland — Where the Schelde reaches the ocean. It's about two hours by train and you will have to change in Roosendaal.
• Hulst — A very well-preserved historic fortified city very near Antwerp, which attracts lots of day-trippers from Belgium.
• Saeftinghe — Nature reserve known as The Drowned Land of Saeftinghe , on the border between Belgium and the Netherlands.

France [ edit ]

• Lille — Lille is in the North of France just off the Belgian border. It is famous among others for having the largest bookstore in Europe ("Le furet du Nord"). The train ride is pretty long (sometimes over two hours) making it less easy for a day trip. The Dutch (Flemish) name is Rijsel and the town is not to be confused with another Flemish town called "Lille" in Dutch!
• Paris — With the Eurostar, you can be there in about two hours.

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Antwerp Is Europe's Effortlessly Cool Design Destination

By Mary Winston Nicklin

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Antwerp is one of our Best Places to Go in Europe for 2024 , part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

With gabled guildhalls and a grand gothic cathedral, Antwerp is straight out of Old Flanders. But head to the rooftop of the MAS city museum , and the panoramas—unspooling to the River Scheldt and the port beyond—tell a different story. It's there, at the port, that a dazzling Zaha Hadid-designed edifice glitters like a diamond atop a historic former fire station. The Port House is a striking monument, and one that underlines the confluence of heritage and innovation that’s vital to Antwerp’s creative spirit.

Often bypassed by international visitors for other European cities, Antwerp offers an embarrassment of riches in a compact city at the crossroads of Europe. From buzzy new hotels to the ambitious art exhibits, it’s a design destination like no other. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) is alone worth a pilgrimage. Reopened in 2022 after an 11-year restoration, the experiential museum displays the works of Old Masters alongside quirky contemporary sculpture. Come summer, a cocktail bar pops up on Thursday nights, a DJ spins the soundtrack, and multidisciplinary artists stage performances. Over at the Rubens House museum, currently closed for a renovation, a new garden will open this summer with 17,000 plants chosen under guidance from fashion legend Dries Van Noten and designed for 365 days of bloom. Did we mention the city’s lineup of all-star chefs that produce some of the best food on the Continent?

Head to the MAS city museum rooftop for unbeatable views.

In summer months, the newly renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts hosts parties and performances.

The city’s edgy ethos is closely tied to the long history of its port, the second largest in Europe after Rotterdam. Back in the 16th century, Venetian merchants arriving here were bowled over by the booming trade in play. As described in writer and historian Michael Pye’s Antwerp: The Glory Years, their dispatches back home gushed about the city’s progressive ideas. At this time, Christophe Plantin was printing pamphlets on humanism and science at his book-printing workshop, the world’s biggest publishing house at the time and now the only UNESCO-listed museum in the world. The port forged the city’s avant-gardism and its melting-pot population, which now comprises more than 170 nationalities.

Today, the same spirit fuels tastemakers, across numerous creative fields, who eschew trends for innovation. When it comes to fashion, the Royal Academy of Fine Arts has played a pivotal role, nurturing design dynamos like Martin Margiela and the Antwerp Six. In September 2022, Brandon Wen succeeded Walter Van Beirendonck as creative director of the fashion department, bringing fresh ideas and interdisciplinary creativity. Its annual June fashion show—at four hours, the longest in the world—shows off the technical craftsmanship and originality for which Antwerp designers are known. You can soak up all the energy at the MoMu fashion museum , a hub for these students, which stages provocative exhibits.

One experimental alum, fashion designer Cedric Jacquemy, recently launched a groundbreaking concept called Bakermat , teaming up with Quinten Schaap on a venture that combines a fabric shop and virtual textile library powered by 3D prototyping. Expertly sourced fabrics include handmade silk from India and cloth produced by the same Italian artisans who weave the Pope’s clothes. On a quest for transparency and environmental sustainability, the duo also have an educational mission to connect the next generation of designers with manufacturers.

Jennifer Eliott (right) & Sylvie Arts (left) run the jewelry brand Eliott & Ostrich.

The Eliott & Ostrich showroom, where clients can create custom heirloom pieces

For design-led visitors, unique shopping experiences are central to Antwerp’s allure. Last summer, jewelry brand Elliot & Ostrich , endorsed by Belgian celebrity stylist Tom Eerebout, debuted a stunning showroom called The Nest. Open by appointment, this cocooning space was designed with African-inspired decor—Botswana-born founder Jennifer Elliot follows the ubuntu philosophy of “I am because we are.” Here, in the world diamond capital of Antwerp, clients are guided on an introspective journey to create a custom heirloom based on important life milestones. Crafted with ethically sourced diamonds, the pieces are designed to be stacked together over time to tell a layered story.

One of Antwerp’s distinctions is its cross-pollination of creative scenes. At the always-booked Misera, chef Nicolas Misera (whose motto is “an artist’s life”) shows off the work of artist friends in the pocket-sized restaurant that’s a tribute to the culinary genius of his father Hans. Chef Nick Bril of The Jane, located on the site of a former military hospital dating back to the 19th century, is also a sought-after DJ. The townhouse that serves as a flagship for fashion brand La Collection doubles as an art gallery, displaying the works of invited artists alongside luxury pieces inspired both by Antwerp’s multiculturalism (long robes worn by the local Hasidic Jewish community) and art (mohair pinstripes echoing Cy Twombly’s drawn lines). Handbag designer Lies Mertens hosts artists-in-residence at her new guesthouse-gallery called Patina . The first European designer to use mycelium from mushrooms as an alternative to leather, Mertens has decorated two guest rooms above her workshop in the vibrant Green Quarter, not far from the De Koninck Brewery. Patina is a place intended for cultural exchange, also hosting guests interested in learning more about her craft.

Goldsmith Pascale Masselis's guesthouse, in a townhouse on Zirkstraat street, oozes style

Jewelry designed by Pascale Masselis

Another new guesthouse comes from goldsmith Pascale Masselis , an alchemist of interior design. An Academy graduate who launched her eponymous jewelry brand in 1983, Masselis hosts guests in two-light filled apartments above her boutique. Like her own inspired apartment, filled with antique glass bottles and terracotta amphorae sourced from flea markets, these ooze style. Crucially, in a fitting continuity in historic Antwerp, this townhouse on Zirkstraat was occupied by a goldsmith two centuries ago, and the city’s first diamond cutter lived down the street. Don’t miss a private guided tour to learn about Antwerp’s historic role in the gem trade, and the artisans making magic today in a city with a style all its own, where innovation is rooted in the past.

Where to stay in Antwerp

Botanic Sanctuary

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

When it opened in late 2022, the Botanic, housed inside a former medieval monastery, brought a new kind of luxury to Antwerp—and a deep sense of place, thanks to its centuries-old wood beams, chapel frescoes, and museum-quality artwork curated by expert Joost Declercq. Now it’s at the top of everyone’s list—whether for a martini at Henry’s Bar or the electromagnetic frequency treatment at its holistic spa. Filled with greenery to reflect its setting inside the city’s Botanical Gardens, the hotel gives off garden party vibes—complete with the people-watching. The spa suite comes with its own jacuzzi and sauna, while the Antwerp Suite is decked out with works by local artists, but make sure you leave your room to try the three Michelin-starred restaurants onsite. And don’t skip the buffet breakfast—it might well be Belgium’s best, with most ingredients sourced from within five miles.

Botanic Sanctuary is a 13th century medieval monastery turned luxury hotel.

The Japanese design principle of wabi-sabi is the inspiration behind the design at Botanic Sanctuary.

Hotel Flora

Spending the night at Hotel Flora feels like a secret. Buzz the green door on Korte Nieuwstraat, and you’ll be led down a landscaped path to a 15th-century merchant’s mansion, converted into a boutique hotel with bold, maximalist decor by Belgian designer Gert Voorjans. In a nod to the port city’s gem trade, the seven rooms are named for precious gemstones. Can’t choose? Bring your friends along and book the entire place.

Guesthouse Galalith

Jewelry designer Pascale Masselis has opened a guest house with two apartments above her beautiful boutique. Available for short-term stays (a two-night minimum), the one-bedroom apartments have fully equipped kitchens and tasteful decor, such as artwork by contemporary visual artist Julien Delagrange.

Hotel August

A former Augustinian convent sets the stage for the first hotel project by acclaimed local architect Vincent Van Duysen. Sister property to the stylish Hotel Julien, this serene 44-room enclave offers a wellness space with an outdoor swimming pond and a restaurant overseen by chef Nick Bril of The Jane fame.

Where to eat and drink

PrivéPrivée

To add to the breadth of his culinary empire (Le Pristine, Blueness), celebrity chef Sergio Herman is making headlines for his new culinary concept. A champion of the Zeeland terroir, Herman cooks for just 20 diners at a time in a private, art-filled kitchen at PrivéPrivée.

A standout dish at Hertog Jan is potato foam with coffee, vanilla, and shaved mimolette cheese.

Chef Gert De Mangeleer and sommelier Joachim Boudens of Hertog Jan

Antwerp’s creatives congregate at Cobra, a hot spot since it opened last summer—and not just because of its fashion cred (it was launched by Esfan Eghtessadi, co-founder of Essential Antwerp). The restaurant turns out stellar cocktails and crowd-pleasing nibbles that are meant to be shared (croquetas, vitello tonnato, Irish Mor oyster with champagne granitas). Plus, there’s a terrific terrace for people-watching.

Fans of Chef Gert De Mangeleer and sommelier Joachim Boudens were relieved when this Bruges institution, closed in 2018 after 13 years, was resurrected inside the Botanic Sanctuary Hotel with its own greenhouse and vegetable garden. Still on the menu? The all-time classic potato foam with coffee, vanilla and shaved mimolette cheese. New stand-outs include the toro no toro , in which locally caught kingfish is enhanced with Flemish Holstein beef to imitate the fat of tuna belly and topped with Royal Belgian Caviar.

An Antwerp standout that's been called a “ designer-inspired culinary temple, ” The Jane is feting its 10th birthday this year. Nick Bril’s culinary wizardry is a fine match for the setting, a former chapel with vaulted ceilings and an open kitchen perched on the old altar. When Bril’s not plotting and plating his multicourse tasting menu four days a week, he moonlights as a DJ.

The world’s first stock exchange, once rundown and derelict, now makes for a trendy spot for a cocktail (or few). Dating back to 1531, Handelsbeurs—that celebrated local guide and author Tanguy Ottomer calls “the mother of all exchanges”—was renovated as an event space in 2019. An adjacent wing is home to the cavernous Fiera restaurant that churns out pan-global dishes with ultramodern spins.

Where to Shop

Antwerp shoe brand MOROBÉ is celebrating its tenth anniversary with a new flagship store on Arenbergstraat. Belgian architect Glenn Sestig, who’s also created stores for Raf Simons, designed the two-level space like a residence with raw concrete walls and custom decor including stools in the brand’s signature brooch shape. It’s a beautiful backdrop for much-loved designs like the Mimi strappy sandal and bestselling Robien.

La Collection was founded by Florence Cools and Artur Tadevosian in 2017.

La Collection's luxurious staples are characterized by timeless design and a muted palette.

Lies Mertens

Browse chic handbags at the Lies Mertens boutique near the Plantin-Moretus Museum. Made from leftover grapes from the winemaking process, the limited-edition d.b. wine bag is an example of the designer’s quest to find innovative alternatives to leather.

Pascale Masselis

The jewelry designer’s elegant, handcrafted pieces are inspired by nature’s organic forms. The atmospheric boutique was fashioned after a 19th-century haberdashery that Masselis found in Paris. The wood-covered walls are lined with hundreds of tiny drawers, some of which are still filled with buttons. This nod to the past is appreciated by both Academy design students and locals looking to elevate a high street item with a one-of-a-kind button.

La Collection

Launched by creative director Florence Cools and her partner Artur Tadevosian, La Collection produces luxurious wardrobe staples made with the highest quality fabrics, such as signature mulberry silk, in styles that are as elegant as they are wearable.

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Baltimore bridge collapse wasn't first major accident for giant container ship Dali

Propulsion failed on the cargo ship that struck the Francis Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday as it was leaving port, causing it to collapse into the frigid Patapsco River. Its crew warned Maryland officials of a possible collision because they had lost control.

“The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation (MDOT) that they had lost control of the vessel” and a collision with the bridge “was possible,” according to an unclassified Department of Homeland Security report. “The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.”

An official speaking on condition of anonymity confirmed to USA TODAY that the DHS’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is working with federal, state, and local officials “to understand the potential impacts of this morning’s collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.”

Clay Diamond, executive director, American Pilots’ Association, told USA TODAY power issues are not unusual on cargo ships, which are so large they cannot easily course correct.

“It’s likely that virtually every pilot in the country has experienced a power loss of some kind (but) it generally is momentary,” Diamond said. “This was a complete blackout of all the power on the ship, so that’s unusual. Of course this happened at the worst possible location.” 

The ship in Tuesday's crash, Dali, was involved in at least one prior accident when it collided with a shipping pier in Belgium.

That 2016 incident occurred as the Dali was leaving port in Antwerp and struck a loading pier made of stone, causing damage to the ship’s stern, according to VesselFinder.com, a site that tracks ships across the world. An investigation determined a mistake made by the ship’s master and pilot was to blame.

No one was injured in that crash, although the ship required repair and a full inspection before being returned to service. The pier – or berth – was also seriously damaged and had to be closed.

VesselFinder reports that the Dali was chartered by Maersk, the same company chartering it during the Baltimore harbor incident.

The 9-year-old container ship had passed previous inspections during its time at sea, but during one such inspection in June at the Port of San Antonio in Chile, officials discovered a deficiency with its "propulsion and auxiliary machinery (gauges, thermometers, etc)," according to the Tokyo MOU, an intergovernmental maritime authority in the Asia-Pacific region.

The report provided no other information about the deficiency except to note that it was not serious enough to remove the ship from service.

Follow here for live updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship strike; construction crew missing: Live Updates

Why did Dali crash into the Baltimore bridge?

Officials said Tuesday they’re investigating the collision, including whether systems on board lost electricity early Tuesday morning, which could be related to mechanical failure, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.

Accidents at sea, known as marine casualties, are not uncommon, the source told USA TODAY. However, “allisions,” in which a moving object strikes a stationary one with catastrophic results, are far less common. The investigation of the power loss aboard the Dali, a Singapore-flagged vessel, will be a high priority.

In a video posted to social media, lights on the Dali shut off, then turned back on, then shut off again before the ship struck a support pier on the bridge.

Numerous cargo and cruise ships have lost power over the years.

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requires all international vessels to have two independent sources of electricity, both of which should be able to maintain the ship's seaworthiness on their own, according to a safety study about power failures on ships , citing the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.

The Dali's emergency generator was likely responsible for the lights coming back on after the initial blackout, Diamond said.

“There was still some steerage left when they initially lost power,” he said. “We’ve been told the ship never recovered propulsion. The emergency generator is a diesel itself – so if you light off the generator, that’s also going to put off a puff of exhaust.”

Under maritime law, all foreign flagged vessels must be piloted into state ports by a state licensed pilot so the Dali's pilot is licensed by Association of Maryland Pilots .

Diamond described the incident based on information from the Maryland agency that licensed the pilot aboard the ship. His organization represents that group and all other state piloting agencies in the US.

“The pilot was directing navigation of the ship as it happened,” he said. “He asked the captain to get the engines back online. They weren’t able to do that, so the pilot took all the action he could. He tried to steer, to keep the ship in the channel. He also dropped the ship’s anchor to slow the ship and guide the direction.

“Neither one was enough. The ship never did regain its engine power.”

How big is the Dali ship?

The Dali is a 984-foot container vessel built in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea. With a cruising speed of about 22 knots – roughly 25 mph. It has traveled the world carrying goods from port to port.

The ship, constructed of high-strength steel, has one engine and one propeller, according to MarineTraffic.com.

The Dali arrived in Baltimore on Sunday from the Port of Norfolk in Virginia. Before that, it had been in New York and came through the Panama Canal.

It remains at the scene of the collapse as authorities investigate.

Who owns and operates the Dali?

It is owned by the Singapore-based Grace Ocean Pte Ltd but managed by Synergy Marine Group, also based in Singapore. It was carrying Maersk customers’ cargo, according to a statement from the shipping company.

“We are deeply concerned by this incident and are closely monitoring the situation,” Maersk said in the statement. 

Synergy, which describes itself as a leading ship manager with more than 600 vessels under its guidance, issued a statement on its website acknowledging the incident and reporting no injuries among its crew and no pollution in the water. There were two pilots on board and 22 crew members in all, according to Synergy, all of them from India.

USA TODAY reached out to Synergy on Tuesday, but the company did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Contributing: Josh Susong

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Cargo ship that hit Baltimore bridge was involved in Antwerp collision in 2016

The Dali was reportedly detained in Belgium after scraping side of quay and significantly damaging part of hull in good weather

• How Baltimore’s Key Bridge collapsed – a visual guide

The same vessel that hit the Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday, destroying it and sending people and vehicles tumbling into the water, was also involved in a collision while leaving the port of Antwerp, Belgium, in 2016.

According to Vessel Finder and the maritime incident archive Shipwrecklog, the Dali – a 948ft (290-meter) cargo ship with a capacity of 10,000 containers – was leaving the container terminal of Antwerp heading to Bremerhaven.

As it did so, its bow reportedly swung around, causing the stern to scrape the side of the quay, significantly damaging several meters of the hull.

The ship was reportedly detained by authorities afterward and docked in Deurganckdok, Belgium . There were reportedly no injuries or adverse pollution.

According to Vessel Finder , the weather was fine at the time, and the incident was reportedly blamed on the ship’s master and pilot on board.

What are flags of convenience?

A ship flying a flag of convenience means the owner has registered the vessel in a country other than their own. The ship flies the ensign or flag of that country, known as the flag state and operates under its laws, typically laxer than the owner’s own.

For a ship owner, the advantage of this arrangement includes comparatively fewer regulations, lower employment requirements, and thus cheaper labour, cheaper registration fees and lower or no taxes.

For crew members, the disadvantages tend towards lower working standards, fewer rights and little protection. They are opposed by the International Transport Workers' Federation.

Panama, which has the largest ship registry globally, followed by Liberia, operates an “open registry”, allowing foreign owners to register ships under its flag. It guarantees anonymity to the owners, making it difficult for them to be held to account.

The practice began in the 1920s in the US, when owners of cruise ships registered their vessels in Panama so that they could serve their passengers alcohol during Prohibition.

Karen McVeigh , senior reporter

It is unclear what crew were aboard the ship. Vessel Finder said at the time that the ship, which was built in South Korea in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries, was owned by the Greek company Oceanbulk Maritime but was chartered by Maersk.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) confirmed on Tuesday that the Dali was registered in Singapore and had 22 crew on board, with Maersk adding in a statement that the crew were all Indian but none of them were Maersk crew or personnel. It said the ship was operated by the charter vessel company Synergy Group.

Maersk has been approached for comment.

About 2.6km (1.6 miles) of the Baltimore bridge collapsed on Tuesday when the Dali crashed into it, causing a number of vehicles to fall into the Patapsco River below. At least seven people were being searched for with two rescued, including one in critical condition, officials said on Tuesday at a pre-dawn press conference.

• Baltimore bridge collapse
• Shipping industry
• Water transport

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