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Antwerp Tourist Information and Tourism

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• Country: Belgium
• Location: Flemish Region
• Status: city / municipality
• Area: approximately 79 square miles / 205 square kilometres
• Population: approximately 480,000
• Language: Flemish, also Dutch, German and French
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Time zone: GMT +1 (summer time GMT+2)
• Country dialling code: +32
• Telephone area code: 03
• Average daily Antwerp January temperature: 6°C / 43°F
• Average daily Antwerp July temperature: 23°C / 73°F

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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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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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

• Antwerp & Diamonds

Visit Antwerp

• A brilliant story
• How to get there?
• Restaurants
• Tourist attractions
• Diamonds & Culture

Located in the north of Belgium, nearby the border with the Netherlands, Antwerp lies along a myriad of access routes, making transportation to and from the city remarkably convenient.

Antwerp's diamond district can be found adjacent to the Central Railway Station and the famous Antwerp Zoo, within easy walking distance of the Meir, which is the city's main shopping street. Pelikaanstraat flanks the one square kilometre of secure office space to the east, Lange Heretalsestraat to the west, Vestingstraat to the north and Schupstraat to the south. Hoverniersstraat traverses it from south to north.

The city of Antwerp has a long history of welcoming visitors into its midst, and it offers a wide range of hotels and lodgings in a variety of price ranges. Many of the hotels are located within a comfortable walking distance from the diamond district.

Drawing on its history as a port where all types of food, beverages, herbs and spices from distant lands arrived, Antwerp continues to offer a wide range of restaurants to suit every taste today. In this cosmopolitan city you will find a whole range of European, ethnic and organic cuisine and traditional restaurants.

Antwerp has to many tourist attractions to mention them all. That is why we made a selection of the one's you really can't miss out on in this historical city.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

19 Must-Visit Attractions in Antwerp

Known as the cool kid on the block in Belgium, Antwerp combines all the charms of a historic port city with all the joys of a fashionable frontrunner. Its 20 must-visit attractions include grand artist residences, architectural masterpieces—both old and new—and a bunch of exciting museums.

2. Red Star Line Museum

Het Eilandje

Both the MAS and the Red Star Line have become large attractions in Het Eilandje , an abandoned port district until a decade ago. As the news and the excitement about the MAS project spread, coffee bars, artist ateliers and repurposed warehouses flowered to comfortably overtake Het Zuid as the hippest district in the city.

Het Eilandje, Antwerp, Belgium

Even without a specific restaurant in mind, a stroll down Het Zuid ’s terraces at dinner time has the mouth watering in seconds. Trendy restaurants and cafés dot the historic neighborhood’s wide boulevards and squares. The afternoon running up to the meal is well spent exploring the FoMu photo museum, the stately Museum of Contemporary Art, or a couple of its many art galleries.

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Het Zuid, Antwerp, Belgium

3. The Port House

Vintage hunting in the Kloosterstraat

Antiques and vintage are the Kloosterstraat’s forte. Visitors will find the oldest and oddest objects in the shops lining this street, from wooden rocking horses to winged designer lamps and seas of retro chairs.

Kloosterstraat, Antwerp, Belgium

4. Cogels-Osylei

5. Rubenshuis

6. Plantin-Moretus Museum

Museum, Library

7. Park Spoor Noord

8. The Grote Markt

9. The Brabo Fountain

10. Central Station

Train Station

11. Middelheim's sculpture park

Museum, Park

Vlaeykensgang alley

Antwerp’s eminent medieval alley has to be the idyllic Vlaeykensgang. It’s a beloved spot to listen to the city’s carillons chime away during a concert and to dream about simpler times.

Vlaeykensgang, Oude Koornmarkt 16, Antwerp, Belgium

12. Cathedral of Our Lady

13. St. Anna’s Tunnel

14. City Brewery De Koninck

15. Vrijdagmarkt

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See & Do

Things you didn't know about antwerp, belgium.

KMSKA Finally Reopens – Antwerp is Back as a Top Tier European Art City

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The best restaurants in antwerp's old town.

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Attention: since August 1st 2023, the parking policy in the City of Antwerp has changed.

Read more on Parking on the street | Smart ways to Antwerp or Transport in and to Antwerp .

Welcome to Het Steen, the hotspot for anyone visiting Antwerp. In this centuries-old castle you’ll not only find a Visitor Centre and a cruise terminal, but also the interactive experience The Antwerp Story , which is the perfect introduction to the city. After a visit to Het Steen, you’ll be ready to explore the rest of Antwerp.

Oldest preserved building in the city As the oldest preserved building in the city, Het Steen has fulfilled numerous functions over the centuries, from a castle to a prison and from a residence to a museum. After undergoing a thorough renovation, the building is now an eye-catching Visitor Centre brimming with tourist information. A fairy tale location and the perfect place to start your visit to Antwerp.

Welcome to the Visitor Centre Are you looking for a city map, information about attractions or tickets for a walk or a tour? Then step into the Visitor Centre. The multilingual staff will be happy to help you. You will also find many fun Antwerp souvenirs, tasty local products and numerous gadgets. And don’t forget to take a look at a section of the old castle wall, where you can examine a piece of history from almost one thousand years ago.

Discover The Antwerp Story One floor up you’ll find a brand new attraction: The Antwerp Story . Follow the experience trail and discover, room by room, more about the fascinating story of Antwerp. The interactive rooms and multimedia rooms will tell you all about the history of the city and will introduce you to the different districts, the museums and the inhabitants in no time. Keep your smartphone or notebook to hand, because one thing is certain: The Antwerp Story will provide you with plenty of inspiration for your visit to Antwerp.

Breathtaking view over the Scheldt from the roof terrace Would you like to admire a stunning view? Climb the tower to Het Steen’s roof terrace and you will not be disappointed. You’ll be able to look out over the river, the city and the port. When a cruise ship is leaving or arriving, this is the ideal location from which to wave the passengers off or give them a warm welcome.

You see, Het Steen is the ideal starting point for your visit to Antwerp.

3 reasons why this is worth your visit

• In the Visitor Centre you will find all of the necessary information for a visit to the city, as well as the nicest Antwerp souvenirs.
• In The Antwerp Story , an interactive multimedia trail, you will discover more about the city’s fascinating story, room by room.
• From the free-to-visit panoramic roof terrace, you’ll enjoy a stunning 360° view of the Scheldt and the quays.
• Practical information

Contact details for visitors

Opening hours.

Is Het Steen accessible to people with reduced mobility? Het Steen is largely accessible for (electric) wheelchairs and walkers. There is a lift in the building. With the exception of one room, all of the rooms in The Antwerp Story are accessible to wheelchair users. Due to the historical nature of the building, the chapel on the first floor is not accessible. The story about art that is shown on the screens in this room can also be viewed from the adjacent room.

Can I enter Het Steen with a stroller? Strollers are allowed in Het Steen. Using the lift, all but one of the rooms are accessible to people with strollers. Due to the historical nature of the building, the chapel on the first floor is not accessible with a stroller. The story about art that is shown on the screens in this room can also be viewed from the adjacent room.

Can I bring my dog? Dogs are not allowed, except for guide dogs and other certified assistance dogs.

Is Het Steen easy to reach? Het Steen is easily accessible on foot, by bike, by public transport (including the water bus) and by car. Het Steen is close to the Grote Markt and Groenplaats. Calculate the smartest route via slimnaarantwerpen.be .

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The Travel Quandary

A Beginner’s Guide To Antwerp

Renowned for being the “world’s largest diamond city” and its burgeoning fashion industry, Antwerp proves itself to be one of Europe’s cultural hotspots. With our helpful guide to Antwerp, you’re unlikely to be twiddling your thumbs as you unravel the diversity of the city’s neighbourhoods.

Admire graffiti walls and art nouveau architecture in the south-east, max out your credit card in the fashion district, ride wooden escalators down to a pedestrian tunnel and catch your breath in the peace of the beguinage. The Flemish city also boasts a wide array of art galleries and museums and bustles with vibrant brasseries, clubs and restaurants. Let Antwerp’s sartorial history among the cobbled lanes in the city centre win you over. Plus, you can still find frites and waffles. Always a good thing.

The Best Things To see, do, eat & more In Antwerp

What to see in antwerp, vlaeykensgang.

Located in the city centre just a stone’s throw from Our Lady’s Cathedral, you’ll find Vlaeykensgang alley which dates back to the 16th century. You’d miss it unless you were looking for it – enter through Oude Koornmarkt 16 and wander over the cobblestones. There is a restaurant, art gallery and antique store. Be mindful of the residents that live here.

Address |   Oude Koornmarkt 16, 2000 Antwerpen

Beguinage (Begijnhof)

Previously home to beguines (devout women who lived in a community without taking religious vows), the beguinage today has a residential function. I was fortunate enough to meet an elderly woman who lives in one of the red brick houses. Beside the beautiful garden on the cobbled lanes which also houses the charming St Catherine’s Church, this 78 year old Belgian woman struck up a conversation with me in French. She told me that approximately 40 elderly people now occupy the beguinage, all whom work with young people. If you happen to bump into one of the residents, make sure to say hello. After admiring the façade, take a moment to enjoy the peace and quiet sitting on one of the benches in the garden.

Address |   Rodestraat 39, 2000 Antwerpen

St. Anna’s Tunnel (The Underpass)

Connecting the city’s left and right bank is St Anna’s Tunnel (or the Underpass), which opened in 1933. Rustic wooden escalators are located on each side to allow pedestrians and cyclists to access the tunnel. If you cross the river to the Left Bank, you can view the Antwerp skyline from the riverbank.

Address |   Sint-Jansvliet Antwerpen

Grote Markt

In the heart of the old city quarter, you will find Antwerp’s City Hall, adorned with colourful flags, the Brabo fountain, the guildhalls, the tourist office (Stadhuis van Antwerpen) and a spattering of cafes and restaurants around the square.

Address |   Grote Markt, 2000 Antwerpen

Central Station

Considered one of the most beautiful train stations worldwide, come admire one of the finest examples of railway architecture in Belgium. After almost a decade of renovations at the beginning of the 21st century, Antwerp’s Central Station reverted its status as a terminus in 2007. The railway tunnel underneath the station now allows trains to continue their journeys from Antwerp’s Central Station.

Address |   Koningin Astridplein 27, 2018 Antwerpen

WHAT TO DO IN ANTEWERP

Shop ‘til you drop.

Shopaholics and fashionistas, beware! Your credit card is in serious trouble. Antwerp is a breeding ground for creative talent. Home-grown talent including Ann Demeulemeester and Dries Van Noten have flourished on the international stage. Check out the recommended Where To Shop section below.

Walk through Diamond City

The heart of the diamond trade worldwide since 1447, any newly engaged woman would be daft not to visit one of the safest parts of the city. Stores display their dazzling stones in numerous shop windows with shopkeepers on standby to invite you in for a closer inspection of their goods.

Mode Museum (MoMu) (Fashion Museum)

Antwerp’s  MoMu  is one of the leading fashion museums in the world. Featuring two major exhibitions each year, the museum showcases exquisite couture and historical pieces from the museum’s archives or items from touring exhibitions.

Address |   Nationalestraat 28, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Currently closed for renovations. Reopening Autumn 2020 Website |   https://www.momu.be/

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)

You’ll find the  MAS  in the newer docklands district north of the city centre, with its rippling glass architecture acknowledging Antwerp’s maritime history. Learn about the link between Antwerp and the world whilst browsing through over 500,000 museum pieces. Then, enjoy the 360° panoramic view from the roof terrace.

Address |   Hanzestedenplaats 1, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Check  here Admission |  € 10 (visitors > 25 years). € 8 (visitors 16 – 24 years) Website |   http://www.mas.be/nl

Rubens House

The former home of the famous 16th-17th century baroque painter is now a museum in the heart of the city. Discover how the brilliant artist lived his life, ran an art studio, raised his family and received noble guests in the still-standing original garden pavilion. There is the option to rent an audio guide for a small fee as you make your way through the property admiring the masterpieces.

Address |   Wapper 9-11, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Tuesday – Sunday 10.00am – 5.00pm. Closed Mondays and some public holidays Admission |  € 10 (visitors > 25 years). € 8 (visitors 12 – 25 years) Website |   http://www.rubenshuis.be/en

Cathedral of Our Lady

Construction of the largest Gothic cathedral in the Low Countries was completed in the 16th century after 169 years of labour. The impressive cathedral features major art works, including a series of paintings by Rubens. You can make arrangements to climb the highest tower after paying for a guided tour, however, this is only possible each Wednesday from April to September.

TIP: Many museums are closed on Mondays. If you’re in Antwerp on this day, I’d recommend seeing all the free sights around the historic city centre or going shopping!

Address |   Handschoenmarkt 3, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Friday 10.00am – 5.00pm. Saturday 10.00am – 3.00pm. Sunday 1.00pm 5.00pm Admission |  € 6 Website |   http://www.dekathedraal.be/en

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN ANTWERP

Salon de thé claude.

Talk about prime location! This gorgeous salon boasts the best view of Hendrik Conscienceplein with the beautiful St Charles Borromeo’s Church on one side and Heritage library on the other. Sit outside under one of the umbrellas and enjoy tea and scones or the sandwich of the day. If you’re fortunate, you might be serenaded by the soothing lullaby of a local playing his guitar under the shade of a tree.

Address |   Hendrik Conscienceplein 5, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Wednesday – Sunday 10.00am – 6.00pm Website |   http://www.salondetheclaude.be/

Le Pain Quotidien

Take a shopping break in this quaint two-storey café with a coffee and delicious apple tart.  Le Pain Quotidien  also offers a generous breakfast and brunch menu with several gluten-free and organic options. Don’t be surprised if you spot another branch around the city; Le Pain Quotidien has outlets throughout Europe.

Address |   Steenhouwersvest 48, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Saturday 7.00am – 7.00pm. Sunday 8.00am – 6.30pm Website |   http://www.lepainquotidien.be/

Situated on a side street off Meir, you can relax on one of the cushioned lounges at  Coffeelabs ; one of the only European cafes I have come across so far that serves Iced Lattes! Or try their sugarless homemade lemonades for a sweet drink without the naughty calories. There’s another branch on Mechelsesteenweg and a sister cafe in Brussels too.

Coffeelabs is a firm favourite by locals and visitors. If you’re looking for other cafe options, check out this Antwerp cafe guide .

Address |   Lange Klarenstraat 19, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Friday 8.00am – 6.00pm. Saturday 9.30am – 6.00pm Website |   http://www.coffeelabs.be/

Coffeebar Intense (Koffiebar Intense)

On a side street off Nationalestraat, this small unassuming café serves up “double koffie” in soup bowl cups and gourmet sandwiches when you need to give your credit card and feet a break.

Address |   Schoytestraat 1, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Tuesday – Sunday 9.00am – 6.00pm Website |   http://coffeebar-intense.business.site/

In the heart of Borgerhout, you’ll find Mokkapot located on a corner just behind City Hall. The cosy café is filled with retro furniture and serves coffee and cakes whilst showcasing local designers’ clothing and jewellery.

Address |   Sergeyselstraat 2, 2140 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 11.00am – 6.00pm. Friday – Saturday 11.00am – 9.00pm Website |   http://www.mokkakapot.be/

Camping Campina

One of several restaurants at Dageraadplaats,  Camping Campina ’s menu is only in Flemish but waiters are on hand to explain what’s on offer if you can’t decipher. Try the “Ons huisgemaakt stoofvlees” for a true Belgian experience – a beef stew cooked in gravy and Belgian beer, accompanied with thick beer-battered chips and coleslaw.

TIP: Don’t forget to find a stop to snack on some frites or a Belgian waffle with dark Belgian chocolate, strawberries and whipped cream!

Address | Dageraadplaats 16, 2018 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Friday 11.30am – 22.00pm. Saturday – Sunday 3.00pm – 10.00pm Website |   http://campingcampina.be/

WHERE TO SHOP IN ANTWERP

Jutka & riska.

Selling both a mix of women’s vintage clothing and its own label of clothes, jewellery and accessories,  Jutka & Riska  is wonderfully arranged by colour scheme. This is the only store in Belgium of the Dutch label (there are three stores in the Netherlands); a staunch supporter of young designers. Pop in to find some vintage denim or quirky printed t-shirts.

Address |   Nationalestraat 87, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Saturday 10.00am – 6.30pm. Sunday 12.00pm – 6.00pm Website |   https://www.jutkaenriska.com/

Labels Inc.

If you’re after designer labels without the price tag, you’ll find them in this small used clothing store that stocks Belgian designers including Ann Demeulemeester and Martin Margiela. Pre-loved shoes and accessories are also in stock.

Address |   Aalmoezenierstraat 3a, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Saturday 11.0am – 6.00pm Website |  https://www.labelsinc.be/

MOOSE in the CITY

Almost opposite the ModeMuseum (Fashion Museum), walk up the ramp at the entrance and you’ll find something for your wardrobe or something for the home in this IKEA-esque store layout. There is truly a touch of Scandinavia in everything stocked in-store.

Address |   IJerenwaag 10, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Friday 10.00am – 6.00pm. Saturday 10.00am – 6.30pm Website |   https://www.moose-in-the-city.com/en

Another one for the savvy fashionistas,  ROsier 41  sells seasonal and private overstocks (for men and women) from Belgian and international designers. Comb through the racks (organised by designer) diligently and you can find bargains starting from €50.

Address |   Rosier 41, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Saturday 10.30am – 6.00pm Website |   http://www.rosier41.be/

The Other Shop

Looking for the perfect quirky gift or insulting birthday card? This is the place for you which stocks “How To” and “Why Does” books for him and her, desk mementos and colourful wrapping paper to make you look like the best gift giver.

Address |   Melkmarkt 31, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Saturday 11.00am – 6.00pm. Sunday 12.00pm – 6.00pm Website |   The Other Shop on Facebook

Nationalestraat

With the Fashion Museum and fashion campus in the vicinity, the Nationalestraat hails as the most fashionable street in Antwerp. High end boutiques carrying international names and Belgian designers sit amongst trendy food bars and brasseries.

Diamond District

Just around the corner from Central Station, you’ll find several streets coveting diamonds galore. Drag your other half here and shopkeepers will entice you with offers of 70% off of GIA certified jewels. Trust me – it’s so difficult to stop staring at all the dazzle!

Address |   Hoveniersstraat, 2018 Antwerpen

Shopping Stadsfeestzaal

Shop til you drop in approximately forty stores in this elegant reconstructed Festival Hall and make sure to admire the elaborate glass dome adorned with gold leaf, the staircase, mosaics and original oak parquet floors. You have a mix of clothing and accessories, sportswear, jewellery and homewares.

Address |   Meir 78, 2000 Antwerpen Opening Hours |  Monday – Saturday 10.00am – 6.30pm. Sunday 1st Sunday of the month 12.00pm – 6.00pm Website |   http://stadsfeestzaal.com/

Here you’ll find the major fashion chains, the Shopping Stadsfeestzaal and The Wapper; a side street that leads to Rubens’ House and a square with several pub terraces. Your credit card is in serious danger in this area.

Address |   Meir, 2000 Antwerpen

FANCY A DAY TRIP? KEEP READING: 24 HOURS IN BRUGES

Where to stay in antwerp, sint-andries.

Shopaholics, beware. Not far from the old city centre, Sint-Andries houses a large chunk of the Fashion District. Along Nationalestraat, you’ll find Belgian and international fashion names; shop antiques and furniture on Kloosterstraat every Sunday morning and hustle along Huidervetterstraat for mainstream boutiques.

Previously one of the poorer neighbourhoods, Het Zuid is now one of the trendiest districts in Antwerp. Explore the art galleries and museums by day then discover bustling restaurants and bars at night.

If architectural fans don’t already know, then they will learn of the Cogels-Osylei in Zurenborg when visiting Antwerp. An avenue lined with opulent villas showcase a clash of Art Nouveau and Tudor architectural styles that will have you photographing some #homegoals. Check out Dageraadplaats to grab a bite at one of the yummy restaurants.

The Travel Quandary recommends…

Each neighbourhood has its own character so check out some of the private rooms and apartments available for rent at reasonable prices.

Antwerp Backpackers Hostel

Partying in Antwerp takes place at the hostels in the city centre. If you’re after a place to chill with a few beers during happy hour, plus recommendations for the best local places to eat, I’d recommend  ABHostel . ABHostel runs from an old converted chocolate factory by Bridget & Greg. Breakfast is included consisting of fresh homemade bread and make-your-own pancakes in a fully equipped kitchen. Super clean with friendly service, make sure to note that reception is  not  24 hours.

Address |   Kattenberg 110, 2140 Borgerhout, Belgium Website |   http://www.abhostel.com/

HOW TO GET TO ANTWERP

• Limited budget airlines fly to and from Antwerp International Airport. Access Antwerp from cities including London and Barcelona with CityJet and TUI fly. Services may soon be offered to and from select Switzerland destinations on PowdAir.
• From Antwerp International Airport (Deurne Airport)…
• By public transport
• Unfortunately, there is no direct public transport link from the airport to Antwerp’s city centre. You will take a combination of bus & tram or bus & train to get there.
• Step 1: Take bus 51,52 or 53 from Antwerp Airport from stop ‘Deurne Luchthaven’ to Antwerpen Berchem railway station. Travel time is 10 minutes.
• Step 2: Select one of the three options below.
• Option 1: Change to tram 9 (Eksterlaar – Linkeroever). From here, it will take 5 – 7 mins to Antwerpen Centraal railway station (stop Premetrostation Diamant) or 10 – 12 mins to the city centre (stop Premetrostation Groenplaats). Trams depart every 8 – 10 mins.
• Option 2: Take a train from Antwerpen Berchem railway station to Antwerpen Centraal
• Option 3: Change to bus 21 or 32 which will take you from Antwerpen Berchem railway station to Antwerpen Centraal
• Visit https://www.delijn.be/nl/ for timetable information and you can plan your journey via bus, tram, metro and/or train. The website is in Dutch, French and English.
• TIP: Public transport is by tram or bus. A single ticket costs €3 (valid for an hour), a daily ticket costs €6 (Presale) – €8 (On board) and a 3-day ticket costs €12. Purchase tickets from pre-sale points, automated ticket machines, Lijnwinkels or from the bus or tram driver. Only single and daily tickets can be purchased on board. Visit Antwerp’s Visitor Centre to buy tickets and for further information.
• Driving to Antwerp city centre will take around 20mins (approx 6.4 klms/4 miles). The fastest route is via N184. Alternatively, you can travel via N1.
• Antwerp is easily accessible by train to and from surrounding major cities including Amsterdam (1hr 15m), Cologne (2hrs 30m) and Paris (2hrs via Brussels). Check the timetables on the SNCB Europe website to book your journey with Thalys, Eurostar, TGV or ICE trains.
• If you have time up your sleeve or you’re taking the budget travel route, take the bus to and from Antwerp. Companies such as Flixbus (Megabus in the UK) and Ouibus offer services from Amsterdam to Paris via Belgian cities including Antwerp. Multiple services are available every day with the main pick-up/drop-off location right in front of Central Station.
• TIP: For further information about Antwerp, go to www.visitantwerpen.be. The website can be navigated in English, Dutch, French and German and is easy to navigate.

Have you visited Antwerp when passing through Belgium? Share your experiences with us in the comments below!

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One Day in Antwerp Itinerary: Best Things to do in Antwerp

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 9th March 2023

Categories Belgium , Itineraries

Last Updated on 9th March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Cobbled lanes, 16th-century architecture, modern skyscrapers, and all the beer: if you’re looking for a vibrant destination in Western Europe that’s easy to reach by train or plane, then consider a visit to Anvers , otherwise known as Antwerpen or Antwerp . Here’s the best of Antwerp in one day ; an Antwerp itinerary to make the most of 24 hours in the city and discover the best things to do in Antwerp …

Why you must Visit Antwerp on your next Belgian Adventure

Is one day enough time to visit antwerp, arrive at antwerpen centraal, explore the historic city centre, grote markt, cathedral of our lady, groenplaats, konditori (schermersstraat 8), frituur n°1 (hoogstraat 1), the jane (paradeplein 1), graanmarkt 13, satay (wijngaardbrug 8), visit the best of antwerp museums, plantin-moretus museum, explore the hidden gems of antwerp, visit pauluskerk antwerpen, enjoy the view from mas museum, have a beer at het elfde gebod, enjoy the city lit up by night, day trips from antwerp, budget accommodation in antwerp, mid-range accommodation in antwerp, luxury accommodation in antwerp, meir shopping street, go shopping in the diamond district, tips for visiting antwerp, enjoyed reading about the best things to do in antwerp pin it now, read it again later:.

The bustling and busy port city of Antwerp can be found on the Northern coast of Belgium, a tiny country sandwiched between France to the West The Netherlands to the East, and Germany to the South.

As the birthplace of Paul Rubens, Antwerp has its fair share of cultural destinations and museums worth visiting. And that’s not all. Fries come from Belgium, as does some of the best chocolate and beer in the world (check out our Belgian beer guide here ) !

Another of the best reasons to visit Antwerp is its geographical location; perfect for day trips and cheaper than Brussels, Antwerpen makes the perfect base from which to explore the wider area. Ghent, Breda, and Bruges are all easy to reach.

One day is enough time to see Antwerp if you want a quick overview of the city and visit the top attractions. However, I would personally say that if you want to enjoy everything at a more leisurely pace and have time to relax as well, you’ll want to allocate three days to Anvers. For those planning a trip to Belgium, check out our s uggested Belgium itinerary .

Things to do in Antwerp in the morning

Often said to be one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, if you make it your mission to do just one thing during your day in Antwerp, be sure to at least arrive or depart from Antwerp central train station.

Constructed between 1895 and 1905, highlights of this sprawling terminus include an impressively large clock and Art Nouveau ceiling. Even if you don’t travel by train to get to the city, I still recommend heading to the Centraal station to check out the beautiful architecture.

Situated in the Old City Quarter of Antwerp, the market square of Anvers is characterised by its countless 16th-century guildhalls. Must-sees in the square include Antwerp City Hall and the Brabo Fountain. Inaugurated in 1887,  the fountain depicts Antwerp’s founding legend.

Come wintertime, an ice rink is erected in the Grote Markt, transforming the area into a glittering winter wonderland. Much like many other cities in Belgium, Antwerp hosts an annual Christmas market selling traditional Christmas market food and delightful souvenirs.

If you’re looking for further information on Antwerp, then it’s worth noting that the Tourist Information Office is also located a little off the Grote Markt.

If you’re looking to enjoy the best of Antwerp in a day, then you simply need to add the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal (Cathedral of our Lady) to your itinerary.

Located in the very heart of the city, close to the Grote Markt, this ecclesiastical building was consecrated in the 16th-century. Though only one tower exists today, the original plans for the cathedral included two towers of equal height.

Over time, various complications (including a fire!) delayed the completion of the second tower, meaning that it was never realised. Today, you can visit the inside of the cathedral for a fee. Works of note inside include artworks by Rubens, Marten de Vos, and more!

Though ‘Groenplaats’ is quite literally translated into English as ‘Green Place,’ the lively square is far from your typical city centre park. Instead, Groenplaats is a paved convergence of many streets.

Highlights of this area of Antwerp include a statue dedicated to Paul Rubens and a magnificent view of the Cathedral. You can also sit in one of the cafés, order a beer or coffee, and sit and watch the world go by.

What you may not know is that where Groenplaats now stands was actually where Antwerp’s main cemetery stood, right up until the 18th-century. At that time, cemeteries were abolished within the city walls. Now, the square is home to an array of shops and eateries.

Where to eat in Antwerp

During our time in Antwerp, we were lucky to try a number of dishes, and I was especially happy to discover that there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options at various eateries throughout the city. Some of the best places to eat in Antwerp include:

By far the best bakery in town, Konditori is open from Tuesday through to Saturday. Well-reviewed, the quality of their breads and pastries is pretty much unrivalled!

If there’s one food you should try when in Beligum (if only just one fry to say you’ve sampled the local cuisine!) it’s the fries. The chips at Frituur n°1 are fast to get and so good that we ended up going twice! You can easily find somewhere nearby to sit and munch on your fast-food. When ordering, be sure to get the Fritessaus- you won’t regret it!

For a taste of luxury with a side of Belgian cuisine thrown in, check out The Jane. One of the best restaurants in Antwerp, this eatery has two michelin stars.

If you’re travelling with a veggie in tow, then be sure to check out Graanmarkt 13. Although this restaurant still serves meat and fish, there’s a selection of veggie tapas on the menu.

During our three days in Antwerp, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Satay. There are veggie options on the menu in the form of tofu-infused delights and I couldn’t recommend the noodles more!

How to spend an afternoon in Antwerp

By far my favourite museum in Antwerp, you could easily spend hours strolling around the Plantin-Moretus Museum . Part art museum, part history of the printing press, this sprawling complex of buildings easily needs 2-3 hours to fully explore.

If you’re planning to come to Antwerp in order to enjoy the art scene, then you simply must head inside the Rubenshuis (Ruben’s House) . However, I must warn you that the house museum is more of a gallery of sorts, and little of Rubens original furniture survives to this day. Instead, though the furniture is all antique, the things found within the Rubenshuis have been sourced elsewhere.

There’s a place in the city where you’ll find gems such as a location where a Caravaggio was once stolen and a Calvary Mountain complete with dozens of life-sized statues in their own hidden courtyard. Sint-Pauluskerk Antwerpen is easily the most beautiful church in Antwerp.

Free to visit, once there you’ll soon discover breathtaking paintings and a walk-around guidebook to help you discover the treasury and adjacent cloisters.

Another highlight of the St Paul’s Church is the mechanised altar which allows for different paintings to be displayed at different times.

Though the MAS museum is located a little way out of the historic city centre, the cultural space is still easy to reach via a gentle walk alongside the River Scheldt.

En route, be sure to discover Steen Castle, an ancient fortification dating back to the 11th-century. The MAS Museum (Museum Aan de Stroom) itself is housed within a strikingly modern building.

And while you’ll have to pay if you want to enjoy the exhibitions, the very top of the structure boasts a panoramic rooftop offering a bird’s eye view across the city.

How to spend an evening in Antwerp: Things to do in Antwerp at night

The most unusual bar in the city by far has got to be Het Elfde Gebod. Lying in the shadows of Antwerp’s Cathedral, the bar’s name is quite literally translated into English as the ’11th Commandment’. Once inside, you’ll soon discover an array of pulpits, church murals, angels and more.

The works have been collected over the span of our decades and are truly a sight to see. Between stone carvings and ornate crosses, you never know what you’ll spy next, nevermind where you should be looking!

The café serves a wide array of traditional Belgian beers, making it the perfect place to stop for a drink and one of the best hidden gems of Antwerp.

Twinkling and beautiful, there’s nothing like seeing Antwerpen by night, particularly the Grote Markt. Highly rated bars in the area include Den Engel (Grote Markt 3) , The Irish Times Pub (Grote Markt 38) , and Den Brabander Antwerpen (Grote Markt 36) .

If you have a little more time to explore the city, then there are plenty of things to do in Belgium outside of Antwerp. From the city, it couldn’t be easier to hop on a train (and though I don’t recommend it, you could also rent a car!) and take a day trip to a nearby city. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our guide to the best day trips from Antwerp.

Where to stay in Antwerp

The ASH Antwerp

Located close to a tram station, this hostel offers dorm rooms with shared bathrooms and private rooms with their own en-suites. Amenities include Free Wi-Fi while some rooms have fridges.  Check prices and availability here .

Kabas Hostel

This well-reviewed hostel offers dorm rooms, as well as private rooms with shared or private bathrooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi and complimentary tea, coffee, and breakfast. Check prices and availability here.

Astoria Hotel Antwerp

Close to several parks and near the Diamond District of Antwerp, this mid-range hotel offers free Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms have their own terraces.   Check prices and availability here .

Hyllit Hotel

Close to Antwerp’s central station, the Hyllit Hotel features contemporary rooms with features like a minibar, free Wi-Fi and TVs.  Check prices and availability here .

Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt

Located in the heart of all the action, this four-star accommodation offers services such as flat-screen TVs, a complimentary breakfast, and free WiFi. Check prices and availability here .

Hotel Julien

Situated close to many of Antwerp’s main attractions, this luxurious place to stay in Antwerp even has a rooftop terrace with views onto the cathedral. For an extra fee, there’s also a spa that has a sauna.  Check prices and availability here . 

If you have more time (further things to do in Antwerp)…

Of course, if you have more time in Antwerp, then there are a myriad of other activities and things to do in the city. Here’s our selection of top attractions in Antwerp if you have more than 24 hours in the city…

If you want to shop, then you simply must head to Meir shopping street, which is one of the top places to go shopping in the Belgian city. The street has all of the typical high street vendors you would expect to find in a modern European city.

Yet another place which is popular for shopping in Antwerp is the Diamond district, which is also known as the   Diamond Quarter   (Diamantkwartier) . Its name derives from when Antwerp was at the peak of the diamond industry during the 19th-century.

Art lovers will likely need no introduction to the name Rubens. The iconic painter lived in Antwerp for years and today his former home has been transformed into a small house museum where you can learn more about Rubens’ life, as well as life in Belgium in the 17th-century.

If you want to avoid the crowds and prices of Brussels but are still looking to visit Belgium, then I highly recommend booking a visit to Antwerp. With that being said, there are still plenty of ways by which you can save money when visiting the city.

For example, if you’re taking public transportation, then purchase your tickets in advance at an official retailer (there are numerous newsagents and the like across the city). This way, you’ll save 20% as opposed to the full price if you were to buy your transport ticket from the driver.

If you want to get to know the city on a local level, from a resident’s perspective, then you might want to book a private walking tour. Lasting anything from 2-6 hours, this walk with a local guide will show you the best things Anvers has to offer.

Check prices and availability here .  If you’d prefer to experience Antwerp through its culinary scene, then book this 3-hour food tour instead.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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