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Antwerp is the town that wool and diamonds built. This is the city of Rubens and Van Dyck. Woven from Renaissance riches, Antwerp reflects its cultural history through a sparkling collection of art, architecture, and culture. The city’s historic buildings give you a sense of the enormous wealth this area of Belgium amassed. The Old Flemish Masters are well represented in Antwerp’s many museums, but wandering the streets is the best way to experience some of the riches of the city.

Antwerp Pictures

Things to do in Antwerp

You get a good sense of the history of Antwerp, just by walking through the city: up and down main thoroughfares and off on little side streets, in its baroque architecture, cathedrals, and museums. Take a walk through Antwerp’s oldest building, Steen Castle. A medieval fortress on the banks of the River Scheldt, which dates back to the early 13th century. The Onze Lieve Vrouwe Cathedral is an amazing example of Gothic architecture and even exhibits some works of Rubens here.

There are more than 20 museums in Antwerp, many of which you can get into for free or a very nominal fee. In addition to the Royal Museum of Art, the hometown of Rubens and Van Dyck also has a modern photography museum where you can sample the greats like Steiglitz and Adams. The Mayer van den Bergh Museum is home to a great collection of Flemish handicraft, and the Museum of Diamonds has an extensive, glittering display.

Tired of people-watching? Talk to the animals at the Antwerp Zoo. Located by the Centraal Station, it’s one of the oldest and most famous zoos in Europe. The Scheldt is Antwerp’s main river, and is home to one of the largest, busiest harbors in the world. It also provides a wonderful view of the city when you take a boat ride down to the port area. A lovely three-hour evening cruise is available as well.

The arts are well-celebrated here, as in the other major cities of Belgium, and there are numerous dance, theater, music, and film festivals in Antwerp and the region of Flanders year-round. Pick up the local monthly paper, Antwerpen, or a listing at the tourist office to find out what’s happening around the city. Belgium’s National Day is July 21, celebrated with all kinds of festivities.

Nightlife in Antwerp

There is plenty to do at night in Antwerp, and many clubs are known for staying open till daybreak. Clubs, discos, and gay bars cluster around the Centraal Station. You can find lots of theatres, bars, and cafes around Grote Markt and Groenplaats. If you’re in the mood for some jazz or the ambiance of a cozy bistro, try the area around Hoogstraat, Pelgrimstraat, Pieter Potstraat – also known as High Town – for some cool clubs. For a punk fix, check out the area around Stadwaag. The Riverside Quarter functions as the red-light district, and is much more run-down than Amsterdam’s, so watch your step if you choose to venture there.

Dining in Antwerp

Belgium claims the origins of frites (fried potatoes served with mayonnaise), and you can find them here in abundance. If you’re hungry for breakfast, there’s no better way to start the day than with Belgian waffles. Try them here with or without the many different kinds of toppings offered. Antwerp’s chef’’s take advantage of the proximity to the sea, with wonderful mussels at places like Leons. In addition, Oude Koornmark has plenty of inexpensive takeout spots serving things like falafel and kebab.

Shopping in Antwerp

The world’s largest diamond industry is right here in Antwerp, tucked discreetly into the Jewish quarter, near the Centraal Station. Take a walk down Meir, a pedestrian walk way filled with little shops, mini-malls, and department stores – all housed in 19th century buildings.

Antwerp Travel Tips

• Antwerp has its own brewery, De Koninck (The King), so take a break and have a beer!
• The most interesting hotels are located in the Oude Square, most of them offering great weekend rates.
• If needed, there is a great internet café called 2zones located in Oude Square.