Antwerp, a vibrant city in Belgium, offers a blend of historical charm and modern flair. Known as the diamond capital of the world, Antwerp also boasts a rich cultural scene, stunning architecture, and a bustling port. Whether you're wandering through the quaint streets of its historic center or exploring cutting-edge museums, Antwerp promises an unforgettable experience.
Travelers will be enchanted by the city's artistic heritage, linked to famous painter Peter Paul Rubens, as well as its innovative fashion industry. From savoring delicious Belgian chocolates to enjoying a cold beer at a local pub, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.
Travelers will be enchanted by the city's artistic heritage, linked to famous painter Peter Paul Rubens, as well as its innovative fashion industry. From savoring delicious Belgian chocolates to enjoying a cold beer at a local pub, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.
Historic Center & Grote Markt
The heart of Old Town, the Grote Markt is an iconic square surrounded by ornate guildhalls and the impressive City Hall. Dating back to the 16th century, this area is perfect for strolling and people-watching. The square is also home to the Brabo Fountain, which tells the legend of how Antwerp got its name.
Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a coffee at one of the many terraces. For a deeper understanding of the city's history, join one of the walking tours that depart from here regularly. Most tours last about two hours and cost around €12-15.
Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a coffee at one of the many terraces. For a deeper understanding of the city's history, join one of the walking tours that depart from here regularly. Most tours last about two hours and cost around €12-15.
Cathedral of Our Lady
Cathedral of Our Lady is not only an architectural masterpiece but also houses works by Rubens. Completed in 1521, this Gothic cathedral's towering spire dominates Antwerp's skyline.
The entrance fee is €8 for adults and €6 for students. Visitors can explore daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Mondays). Inside, admire Rubens' famous paintings such as 'The Elevation of the Cross'.
Local tip: Visit on a weekday morning for fewer crowds and a chance to attend a short organ concert.
The entrance fee is €8 for adults and €6 for students. Visitors can explore daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (closed on Mondays). Inside, admire Rubens' famous paintings such as 'The Elevation of the Cross'.
Local tip: Visit on a weekday morning for fewer crowds and a chance to attend a short organ concert.
Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp
Location of the Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp
Museum Quarter & Rubens House
Het Zuid is known as Antwerp's Museum Quarter, featuring numerous art institutions including the renowned Royal Museum of Fine Arts. Nearby lies Rubens House, once home to Peter Paul Rubens himself.
The house showcases both his personal belongings and art collection. Tickets are priced at €10 per adult; it's open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM - 5 PM.
Insider tip: Combine your visit with nearby museums for an immersive cultural day out.
The house showcases both his personal belongings and art collection. Tickets are priced at €10 per adult; it's open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM - 5 PM.
Insider tip: Combine your visit with nearby museums for an immersive cultural day out.
Antwerp's Port & MAS Museum
Eilandje, Antwerp’s old harbor district, is home to MAS (Museum aan de Stroom). This striking red-bricked building offers panoramic views from its rooftop terrace.
The museum explores Antwerp’s history and global connections through innovative exhibits. Entry costs €10 for adults and it's closed on Mondays.
For a unique experience, take a sunset walk along the docks followed by dinner at one of Eilandje's trendy restaurants.
The museum explores Antwerp’s history and global connections through innovative exhibits. Entry costs €10 for adults and it's closed on Mondays.
For a unique experience, take a sunset walk along the docks followed by dinner at one of Eilandje's trendy restaurants.
MAS Museum, Antwerp
Location of Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) in Eilandje district
Diamond District
The Diamond District is synonymous with luxury and sparkle. Situated near Central Station, it houses hundreds of diamond dealers and jewelers.
While many shops require appointments, window-shopping provides insight into this fascinating industry. Don't miss DIVA Museum for interactive exhibits on diamonds and jewelry craftsmanship (€12 entry).
If you're interested in purchasing diamonds here, ensure you’re aware of certification processes.
While many shops require appointments, window-shopping provides insight into this fascinating industry. Don't miss DIVA Museum for interactive exhibits on diamonds and jewelry craftsmanship (€12 entry).
If you're interested in purchasing diamonds here, ensure you’re aware of certification processes.
Fashion & Shopping Streets
Meir is Antwerp’s premier shopping street lined with international brands housed in elegant buildings. For high-end fashion boutiques, head over to Schuttershofstraat.
The city has nurtured renowned designers like Dries Van Noten; visit ModeMuseum (MoMu) when open for insights into Antwerp's fashion scene (€10 entry).
Bargain hunters should explore Kloosterstraat's antique shops on weekends.
The city has nurtured renowned designers like Dries Van Noten; visit ModeMuseum (MoMu) when open for insights into Antwerp's fashion scene (€10 entry).
Bargain hunters should explore Kloosterstraat's antique shops on weekends.
Historic Neighborhoods
Zurenborg, known for its Art Nouveau architecture offers picturesque streets perfect for leisurely walks while Borgerhout boasts multicultural vibes with hidden gems like Krugerplein market.
Savor local life in these neighborhoods by dining at family-run eateries serving traditional Belgian fare alongside global cuisines.
Savor local life in these neighborhoods by dining at family-run eateries serving traditional Belgian fare alongside global cuisines.
"Wander through the cobblestone streets of Antwerp, where every turn reveals a tapestry of art, from the majestic Cathedral to hidden galleries, and savor the rich aroma of Belgian chocolate wafting from quaint shops—it's a city that invites you to indulge your senses at every corner."
Sophie Van den Berg - Antwerp Local Guide & Historian
External Links
Visit Antwerp Official
Official tourism website with events and practical information
Antwerp Museums
Combined ticket and information for Antwerp museums
Antwerp Port Tours
Guided tours of Europe's second-largest port
