The second biggest city in Belgium, known for its fashion scene and of course diamonds! This city is always changing and growing as it has since its golden days as the biggest port city in Europe. 

Antwerp

Belgium, small but packs a punch. Not known among its fellow Europeans as a destination hub nor among those beyond the continent but look close and you will find some hidden gems. A confusing country with 3 official languages! We're here to help you navigate it and find the best best places in Belgium. 

Lying on the North Sea coast, Belgium's immediate neighbours are France, Luxembourg, Germany and the Netherlands. The small nation of Belgium might leave you surprised by its rich and gorgeous heritage. It boasts a number of fascinatingly historic cities packed with medieval and Art Nouveau architecture and famous for their long traditions in arts, fashion and fine dining. If you've seen the best of them, the Belgian countryside offers anything from sandy beaches to the densely forested hills and ridges of the Ardennes. Brussels, the country's vibrant capital, is a modern world city with a highly international character. It combines massive postmodern buildings in its European Quarter with impressive historic monuments, such as the World Heritage listed Grand Place, surrounded by guildhouses and the Gothic town hall. There's Laken Castle and the large St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, dedicated to the cities patron saints. The Royal Palace is a more recent but no less grand structure. One of the city's most famous landmarks is the Atomium, a remarkable steel structure and remnant of the 1958 World's Fair.

Belgium

Are you ready to get inspired by a world of art, design and culture? From creative hubs filled with the best galleries, museums, and ongoing exhibitions, to imaginative centres and workshops frequented by locals - check out the coolest curated spaces in {{area}}. 
The scene here is dynamic and endlessly evolving, whether you're an architecture admirer, a culture vulture, or an art and design enthusiast. Feed your creative side and dive right in! 

ArtsyFartsy_blue.svg

Top Spots for all Things Creative

Indulge your senses in art galleries, museums, and experience the cultural side of {{area}}

Art & Culture

When it comes to the culinary scene, we’ve got you covered with a list of dining and drinking experiences to take your tastebuds on a journey through {{area}}! Searching for the best local markets with yummy stalls? Curious about cooking classes, or wondering which traditional drinks and bites to try out? Our community of locals have some tasty recommendations for you.

SipNDine_blue.svg

Taste This 

Eat & drink your way through {{area}}

Food & Drinks

Beaches, national parks, urban parks, forests, dunes, heathlands - you name it! We've lined up the best of locally recommended nature activities in {{area}} that are sure to get some fresh air in those lungs! If it's anything you can explore and do in the great outdoors, you can plan it here.

GreenHorizons_blue.svg

The Grass is Always Greener 

Explore the outdoors in and around {{area}}

Nature

Lace up those hiking boots and get out on the trail! We’ve organized the top nature walks and hikes in {{area}} for all the outdoor lovers looking to go the limits. There are plenty of routes you can choose from - all offering you stunning views that make each step even more worth it.

HitTheTrail_blue.svg

Get Outdoors

Explore walks & hikes in {{area}}

Hiking

All of the landmarks, viewpoints, monuments, city skylines, and hidden gems at your fingertips! These are the places that will astound your sight and senses,  and would also make a pretty Instastory. 
From urban architecture to natural wonders, explore the must-see spots in {{area}}, and revel in the beauty that surrounds you here.

WhatASight_blue.svg

See it to Believe it

Find the best viewpoints, monuments, and hidden gems in {{area}}

Sightseeing

Come one, come all - come big, come small! We've rounded up all of the kid-friendly places in {{area}}, including parks, playgrounds, outdoor activities, and museums for you and your family to enjoy. These places and activities are fun (and safe!) for the whole family, no matter what size or age!

FamilyFriendly_blue.svg

Best places for all ages

Bring the whole family to kid friendly spots in {{area}}

Family Fun

Ready for an epic time? Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking for an exciting outdoor activity - check out what {{area}} has going on. There's truly never a dull moment here. From biking, adventure parks, and water sports to wonderous new environments - we rounded up the best things for you to do to have an adventurous time outdoors.

Adventurous_blue.svg

Best places to seek thrills

Go on an Adventure in and around {{area}}

Adventure

Come one, come all - come big, come small! We've rounded up all of the kid-friendly places in Antwerp, including parks, playgrounds, outdoor activities, and museums for you and your family to enjoy. These places and activities are fun (and safe!) for the whole family, no matter what size or age!

FamilyFriendly.svg

Bring the whole family to kid friendly spots in Antwerp

As rated by our community

The top picks for Family Fun 

Green horizons and beyond

Enjoy the outdoors and hit up these outdoor spots in Antwerp

Across Belgium

Explore similar activities 

The diamond heart of Belgium with awesome cultural experiences and natural gems on its borders.

People waiting for the train at Antwerp Central, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Bernardo Lorena Ponte on Unsplash.jpg

Fountain of legendary hero in Antwerp's Grote Markt, Belgium

Meet Antwerp_Daniels Joffe_Unsplash

Antwerp city from across the river in Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Michiel Annaert on Unsplash.jpg

Gold detailing and sign "Antwerpen" inside Antwerp Central train station, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Esther DG on Unsplash_1.jpg

Diamond like stricture atop a building, the Havenhuis Antwerpen, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Claudia Lorusso on Unsplash.jpg

Antwerp_Photo by Davide Pietralunga on Unsplash.jpg

MAS museum from across the river, Antwerp

Antwerp_Photo by Esther DG on Unsplash.jpg

City view of Antwerp of the Cathedral of Our Lady, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Zoë Gayah Jonker on Unsplash.jpg

Statue in the Grote Markt of a man throwing a hand, Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Jonne Mäkikyrö on Unsplash.jpg

Wind turbines near Havenhuis Antwerpen, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Mihai Surdu on Unsplash.jpg

Antwerp_Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash.jpg

Shoppers crossing the street in Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Jonas Jaeken on Unsplash_1.jpg

Woman in a red beret taking a photo of the old guild halls of Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Nicole Baster on Unsplash.jpg

Antwerp_Photo by Polly on Unsplash.jpg

Cyclist biking through a bridge in Park Spoor Noord, Antwerp

Antwerp_Photo by Vitor Pinto on Unsplash.jpg

City view of Antwerp from above of shops and church, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Thomas Konings on Unsplash.jpg

Inside Antwerp Central train station of the glass ceiling and main entrance, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Jonas Jaeken on Unsplash.jpg

Antwerp cathedral of our lady in the city centre, Belgium

Antwerp_Photo by Paul Teysen on Unsplash.jpg

Meet Antwerp

### Why go to Antwerp? 

Get ready for a diamond-grade experience in the diamond capital of the world. Antwerp is the second biggest city in Belgium and known for its fashion scene. The city is always changing and growing as it always has since its golden days as the biggest port city in Europe. The city itself is packed full of cultural things to see, a big shopping scene and local beers to drink. Find hidden gems and nature just outside the big city. 

### What you need to know about Antwerp 

What makes Antwerp so awesome to visit? Here’s the basics of what you need to know before you go. A bit of context to help you plan your trip. 

#### Diamonds 

Diamonds are Antwerp’s best friend. No, really. Antwerp has been THE port city of diamond trade ever since WWII. Over 80% of the entire world’s diamonds from mining end up in Antwerp. Explore Antwerp’s proud diamond history in the Diamond Quarter. Or head over to the Havenhuis to see Antwerp’s famous diamond-like symbol. You’ll see traces of Antwerp’s diamonds wherever you go. 

Antwerp diamonds_1_Mirushe Xhaferi_Unsplash

Diamond bracelet and earrings on a pink background

Antwerp_diamonds_3_Unsplash

Clouds reflecting in the ocean of Antwerp’s port with Havenhuis a short distance away, Belgium

havenhuis_activity6_Pixabay.jpg

#### Culture & art

Classics. The modern. Everything in between. Antwerp has a rich art history. Pop into Antwerp’s art museums and churches to see art by Peter Paul Rubens. Go on a walk around the city to quickly discover street art, sculptures on every street and stunning Art Deco buildings on Cogels-Osylei. Getting your cultural fix has never been easier in Antwerp. 



#### Fashion

Shop ‘til you drop. Nationalestraat, Kammenstraat or Kloosterstraat is where you want to be for Antwerp's true shopping trendsetters.  The surrounding streets have tons of boutiques and fashion shops too. This fashion district was also home to the Antwerp Six. Ever heard of the Antwerp Six? Fashion lovers can discover the path of the 80s fashion designers at MoMu, the city’s fashion museum. 


Graffiti showing an astronaut trying to catch a jellyfish on the side of a shipyard, Antwerp

Fresh take Antwerp_Mika Baumeister

### When to go 

Antwerp is a pretty well known city. It gets busy during the tourist season. Antwerp has a well-known Christmas market that’s worth a visit if you’re planning a trip in winter!

Backpacker tourist stickman logo on a yellow circle background

Whentogo_Tourist season.svg

bestweather_summersun.svg

Dates for your calender

Transport

Antwerp is a major city with good connections. Get the train to Antwerp Central Station. Whether you’re coming from outside Europe or coming in for a day trip from Brussels, Antwerp is an easy city to get to. 

### Getting There

ByTrain.svg

Antwerp is super easy to get to on the train. Simply hop off at Antwerp Central Station that’s a short walk from the city centre. You can catch a train to Antwerp from pretty much all train stations. From Brussels, it’s a 50 minute direct train journey on the IC 4537. 

ByPlane.svg

If you’re coming from city airport London, plane is a good option. Otherwise this small airport does not cater to many flights anymore. It’s a 20 minute drive from the heart of the city or a 20 minute bus journey on the S1 1764. 

### Getting Around

Public transport is your best friend in Antwerp! There’s a bus and tram system to help you get around. You can get around in the car but there’s a few things to keep in mind. 

Tickets cost around 2€ and last an hour. Buy tickets from machines at the station or using the mobile app. Day passes, 3 day passes and more are available too.

We recommend Park & Ride or the paid parking lots spread across the city. Different zones have different parking charges - e.g. green vs orange. 

Antwerp is cyclist friendly. The lanes are generally flat and there’s plenty of stands and places to rent bikes. Antwerp has the bike-hire system “Velo” to help you get around. There are also multiple options for electric scooters including Lime, Bird and Poppy.

Walking is an easy, hassle free way to get around the heart of Antwerp. The city center is not that big so it makes it particularly nice to explore on foot. We recommend using bikes, trains or buses to get out further into the suburbs. 

Essentials

Emergency numbers:  Police urgent: (101) Fire, ambulance, police: 112 

### Tourist office

Visit Antwerpen 

Address: Grote Markt 13, 2000 Antwerp, Central Station, Koningin Astridplein, 2018 Antwerp

Website: https://www.visitantwerpen.be 

Tel. +32 (0)3 232 01 03

Email: info@visitantwerpen.be


favourite art spots, Belgium_Visit Flanders

We’re not talking regular galleries!

Our favourite art spots in Belgium

Bartender pouring beer into a glass at De Koninck Brewery, Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp beer spots_Stillmation Photography | Visit Antwerpen

Stillmation Photography | Visit Antwerpen

You've probably never heard of them

Beer Spots In and Around Antwerp You’ve Probably Never Heard Of 

Door into the Chocolate Nation museum, Antwerp, Belgium

Unusual museums Belgium_Yasmina Besseghir_Visit Antwerpen

Get out during lockdown and see some unusual museums

Not-so-Ordinary Museums to Visit

Barren landscape of Kalmthoudse Heide, Antwerp, Belgium

Nature outside Antwerp_Ansgar Scheffold

Get some fresh air a short ride away from Antwerp.

Get your daily does of nature outside Antwerp

Bridge at Hobokense Polder, Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp Parks_Wout Vandaele_

Tired of your usual walk or jog in the park?

4 Not-so-mainstream Antwerp City Parks

All the outdoor photo spots you need to see.

Get a fresh take on Antwerp during lockdown

### Antwerp Neighbourhoods

Welcome to the city of fashion, the city of cool. Being the second-biggest city in Belgium, Antwerp is pretty well known. Whether you think of the famous Sheldt river along the city centre, the high fashion boutiques, or the production of diamonds, we promise there’s also so much more to this city. While the centre has its hype for a reason and has a ton of activities to get into, we think it’s worth venturing outwards and into the many Dutch neighbourhoods. Art, creativity, and culture thrive here, and we guarantee you can find something different and interesting no matter which way you head. So what are you waiting for?  

#### Berchem 

Berchem is just far enough out of the city to enjoy the peace and quiet, while also easily getting back into the excitement of city life if you want. Most well known for the hidden gem **PAKT** - it’s a trendy new quarter with Berlin vibes. It was an old brick, abandoned warehouse turned into a cultural hub for work spaces, greenhouses, restaurants, cafes, and breweries. This place is a must see when in Antwerp! In the area you’ll find several green parks, incredible local coffee shops like *Kornel*, and even the iconic **De Konnick Brewery**. 

#### Het Eilandje

Welcome to the “Little Island”! This neighbourhood is a great example of turning something old into a modern, artsy area. This is the docklands district north of the city centre, where you’ll find tons of brick warehouses, stone quays, and deep docks. However over the years it has transformed into one of the more cool and urban neighbourhoods of Antwerp. Iconic museums like the **MAS**, waterfront cafes and designer boutiques are all now home to Het Eilandje.

#### Borgerhout

If Van Gogh spent his time here, you should too! But seriously, Van Gogh lived in this neighbourhood for a few months, and it’s still a popular spot for young artists and writers. It may seem a little rough around the edges from the outside, but if you look closely you can fully appreciate the creative energy and artsy vibe. You can imagine with creative inhabitants, there’s some cool stuff around. *De Roma* is an old school cinema dating back to 1928, which is now a venue for theatre concerts. *Trix* is known as the venue for alternative acts, bringing in acts from all over the world. Plus if you head to *Krugerplein* you’re surely in for a good time - trendy deco bars make the perfect place for artists to chill. 

#### Het Zuid

Haven’t been to Paris? That’s okay, the people of Antwerp tend to refer to Het Zuid as the “Petit Paris” due to the wide avenues and nice townhouses. In this district you can find plenty of chic restaurants and bars, along with art galleries and museums. In fact, one of Antwerp’s most important art museums is here - **Museum of Modern Art**, which has a huge collection of both local and international artists. If photography is more of your thing, you can always check out the **Fotomuseum Antwerp (FOMU)** with frequently changing exhibits. Get some culture in you and then head to one of the hip bars or restaurants. 

#### Chinatown

It may be hard to argue that it’s a full neighbourhood - realistically, it’s just one vibrant street near Central Station. However, Chinatown is definitely worth a mention! The first thing you’ll notice is the giant, brightly coloured red pagoda archway that marks the entrance to the area. After that make your way down the 250-meter-long street to find a collection of delicious Asian eateries. Seriously, any food stop along the street is bound to leave you walking out full and happy. The front of the buildings may seem a bit unremarkable, but we’ve been told *Ting Kee Mie* and *Bai Wei* have some of the best Asian dishes in all of Antwerp! But don’t take our work for it, go try it out for yourself. 

#### Zurenborg

Arguably the most beautiful parts of Antwerp, the Zurenborg has a lot to offer. For one, it’s home to the infamous Cogels-Osylei street. If you’ve never heard of it, prepare to be amazed. This avenue is lined with breathtaking turn-of-the-century villas that are any architect lovers’ dream! Wander up and down the street and imagine which one you’d like to live in (we won’t judge). Aside from the fancy street, the locals love the lively *Draakplats*. You’ll find terrace bars and delicious restaurants to brighten up any evening. 

#### Sint-Andries

Sint-Andries used to be one of the poorest parts of the city - it’s even been referred to as the “Parish of Misery” in some history books. However, this district has taken a serious turn into becoming one of the most frequented shopping areas. That’s thanks to the *Kloosterstraat* - where all local shoppers go for anything needed. The street is lined with super hip and cool cafes, designer stores, and antique shops. It’s got a village feel to it, and every corner you turn is another charming little street. 

Flanders

Hi, I’m Atlas, your personal AI travel assistant. I can help you plan a trip, recommend destinations, recommend hotels, or answer any travel-related questions.