Antwerp rose quickly from being an important trading hub by the 13th century, when Venetian merchants visiting were thrilled by its growing trade activity.
Fashion today reigns supreme here due to a pioneering group of designers from the 1980s that include Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester – these names have had global influence, spreading across continents and inspiring other designers globally.
Getting there
Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, provides a distinct experience to Amsterdam, Brussels and Bruges. Boasting a vibrant diamond trade industry as well as medieval roots, Antwerp offers iconic architecture as well as delicious dining and shopping opportunities that cater to everyone – chocolate enthusiasts, beer connoisseurs or art historians will find something new here!
Traveling by train from major cities is the easiest and cheapest way to Antwerp from anywhere else in Belgium. Both Thalys and regional Belgian trains make several daily runs from Amsterdam directly to Antwerp; ticket prices can be very affordable if purchased early enough.
Once in Antwerp, there are various ways of exploring its city center. Walking, renting a bike or taking one of the trams are all great options; for a longer exploration experience it might be wise to purchase the Antwerp Card which comes equipped with maps and vouchers offering discounts to museums, attractions and activities – it will cost 28 euros for 48-hour pass and allow access to all main sights such as three monumental churches, six museums and the house of Flemish artist Rubens!
If driving is your choice, the R1 Ring Expressway links directly with Brussels and Amsterdam. Traffic laws in Belgium follow those found in the Netherlands: drivers occupying right lane positions must meet minimum driving age of 18 years before being permitted on motorways/dual carriageways of 120kph (75mph) with speed limits set at 50kph (31mph) on built up areas unless otherwise indicated.
Taxis can also be arranged from either your hotel or airport, with passengers having the option to purchase a 10-ride card (Lijnkaart) to cut travel costs and save.
Visitors to Antwerp have plenty of things to do during the day: explore its historic center or browse designer boutiques offering designer goods. Upscale stores such as those offering luxurious leather products also abound; not to mention Antwerp’s diamond district where visitors can gain insight into how diamonds are cut – plus medieval square and Antwerp Central Station known as “iron cathedral” due to its neo-baroque facades are worth checking out as well.
Things to do
Antwerp may look like it hails straight out of Old Flanders with its gabled guildhalls and gothic cathedral, but taking one glance down towards its glistening port or up towards the city museum roof makes its modern side clear.
Antwerp is filled with fascinating attractions, from an unparalleled underground canal system reminiscent of Venice or Bruges to the Zaha Hadid-designed hotel that stands out as something truly exceptional. There’s something exciting for everyone in Antwerp from trendy bars and restaurants to world-class museums; everyone will find something worth doing here.
Are you an art enthusiast? Make sure not to miss a visit to Rubens House Museum (Rubenshuis), home of Peter Paul Rubens of Flemish mastery. UNESCO has designated this house a World Heritage Site – definitely worth taking the tour.
Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA) offers another great way to see incredible art: its massive cathedral-like building houses an incredible collection of European masterpieces by famous painters like Rubens and Van Dyck; both exterior and interior are equally captivating; the building even hosts one of Comic Murals route’s stops for finding surprising murals!
The Maritime Museum (Museum aan de Stroom) in Antwerp offers visitors an experience like no other with its array of exhibitions that showcase Antwerp’s maritime history and global connections. One stand-out feature of the museum is its rooftop where visitors can take in an exquisite view of cityscape and river.
Antwerp makes getting around easy thanks to an exceptional public transportation system that is both cost-effective and dependable. Velo Antwerp, with over 300 stations and 3500 bicycles for rent, provides another easy option. Car-sharing services like Cambio or Poppy make driving convenient by offering car rentals after a quick driver license check.
If you plan on staying for several days, purchasing a city card could save both time and money by providing discounts at most museums and attractions. Tourist information centers or hotels will usually offer the card.
Restaurants
Chefs in Barcelona are quickly making their mark. From Michelin-star fine dining to trendy neo-bistro concepts, there’s something for everyone here in this compact European gem.
Chef Nicolas Misera made waves in Antwerp when he launched Umami gastronomic a la carte restaurant, delighting all senses with its refined presentation and sensational selection of flavors that delight. Coupled with attentive service and atmospheric ambience, Umami remains an indispensable destination for culinary enthusiasts.
Bourla restaurant stands as an unrivaled gem within historic Graanmarkt. Offering exquisite homemade cuisine that ranges from sushi and tapas to pasta and hearty meaty entrees, its inviting atmosphere oozes with both oriental and cosmopolitan influences, making this an inviting dining spot suitable for all types of diners.
Arte is another must-visit restaurant, serving Italian classics with an innovative flair in an inviting ambiance and seasonal menu. Perfect for romantic or celebratory dinners.
Kommilfoo in the heart of Amsterdam offers delicious cuisine and an impressive wine selection, perfect for every type of palate. Their expert staff can assist in finding a bottle that perfectly satisfies you.
Visit The Jane for an unforgettable dining experience – it boasts two Michelin stars! This elegant space features stunning chandeliers, neon skulls and religious symbols from its chapel past; in the kitchen a team of skilled chefs deliver a range of creatively prepared dishes. If you want a greater challenge, opt for their tasting menu option to fully experience their incredible gastronomy skills; plus they have great wine choices at very reasonable prices too!
Shopping
Antwerp offers an abundance of unique boutiques and concept stores offering fashion conscious, timeless, and eco-friendly shopping. Discover these exceptional shops on your next trip and keep this list handy when visiting Antwerp.
Dries Van Noten’s first physical store can be found in the heart of Amsterdam on Meir boulevard – an elegant traffic-free boulevard boasting stately rococo buildings – so make time for a visit here and peruse his collections and admire its stunning architecture!
Groenplaats (Groenplaats) is an internationally recognized UNESCO World Heritage site and more than just your average city park; it serves as an urban marketplace, hosting shops, bars and restaurants which create a dynamic meeting point for both locals and visitors alike.
Fish & Chips and Anne Zellien provide plenty of high end brands and designer clothing stores, perfect for an extensive shopping adventure. You’ll even find unique streetwear pieces at Fish & Chips!
Kammenstraat, situated near Groenplaats, is an esteemed shopping street filled with boutiques and stores offering the latest trends. Shoppers will find brands from established designers like Ann Demeulemeester and Martin Margiela to new talent like Lazy Oaf.
Addict Store is an essential destination for conscientious shoppers, offering a vast selection of sustainable brands such as ARMEDANGELS jeans and clothing by People Tree, Dedicated, Jan ‘n June and more. Plus there is a fantastic range of natural and organic care products from Cime and Ray!
Sports enthusiasts will want to visit Addict Sports Store. Offering an impressive range of sustainably-minded brands such as RectoVerso, Brooks and Pierre Sports; whether it be running triathlons or just beginning sports altogether they have equipment tailored specifically for your personal style and needs as well as providing personalized advice.