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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Antwerp: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Antwerp
- Antwerp, northern Belgium, Holidays draw diverse individuals, from partygoers to art connoisseurs.
- It is the world's leading diamond city and the epicentre of European cool.
- Seventy per cent of the world's diamonds are exchanged in Antwerp, which also has a booming fashion sector.
- The historic city centre harkens to Antwerp's great past, while the European powerhouse is the economic centre.
- The plethora of fashionable bars and stores reflects Antwerp's creative bustle from its young population of artists, authors, thinkers, and performers.
- Capital- Antwerp
- International Airport: Antwerp International Airport (ANR)
- Population- 1,047,613 (2021)
- Currency- Euro
- Time: Antwerp, Belgium (GMT+2)
- Driving side- Right side
- Main Electricity- 230 volts
- Official Language- Dutch
- Religion- Roman Catholic
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Antwerp
- On a walking tour of Antwerp, you might try typical Belgian cuisine like Moules-frites.
- In Brussels, have a guided tasting of Belgian brews.
- They can also arrange for you to take a sail around Bruges' canals.
- In Oosduinkerke, traditional shrimp fishers ride their horses into the sea.
- Enjoy the peace by joining a guided bike tour or city stroll with the best local guides in town.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Antwerp
- Antwerp, like other Belgian tourist sites, is best visited between May and September.
- The long, northern days and pleasant weather prefer late spring.
- Summer is also a fantastic season to visit Antwerp because the locals are on holiday in July and August.
- September and October are ideal months to visit because most tourists have left, and the weather is still pleasant.
- The weather in Flanders is notoriously unpredictable, so dress accordingly.
- Rain is common, but it will most likely change if you wait for a little.
- It would help if you considered bringing an umbrella and sweather (or planning to buy them in Antwerp the first day it rains).
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Antwerp
Grote Markt
- The Grote Markt, or Market Square, is the hub of Antwerp's historic quarter.
- The Renaissance city hall dominates, with its lofty tower adorned with gilded coats of arms and three sculptures symbolising Prudence, Justice, and the Virgin Mary.
- May find a monument illustrating a narrative that tradition claims are the origin of Antwerp's name in front of the municipal hall.
- It depicts a warrior named Brabo holding a gigantic severed hand aloft, having turned the tables on the Scheldt River's toll-taking giant, who would cut off the hands of anyone who refused to pay and hurl them into the river.
- The Dutch phrase 'Antwerpen,' which means 'hand tossing,' became Antwerpen's Dutch name.
Cathedral of Our Lady
- The massive Cathedral of Our Lady is located just south of Grote Market.
- In 1521, work on the largest cathedral in the Low Countries was halted, and it was never completed.
- The Gothic sandstone church is notable for its unequal towers, initially supposed to be of equal height.
- According to Charles V, the solitary spire has a complex, delicate construction to keep it under glass.
- The cathedral is especially noted for its altarpieces painted by native son Peter Paul Rubens, whose triptychs The Raising of the Cross and Descent from the Cross were seized by Napoleon but later returned to the cathedral.
- The high altarpiece is a third painting, Assumption of the Virgin Mary, and there are various other artworks, including sculptures and stained glass, that embellish the soaring white interior.
Antwerpen-Centraal
- Although you would not think of a train station as a city highlight, Antwerpen-Centraal is recognised mainly as Europe's best example of railway design.
- You'll witness a variety of styles, including an Art Nouveau façade, Roman columns, and a modern steel-and-glass dome.
- The station's grey-stone and white-marble entry hall, built between 1895 and 1905, has enormous arches, iron-laced half-moon windows, and gilded decoration.
- The original structure immediately links to the vast, ornate latticed-steel dome that arcs over the railway platforms, where you may board trains to various European locations through one of the gates.
Rubenshuis
- The Rubenshuis or Rubens House, the former house of Belgian artist Peter Paul Rubens, has been turned into a museum where many of Rubens' paintings and other Belgian painters.
- Rubens, a merchant and an artist, bought the property in 1610 and subsequently enlarged the original ancient Flemish home, eventually adding many galleries in an Italianate style evocative of a palazzo.
- Turned the house into a museum in 1946, and his studio, gardens, and entrance may be as impressive as the artworks themselves.
Historical walking-and-tasting tour
- Like all of Belgium, Antwerp is recognised for its artisanal and local cuisine culture.
- We can organise a walking tour that will take you through the attractions of the historic neighbourhood while also allowing you to sample some of the city's most iconic cuisine.
- Your guide will teach about the history and culture of the area, and you will stop at many points to try Belgian specialities such as waffles, frites, chocolates, and charcuterie.
- You may also sample some local spirits, such as genever, a liquor produced with herbs, similar to gin.
Zuid District, Museum of Modern Art, fashion street
- After the demolition of the Antwerp Citadel in 1874, the southern, or Zuid, sector of Antwerp was rebuilt entirely.
- The majority of the buildings, including the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, were built in the late nineteenth century.
- Today, it's a hotspot for art galleries and designer retailers, with Art Nouveau structures lining large boulevards evocative of Paris.
- With its striking black-and-white-painted facade holding a free, permanent collection, the Museum of Contemporary Art also houses modern art collections.
- The Photo Museum of Antwerp, or FOMU, houses one of Europe's largest photo equipment collections and hosts temporary exhibits, including globally renowned photographers.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Antwerp Off the Beaten Track
Historic city centre
- It's usually vibrant and full of visitors and residents alike, with the grand cathedral and Grote Markt at its core and some of Antwerp's most famous landmarks such as the ancient stronghold Het Steen, city hall, and various museums.
- There is undoubtedly a plethora of modern luxury flats with the most excellent views in the city.
- Smaller accommodations may command a more significant price; flats are frequently older and may even be part of historic structures.
Het Eilandje
- Het Eilandje ("the small island"), once a forgotten Antwerp neighbourhood, is now one of the city's most popular destinations.
- It is the city's oldest port sector, located north of the centre.
- The area still has industrial, nautical architecture but modern accents, such as the angular, otherworldly Port House.
- Former warehouses have been converted into contemporary lofts and flats, making it perfect for young professionals or families wishing to reside in one of Antwerp's trendiest neighbourhoods.
- Its popularity may come at a cost; nonetheless, expect to pay for the luxury of residing in this well-known neighbourhood.
Het Zuid
- As the name implies, Het Zuid ("the South") is south of the city centre.
- Antwerp has a thriving art culture, with museums such as the FOMU Photography Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art all within walking distance of one another.
- The Lambermontmartre open-air art market is the ideal place to wander and examine one-of-a-kind artwork on Sundays.
- Aside from the art, Het Zuid has many restaurants and entertainment, making it more suitable for individuals who don't mind a little noise.
- Het Zuid also houses one of Antwerp's international schools, convenient for families with children.
Zurenborg
- Those in need of extra space may find Zurenborg, located southeast of the city centre, ideal.
- It is well-known for its spectacular architecture, including townhouses and towering mansions in various Art Nouveau styles.
- Its welcoming village-like ambience is ideal for families of all ages.
- Deurne is a densely populated neighbourhood of Antwerp.
- Fortunately, it is in the peaceful suburbs.
- These provide large rental houses with easy access to the city centre and various activities.
- Antwerp is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Keep the realtor's slogan in mind when looking for the best place to live in Antwerp for you.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Antwerp Culture and Traditions
- Antwerp offers a diverse selection of cultural activities.
- Our author discusses his favourite hobbies and finds exciting modern art shows in a city noted for its robust art scene.
- As we near the end of our voyage through Antwerp's creative centre, they've studied its graphic design culture, scanned the landscape of its independent art scene, and gazed into the future with its tech and innovation pioneers.
- As we approach the city's subcultures, it becomes evident that creative cross-pollination is essential to Antwerp's distinct concern with culture and innovation.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Antwerp: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Carbonade alla Fiamminga
#Food
- It is a typical dish served during the winter months.
- Each family and restaurant has their version, but it's generally a beef dish sliced into tiny pieces and cooked with care with Belgian beer and seasonings.
- Wild boar was employed in the past, but now the more sensitive cattle sections, such as the shoulder, rump, royal, and walnut, are chosen.
- Occasionally, mustard is added.
Moules et frites (Belgian-style mussels)
#Food
- Belgian mussels are the most famous national dish in the country.
- The combination of mussels and fries appears to have been around since 1875, and significant quantities of mussels have traditionally been consumed at festivals and fairs.
- The mussels must be cooked in butter before being combined with white wine (or white lager) and seasoned with onion, parsley, and celery.
Belgian soup
#Food
- Eating a hot soup on a chilly winter day is refreshing, but it also becomes a sensory experience.
- The Belgian soup is made with boiled sprouts, some of which are browned in butter and others blended with béchamel sauce.
- Finally, a cream is made, supplemented with previously browned sprouts before being served.
the Antwerp's Latin Quarte
#Fashion
- The Latin Quarter in Antwerp is a must-see for those who enjoy strolling among colourful markets.
- Saturdays are when both the Oriental and Birds markets are open.
- You'll find it all here, from rare antiques and pieces of art to authentic oriental sweets and spices.
- One of the best antique markets in town is the birds market. Collectors from all over the world pay a visit.
- Not all ancient marketplaces have such an extensive collection of delicate antique dishes, wine jewellery, and works of art. Another appealing aspect of the bazaar is that some antiques may be purchased for as little as one or two euros.
- Antwerp's antique market is a popular tourist attraction.
Chic diamond jewellery
#Fashion
- For many years, Antwerp's visiting card has been chic diamond jewellery, easily differentiated from other jewellery by the label 'Antwerp's Most Brilliant.'
- The Diamond District, adjacent to the central railway station, is where to go if you're looking for the most opulent jewellery.
- The most popular jewellery stores and workshops, where artistic jewellery is offered at the most affordable costs, are listed below.
- If you can't find what you're looking for, you can always order it.
- Many celebrities purchase jewellery in Antwerp's Diamond District, which will gratify fine jewellery connoisseurs.
Meir Shopping Street
#Fashion
- Meir, Antwerp's main retail strip, extends from near Antwerpen-Centraal station to the Cathedral of Our Lady in the historic centre.
- It's the place to go if you like fashion or want to spend the day shopping.
- There are hundreds of businesses to explore, high-end fashion retailers, posh boutiques, and flagship stores by Antwerp designers.
- May find more appealing businesses in the stunning and shimmering Stadsfeestzaal.
- Meir is one of the most expensive shopping destinations in the Benelux, with significant historic buildings and spectacular architecture bordering the pedestrian strip.
- Meir is highly bustling at virtually any time of day because of the abundance of cafés, restaurants, and fast-food shops available along the path.
Plantentuin
#Fun
- The Plantentuin, commonly known as the Botanic Gardens of Antwerp, is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city.
- The gardens were established in 1825 and now host over 2000 plant types.
- It's a tranquil spot to unwind after a day of touring Antwerp.
- There are many chairs to sit and relax on and plenty of grassy shaded room for a picnic.
- However, not everyone is outside; there is also a greenhouse with various cactus.
- When you come, most plants have nameplates next to them so that you can brush up on your plant knowledge.
- The Plantentuin is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free!
Antwerp City Park
#Fun
- Antwerp City Park is a beautiful area to relax and appreciate nature.
- This outdoor retreat is close to the city's main attractions, giving it an ideal pit-stop between city excursions.
- A lovely lake stands in the centre, where resident ducks and other bird species congregate.
- There are walking, running, and cycling pathways and lots of covered grassy areas to sit and relax or have a picnic.
- If you're searching for Antwerp attractions for children, they'll have lots of space to play.
- There's also playground equipment and a skate park.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Antwerp: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- The Antwerp Zoo is one of Europe's oldest and most well-known zoos.
- You and your parents will need at least a half-day to see and do everything!
- Penguins dwell in Vriesland in an icy enclosure; elephants and giraffes are as tall as the Egyptian temple where they stay, and hippopotamuses play in a pink mansion.
- The zoo is home to 950 distinct species and 5000 animals, which is more than all the sweets you'll ever consume in one spot!
- If you're searching for a nature zoo where you can see a wide range of species, from mammals to aquatic creatures, this is the place to go.
- View exotic flamingos, colourful fish, and giraffes all in one location.
- You may get many discounts when you go to the zoo, restaurants, and shopping.
- Allow your children to discover the beauty of wild creatures and broaden their knowledge in the best way possible.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Antwerp Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- Bierpassie Weekend (Beer Passion Weekend) is a Belgian beer celebration every June.
- The Groenplaats, a public plaza in the middle of the city, is home to roughly 40 brewers serving 150+ beers.
- This is a fantastic chance for beer enthusiasts to explore the diverse range of Belgian beer flavours.
- The celebration begins with live music, and an overall pleasant feeling permeates the air.
- Another well-known public space is the Grote Markt, surrounded by lovely ancient guildhalls.
- Take in the nice weather in Antwerp, Belgium, as you stroll around this bustling tourist destination.
- If you're interested in music history, don't miss the adjacent Vleeshuis.
- This musical instrument museum is situated in a historic guildhall from the 16th century.
- Discover Antwerp's artistic past and a one-of-a-kind collection of ancient instruments.
- Zomer van Antwerpen is an event that takes place in July and August.
- This is a bustling summer cultural extravaganza.
- It takes place in open-air spaces around Antwerp, including parks, public squares, gardens, and on the banks of the Scheldt River.
- Enjoy live theatre performances, comedic and artistic acts, and much more.
- Food booths and bars are set up to keep you fueled throughout the day.
- Bollekesfeest is a three-day yearly celebration held in mid-August.
- It is held in and around Grote Markt.
- It's a celebration of Antwerp's beer and cuisine culture, emphasising regional goods.
- Bolleke De Koninck, a beer made in Antwerp since 1833, inspired the festival's name.
- The celebrations are more modern in appearance and feel, with a more lively ambience.
- Many local musicians will perform during the three days.
- Jazz Middelheim is an annual jazz summer music event held in August.
- It draws jazz musicians and enthusiasts from all over the world.
- A comprehensive program of concerts is available for four days.
- December is a particularly festive month in Antwerp, and there is no better location to get into the Christmas mood than Grote Markt.
- This enormous public space is transformed into a fairytale-like Christmas market every year.
- Over 100 vendors sell stocking stuffers, Christmas decorations, festive food and beverages, and other items.
- The Winterfoor Funfair is a Christmas-themed family activity if you're visiting Antwerp with children.
- It has exciting rides, circus shows, and a plethora of delectable delights.
FAQs to Plan Your Best Antwerp Holiday
Places similar to Antwerp to visit
Places similar to Antwerp to visit
Places similar to Antwerp to visit