A major port city with Gothic architecture and artistic heritage. Home to Rubenshuis and a vibrant food scene. Known for diamonds and Flemish culture.
Antwerp, Belgium's second-largest city, attracts visitors with its centuries-old landmarks and modern developments. You can climb the 123-meter spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady or tour the glass-clad Port House. Art lovers can view works by Flemish masters at KMSKA and the Rubens House. The city's fashion scene thrives with boutiques along Nationalestraat. Antwerp's busy port, diamond trade, and varied restaurants add to the city's energy, making it an interesting destination for travelers.
Exploring Antwerp's Artistic Legacy
Antwerp has been a center for art and creativity for centuries. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) reopened in 2022 after renovation, displaying a collection of Flemish masters and contemporary works. You can see paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck, and other artists in this 19th-century building. For a closer look at Rubens' life, visit the Rubens House, where the Baroque painter lived and worked. The museum shows some of his paintings alongside furniture from his time.
Architectural Marvels Old and New
Antwerp's skyline includes buildings from different eras. The Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady stands tall in the old town, its 123-meter spire visible across the city. Inside, you'll find Rubens' altarpieces and detailed stone carvings. In contrast, the modern Port House designed by Zaha Hadid Architects represents Antwerp's maritime industry. This glass structure sits on top of a former fire station. You can take tours to learn about the building's eco-friendly design and the port's importance to the city.
Fashion Forward: Shopping in Antwerp
Since the 1980s, when the Antwerp Six designers gained fame, the city has become known for innovative fashion. The Modenatie building contains both the Fashion Museum (MoMu) and the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, where many Belgian designers studied. For shopping, walk along Nationalestraat and nearby streets in the Fashion District. You'll see high-end boutiques, vintage shops, and concept stores. Check out the stores of local designers like Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester.
Culinary Delights and Local Specialties
Antwerp's restaurants serve a range of dishes. You can try traditional Belgian meals like stoofvlees (beef stew) and moules-frites (mussels and fries), or taste new culinary creations. In the Het Eilandje area, you'll find restaurants with views of the water. The Grote Markt has many cafes to explore. For dessert, try Antwerp's local treat, Antwerpse handjes – chocolate hands that represent city folklore. Beer fans can taste different Belgian brews at long-standing pubs like Paters Vaetje near the cathedral.
Navigating the Diamond District
Antwerp has been a global center for diamond trading since the 15th century. Today, the Diamond District, next to Central Station, handles about 84% of the world's rough diamonds. While most businesses here serve the trade, you can visit the DIVA museum to learn about diamonds' history and science. The museum has hands-on exhibits about diamond cutting and displays notable jewelry. If you want to buy diamonds, make sure to purchase only from certified dealers with good reputations.
Green Spaces and Urban Oases
Antwerp has several parks where you can relax. The Stadspark, the city's oldest public park, has curving paths, a lake, and benches where you can sit and watch people pass by. For more nature, go to the Rivierenhof on the city's outskirts. This large park has an arboretum, sports facilities, and a small castle. In summer, you can attend open-air concerts and events in many of Antwerp's parks, giving you a chance to unwind after exploring the city.
