Diamond District

Diamantdistrict

The world's largest diamond trading hub, where over 80% of global rough diamonds and 50% of polished diamonds are traded, concentrated in a compact area of dealers and exchanges. Visitors can observe the craftsmanship of cutting and polishing, and understand Antwerp's centuries-long connection to this precious industry.

Things to do

• Visit the Diamond Museum Antwerp — Explore the history of Antwerp's diamond trade, learn cutting techniques, and view rare stones in this museum located at the edge of the district.
• Walk Hoveniersstraat and Pelikaanstraat — Stroll through the heart of the Diamond District where street-level storefronts display diamonds and you can observe dealers negotiating trades through windows.
• Tour a Diamond Cutting Workshop — Several workshops in the district offer guided visits where you can watch master craftsmen cut and polish diamonds using traditional and modern techniques.
• Browse the Antwerp Diamond Exchange — Visit this historic exchange building where licensed dealers conduct business; some areas may allow visitors to observe the trading floor activity.
• Explore Jewish Heritage Sites — The Diamond District has deep roots in the Antwerp Jewish community; visit nearby synagogues and cultural centers that shaped the industry's development.
• Shop for Certified Diamonds — Browse boutiques and certified dealers throughout the district where you can purchase loose diamonds and jewelry with proper certification documentation.

Food to try

• Belgian Waffles (Liège Waffles) — Sample warm, crispy waffles topped with powdered sugar or chocolate at one of the small cafés near Hoveniersstraat, a classic Antwerp street food.
• Kosher Jewish Food — Eat at kosher restaurants and bakeries throughout the district reflecting the area's significant Jewish diamond merchant community, such as challah bread and matzo-based dishes.
• Flemish Beef Stew (Carbonnade) — Enjoy this local comfort dish of braised beef in dark beer at traditional Belgian restaurants within walking distance of the Diamond District.
• Diamond-Shaped Chocolate Pralines — Buy specialty Belgian chocolates shaped and decorated like diamonds from local confectioners as a thematic souvenir of your visit.
• Fresh Seafood from Antwerp Port — Sample mussels, oysters, and fish at nearby restaurants that source daily catches from Antwerp's working harbor, just minutes away.

Local customs & good to know

• Observe Strict Security and Privacy — The Diamond District maintains tight security and dealers are discreet; do not photograph people or interiors of exchanges without explicit permission, and expect security checks at some buildings.
• Learn Basic Diamond Terminology — Familiarize yourself with the four Cs (Carat, Cut, Color, Clarity) and terms like 'polished' versus 'rough' to better understand conversations and signage throughout the district.
• Respect Trading Hours and Customs — Most dealers work Monday through Friday during standard business hours; some close early on Fridays for the Jewish Sabbath, so plan visits accordingly.
• Understand the Hassidic Diamond Merchant Tradition — Much of the district's diamond trade is conducted by Hassidic Jewish merchants whose traditions and dress are visible in the area; be respectful and culturally aware when photographing or engaging.

Nearby

• Museum Mayer van den Bergh — 0 km
• Cathedral of Our Lady — 0 km
• Sint-Carolus Borromeus Church — 0 km
• Grote Markt — 0 km