Grote Markt

Antwerp's main square surrounded by Renaissance guild houses with ornate facades that showcase the city's merchant wealth and architectural pride. The square remains the vibrant heart of the old city and the best place to experience its street life and civic identity.

Things to do

• Admire the Guild Houses — Walk around the square to appreciate the intricately decorated Renaissance facades of the merchant guild houses, each reflecting the wealth and pride of Antwerp's trading guilds.
• Visit Antwerp City Hall — Tour the stunning Flamboyant Gothic town hall in the center of the square, which features a richly decorated interior and offers views from its tower.
• Climb the Brabo Fountain — Explore the iconic bronze statue in the center of the square depicting the legendary Brabo throwing a giant's hand into the Scheldt River, the origin story of Antwerp's name.
• Browse Market Stalls — Visit the weekly flower and produce markets held on the square, where local vendors sell fresh goods and seasonal flowers.
• Explore Surrounding Medieval Streets — Wander into the narrow cobblestone streets radiating from the square to discover hidden courtyards, vintage shops, and smaller architectural gems.
• People-Watch from a Café Terrace — Sit at one of the outdoor cafés lining the square to observe street performers, locals, and tourists while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Food to try

• Paling in 't Groen — Savor Antwerp's signature dish of smoked eel stewed with green herbs and served with crusty bread, a traditional preparation dating back centuries.
• Belgian Waffles — Enjoy the famous Antwerp-style waffles from street vendors around the square, served warm with powdered sugar, chocolate, or fruit toppings.
• Shrimp Croquettes — Try these golden-fried Belgian croquettes filled with fresh North Sea shrimp and served as a popular snack from local food stalls.
• Antwerp Hands Pastries — Sample the hand-shaped almond pastries called 'Antwerp Hands' (Antwerpsehanden), a local specialty referencing the city's famous Brabo legend.
• Mussels and Fries — Order a steaming pot of Belgian mussels paired with crispy Belgian-style fries and a cold local beer at a traditional square café.

Local customs & good to know

• Best Time to Visit — Visit early morning or early evening to experience the square at its most atmospheric, when the guild house facades are beautifully lit and crowds are smaller.
• Respect Photography Etiquette — Ask permission before photographing street performers and locals, as this is considered polite in Belgian culture.
• Embrace Café Culture — Belgians linger at cafés for hours over coffee or beer; sitting down is the proper way to experience the square rather than standing or rushing through.
• Learn the Brabo Legend — Understanding the local legend of giant Druon Antigoon and Brabo's hand-throwing deed enriches appreciation of the square's central monument and civic identity.

Nearby

• Sint-Carolus Borromeus Church — 0 km
• Cathedral of Our Lady — 0 km
• Antwerp (North Flanders) — 0 km
• Antwerp City Centre — 0 km