Antwerp

Antwerpen

Belgium's second-largest city and a major European port with a stunning medieval old town, world-class diamond district, and vibrant contemporary art scene. Home to masterworks by Rubens, innovative fashion designers, and cutting-edge museums that make it essential for any Flemish visit.

Things to do

• Rubens House (Rubenshuis) — Tour the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, filled with his paintings, furniture, and personal art collection in a beautifully preserved 17th-century mansion.
• Diamond District (Diamantbuurt) — Explore the historic quarter where Antwerp handles 80% of the world's rough diamonds, with family-run shops, museums, and the diamond bourse.
• Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) — Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Gothic cathedral housing masterpieces by Rubens and featuring a 123-meter spire dominating the skyline.
• MoHA (Museum of Contemporary Art) — Discover cutting-edge contemporary art and installations in a renovated 19th-century warehouse in the hip South district.
• Great Butchers' Hall (Vleeshuis) — Admire the distinctive brick Renaissance building that now houses the Museum of Craftsmanship, with collections of musical instruments, armor, and decorative arts.
• Meir Shopping Street — Walk Antwerp's premier pedestrian boulevard lined with international boutiques, Belgian fashion designers, and flagship stores.
• Graffiti Street (Werregarenstraatje) — Stroll through this narrow alley transformed into an open-air gallery showcasing street art and murals reflecting Antwerp's creative culture.

Food to try

• Stoemp — A traditional Flemish comfort dish of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, typically served with sausage or bacon.
• Waterzooi — A creamy Antwerp stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and white wine that dates back centuries in Flemish cuisine.
• Belgian Waffles (Antwerpse Wafels) — Light, crispy waffles dusted with pearl sugar, sold fresh at street vendors and local cafés throughout the city center.
• Paling in 't Groen — Poached eel in a rich green herb sauce made with sorrel, parsley, and sage—a specialty in traditional Antwerp restaurants.
• Croquettes (Kroket) — Deep-fried battered cylinders filled with creamy ragout or cheese, served as a snack or appetizer at bars and street stalls.
• Belgian Beer Culture — Experience world-class Trappist and abbey beers at authentic bruin cafés (brown cafés) that serve as social hubs throughout Antwerp's neighborhoods.

Local customs & good to know

• Learn basic Dutch phrases — While English is widely spoken, locals appreciate effort with greetings like 'Hallo' and 'Dank je wel'—Dutch is the official language of Flanders.
• Respect fashion pride — Antwerp is a global fashion capital home to the Royal Academy's avant-garde designers, so the city values creative and stylish self-expression.
• Embrace café culture — Belgians linger long over coffee or beer in cafés—sit, order, and take your time; rushing is considered rude in social spaces.
• Visit museums on free hours — Many museums offer free or discounted entry during evening hours (typically after 5 PM) or specific weekdays—check schedules in advance.

Nearby

• Antwerp City Centre (Antwerp) — 0 km
• Rubens House (Antwerp) — 0 km
• Grote Markt (Antwerp) — 0 km
• Sint-Carolus Borromeus Church (Antwerp) — 0 km