Antwerp

Why go to Antwerp?

Get ready for a diamond-grade experience in the diamond capital of the world. Antwerp is the second biggest city in Belgium and known for its fashion scene. The city is always changing and growing as it always has since its golden days as the biggest port city in Europe. The city itself is packed full of cultural things to see, a big shopping scene and local beers to drink. Find hidden gems and nature just outside the big city.

What you need to know about Antwerp

What makes Antwerp so awesome to visit? Here’s the basics of what you need to know before you go. A bit of context to help you plan your trip.

Diamonds

Diamonds are Antwerp’s best friend. No, really. Antwerp has been THE port city of diamond trade ever since WWII. Over 80% of the entire world’s diamonds from mining end up in Antwerp. Explore Antwerp’s proud diamond history in the Diamond Quarter. Or head over to the Havenhuis to see Antwerp’s famous diamond-like symbol. You’ll see traces of Antwerp’s diamonds wherever you go.

Culture & art

Classics. The modern. Everything in between. Antwerp has a rich art history. Pop into Antwerp’s art museums and churches to see art by Peter Paul Rubens. Go on a walk around the city to quickly discover street art, sculptures on every street and stunning Art Deco buildings on Cogels-Osylei. Getting your cultural fix has never been easier in Antwerp.

Fashion

Shop ‘til you drop. Nationalestraat, Kammenstraat or Kloosterstraat is where you want to be for Antwerp's true shopping trendsetters. The surrounding streets have tons of boutiques and fashion shops too. This fashion district was also home to the Antwerp Six. Ever heard of the Antwerp Six? Fashion lovers can discover the path of the 80s fashion designers at MoMu, the city’s fashion museum.

When to go

Antwerp is a pretty well known city. It gets busy during the tourist season. Antwerp has a well-known Christmas market that’s worth a visit if you’re planning a trip in winter!

Antwerp is a major city with good connections. Get the train to Antwerp Central Station. Whether you’re coming from outside Europe or coming in for a day trip from Brussels, Antwerp is an easy city to get to.

Getting There

Getting Around

Public transport is your best friend in Antwerp! There’s a bus and tram system to help you get around. You can get around in the car but there’s a few things to keep in mind.

Tourist office

Visit Antwerpen

Address: Grote Markt 13, 2000 Antwerp, Central Station, Koningin Astridplein, 2018 Antwerp

Website: https://www.visitantwerpen.be

Tel. +32 (0)3 232 01 03

Email: [email protected]

Antwerp Neighbourhoods

Welcome to the city of fashion, the city of cool. Being the second-biggest city in Belgium, Antwerp is pretty well known. Whether you think of the famous Sheldt river along the city centre, the high fashion boutiques, or the production of diamonds, we promise there’s also so much more to this city. While the centre has its hype for a reason and has a ton of activities to get into, we think it’s worth venturing outwards and into the many Dutch neighbourhoods. Art, creativity, and culture thrive here, and we guarantee you can find something different and interesting no matter which way you head. So what are you waiting for?

Berchem

Berchem is just far enough out of the city to enjoy the peace and quiet, while also easily getting back into the excitement of city life if you want. Most well known for the hidden gem PAKT - it’s a trendy new quarter with Berlin vibes. It was an old brick, abandoned warehouse turned into a cultural hub for work spaces, greenhouses, restaurants, cafes, and breweries. This place is a must see when in Antwerp! In the area you’ll find several green parks, incredible local coffee shops like Kornel, and even the iconic De Konnick Brewery.

Het Eilandje

Welcome to the “Little Island”! This neighbourhood is a great example of turning something old into a modern, artsy area. This is the docklands district north of the city centre, where you’ll find tons of brick warehouses, stone quays, and deep docks. However over the years it has transformed into one of the more cool and urban neighbourhoods of Antwerp. Iconic museums like the MAS, waterfront cafes and designer boutiques are all now home to Het Eilandje.

Borgerhout

If Van Gogh spent his time here, you should too! But seriously, Van Gogh lived in this neighbourhood for a few months, and it’s still a popular spot for young artists and writers. It may seem a little rough around the edges from the outside, but if you look closely you can fully appreciate the creative energy and artsy vibe. You can imagine with creative inhabitants, there’s some cool stuff around. De Roma is an old school cinema dating back to 1928, which is now a venue for theatre concerts. Trix is known as the venue for alternative acts, bringing in acts from all over the world. Plus if you head to Krugerplein you’re surely in for a good time - trendy deco bars make the perfect place for artists to chill.

Het Zuid

Haven’t been to Paris? That’s okay, the people of Antwerp tend to refer to Het Zuid as the “Petit Paris” due to the wide avenues and nice townhouses. In this district you can find plenty of chic restaurants and bars, along with art galleries and museums. In fact, one of Antwerp’s most important art museums is here - Museum of Modern Art, which has a huge collection of both local and international artists. If photography is more of your thing, you can always check out the Fotomuseum Antwerp (FOMU) with frequently changing exhibits. Get some culture in you and then head to one of the hip bars or restaurants.

Chinatown

It may be hard to argue that it’s a full neighbourhood - realistically, it’s just one vibrant street near Central Station. However, Chinatown is definitely worth a mention! The first thing you’ll notice is the giant, brightly coloured red pagoda archway that marks the entrance to the area. After that make your way down the 250-meter-long street to find a collection of delicious Asian eateries. Seriously, any food stop along the street is bound to leave you walking out full and happy. The front of the buildings may seem a bit unremarkable, but we’ve been told Ting Kee Mie and Bai Wei have some of the best Asian dishes in all of Antwerp! But don’t take our work for it, go try it out for yourself.

Zurenborg

Arguably the most beautiful parts of Antwerp, the Zurenborg has a lot to offer. For one, it’s home to the infamous Cogels-Osylei street. If you’ve never heard of it, prepare to be amazed. This avenue is lined with breathtaking turn-of-the-century villas that are any architect lovers’ dream! Wander up and down the street and imagine which one you’d like to live in (we won’t judge). Aside from the fancy street, the locals love the lively Draakplats. You’ll find terrace bars and delicious restaurants to brighten up any evening.

Sint-Andries

Sint-Andries used to be one of the poorest parts of the city - it’s even been referred to as the “Parish of Misery” in some history books. However, this district has taken a serious turn into becoming one of the most frequented shopping areas. That’s thanks to the Kloosterstraat - where all local shoppers go for anything needed. The street is lined with super hip and cool cafes, designer stores, and antique shops. It’s got a village feel to it, and every corner you turn is another charming little street.