ABOUT ANTWERP
Why Antwerp
Antwerp – city on the Scheldt, city of Rubens, of diamonds, of fashion, a port city...
The sum of all these different aspects is what makes Antwerp into a real city: a vibrant, welcoming metropolis, which is also great fun and heart-warming, with green areas where you can relax and peaceful corners.
Antwerp is a veritable cultural capital, which prides itself on its impressive architecture and splendid art.
Moreover, Antwerp is a fashionista’s dream destination thanks to the stores of its world-renowned designers.
The cafes only serve the best beers and foodies can enjoy the most delicious traditional and multicultural cuisine in the city’s restaurants.
Antwerp: a pocket-sized metropolis which is sure to conquer anyone’s heart in no time at all.
CENTRAL STATION
As you arrive in Antwerp by train you will immediately notice that this is a bustling metropolis, a real melting-pot of cultures. Take a culinary trip around the world in the many restaurants ans delis around Antwerp's magnificent Central Station.
EILANDJE
Feel like escaping the bustling city centre ? Then head over to the Eilandje district. Originally this was the city’s port, but nowadays it has become a trendy neighborhood, which is rapidly developing. Many of the old warehouses around the marina in Willem Dock have been converted into trendy lofts, clubs and restaurants.
HISTORIC CENTRE
Grote Markt is the real heart of the city. Admire the beautiful town hall and the historic gabled facades of the buildings around the square as you enjoy a typical Antwerp “Bolleke” beer in one of the authentic restaurants and cafés. The imposing spire of the cathedral of Our Lady towers above cobbled medieval streets where you can shop for souvenirs. Above all, don’t forget to visit the Baroque Carolus Borromeuskerk in cosy Hendrik Conscienseplein.
MEIR
Meir is Antwerp’s most prestigious and busy pedestrian shopping street. Several large international chains have opened stores in the imposing eighteenth- and nineteenth century buildings. A visit of the Stadsfeestzaal shopping centre is highly recommended: the beautiful restored setting alone is worth checking out. Walk over the Wapper, the square of Meir, in front of the historic Rubens House, where you can enjoy a drink on one of the many terraces.
QUARTIER LATIN
Do you appreciate class and timeless elegance? Then Schuttershofstraat, the Horta centre and Hopland are an absolute must-see. Are you looking for something antiques and interior decoration? Then the neighbourhoud between Sint-Jorispoort, Mechelsesteenweg and Leopoldstraat is the perfect place for you. Discover a haven of peace and quit Antwerp’s botanical garden. If you like markets, then the exotic Saturday market in Theaterplein will tap in to all of you senses. And every Sunday you can stroll through the famous “vogelmarkt” in this square.
Zuid is where Antwerp’s cultural heart beats and the neighbourhood has three fabulous museums to underscore this point: M HKA (the Museum of Contemporary Art), FoMu (Photo Museum) and KMSKA (the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp).