Things to do in Antwerp: Ultimate Guide to Its Best Attractions

Introduction

Antwerp is a vibrant urban area of Belgium characterised by its rich historical past, stunning structures, and cultural impact. For travellers who want to enjoy a trip here, there is a lot of things to do in Antwerp. If you love to indulge in history, art, or just (like me) love new places, I can assure you that you won't be disappointed as Antwerp is full of endless activities for all kinds of people.

If you want to get the full picture of any city, it is obviously necessary to examine its sights. It's exactly the same for Antwerp. The sights range from well known ones such as Antwerpen-Centraal and The Cathedral of Our Lady to less famous but captivating sites like Vlaeykensgang Alley.

Antwerp

In this guide, I will do my best to provide you with a detailed description of the best sights of Antwerp. Here’s what you will find:

• Iconic Landmarks: I'll reveal to you some of the most interesting architectural and historical sites Antwerp has to offer.
• Museums and Cultural Institutions: You will get information about art, history and many other things in some of the best-known museums.
• Outdoor Attractions: These places are best combined with activities for people of all ages and plenty of active relaxation.
• Markets and Local Culture: Take advantage of the lively market and get to know the local heritage.
• Culinary Delights: Sample Antwerp’s culinary diversity, ranging from refined cuisine to local dishes.
• Shopping and Fashion: Discover the busy shopping areas in Antwerp.
• Historic Sites: Look for the historical sites within the urban environment.

I hope you're ready, because prepare yourself for an amazing adventuring experience in one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium (with Brussels and Bruges of course). Join me in the search for things to do in Antwerp!.

(Here's the official tourism website for Antwerp if you need more than what I will provide in this blog post)

1. What To See in Antwerp: Notable Places Sights

Antwerpen-Centraal

For some people, Antwerp-Central station is the most beautiful railway station ever built. I can't say whether I'm one of these people, but nobody can deny that it is a piece of architectural art. To understand what I mean by that, try to visualize a place with Neo-classical, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architectural designs standing side by side. The sophisticated decor of the enormous, ornate dome in the central hall is a real eye-catcher. This station is more than just a center of the station, it comes with it own sharing experience. It is like walking from one epoch to another while enjoying different styles of architectural design.

Antwerpen Centraal, first thing to do in Antwerp.

Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady, which is well known for its historical architectures, is recorded as the tallest Gothic structure in the Low Countries! Its spire is an obvious feature in the skyline of Antwerp as it shoots upwards like no other. This cathedral has within it masterpieces works of the legendary Peter Paul Rubens. If you are a lover of art, you will be delighted to see exquisite works such as The Descent from the Cross and The Elevation of the Cross on the sacred walls.

Cathedral of Our Lady

Grote Markt

Although a bit less well known, this is still one of my favourite things to do in Antwerp. When you enter the Grote Markt, you are transported into the past. This ancient square is lined with beautiful houses built in the 16th centuries, which are the beginning of an interesting story of the City of Antwerp. There is also the City Hall, which is decorated with classical Renaissance-style flags on one side. In the middle you will encounter the Brabo Fountain, a beautiful fountain that explains the etymology of the city. Legend has it that Brabo was a giant Slayer who defeated a giant that tortured the inhabitants of the city, and threw his hand into the river. This is now a story immortalised in bronze.

From my point of view, it is possible to characterise all the landmarks as pillars of history, art and architecture of the city of Antwerp.

2. Museums and Cultural Institutions

If you are an art enthusiast or a history buff going to Antwerp, I can assure you that you will not be disappointed, as there are museums of various styles and ages all around. There is no way I can write this list of "what to do in Antwerp" without including at least one of them.

Rubens House (Rubenshuis)

First, you have the home of the famous Flemish painter, Peter Paul Rubens, which is known as the Rubens House, or Rubenshuis. In this museum, the different aspects of his life and his work are elucidated. There is a room where the visitors can see some of the paintings of Rubens himself and other famous artists from the same period. The property is also magnificent for its blend of Italian Renaissance and Flemish architecture, with pretty gardens which are quite nice for a pleasant stroll. And the building itself is extraordinary too! For you information, it was undergoing renovation until August 2024, so there's no reason why it shouldn't be on your radar now.

Museum Plantin-Moretus

Secondly, Museum Plantin-Moretus is worth the visit if printing history fascinates you at all. A part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this one is quite foundational on the history of printing in the sixteenth century. It was once the building that sheltered the plantin morretus printing press, one of the oldest, and is still intact! Within its walls, you can find equipment used for typesetting as well as old books and even the personal collection of Christofel Plantin (a great printer and publisher of the French Renaissance who, as you may have guessed from his name, founded this printing house).

MAS - Museum aan de Stroom

Another highlight is MAS – Museum aan de Strom. It is located near the riverfront and offers exhibitions covering all aspects of Antwerp's maritime history and its multicultural fabric. The architecture of the building is amazing especially with its red sandstone columns and glass panels (Just look at the image below to understand how impressive it is). Don’t miss the panoramic views from the rooftop: they are the nicest roofs worth using for taking photographs of Antwerp’s wide views.

These museums complement and help the people of Antwerp (and you) to understand their rich heritage in most aspects of culture, while offering many different options designed to meet the needs of different visitors.

Museum aan de Stroom, an absolute gem to do in Antwerp.

3. Outdoor Attractions and Scenic Spots

Sint-Annatunnel

Enjoying a stroll across the Sint-Annatunnel creates an atmosphere of nostalgia. Opened in the 1930s, the tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists spans across the River Scheldt in this city of Antwerp. The wooden escalators, which are still preserved, add a nice touch from the past. For your information, this tunnel is 572 metres long, allowing you to enjoy some "refreshing air" beneath the bustling city.

Sint-Annatunnel

River Scheldt

The River Scheldt has a significance far beyond being simply a river. It is the main artery of Antwerp. For anyone coming for a visit, the river cruise is something that shouldn't be omitted from the list of things to do in Antwerp (and that's why it's on mine). These tours allow a close-up look at the city's vast port where giant container vessels and graceful cruise ships are docked. The waterfront is also lined with some charming cafes and restaurants, which I think is perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal while watching the world go by.

Antwerp Zoo

The Antwerp Zoo is one of the oldest zoological parks and was founded in 1843. It attracts a huge number of visitors, and is located close to the Central Station. In addition to the animals, the zoo has many beautiful gardens. There are many wonderful collection of informative displays and exhibitions in historical buildings of the zoo and so it is almost like a living museum. There are residents of different types, like elephants, penguins, and a lot of other wild animals. Some children (and adult-sized children) might be eager to learn thanks to special shows and activities aimed at protecting nature.

From my point of view, exploring these outdoor attractions not only provides a breath of fresh air but also immerses you in Antwerp's rich history and vibrant culture. So it's a perfect reason to be in this list of things to do in Antwerp.

4. Markets and Local Culture in Antwerp

Explore the Vibrant Market Scene

Antwerp's markets are a veritable goldmine for those who love shopping, browsing and finding interesting objects. One of the well-known places is Kloosterstraat, which has a number of artisan shops and antique shops. Here, you are likely to find not only vintage furniture, but also many quirky items in a wide and interesting collection. It is a nice place to get an unusual gift or take a peaceful walk around its collection of shops.

Experience the Friday Market & Sint-Jansvliet Flea Market

If you don’t know what to do in Antwerp on a Friday, the Friday Market is your answer. This market is situated at Vrijdagmarkt and it is well-known for its vivacity and variety of items. From fresh foods to handcrafts, everything is available. The market opens at the beginning of the day, making it the ideal activity for an early morning.

Another one for those who love a good bargain hunt is the Sint-Jansvliet Flea Market. This is held every Sunday and is a flea market selling second-hand goods. In other words, whether you are in the market for clothes, record albums or books, I'm sure you'll find what you're looking for.

Immerse Yourself in Cultural Events

Antwerp's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various events and festivals throughout the year. These occasions allow guests to experience the local cultures and their celebrations. For instance, I really think that you will like:

• Antwerp Pride: A vibrant celebration of diversity that takes place every August.
• Bollekesfeest: Again in August, this beer event introduces local beer and Belgian food.
• Winter in Antwerp: This winter festival features Christmas markets, ice rinks and lots of festive lights around the city.

These events not only highlight Antwerp's cultural diversity, but is also a chance of getting to know the locals more deeply, letting you experience more of the active life of the city.

With so many markets and cultural events, you can see that Antwerp offers endless opportunities to explore and enjoy its rich heritage. Whether you're shopping for antiques on Kloosterstraat or soaking up the festive atmosphere at one of the city's many events, there's always something new for you to discover.

5. Gastronomical Treasures of Antwerp

My to-do list for Antwerp would not be complete without talking about Antwerp's gastronomy. This city offers flavours for every taste, from street food to fine dining, its various culinary options are matching the wide diversity in cultural heritage. Here, Belgian cuisine makes the headlines, a cuisine known for being heavy and full of flavour.

Discover Michelin-Starred Restaurants

Those who are looking for a good meal will not be disappointed as there is a huge number of Michelin star restaurants in Antwerp. I recommend you to go to:

• The Jane: Once a church turned restaurant, The Jane surpasses the usual restaurant experience. This is certainly one of the finest restaurants in the world with its chef Nick Bril creating works of art on each and every plate.
• Zilte: This restaurant is found on the highest parts of the MAS building and also serves some of the most astonishing sights that I've ever seen, combined with a delightful menu. Chef Viki Geunes' dishes focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques.

Local Favourites You Can't Miss

I really believe that fine dining is an experience in itself. However, a trip to Antwerp will not be completed if some local favourites have not been tried:

• Frites Atelier: Belgian fries are no longer an ordinary product, thanks to Frites Atelier. Predominantly created by a Michelin Star chef Sergio Herman, This restaurant offers hot fries with different sauces and toppings, and I have to say that every bite is absolutely delicious.
• De Peerdestal: In a warm atmosphere, it offers a range of typically Belgian dishes – stoofvlees, moules-frites and much more.

Street Food and Beyond

When in Antwerp, it is also worth exploring the food culture beyond the restaurants. It can be found around the markets and street corners where food vendors offer some great snacks such as for example:

• Vlaeykensgang Alley: This stunning alley does not only take you back to the medieval days of Antwerp but also has some secret places where you can eat and enjoy local delicacies.

The gastronomy of Antwerp is proof of the great food diversity of the place. Is your palate already awakened by these few paragraphs?

6. Shopping and Fashion Scene in Antwerp

Diamond District Shopping Experience

No other city comes anywhere close to beating Antwerp for diamonds. The Diamond District is meant for the hustle of sale-purchase of diamonds and shops selling jewelry. Located right by the Central Station, over 1500 companies of diamonds are settled! There are beautiful things starting from old fashioned and many other modern ones. Some highlights that you may find useful:

• Hoveniersstraat: The Diamond District’s central place for witnessing diamond cutters busy in their daily work.
• DiamondLand: This place offers guided tours that brings to all visitors of diamonds the knowledge of how rough stones are cut and polished into valuable gems.

Meir Shopping District

Meir is the shopping street for those who are interested in a combination of shops with local clothes and special brands. Meir is a typical pedestrian road starting with the Central Station and moving towards the old town with lots of shop along the way. The key spots along Meir that I think you should see:

• Stadsfeestzaal: An incredibly restored shopping mall with luxurious interiors.
• De Keyserlei: It offers a blend of high street fashion and cosy cafes, which is ideal for a shopping break.

Stadsfeestzaal

Influence of Fashion Schools on Antwerp’s Style

The great fashion schools situated in Antwerp are largely responsible for her recognition as a fashion centre. Alumni of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts such as Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester popularly referred to as the "Antwerp Six" have also contributed to this recognition. Also, you should know that:

• Every year, the Fashion Department Show presents new generation graduates of these schools.
• Some boutiques on Kammenstraat, for instance, sell dresses made by local designers.

So whether you're looking for sparkling diamonds or quirky fashion, the city's boutiques have it all and more.

7. Exploring Historic Sites in Antwerp

Het Steen Castle

You cannot afford to miss Het Steen in Antwerp. It is a stone castle which was built a long time ago in the middle ages and has served for centuries as the city’s gatekeeper. Its original structure was part of the town walls, which bordered the Scheldt river, but it now houses a nautical museum and a range of educational activities. When moving around the various rooms, I can guarantee you that you will go back in time and picture the knights in shining armour.

Het Steen Castle

St. Paul’s Church

One you should definitely see is St. Paul’s Church, because it is not like any other historical place. Known for its Baroque grandeur, the amazing wooden designs, from the marble altars to the astounding artworks, are just mesmerising. One particular focus of attention is the 15 mysteries of the Rosary that adorn the walls, each telling a story with incredible artistry and detail.

St Paul's Church, a major sight to do in Antwerp

Both sites offer different aspects of history, making them ideal for tourists who wish to explore the history of the flexible metropolitan.

Conclusion : What to do in Antwerp

So are you considering visiting Antwerp? This is a beautiful city with experiences for various categories of people. While the must-see sights and popular attractions are a given, there are plenty of local delights and nooks and crannies that are sure to excite you during your stay.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

Here are my final tips so you can have the best possible trip:

• Dare to Get Lost in the City: Do not confine yourself to the touristy zones like the city of Rubens, and opt for the less-frequented places such as the stunning Art Nouveau buildings of Zurenborg, or the quaint alleys of Antwerp like Vlaeykensgang.
• Attend Local Events: If you love culture, make sure you physically attend cultural events and festivals that are scheduled during your visit.
• Public Transportation: You should know that Antwerp has an excellent public transport system. So consider getting a day pass for trams and buses for easy travel around the city.
• Grab a Bicycle: You can rent a bicycle and explore the city's beautiful surroundings, along the River Scheldt or its numerous parks.
• Savor the Local Dishes: Don't settle for a perfectly placed Michelin meal when you're looking for something delicious. Belgian waffles, frites, and the numerous chocolate shops are just a few examples of local delights.

Antwerp is more than just a place where you travel to. It is an adventure that encompasses the past, the culture and the present. My last advice is that you should simply enjoy every minute as you explore all the attractions of this jewel of Belgium.