Antwerp, what to see in the Flemish city: must-visit places

In this guide, you’ll find all the essential information about Antwerp: its history, culture, and best tips for organizing your trip. Discover what to see and do in Antwerp to make the most of your visit.

Understanding where Antwerp is located can help you plan your trip more effectively. Positioned right at the heart of Europe, Antwerp’s strategic spot has exposed it to various influences, making it stand out among European cities.

Antwerp has plenty of surprises in store. In this guide, we’ll give you practical advice to help you plan your days and highlight what to do in Antwerp: must-sees and key experiences.

What to see in Antwerp: top sights

While in Antwerp, Belgium, don’t miss these highlights—some of the most beautiful spots in the city.

1 Antwerp Cathedral

The Cathedral of Our Lady is Antwerp’s most visited church and an iconic example of Gothic architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a must on any list of what to visit in Antwerp.

2 Grote Markt

Grote Markt is the beating heart of the Old Town. A curious fact: the guild houses around the square are faithful reconstructions of the originals, which were destroyed by fire in the 1800s.

3 The Antwerp City Hall

The Antwerp City Hall, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest Renaissance buildings in Northern Europe.

4 The Port of Antwerp

The Port of Antwerp is the second largest in Europe, navigable and well worth a visit. Definitely include it in your list of top things to see in Antwerp.

5 Rubenshuis

Rubenshuis is the former residence of painter Peter Paul Rubens. Many of the artist’s works are preserved here, visible to the public.

5 St. Charles Borromeo Church

Church of St. Charles Borromeo is truly striking, thanks in part to artwork by Peter Paul Rubens. It stands on the beautiful Hendrik Conscienceplein, a charming square that hosts much of Antwerp’s nightlife. Without a doubt, it belongs on your list of places to visit in Antwerp.

6 Antwerp, diamonds

Antwerp is famously known as the ‘diamond city‘ (Diamondland). Here, you’ll find artisan workshops working with this precious stone. For your list of ‘what to do in Antwerp‘, we recommend a walk through the diamond district, largely inhabited by Indian and Jewish communities.

For a complete visit, consider these Antwerp museums:

• MoMu: Antwerp’s fashion museum.
• Museum of Fine Arts: Home to nearly 8,000 works, including several by Peter Paul Rubens. The museum is currently undergoing renovation until 2019.
• Plantin – Moreus Museum: Dedicated to the world of typography and printing.
• Mayer van der Bergh Museum: Based on a single collection of nearly 1,000 pieces, it’s unique worldwide. Founded by the passionate art lover Fritz Mayer van den Bergh.

Antwerp in brief: getting around, how to get there, where to stay, what to eat

7 Getting around Antwerp

Most areas in Antwerp are pedestrian-friendly, making walking the best way to explore the city. Alternatively, you can use the city’s bus and tram services. With an Antwerp City Card, public transport is included.

8 How to get to Antwerp

From the airport Antwerp Airport Brussels, the city center can be reached by train in less than 45 minutes. There are several transport options available, including reasonably priced taxis.

9 Where to eat in Antwerp

Where to eat in Antwerp: The city boasts many typical dining spots. If you love seafood, head to the port; for traditional Belgian cuisine, try the city center. Must-try dishes include: Moules et frites (mussels with fries); Carbonade (beef stew with beer, onions, and spices). Sweet lovers should try Antwerpse handjes, Antwerp’s famous chocolate hand-shaped cookies.

10 Where to stay in Antwerp

For your hotel in Antwerp, we recommend choosing the central, most typical areas. Accommodation in Antwerp and wider Belgium is generally high quality, and you can often find good deals, especially among private rentals and B&Bs.