EXPERIENCE Antwerp

IT’S TIME TO

A BELGIAN GOLDEN OLDIE

Antwerp has a certain over-the-top level of medieval first-world swag about it. It is not too busy, it has wide roads and cobbled squares, decorated by some beautiful architecture with golden ornaments and statues. It is dimly lit by old copper lanterns and is known as the diamond capital in its trade.

Cost of living score: 67

avg price restaurant meal

€€€€

€20

avg hotel price

€105

FUN THINGS TO DO

The inner city of Antwerp, a vibrant hub in Belgium, is renowned for its historical architecture, fashion, and diamond district. It's a place where medieval landmarks blend with modern design, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage and its status as a contemporary arts and fashion center. The Grote Markt, Antwerp Cathedral, and the riverside fortress Steen are key historical sites. Antwerp's compact city center makes it ideal for exploring its diverse attractions on foot.

Stroll around the cozy city center

Stop by the Grand Market Square

This is by far the fanciest city square I have ever seen, and is surrounded by ornately decorated 16th-century guildhalls, the City Hall, and a variety of charming buildings that reflect the city's rich architectural heritage and its prosperous past as a center of commerce and trade. Built in the 16th century, it stands as a testament to Antwerp's Golden Age, when the city was one of the most important trading centers in Europe. The City Hall is flanked by colorful guild houses, which have been meticulously restored to their original splendor. These buildings once housed the powerful guilds that governed the city's various trades and crafts.

The Saturday market in Antwerp, often held in front of the Stadsschouwburg (City Theatre), is a vibrant and bustling event that draws both locals and tourists alike. Although Antwerp hosts several markets, the one in front of the Stadsschouwburg is particularly noted for its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings. Typically, these markets feature a wide range of stalls selling everything from fresh produce, flowers, and food items to clothes, accessories, and household goods. The market provides a great opportunity to experience the local culture, taste local and international cuisines, and find unique items.

Visit the Saturday morning market for drinks & snacks

Visit the DIVA Diamond Museum

The museum combines historical artifacts with contemporary design, employing multimedia and interactive displays to engage visitors. Exhibits cover a range of topics, from the craftsmanship involved in jewelry making and diamond cutting to the global trade and economic significance of diamonds. The museum also explores the cultural and symbolic meanings of jewelry and diamonds across different times and societies. Tickets are €12 if you're over 25, €8 if you're 18-25 and free for under 18.

tickets

The Botanical Garden in Antwerp, known as "Den Botaniek" or "Plantentuin," is a green oasis in the heart of the city that is free to enter. This relatively small but charming garden is located near the bustling city center, offering a peaceful retreat for residents and tourists alike. With its roots dating back to the 19th century, the garden originally served as a medicinal herb garden for the St. Elisabeth's hospital. Today, the Botanical Garden covers an area of about 1 hectare (2.47 acres) and is home to over 2,000 plant species. These include both local and exotic plants, with a significant collection of medicinal herbs, as well as centuries-old trees, tropical greenhouse plants, and a variety of cacti and succulents. The greenhouse is being renovated in 2024, but still a nice inner city pitstop.

Take a walk through the botanical garden

Stroll through the stunning Central Station

This architecturally magnificent building serves as a key transportation hub in the region. It almost makes you find a reason to take a train! Its construction was completed in the early 20th century, with the station officially opening in 1905. It houses many shops, cafes, and restaurants and is a good starting point to explore the city.

The MAS houses a diverse collection that spans from the city's maritime history to contemporary art. The museum's exhibitions are dedicated to telling the story of Antwerp in the context of the world, (albeit without emphasizing the horrors inflicted by the Belgians) reflecting its past as a major international port and its connections across the globe. The collections include artifacts related to the city's shipping, trade, and migration history, as well as displays of art and cultural objects from around the world. A ticket for both the permanent and temporary exhibition costs €12.

Visit the MAS museum