Antwerp is a historic city steeped in culture. From beautiful architecture to landmark locations, local cuisine and the best Belgian craft beer, there is much to do in the world’s diamond capital. Here are some of our favourite activities in Antwerpen from our recent day trip!
If you’re looking for the perfect European city to visit, Belgium has many great locations. Each has its own unique characteristics and specialities, so there is always something new to do!
Only a 40-minute train journey from Brussels, Antwerp is easily accessible by train. The only problem is that there is so much to do in this beautiful city that it is impossible to see everything in just one day! That being said, here are some unmissable locations and things to do in Antwerp!
Things You Should Know Before Visiting Antwerp
The Language: Dutch is the official language spoken in the province, but French, German and English are also widely spoken
Shopping: One interesting fact about Belgium is that most shops close on Sundays. Restaurants, pubs and tourist attractions are usually still open, however. On the first Sunday of every month, shops open, so it may help to know this when planning your visit to Antwerp.
Travel: Belgian public transport is excellent. It is cheap, reliable and efficient. If you are flying into Brussels, you can quickly get to Antwerp by train in 40-50 minutes. Once there, you can get to most places in the city on foot. Alternatively, you can rent a bike to get around faster or use city buses. Cycling is prevalent in Belgium, but it can be intimidating if you are not used to it, especially in a busy city.
Arriving by train in Antwerp-Centraal
The easiest way to get from Brussels (or any other Belgian city) to Antwerp is by train. There are plenty of good-value ticket deals, and it is a comfortable and reliable way to travel around Belgium. You will arrive at Antwerp-Centraal, a beautiful and historic train station in the city’s heart.
Even if you aren’t arriving by train, the splendid architecture is well worth a quick visit. The city zoo and many other attractions are nearby.
A shop at the train also serves delicious, authentic Belgian and Liege waffles. They’re the perfect snack to begin your tour of Antwerp, and there are usually good deals if you pair them with a coffee.
Antwerpen-Centraal train station Belgium
Things You Can’t Miss in Antwerp
1. Visit the Grote Markt
The Grote Markt is the historic market square of Antwerp. Plenty of pubs and restaurants are nearby to sit down and appreciate the beautiful buildings as you watch the lively crowds pass by.
You may recognise the Grote Markt by the blue fountain in its centre. This is one of the most iconic statues in Antwerp. It depicts the famous myth of the Roman hero Brabo, holding the severed hand of a giant.
The 16th-century town hall is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is beautiful in an already breathtaking town square. On a nice day, the Grote Markt will be very busy, with tourists and locals sitting outside with a coffee or Belgian beer and enjoying the sunshine.
The Grote Markt, Antwerp Belgium
2. Window shop at Antwerp’s Diamond District
As we have mentioned, Antwerp was one of Europe’s first international trading port cities. It imported many goods, including rough diamonds, and over time, it has gained a reputation as the world’s diamond capital.
A trip to Antwerp wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Diamond District. You will find the diamond district just off the Centraal Train Station, where you can browse diamonds and jewellery in shop window after shop window. There is an incredible concentration of diamond shops in the aptly named district.
Many couples even travel to Antwerp to pick out engagement rings! So whether you’re on a mission to get the perfect ring or just want to window shop, the diamond district is a unique experience.
There are so many exciting things to do in Belgium, and Antwerp is no exception. Below are more interesting things to see and do in Antwerp for history, food, art, and nature lovers!
Things to do in Antwerp for History Lovers
Antwerp is often considered one of the world’s oldest global cities. This is because it became a prominent location for international trade in the Middle Ages. As a result, there is so much history to uncover on every city street.
3. Enjoy the water views at Het Steen
Het Steen is a mediaeval fortress on the River Scheldt. Just a 5-minute walk from the Grote Markt, the spectacular views of the historic building on the waterfront are well worth a visit. There is a visitor centre inside, where you can find out all about the fortress’s history or simply walk along the bridge and enjoy the views.
Het Steen is one of the most impressive buildings in Antwerp. The imposing structure was once used as a prison for centuries. The fortress was thought to be much bigger, and its remnants today act as an entrance.
Did You Know? Het Steen is one of the oldest castles in all of Europe.
Painting of Het Steen Antwerp
While there, make sure to go on the Ferris Wheel beside the fortress for the best views of Antwerp’s skyline!
4. Visit the Beguinage
The Beguinages are an essential part of the history of the Low Countries. They are not exclusive to Antwerp, but these UNESCO World Heritage sites are worth a visit if you have not been to one before.
History of the Beguinages
Beguinages were made up of religious women, known as beguines, who lived in communities without taking any vows. As a result, they were allowed to retain their wealth, participate in the local economy and even leave the order to marry if they chose to.
Beguinages offered many women from the countryside a chance to live and work in the city without getting married or permanently joining the church. They were walled communities inside a city that offered solitude and protection, and today, they are used as tranquil residencies in an otherwise busy city.
The Beguinages are a fascinating part of Belgian history, but tourists often overlook them. We recommend visiting a Beguinage if you’re looking for a nice stroll during your trip. The Beguinage of Begijnhof is just a 12-minute walk from Antwerp-Centraal train station!
5. Visit Museum Aan De Stroom
The Museum Aan de Stroom (also known as the Museum by the Stream) is Antwerp’s biggest museum. The ten-story building, which hosts an impressive collection of Belgian and international artefacts, offers views of the city.
Museum Aan De Stroom Antwerp
Things to do in Antwerp for Food Lovers
There are so many cool places in the city to try authentic Belgian food! If you’re looking for a quick bite, you can find lots of Belgian restaurant chains. However, here are some of the more unusual things to do in Antwerp for foodies!
Antwerp is also a great international destination, as it is quite a diverse city, so you will be spoilt for choice!
6. Visit Chocolate Nation
Belgian Chocolate is an iconic confectionary, loved all around the world. While you’re in Antwerp, why not visit Chocolate Nation? You can take a tour and learn all about how chocolate is made or even test your skills and participate in a workshop.
Alternatively, if you are short on time, you can head to the gift shop and pick up some delicious Belgian chocolate. The only problem is that there is so much chocolate to choose from!
Belgian craft beer is another iconic part of the country’s culture. De Koninck Beer is brewed in Antwerp. You can visit the brewery and learn about its history and have a local beer tasting. A brewery tour can be a great way to incorporate history and culture into a fun interactive activity.
The Brewery offers mixed group tours every Sunday, so a whole group is not needed to join. Alternatively, a beer brunch is held on the first Sunday of every month, but these sell out well in advance, so check the availability before you go!
Things to do in Antwerp for Art Lovers
Belgium is an ideal place for lovers of art to visit. With beautiful architecture, extraordinary museums, and its fair share of iconic artists, there is so much to do. There is also a nice blend of traditional art and more contemporary design, which is evident in the many statues around the city.
8. See Rubens Artwork:
Paul Rubens was a Flemish artist known for mastering the Baroque style. His house is a popular tourist attraction, but unfortunately, as of 2023, it has temporarily closed for long-term renovations, expected to last until 2027. However, fear not; some of Ruben’s masterpieces can still be found in other places in Antwerp, such as:
The Cathedral of Our Lady—Ruben painted The Descent from the Cross and The Assumption of the Virgin Mary specifically for this Cathedral, where they have remained for centuries. His other paintings include The Elevation of the Cross and The Resurrection of Christ.
Cathedral Of Our Lady Antwerp Belgium
The Royal Museum of Antwerp—This museum has an impressive collection of Ruben’s work and offers a chance to learn about the life of the painter who would become one of the most important European artists ever.
9. Get A Photo with Nello & Patrache
Just in front of the Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp is the statue of Nello & Patrache. The little boy and his dog are characters from the novel ‘A Dog in Flanders (1872).
The tragic story explores the friendship between an orphan and an abandoned dog in the city at Christmas. There are many references to the duo in Antwerp, but none are as impressive as the statue outside the cathedral.
Artist Batist Vermeulen created the statue to commemorate this world-famous tale. While you’re at the statue, you can also admire the stunning Gothic cathedral, one of the finest examples of beautiful architecture in the province!
The Sculpture of Nello & Patrasche is located in Antwerp, Belgium
Things to do in Antwerp for Nature Lovers
10. Visit Antwerpen Zoo
The zoo is just beside the central train station, so it is easy to get to. Ideal on a sunny day, the zoo is something everyone can enjoy. The zoo is open 365 days a year, and you can expect to see lots of exotic animals and marine life there. However, the entry price is quite expensive, so budget travellers may choose to give this location a miss.
Find Out More About Belgium
Do you want to see more of Belgium? Why not explore Brussels with Connolly Cove!
We hope that you have enjoyed reading our article! Whatever you choose to see and do in Antwerp, we’re sure you will have a fantastic time in Belgium.
Ciaran Connolly
Ciaran Connolly
