The Best Things to Do in Antwerp

Antwerp, Belgium’s diamond capital and second-largest city, blends centuries of rich history with cutting-edge design and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this cosmopolitan port city offers an impressive array of experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist trail. From architectural marvels and world-class museums to hidden alleyways and local culinary delights, our comprehensive guide reveals the essential things to do in Antwerp that will make your visit truly memorable.

Often overshadowed by Brussels and Bruges, Antwerp deserves your full attention. This dynamic city combines the charm of cobblestone streets with a forward-thinking creative scene that has established it as Belgium’s capital of cool. Home to world-renowned fashion designers, chocolate artisans, and a thriving arts community, Antwerp offers a refreshing authenticity that sets it apart from more tourist-heavy Belgian cities.

Antwerp is a wonderfully walkable city with an excellent public transport system. The historic center is compact enough to explore on foot, while trams and buses can take you to attractions further afield. For a truly local experience, consider renting a bicycle through the city’s Velo bike-sharing program—Antwerp’s flat terrain makes cycling a breeze even for casual riders.

Begin your Antwerp adventure at what many consider the world’s most beautiful train station. This architectural masterpiece, completed in 1905, features a stunning glass dome, marble staircases, and an impressive façade that blends multiple architectural styles. Even if you’re not arriving by train, the station is worth visiting purely for its grandeur. Take a moment to stand under the massive dome and appreciate the intricate details that earned this building the nickname “Railway Cathedral.”

The heart of Antwerp’s old town, Grote Markt is surrounded by guild houses with their distinctive step-gabled facades. The square is dominated by the impressive Renaissance-style City Hall (Stadhuis) and the Brabo Fountain, which depicts the legendary hero who, according to folklore, gave Antwerp its name by cutting off a giant’s hand and throwing it into the river (hence “hand werpen” or “hand throw”). The square comes alive with cafés and restaurants spilling onto the cobblestones, making it the perfect spot to people-watch while enjoying a Belgian beer.

This Gothic masterpiece took nearly 170 years to complete (1352-1521) and houses an impressive collection of art, including four paintings by Peter Paul Rubens. The cathedral’s 123-meter spire dominates Antwerp’s skyline and has been a city landmark for centuries. The interior’s seven naves create a sense of grandeur that’s enhanced by beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings.

Step into the former home and studio of Antwerp’s most famous resident, Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens. This Italian-style palazzo showcases the artist’s living quarters, his impressive studio where he created many masterpieces, and a beautiful garden that Rubens himself designed. The museum houses an excellent collection of his works and offers fascinating insights into the life of this artistic genius who was also a diplomat and businessman.

Dating back to the early medieval period, Het Steen is Antwerp’s oldest building and former fortress. Originally built to protect the city from Viking invasions, this stone castle now houses the city’s tourist information center and offers excellent views of the Scheldt River. Don’t miss the quirky statue of Lange Wapper, a mythical giant who supposedly terrorized drunk Antwerp citizens in the past, located at the castle entrance.

This striking contemporary building in the old harbor district has become one of Antwerp’s most recognizable landmarks. The MAS explores the city’s connection to the world through shipping, trade, and cultural exchange. As you ascend the museum via escalators, you’ll pass through various exhibition spaces before reaching the rooftop, which offers spectacular 360° views of Antwerp—access to this viewing platform is free, even without a museum ticket.

Book lovers and history enthusiasts shouldn’t miss this UNESCO World Heritage site dedicated to printing history. The museum occupies the former printing workshop and residence of Christophe Plantin and his son-in-law Jan Moretus, who ran one of the most important printing businesses in the 16th century. You’ll see the world’s oldest printing presses, a magnificent library of rare books, and original typefaces that revolutionized publishing.

After an extensive renovation, this prestigious art museum reopened in 2022 with a stunning new design that brilliantly combines the historic building with contemporary exhibition spaces. The collection spans seven centuries of art, with particular strengths in Flemish masters like Rubens, Van Dyck, and James Ensor, alongside works by international artists from Titian to Modigliani.

Located in the former warehouses of the Red Star Line shipping company, this moving museum tells the stories of the millions of European emigrants who passed through Antwerp on their journey to North America between 1873 and 1935. Through personal accounts, photographs, and interactive exhibits, visitors gain insight into the hopes, fears, and experiences of those seeking a better life across the Atlantic.

Indulge your sweet tooth at the world’s largest Belgian chocolate museum. Through interactive exhibits and generous tastings, Chocolate Nation takes you on a journey from the cocoa plantations to the finished product, revealing the secrets behind Belgium’s world-famous chocolate. The experience concludes with a delicious tasting of different chocolate varieties—a perfect treat for chocolate lovers of all ages.

Experience a unique underwater crossing via this pedestrian tunnel beneath the Scheldt River. Built in 1933, the tunnel retains its original wooden escalators—a rare example of vintage engineering still in daily use. The 572-meter tunnel connects the city center with the left bank, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Antwerp’s skyline. This practical piece of infrastructure has become a beloved attraction for its retro charm and the slightly surreal experience of walking under a major river.

Step back in time in this hidden medieval alleyway tucked away in the heart of the city. Dating from 1591, Vlaeykensgang was once home to shoemakers and the working class but is now one of Antwerp’s most atmospheric spots. The narrow passage connects three streets and houses several upscale restaurants and antique shops. Look for the unique “drunk man’s keyhole”—a V-shaped metal guide designed to help inebriated residents find their keyholes in the dark.

Discover the art of Belgian brewing at this interactive tour of Antwerp’s city brewery, home of the famous “Bolleke” beer. The self-guided experience takes you through the brewing process from ingredients to finished product, culminating in a tasting of De Koninck’s excellent beers. The brewery complex also houses artisanal food shops and restaurants, making it a great destination for culinary enthusiasts.

Book lovers shouldn’t miss this hidden gem inside the Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library. The Nottebohm Room is a magnificent reading hall that houses over 150,000 historic books in a setting that feels straight out of Harry Potter. With its wooden paneling, spiral staircases, and globe collection, this atmospheric space is usually only open during special exhibitions, so check the library’s website for visiting opportunities.

Experience a tradition dating back to the 16th century at this weekly auction market held every Friday morning. Unlike typical flea markets, the Friday Market operates as a public auction where everything from antiques and furniture to quirky collectibles goes to the highest bidder. Even if you’re not planning to buy, the lively atmosphere and colorful characters make this a fascinating glimpse into local culture.

Once a neglected area, Zuid has transformed into Antwerp’s hippest neighborhood, centered around the Royal Museum of Fine Arts. This vibrant district is packed with art galleries, design shops, and trendy restaurants. The beautiful Marnixplaats square forms the heart of the area’s café culture, while the nearby Kloosterstraat is lined with antique shops and vintage stores perfect for treasure hunting.

Antwerp’s old port area has undergone an impressive regeneration to become one of the city’s most exciting districts. Dominated by the MAS Museum, Het Eilandje (The Little Island) features converted warehouses now housing apartments, offices, and restaurants. The marina filled with luxury yachts, waterside promenades, and innovative architecture make this area particularly photogenic, especially around sunset.

Antwerp earned its reputation as a fashion capital thanks to the “Antwerp Six,” a group of influential designers who graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in the 1980s. The fashion district around Nationalestraat and Kammenstraat is home to flagship stores from designers like Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester, alongside concept stores and boutiques showcasing the next generation of Belgian design talent.

Architecture enthusiasts should make time for this residential neighborhood east of the city center, particularly the streets around Cogels-Osylei. Here you’ll find an extraordinary collection of Art Nouveau and Belle Époque townhouses, each more elaborate than the next. The area has been called an “open-air museum of architecture” and offers a fascinating glimpse into the wealth and artistic ambition of turn-of-the-century Antwerp.

Antwerp’s main shopping street is more than just a retail destination—it’s lined with impressive historic buildings that tell the story of the city’s commercial heritage. Don’t miss the rococo Stadsfeestzaal, a former festival hall now transformed into an upscale shopping center with gilded details and a glass dome. Nearby, the Royal Palace (Paleis op de Meir) once hosted Napoleon and now houses a chocolate shop in its historic kitchen.

Tucked away from the tourist trail, Antwerp’s beguinage is a peaceful enclave that once housed a community of religious women known as beguines. Dating back to the 13th century, this quiet courtyard with its historic buildings offers a serene escape from the city bustle. Unlike the more famous beguinages in Bruges and Ghent, Antwerp’s version remains relatively undiscovered, allowing visitors to enjoy its tranquility without crowds.

This small but charming garden in the city center dates back to 1825 when it was established as a medicinal herb garden. Today, it houses over 2,000 plant species, including a collection of medicinal herbs, tropical plants in the greenhouse, and a peaceful pond. The garden provides a green oasis perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or a picnic lunch during your explorations.

While the Cathedral of Our Lady gets most of the attention, many locals consider this Baroque church to be Antwerp’s most beautiful. The lavish interior features marble, intricate woodwork, and paintings by Rubens and his contemporaries. The church once housed 39 ceiling paintings by Rubens, tragically lost in a 1718 fire, but the remaining artwork and sumptuous decoration still make this a must-see for art lovers.

Escape the city center to explore this unique outdoor museum set in a beautiful park. The Middelheim features over 400 sculptures from renowned artists including Rodin, Henry Moore, and contemporary creators, all displayed in a natural setting. The combination of art and nature creates a refreshing experience that appeals to both art enthusiasts and those simply looking for a pleasant green space to explore.

Step inside the world’s oldest stock exchange building, recently restored to its neo-Gothic splendor after years of neglect. Originally built in 1531 and rebuilt after fires in the 19th century, the Handelsbeurs now hosts events and exhibitions in its magnificent central hall. The intricate architecture and historical significance make this a fascinating stop, especially for those interested in Antwerp’s commercial heritage.

Antwerp’s food scene blends traditional Flemish cuisine with international influences. Must-try local specialties include mussels served with fries (moules-frites), Flemish stew cooked with beer (stoofvlees), and “hand cookies” (handjes)—butter cookies shaped like the symbol of Antwerp. The city is also known for its excellent seafood, thanks to its position as a major port.

Belgium’s chocolate reputation is well-deserved, and Antwerp offers numerous opportunities to indulge. Visit The Chocolate Line in the former royal palace kitchen for innovative flavors created by “shock-o-latier” Dominique Persoone, or try traditional pralines at Burie, where you can also admire the monthly chocolate sculptures displayed in the window.

Antwerp has embraced specialty coffee with enthusiasm, and excellent cafés can be found throughout the city. For a traditional experience, visit one of the “brown cafés” named for their tobacco-stained walls, like Den Engel on Grote Markt. Modern coffee lovers should head to Caffènation or Normo for expertly prepared brews in stylish surroundings.

No visit to Belgium would be complete without sampling its world-famous beer culture. Antwerp offers numerous historic brown cafés and modern beer bars where you can explore hundreds of Belgian brews. Don’t miss Kulminator, which boasts one of the world’s most extensive beer menus, or Paters Vaetje near the cathedral, which serves rare Trappist ales in a cozy historic setting.

For a taste of contemporary Antwerp, visit this creative food hub housed in former industrial buildings. PAKT brings together restaurants, coffee roasters, and even a rooftop urban farm that supplies the eateries below. Highlights include Racine for seasonal cuisine using ingredients grown on-site, and Caffènation for excellent coffee in a hip setting.

While Antwerp is a year-round destination, certain seasons offer special experiences that enhance your visit. The city’s calendar is filled with festivals, markets, and events that showcase its cultural vibrancy and community spirit.

Antwerp offers diverse accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. From historic boutique hotels in centuries-old buildings to sleek modern design hotels, the city provides comfortable bases for exploring its attractions.

While Antwerp offers plenty to keep you occupied, its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other Belgian highlights. Thanks to the country’s excellent rail network, several fascinating destinations are just a short train ride away.

While many visitors to Belgium treat Antwerp as a quick stopover, our exploration of the city’s diverse attractions reveals why it deserves a more extended stay. From world-class museums and historic landmarks to cutting-edge design and vibrant neighborhoods, Antwerp offers layers of experiences that can’t be rushed through in a single day.

What makes Antwerp truly special is its blend of historic grandeur and contemporary creativity. This is a city that honors its past while constantly reinventing itself, creating a dynamic atmosphere that feels both timeless and thoroughly modern. Whether you’re admiring Rubens masterpieces, sampling Belgian chocolate, exploring hidden medieval alleys, or discovering the latest fashion trends, Antwerp rewards curious travelers with authentic experiences and unexpected discoveries.

As you plan your Belgian adventure, consider giving Antwerp the time it deserves. Whether you use it as a base for exploring the country or focus entirely on its own attractions, this sophisticated yet approachable city offers a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and charm that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even departed.