Antwerp, known as the "Diamond Capital of the World" and the second-largest city in Belgium, is a city filled with beauty and charm.
Antwerp boasts a rich architectural heritage, blending various styles from different eras. The Gothic masterpiece of the Cathedral of Our Lady dominates the skyline with its stunning spires. The intricate detailing of the Antwerp City Hall, a Renaissance building, is another architectural gem. The Central Station considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world, showcases a blend of Art Nouveau and eclectic styles.
Antwerp's diamond district is a major attraction, known worldwide for its diamond trade. The district showcases the city's expertise in the diamond industry, with countless diamond dealers, jewelers, and workshops. Visitors can explore the Diamond Pavilion and gain insights into the fascinating world of diamonds.
Explore the city of Antwerp and find out about all the fun places to visit. We have a list of the best things to do and see in Antwerp.
1. Tour the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)
The MAS is a stunning architectural masterpiece located on the riverfront, near the historic center of Antwerp. It is a museum that focuses on the city's history, culture, and global connections. The building itself is a work of art, consisting of striking red sandstone and glass sections, which provide a contemporary twist to the city's skyline.
On the first floor, you'll find the permanent exhibition called "Antwerp, Metropolis." This exhibition takes you on a journey through the city's history, from its origins as a port to its development as a cultural and economic center. It showcases artifacts, artworks, and multimedia displays that highlight Antwerp's role as a global city.
One of the highlights of the MAS is the panoramic rooftop terrace, which provides breathtaking views of the city and the river. From a high point in Antwerp, you can see a really big view of the city. You can see old buildings, the place where boats come in, and lots of people doing things by the river.
2. Take the Kids to Antwerp Zoo
Antwerp Zoo is one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in the world, home to a wide array of animal species. Zoo visitors can explore the zoo in a number of ways. For example, they can explore the animals up close. The beauty of nature is on full display as kids witness the wonder and diversity of the animal kingdom.
The zoo is not just a collection of animal enclosures; it also features beautifully landscaped gardens and pathways. Walking through lush greenery, colorful flowerbeds, and serene ponds adds to the overall beauty of the zoo. It provides a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere that children can enjoy while exploring the various animal exhibits.
Antwerp Zoo is designed with families in mind. It provides amenities such as child-friendly restrooms, feeding areas, and stroller rentals to ensure a comfortable experience for parents and their little ones. At the zoo, there are places to eat like cafes, and places to have a picnic. This is so families can take a break and eat while they are visiting.
3. Learn about Chocolate at Chocolate Nation
Visiting Chocolate Nation in Antwerp offers a delightful and immersive experience where you can learn about the art, history, and beauty of chocolate.
Chocolate has a rich and fascinating history, and Chocolate Nation takes you on a journey through time to discover the origins and evolution of this beloved treat. Chocolate is a traditional and cultural beverage from many different cultures. You'll learn about the cultural significance of chocolate throughout the ages. Learning about the historical context adds depth and beauty to the story behind this delicious treat.
One of the highlights of Chocolate Nation is the opportunity to savor a variety of chocolate flavors through tastings. Guided by experts, you'll explore the different types of chocolate, from white to dark, and learn to discern their unique characteristics. The experience allows you to appreciate the nuanced flavors and the wide range of taste profiles that chocolate can offer.
4. Plantin-Moretus Museum
The Plantin-Moretus Museum in Antwerp is a true gem that showcases the beauty of printing, bookbinding, and the rich history of the written word.
The museum is housed in the former residence and printing establishment of the Plantin-Moretus family. The building is very beautiful and looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. It has pretty gardens, and fancy ceilings, and the insides are still in really good condition. The museum allows visitors to step into the past and appreciate the architectural beauty and historical significance of the building.
The museum features serene gardens where visitors can take a moment to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The gardens provide a tranquil retreat within the bustling city and offer a picturesque backdrop to the historic building. Exploring the gardens allows visitors to experience the beauty of nature in harmony with the museum's cultural heritage.
Visiting the Plantin-Moretus Museum is a journey back in time, immersing yourself in the world of printing, bookbinding, and the art of the written word. This is a special chance to see and admire old things that were made by skilled people a long time ago. These things are very valuable and have helped shape the way our world is today.
5. Royal Museum of Fine Arts (Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten)
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts, also known as the Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten, is a magnificent institution located in Antwerp, Belgium. The museum is renowned for its rich collection of artworks, showcasing the beauty of various art styles and centuries.
The museum building itself is a work of art. Designed by architect Jacob Winders, it features a neoclassical facade with elegant columns and intricate details. The grandeur of the exterior sets the stage for the artistic treasures within.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is set in a picturesque location within Antwerp's Zuid district, known for its vibrant arts scene. The museum has pretty gardens all around it. It's a peaceful place where people can see pretty things from both nature and art.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is a really big and fancy building that shows lots of beautiful art. It has all different kinds of art from different times and styles. They do a great job of showing the art in a way that helps us understand and appreciate it better. It is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts and a place where the beauty of creativity can be experienced and appreciated.
6. Learn about Migration History at the Red Star Line Museum
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The Red Star Line Museum is a captivating museum located in Antwerp, Belgium, that explores the migration history of millions of people who embarked on a journey to a new life in North America via the Red Star Line shipping company.
The Red Star Line Museum preserves and commemorates an important chapter in history. It tells the story of the mass migration that took place in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when millions of Europeans sought a better life in America. Understanding this history helps us appreciate the courage, hopes, and dreams of those who left their homelands behind.
The Red Star Line Museum offers interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. These exhibits help you get really involved and connected to what you're learning about. You can do things like use virtual reality, play with maps, and do hands-on activities. They allow visitors to step into the shoes of the migrants, making the history more relatable and engaging.
7. The Butcher's Hall (Vleeshuis)
The Butcher's Hall, known as Vleeshuis in Dutch, is a historic building located in Antwerp, Belgium. It is a stunning example of Flemish architecture and holds great beauty and significance.
The Butcher's Hall has a rich history that adds to its allure. The building was first made to be a special place where butchers could meet and work together. It was also a really important spot for people to buy and sell things. The building stands as a tangible link to Antwerp's prosperous past and its role as a major trading city during the Renaissance.
The Butcher's Hall is located in the heart of Antwerp's historic city center. Its surroundings are characterized by picturesque cobblestone streets, charming Flemish architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. Exploring the area around The Butcher's Hall allows visitors to soak in the beauty of the city and its rich cultural heritage.
The Butcher's Hall, or Vleeshuis, is a striking architectural gem that embodies the history and cultural heritage of Antwerp. Its beauty lies in its rich history, stunning architecture, musical collections, and its role as a vibrant cultural hub. Visiting The Butcher's Hall lets you see what Antwerp was like a long time ago and what it's like now. It's a place where you can see beautiful things, hear music, and see art.
8. Check Out Antwerp-Centraal Railway Station
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Antwerp-Centraal Railway Station, also known as Antwerp Central Station, is a magnificent architectural gem and one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world.
The centerpiece of the station is its majestic dome, rising high above the platforms. The dome is adorned with intricate ironwork, stained glass windows, and a beautiful clock, creating a captivating focal point. The play of light filtering through the glass adds to its allure, creating a mesmerizing effect.
Antwerp-Centraal Railway Station also incorporates various artistic elements. The station houses several artworks, including sculptures, murals, and mosaics. The Rail Cathedral is a stunning mural by artist Louis Delbeke. It captures the evolution of transportation and adds an artistic touch to the station.
Antwerp-Centraal Railway Station's beauty lies in its architectural grandeur, historical details, artistic elements, and its role as a functional transportation hub. Antwerp has a lot of cool things from the past, like old buildings and artwork. It's a great place to learn about history and see what's happening now in the city.
9. Bike the Havenroute (Port Tour)
The Havenroute takes you along the waterfront of the Port of Antwerp, one of the largest and busiest ports in Europe. As you bike along the route, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of ships, cranes, and the vast expanse of water. The contrast between the industrial infrastructure and the natural surroundings creates a visually stunning landscape.
Biking the Havenroute provides insights into the cultural and social aspects of the port. Along the way, you may encounter bustling dockworkers, vibrant multicultural neighborhoods, and artistic installations that reflect the diverse communities and influences within the port area. These cultural elements add depth and richness to the experience.
Biking the Havenroute not only offers visual beauty but also promotes an active and healthy lifestyle. Cycling through the port area allows you to explore at your own pace, enjoy the fresh air, and engage in physical activity. It provides an opportunity to disconnect from the urban environment and immerse yourself in the natural and industrial beauty of the port.