Antwerp Travel Guide

Belgium, a country celebrated for its diverse cultures, exquisite chocolates, and storied past, is home to the vibrant city of Antwerp in the Flemish Region. Known for its diamond district, historic architecture, and bustling port, Antwerp is a city that combines the charm of the old world with the dynamism of modern commerce.

Antwerp's city center is dominated by the Cathedral of Our Lady, a Gothic masterpiece that stands as a testament to the city's medieval prominence. Nearby, the Grote Markt square is lined with ornate guild houses, and the Brabo Fountain, a symbol of Antwerp's folklore, takes center stage. The Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest in the world, provides a delightful escape for families and animal lovers.

The city is world-renowned as a diamond trading hub, with the Diamond District near the central train station housing a multitude of diamond shops, workshops, and the Antwerp World Diamond Centre. Visitors can learn about the journey of diamonds from mine to market at the DIVA Diamond Museum.

Art enthusiasts flock to Antwerp to follow in the footsteps of the Baroque master, Peter Paul Rubens. The Rubenshuis, his former home and studio, now a museum, showcases many of his famous works and offers insight into his life and times. The Museum Plantin-Moretus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is another cultural gem, exhibiting the history of printing and the legacy of the Plantin and Moretus publishing dynasty.

For fashion aficionados, Antwerp is one of the world's avant-garde fashion capitals, partly due to the Antwerp Six, a group of influential fashion designers who graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. The city's fashion district is a hotspot for discovering cutting-edge designs and unique boutiques.

Foodies can revel in Belgian culinary delights, including handcrafted chocolates, waffles, and an array of local beers. The city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene with numerous restaurants serving both traditional Belgian dishes and international cuisine.

Antwerp's port, one of the largest in Europe, is a central pillar of the city's economy and a fascinating area for those interested in maritime commerce. The MAS Museum, located in the port area, offers exhibits on Antwerp's history and spectacular views of the city from its rooftop.