This is the perfect start to exploring the Diamond City!
Antwerp Central Station was built between 1895 and 1905. Earlier in the 19th century, Belgium had become the second country – following the United Kingdom – to establish a railway: between Brussels and Mechelen, which was then extended to Antwerp one year later. A worthy terminus was required at the port city, and soon enough one of the appropriate scale was commissioned by Leopold II. The monumentality of the station would ultimately earn it the nickname the Spoorwegkathedraal – ‘railroad cathedral’ in Dutch.
Antwerp is the city on the Scheldt. At the place where city and port meet, you will find the impressive MAS. In permanent and changing exhibitions you will discover many stories about Antwerp, the river, the port and the world. Let yourself be led up by the escalators of the pedestrian boulevard and discover a different exhibition on each floor.
Families with children can think together about what ‘home’ means to them in the playful family exhibition ‘Anyone at home?’ The temporary exhibitions are also always worth a visit.
Old Town Antwerp is a vibrant and historic area, offering an exciting mix of cobbled streets, beautiful architecture, museums, and world-class shopping. The heart of the city is surrounded by stunning landmarks, including the Grote Markt, the Cathedral of Our Lady, and Antwerp’s iconic Central Station.
If you’re considering staying in a hotel in the Old Town, you’ll be right in the center of it all, with easy access to some of the city’s most famous attractions. Many of the hotels in this area offer a blend of traditional Flemish charm and modern amenities.
In the recently renovated KMSKA building, you admire a fantastic art collection. You will come face to face with works by Rubens, Van Dyck and Van Eyck and can admire Fouquet’s Madonna. In the ten contemporary rooms, you will find the largest collection of James Ensor worldwide on top of works by Rik Wouters, Magritte, Modigliani and many more. Make your visit even more captivating thanks to virtual reality or a guided tour.
Tip: Fancy a coffee, a tasty cocktail, a piece of cake or savoury snack? Step inside the Madonna grand cafe, a perfect end to your museum visit.
The Sint-Annatunnel – or Pedestrian Tunnel – is a real historical gem with its authentic wooden escalators. Walk or cycle past this inner-city eye-catcher to Linkeroever (Left Bank), where you’ll have a great view of the Antwerp skyline.
Tip: Walk north along the Scheldt to Sint Anneke’s beach. Here you have plenty of cosy cafés and restaurants to choose from.
As early as the 9th century, there was a fortified settlement at what is now Het Steen consisting of wooden buildings, an earthen wall and a moat. Follow the interactive trail and travel through the city and time. In a short time, you will learn a lot about Antwerp and gain a great deal of inspiration for your further visit. Finish on the roof and look out over the Scheldt and the city.
Tip: Walk along the Scheldt quays and enjoy the wide view over the river, the sunset is at its most beautiful here.
The most beautiful shopping center in Belgium and Antwerp’s shopping hotspot! The stadsfeestzaal, a must-visit for anyone in the heart of Antwerp. Situated in the city’s bustling Meir shopping street, the Stadsfeestzaal is a historic building turned into a luxurious shopping center. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to explore and stay nearby when visiting Antwerp.
ZOO Antwerpen, founded in 1843, is Belgium’s oldest and one of Europe’s most historic zoos. Located in the heart of Antwerp, next to the iconic Antwerp Central Station, the zoo is renowned for its beautiful 19th-century architecture, lush gardens, and diverse collection of over 5,000 animals
The Chocolate Factory Antwerp is a unique and memorable destination in the heart of Antwerp, Belgium. Located in a former chocolate factory, this venue combines the charm of its historical setting with modern luxury and amenities.
Pakt Antwerp is a unique ecosystem where working and experience are combined with… urban agriculture. In 2017, a mix of 25 companies settled on the site: chefs, brewers, baristas, sports enthusiasts, digital jacks-of-all-trades and other sustainable initiatives found their way to PAKT. Visitors will find a moment of rest where they can enjoy the green, car-free oasis.
The Port House is one of the architectural pearls of Antwerp. This trendy building with roots in the past is the headquarters of the Antwerp Port Authority. The Havenhuis is an innovative workplace for more than 500 employees. You can also visit the building with a guide and enjoy the panoramic view of the harbor and the city.
Step into the Museum of Plantin-Moretus and see the centuries-long history of printing comes to life. In this UNESCO World Heritage Site admire the oldest printing presses in the world, a wonderful art collection and a wonderful indoor garden.
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