2026 Antwerpen Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Hahaha, just kidding! Antwerp is full of hidden treasures, and the fewer people know about them, the more enjoyable it is to explore. It's a bittersweet feeling—wanting Antwerp's gems to be known but also hoping they stay under the radar. 📸 This is literally a city that produces treasures. As early as the 16th century, it was already a major diamond trading hub, and later, with its exceptional cutting techniques and design prowess, it became the world-renowned diamond capital. Antwerp's numerous malls openly display an array of diamond jewelry, and if you have the means, you can take home the most unique travel souvenir from here. 📍 Beyond diamonds, Antwerp is also a famous fashion capital. The MoMu Fashion Museum showcases over 38,000 accessories, garments, shoes, and extensive archival footage of luxury fashion brands. If you have time, join the museum's fashion walk, strolling through Antwerp's streets and visiting the design studios that once nurtured the legendary Antwerp Six. The city also boasts great vintage shops like Rosier41, Weekday, and VIER—just search on Google to find them. 🚶🏻‍♂️ Apart from fashion, art is another hallmark of Antwerp, as it was the hometown of the renowned Rubens. Beyond the Rubens House Museum, Antwerp's many churches, galleries, and museums house original works by masters of the Dutch Golden Age. These artists, who inspired the Dutch School, showcase extraordinary craftsmanship worth admiring up close. 🥃 Finally, there's the food. Belgium is famous for its chocolates, waffles, fries, beer, and mussels, and even though Antwerp is near the Dutch border, it retains plenty of authentic Belgian flavors. Whether you pop into a random restaurant or pick up some treats as gifts, you won’t be disappointed.

The Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp is a breathtaking symbol of faith, history, and artistic brilliance 🌟. Built between 1352 and 1521, this towering Gothic marvel stands 123 meters tall, dominating the city’s skyline 🏛️. Inside, visitors are mesmerized by its soaring arches, intricate stained glass windows, and priceless artworks 🎨. The cathedral houses masterpieces by the legendary Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, including *The Elevation of the Cross* and *The Descent from the Cross* 🖼️. Beyond its artistic treasures, the cathedral’s belfry is part of the UNESCO-listed Belfries of Belgium and France, adding to its historical significance 🌍. Whether admiring its grandeur from the square or stepping inside to experience its serene beauty, this cathedral is a must-visit for lovers of history, art, and architecture 💖. A timeless wonder that continues to inspire! 🚶♂️📸

Antwerp (Antwerpen/Anvers in Dutch/French) is Belgium’s second city, biggest port and capital of cool. It has long been a powerful magnet for everyone from fashion moguls and club queens to art lovers and diamond dealers. In the mid-16th century it was one of Europe’s most important cities and home to baroque superstar painter Pieter Paul Rubens – as many a museum will regularly remind you. Despite many historical travails thereafter, and severe WWII bombing, Antwerp retains an intriguing medieval heart with plenty of café-filled cobbled lanes, a riverside fortress and a truly impressive cathedral. Today, however, Antwerp’s top drawcards are its vibrant fashion and entertainment scene, along with its startling architectural and cultural contrasts.#urbanexplorer #belgium #port #awesomepic #diamond

Colourful and colonial european buildings we couldn't find elsewhere. I love this city which delicious chocolate came from. Seldom see any office building around here. Usually, everything mostly are short buildings like houses but in fact those are also commercial buildings with restaurants, cafes or any other business operating. It can also be shop houses where the one on main road is shop and upstairs is living place. Too bad, I only stopover for few days so didn't really discover much around this place. If given chance, I'd like to come back again! #createwithtrip #belgium #discovereurope #traveltoeurope #triptoeurope #exploreeurope #urbanexplorer

This statue by Louis Dupuis, represents Jacob van Artevelde (1290-1345) and is placed above the portal of a neo-Flemish Renaissance bourgeois house in 62, Van Arteveldestraat. Both, statue and house, date from 1881. The design of the house is by architect Albert Delrue. Jacob Van Artevelde, nicknamed The Wise Man, was a Flemish leader and statesman. As a cloth merchant, broker and owner of extensive properties, Van Artevelde belonged to the wealthy bourgeoisie in Ghent. When during the Hundred Year’s war (1337-1453), France forbade his occupied territories to trade with the English , Van Artevelde went against these orders and resumed the wool trade with England. For that reason he is seen in Ghent as a folk hero. The reason why we find this in Antwerp has everything to do with the commissioner of the house, Joseph Hubert Kockx, who was a wealthy 19th century’s trader in ready-to-wear clothes from Schippersstraat. #zotvana #belgium #amberes #architecture #antwerpen🇧🇪 #visitantwerp #antwerp #antwerpenstraalt #instantwerp #eventcelebration #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

The building Loodswezen, is a listed building located at Tavernierkaai close to the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS). With its distinctive neo-Gothic facade, the building has been a historic beacon in the Antwerp skyline since 1895. Until 2017 it housed various maritime and port services, such as the “Maritime Inspectorate” and “Pilotage, Fleet and Maritime Scheldt”. After that it was used for temporary art exhibitions such as the Antwerp Photo Festival at the moment. It will get however a new permanent destination as Flemish Culinary Center. This is the collect name for a restaurant with view on the Scheldt river, a cooking lab for chefs, a microbrewery and shops. Next to the building a piece of land will be cleared and will be converted into a community garden. The intention is that local residents, chefs and farmers will grow fruit and vegetables here. The preparatory works to convert the Loodswezen into a Flemish Culinary Center will start this year. The restoration of the building will start next year and should be completed in 2024. The goal is to preserve the original interior as much as possible in order to have it serve as a decor. #vlaanderen #trainstagram #architectuur #stad_antwerpen #instantwerpen #belgie #instantwerp #happynewyear #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes

[Trip Moment Delivery 🗞️] During this trip, I truly realized for the first time that "a train station can be this magnificent" when I encountered Antwerp Central Station (Antwerpen-Centraal). 🇧🇪🚉 🛄 | A station that looks like a palace at first glance As soon as you take the escalator up from the platform, the space suddenly opens up, revealing a massive dome, marble stairs, and arched ceilings all at once. It’s so grand and ornate that you might momentarily wonder if you’re in a train station, an opera house, or a royal palace. It felt like a gateway declaring, "You’ve arrived in this city." 🌿 A majestic balance of stone and light Antwerp Central Station is opulent but not overwhelming. The stone walls, rounded arches, and glass ceilings are layered in perfect proportions, creating a sense of stability throughout the space. Especially when natural light streams through the glass dome, illuminating the floors and stairs, the station transforms from a transit space into a complete, picturesque scene. 🌉 A multi-layered platform structure creating a three-dimensional sense of space What’s most unique about this station is its structure. The platforms are not on a single level but are stacked across multiple levels. From above, you can see the flow of people, while below, trains arrive and depart. This vertical design reflects the city’s structure, and just standing there, you can feel how meticulously this space was designed. 🌿 A station that’s a place to linger, not just pass through People don’t just pass by; they sit on the stairs, take photos, and pause to look up. This behavior itself speaks to the character of this space. Antwerp Central Station feels less like a mere transportation hub and more like an architectural masterpiece that completes the city’s first impression. ✅️ | Travel Tips 1️⃣ The route from the platform to the main hall is the most impressive point. 2️⃣ The best shot is from the middle of the central staircase, looking up at the dome. 3️⃣ If you have a layover, make sure to leave some extra time to explore and enjoy. 📌 Location Antwerpen-Centraal Antwerp, Belgium 🇧🇪

Lovely treat and spoiled

Antwerp, Belgium, is one of the most relaxing European cities for a quick getaway with a baby. The city has a calm rhythm, stroller-friendly streets, and many iconic spots that are easy to explore on foot. One of the must-visit stops is Antwerp Central Station, often called one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Besides its stunning architecture, the spacious area makes it a comfortable place for a short break before starting your exploration. Just a short walk from the station, you’ll find Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe, perfect for a slow stroll with your little one. The shaded trees and wide pathways make pushing a stroller effortless. Continue your walk to the Old Town, a historical center filled with landmarks such as the Cathedral of Our Lady and the charming Grote Markt square with its iconic Brabo statue. The open-air cafés around this area are great for nursing or feeding your baby while soaking in the warm Belgian atmosphere. For art lovers, MAS Museum and Museum Plantin-Moretus are highly recommended. MAS offers a rooftop with a stunning 360-degree city view, and the elevator access makes it easy for families with strollers. Museum Plantin-Moretus provides a peaceful museum experience, ideal for a quiet family visit. Some relaxing tips for traveling with a baby: keep a slow pace, plan breaks at green spaces like Stadspark, bring a baby carrier for cobblestone areas, and take advantage of the well-equipped changing rooms in shopping centers such as Stadsfeestzaal. Antwerp also has excellent train connections if you’d like to continue your trip to the Netherlands. From Antwerp Central, direct trains to Rotterdam or Amsterdam take only about 1–1.5 hours, easy and convenient when traveling with a baby. All of this makes Antwerp a perfect destination for creating warm, easy, and memorable family moments. #keluarnegeri

Nice getaway in a historical city. Lots to discover as museums and churches, but also modern skybars and brousing nightlife. Stay at a boutique hotel nearby the city and travel by step Very diverse taste in restaurants. There are italian, spanish, mexican, indian and all sorts of flavours. I would highly recommend to visit Chinatown. Very large open street shopping just near the Central station.

Antwerp is Belgium’s cool, creative capital — a city where historic charm meets modern edge. Known for its fashion scene, diamond district, and vibrant art history (think Rubens and Gothic cathedrals), it blends old-world elegance with contemporary culture. From strolling along the Scheldt River to exploring trendy boutiques, museums, and cozy cafés, Antwerp is perfect for travelers who love style, history, and a laid-back city vibe. #historicallandmarks#localguides#极光#旅行酷体验#世界遗产#海滩#浪漫的事#特色住宿

Brasschaat Park is a breathtaking escape in the heart of Belgium, offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and relaxation 🌿✨. Spanning over 250 acres, this lush oasis features serene ponds, vibrant gardens, and winding pathways, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls or invigorating jogs 🚶♂️🌸. Originally part of an aristocratic estate, the park was transformed into a public space in the late 19th century, preserving its historical charm while embracing modern amenities 🏛️. Visitors can explore its picturesque landscapes, enjoy spacious picnic areas, and admire sculptures that reflect its rich heritage 🎭🍃. With playgrounds for children, cycling paths, and frequent local festivals, Brasschaat Park is a beloved community hub that offers something for everyone 🌍💖. A must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike! 📸🚴

#hostellife Many think that staying in hostel reduces traveling experience, only in exchange for a lower traveling cost. I thought so too, until I stayed at this hostel, which to me exceeded many of my stays at proper hotels. 📍YUST Antwerp 💰Cost: RM135/night : Spacious and cozy common areas, with unlimited high-quality tea and coffee—so inviting that I often preferred hanging out there over sightseeing! : Clean, comfortable beds that made for a great night’s sleep. : Free luggage storage – a rarity these days, as many European accommodations now charge for it. : Fully equipped kitchen – oven, microwave, fridge, stove… perfect for solo or budget-conscious travelers. : Towels provided, even for dorm guests (usually not the case in European hostels), plus huge lockers with built-in charging ports. : Just a 2-minute walk from the nearest tram stop—super convenient. I have to say I’ve turned a fan for this brand, but there are currently only two YUST locations so far (both in Belgium). Genuinely looking forward to more branches of YUST across Europe

Antwerp, Belgium’s charming port city, is a delightful blend of historic elegance and modern vibrancy, known for its rich art, architecture, and diamond trade. Nestled along the River Scheldt, the city captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and bustling squares, where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary culture. #historicallandmarks #antwerpen #belgium

#hiddengems While most travellers think of Brussels, Ghent or Bruges (Don't make me type all weird names). I think Antwerp has been a great find. I mean i did unknowingly end up there but I enjoyed it very much. And i thought the place was beautiful. It is a port city that is very vibrant now, ethnically diverse and has an interesting history. While diversity seems to have not worked for the French, here things seem about fine. I managed to try some cuisines like Ethiopian and nepalese, which I had never tried before. Lot of curly haired people around, I'm guessing some sort of Arabic influence too. I enjoy Belgian beer and Antwerp was no exception to the good experiences of tasting. In fact, The De Koninck Brewery and Museum is an absolute highlight for any visit to Antwerp. Now you cannot not visit Antwerp!#hiddengems #belgium

#familytrips2024 Ball and Glory in Antwerpen is a haven for meatball aficionados, offering a delightful range of savory meatball dishes that satisfy every palate. Each meatball is crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations that elevate this traditional comfort food to new heights. The menu features a variety of options, from classic beef and pork meatballs to more adventurous choices like chicken or vegetarian options, ensuring there's something for everyone. Accompaniments such as creamy mashed potatoes or fresh salads complement the meatballs perfectly, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. As for my next family trip, we're excitedly planning a visit to Spain. We look forward to exploring the vibrant streets of Madrid, indulging in delicious paella in Valencia, and soaking up the sun along the stunning beaches of Costa Brava. Spain's rich cultural heritage and mouthwatering cuisine promise to make this family vacation an unforgettable experience. Ball and Glory in Antwerpen is a must-visit for its delicious meatball creations, offering a cozy atmosphere and flavors that leave a lasting impression on every diner.

Having spend a few months of my life in Singapore, I have come to discover and explore the Malaysian cuisine. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the dishes on offer were in fact authentic Malay and not, as happens more often than not, a watered down, Westernised version that wants to appeal to a wide audience of uninitiated by-passers and tourists. This is the only restaurant that I know of offering these foods in Antwerp (or Belgium for that matter). The coconut rice was very good. It was creamy and really had the essence of coconut in it without starting to feel like a dessert dish. The rendang and satay were tasty, although spices were definitely toned down. Next time I might let the waiter know that I don’t mind spicy food. In essence, if you are interested in exploring a new cuisine and you haven’t tried Malay cuisine before, definitely try this restaurant. And if you know Malay cuisine and wonder were you can find it, this would be the place to be. #Belgium #Antwerp #Asiancruisine #malaysiafood #Malaysia #Food

Belgium is for sure an eye-catching country. Yet, you get more fascinated by its cultural diversity and multi-lingual life. Despite the common beliefs regarding its wonderful desserts, Belgium has to offer you cute Lego-houses, beautiful nature and cute people! #belgium #belgiumchocholate #belgiumdishes

Antwerp, a city in Belgium, is home to the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, where Nero visits to see Rubens's paintings in the novel. The Rubens paintings seen there are truly awe-inspiring.

Port of Antwerp, Euroports and Treepack have joined forces to bring the port of Antwerp closer to the city. The facade of Euroports on Vosseschijnstraat will be given a colorful mural of no less than 680m² in the course of March. As the second largest port in Europe, the port of Antwerp is the engine of the Belgian economy. In collaboration with Port of Antwerp and Euroports, one of the largest logistics companies in the port, the port and all the people who work there are put in the spotlight in an inspiring way by means of a mural. Euroports made enormous investments last year, and the terminal on the Vosseschijnstraat has also been included in this investment wave. The terminal operator therefore invests not only in machines and cranes, but also in a pleasant environment for everyone. The impressive 200-meter-long mural will brighten up this part of the port and beautifully shows what both companies stand for: sustainability, diversity and connection. The people who run the harbor are central: from docker to captain and from boatswain to cyclists and walkers. This project was made possible by a collaboration between Europort, Port of Antwerp, Treepack, Streetart Antwerp Harmonica Gama and street art artists Nean, Ami and Roubens The artists can still be seen at work until March 30. Be sure to take a look! Location: Vosseschijnstraat45-59, 2030Antwerp #portofantwerp #portofantwerp???? #euroports #streetart #havenbedrijf #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes

Antwerp is a famous cultural center in Europe. People are attracted by its three major attractions: first, the old buildings in the old city with well-preserved and medieval atmosphere; second, the mysterious diamond processing and trading; third, the world's reputation. Painting art and numerous museums. There is a bronze statue in the center of the Grote Market, which engraves the graceful arched shape of Brabault throwing giants off the Scheldt River. This is also the smooth and unrecoverable freedom of the Scheldt River. A sign. The cathedral near the square is a charming place in the city, and the philosophers rely on oil painting to present the Bible story to you.

It was planted in Antwerp because the designer stores and buyers were scattered among the medieval alleys. The Cathedral of Our Lady in the heart of Antwerp is the largest church in Belgium. It houses a large number of altarpieces from Rubens. This year is just the Baroque Art Year. Fortunately, you can see the most famous contemporary in Belgium. Artist's work of art. Along the medieval road, stroll to the former residence of the Belgian painter Rubens, where you can see the growth of the great painter, especially in the last room, two early and late contrasts You can see the traces of an artist's growth.