General Information
Antwerp, known as Anvers in French, is Belgium’s second-largest city and one of Europe’s most stylish and culturally rich destinations. Famed for its diamonds, cutting-edge fashion scene, impressive port, and stunning architecture, Antwerp is a blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. The city is home to world-class museums, medieval landmarks, and a lively nightlife scene, making it an exciting destination for every traveler. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, foodie, or shopaholic, Antwerp has something for you.
Location
Antwerp is located in northern Belgium, in the Flemish region, along the Scheldt River. It is just 45 km from Brussels, 110 km from Ghent, and 160 km from Amsterdam, making it easily accessible from major European cities. Antwerp’s strategic port is one of the biggest in Europe, contributing to its global significance in trade and culture.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Antwerp International Airport (ANR): Small airport with limited European flights.
- Brussels Airport (BRU): The best option, 30 minutes away by train.
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL): Budget airlines land here, around 1.5 hours away.
- By Train:
- Antwerp Central Station is a spectacular architectural landmark and a major railway hub.
- High-speed trains (Thalys, Eurostar, and InterCity) connect Antwerp to Brussels, Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne.
- By Bus:
- FlixBus and Eurolines offer affordable travel from European cities.
- By Car:
- Easily accessible via highways E19, E17, and A12.
- Parking in the city center is limited, but P+R (Park & Ride) options are available.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Mild weather (10°C – 20°C), perfect for sightseeing.
- Summer (June – August): Warm (20°C – 30°C), great for outdoor cafés and festivals.
- Autumn (September – November): Cooler (10°C – 18°C) with fewer tourists.
- Winter (December – February): Cold (0°C – 8°C), magical with Christmas markets and cozy cafés.
Key Festivals:
- Antwerp Fashion Weekend (September): A must-visit for fashion lovers.
- Bollekesfeest (August): A beer and food festival celebrating Antwerp’s local brews.
- Christmas Market (December): A charming winter wonderland with festive lights and stalls.
- Zomer van Antwerpen (Summer): An exciting arts and culture festival with performances and concerts.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Hotel Julien: A stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace.
- Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp: A luxurious 5-star wellness retreat.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt: A comfortable hotel near the city’s main square.
- Hotel Indigo Antwerp – City Centre: Trendy design with excellent amenities.
- Budget:
- Antwerp Central Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly stay in the heart of the city.
- B&B Hotel Antwerp South: Affordable with modern, clean rooms.
- Unique:
- August Hotel: A converted Augustinian monastery with elegant decor.
- Hotel Pilar: A chic design hotel in the trendy Zuid district.
Top Attractions
- Antwerp Central Station: One of the world’s most beautiful train stations.
- Grote Markt: The city’s historic main square with stunning guild houses.
- Cathedral of Our Lady: Home to masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens.
- MAS (Museum aan de Stroom): A modern museum with panoramic city views.
- Red Star Line Museum: Tells the story of European emigrants to the U.S.
- Rubenshuis: The former home of Baroque master Peter Paul Rubens.
- Plantin-Moretus Museum: A UNESCO-listed printing museum.
- Meir Shopping Street: The best place for fashion and high-end shopping.
- ZOO Antwerpen: One of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful zoos.
- Port of Antwerp & Havenhuis: A futuristic architectural marvel designed by Zaha Hadid.
Getting Around
- Public Transport: Trams and buses (De Lijn) provide efficient city travel.
- Biking: Antwerp is bike-friendly, with rentals available via Velo Antwerp.
- Walking: The historic center is compact and ideal for exploring on foot.
- Taxis & Ride-sharing: Available but public transport is cheaper.
- Scooters & E-bikes: Apps like Lime and Bird offer quick transportation options.
Local Cuisine
- Antwerpse Handjes: Hand-shaped butter biscuits, a city specialty.
- Bolleke Beer: A famous amber ale from De Koninck Brewery.
- Stoofvlees met Frieten: A Belgian beef stew served with fries.
- Mussels (Moules-Frites): Classic dish served in a creamy white wine sauce.
- Smoutebollen: Belgian-style deep-fried doughnuts, popular in winter.
Best Restaurants & Cafés:
- The Jane: A 2-Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant.
- Chez Fred: One of the best spots for traditional Belgian fries.
- De Groote Witte Arend: A historic brasserie with classic Belgian dishes.
- Normo: A trendy coffee shop with artisanal brews.
- Black Smoke: A top-notch BBQ and rooftop bar.
Shopping
- Meir: The city’s main shopping street, home to international brands.
- Nationalestraat & Kammenstraat: Trendy areas for local designers and high-end boutiques.
- ModeMuseum (MoMu): Antwerp’s fashion museum showcasing Belgian talent.
- Antwerp Diamond District: The place to shop for world-famous Antwerp diamonds.
- Vrijdagmarkt: A lively flea market every Friday for vintage lovers.
Nightlife
- Café d’Anvers: A legendary club for electronic music lovers.
- De Muze: A famous jazz café with a bohemian vibe.
- Dogma Cocktails: An upscale cocktail bar with a creative menu.
- Paters Vaetje: A cozy bar serving over 100 Belgian beers.
- Amuz: A stylish wine and dine venue with live music.
