2025 Antwerp Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Antwerp Station is the main railway station in Antwerp, Belgium. It is also one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world🌟. The architectural style of this railway station is very much like a museum🚉, which attracts countless tourists to visit✨. The architecture of Antwerp Station combines a variety of styles, including the neo-Renaissance style and the Baroque style. The exterior is magnificent. The interior of the station is especially impressive😍. The spacious waiting hall has gorgeous arches and exquisite decorations. The large clock hanging on the wall is an iconic design. It feels like being in an art palace🎨🏛️. In addition to beautiful architecture, Antwerp Station is also an important transportation hub, connecting major cities in Belgium and surrounding countries. From here, tourists can easily travel to Brussels, Bruges and Ghent, etc. It is convenient and fast🚆. Take the Belgian National Railway to Antwerp directly from major cities. The station is only a few steps away from the city center and can be easily reached on foot🌟. #GlobalTravel

Antwerp is located on the Scheldt River in the northwest of Belgium. It is the largest port and important industrial city in Belgium, with an area of 140 square kilometers and a population of 457,000 (January 2005). Most residents use Dutch dialects. Antwerp is a famous cultural center in Europe and the birthplace of famous artists Rubens and Van Dyck. There are ancient buildings full of medieval atmosphere, superb and mysterious diamond craftsmanship, and world-renowned painting art and religion are perfectly combined. As the second largest city in Belgium, the second largest port in Europe, the 16th largest port in the world, and the largest diamond processing and trading center in the world, Antwerp is the most densely populated area in Europe. Most citizens of Antwerp believe that the name of their city comes from the Dutch "handwerpen", which means "broken palm". According to legend, there was a giant who collected high tolls from the passing captains. The young warrior Brabo cut off the giant's hand. In the center of the Grand Square (Grote Market), there is a bronze statue, which depicts Brabo's beautiful bow-shaped posture of throwing the giant's broken palm into the Scheldt River, which is also a symbol of the Scheldt River's restoration of freedom and smoothness. But the legend cannot replace history. Antwerp is actually a symbol of the city core formed by the protruding land into the water. Historically, it was one of the richest cities in Europe. To this day, it is still the largest diamond trading center in the world. There are 1,600 diamond companies in the city, as well as various diamond-related museums and exhibition halls. The churches in Antwerp are the unique charm of this city. The philosophers rely on oil paintings to show the Bible stories in front of you. Therefore, when you go to Antwerp, you must go to the local church to see it, it can bring you artistic enjoyment. Antwerp Cathedral, also known as Antwerp Cathedral, is a cathedral built over 200 years from 1352. Although it took so long and was supervised by countless architects, the overall architectural style is quite consistent and harmonious. It is a representative work of Gothic architecture and the largest church in Belgium and even Northern Europe. The church is a large stone pillar arch structure with 124 forest-like columns The most attractive part of the church is the tower. The tower is 123 meters high. The delicate decorations on the tower are breathtaking. The 47 bells on the tower are combined into a row of bells. It took a century to complete the hands of three craftsmen. Known as the "medieval skyscraper". It is an excellent sign for ships entering the port of Antwerp. The church houses famous paintings by Rubens, such as "The Ascension of Jesus", "The Descent of Jesus" and "The Ascension of the Virgin" and other altar paintings. Among them, "Jesus Descent" is one of the seven heroes of Belgian art.

▪️ The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) covers seven centuries of art, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. It includes early Netherlandish paintings, expressionism, and works in painting, sculpture, drawing, and decorative arts. Many pieces are by renowned Flemish painters such as Peter Paul Rubens and Jacob Jordaens. The museum also showcases various styles and periods, including the Dutch Golden Age, Baroque, 19th-century Romanticism, and Modernism. ▫️ Originally designed by architects Jacob Winders and Frans Van Dyck in the 19th century, the KMSKA opened to the public in 1890. The museum was established to collect, preserve, and display significant Belgian and Flemish artworks. After winning an international competition in 2003, the museum underwent over a decade of renovation and expansion, reopening this year. 🔺 To fully enjoy the exhibition, it's recommended to allocate 2 hours for your visit. Tickets can be booked in advance on the official website or purchased at the self-service machines at the museum entrance. 🎫 Tickets: €20 for ages 26 and above, €10 for ages 19-26, free for ages 18 and below. 🕙 Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00 (open until 18:00 on weekends, until 22:00 on Thursdays except in July/August). 📍 Address: Leopold de Waelplaats, 2000 Antwerp

Nestled in the heart of Antwerp, the Botanic Sanctuary is a historical haven dating back to 1238. 🏛️🍃 Transformed into a hotel, it's a lush paradise that marries the charm of ancient architecture with modern minimalism. Though the rooms might be cozy due to its heritage roots, they don't skimp on style or comfort. 🛌✨ Service here is top-notch, making you feel like royalty without the pretense. 🤴👸 Stroll just 15 minutes, and you'll find yourself at the Central Train Station, with all of Antwerp at your fingertips. 🚉👣 Foodies, rejoice! With five dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, your taste buds are in for a treat. 🍽️🌟 Whether it's a quick bite or a lavish dinner, your culinary desires won't go unmet. 🍰🥂 Discover this green oasis at Leopoldstraat 26, Antwerp, and let the Botanic Sanctuary enchant you. 🌳💫 #Antwerp #AntwerpHotel #AntwerpTravel

Sofie's Place
⭐️ Overall rating: 5/5
🍽 Recommendation: Thai beef salad
💁 Service: Good
💰 £40 per person
📍 Location: Graanmarkt 1, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
Sofie’s place is one of my favourite restaurants in Antwerp, and during summer time, I like sitting outside and having a drink with my friends here.
The food is high quality and freshly made. From the starter, Ceasar salade with some fresh seafood tastes awesome and the Tomatensalade burrata is fresh.
I ordered Thai beef salad and it tastes like Chinese food. The sweet sauce is impressive. #境外遊 #foodie #Antwerp

This is truly the place for your 5 senses satisfaction: 1. Sight: one can view the great masterpiece (Castle) made from chocolate as well enjoy the Chocolatier’s demonstrations. 2. Hearing: you can listen and learn the new unknown details about the production process and get to know the interesting historical details about chocolate. 3. Smell: chocolate smell in this museum increasing theta brain waves which trigged relaxation even with teenagers 😂. 4. Touch: it’s a miracle everything you touch in this museum turns into the chocolate (slightly exaggerating). 5. TASTE: 10 different flavors of chocolates to taste - heaven! I will definitely recommend! #wecreate #belgium #Belgiumchocholate #museum #Chocolatemuseum #antwerp #Chocolatenation

Antwerp, the second largest port city in Belgium, is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful old architecture and many prominent landmark attractions. As a port city, it is constantly in contact with foreigners, resulting in a culturally diverse area. Antwerp is also the world's center of diamond trade and a modern fashion icon city with many world-class designer brands based here. #Belgium #TravelAbroad

Another #throwback to Belgium trip. #2023travelwish

This is the lovely city i've been. Talk about it's history, I couldn't agree more. I take a short train 30 minutes from Brussels and this city is easy to walkable. You can see there is a lot of gems right here. As a muslim, I do respect their Gothic building. Their grote markt is lively and full of people. Nice!! At first I thought the historical building must be their church. oh well, my mistake. Some of it is a train station, their museum and their old government building. In case you'd love to be here, do enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the city! Cheers!! #mytripvlog #tripblazers #spooktaculartrip #deliciousfood #fypシ

The first time I visited Belgium, my trip took me to Antwerp - a town with great atmosphere, delicious food and dark academia vibes in the old town. Lively Antwerp is a hidden gem. Its medieval streets, Renaissance monuments and vibrant nightlife tend to be overshadowed by its reputation as centre of the diamond trade and as the world's fifth-largest port. Cycling is a popular choice for getting around this stylish Flemish city. See thousands of Old Masters at the Royal Museum and Rubens House. Experience the bustle of life at the Grote Markt. Marvel at the art and architecture of the still unfinished Cathedral of Our Lady, started in 1351. My personal highlights included seeing Grote Markt, having Belgian fries with mayo and riding a Bird scooter down the streets... #tripblazers #myvlogtrip

Koningin Astridplein is a square in the center of the Belgian city of Antwerp. It leads to the De Keyserlei and the Carnotstraat among others. Right at the square, there is the beautiful Antwerp Central Station which many travellers and locals use to get to different cities and different areas of the city itself. The Central station has a beautiful architecture and was built in 1905. This central station is one of the most beautiful central stations in the world, given its beautiful architecture and grandeur. Just right beside it, you will find a popular destination which is the diamond street (De Keyserlei). There are also a lot of popular destinations around it. #antwerp #antwerpen

Frituur n°1 is a local fries store in Antwerp located in the city centre. They sell a few mainstream food dishes, mainly fast food and quick bites, but the fries were the highlight. Got to know of this place from a local, and there were many locals queuing up for it (but the queue moves very quickly). The locals recommended the most popular ones, which is just fries with beef stew and mayonnaise sauce. Fries were pretty nice! But note that this shop doesn’t accept any card payments, and only cash is accepted. There is also a seating area with plenty of seats but the toilet was sealed off, so no toilets were accessible. 4/5 and would recommend for a quick bite! #food #antwerp #belgium

Address - Van Hecke Waffle House in Antwerp Ambiance/Facilities - waffles were not too bad! The waffles were crispy and warm, but super light on the inside. Ambience wise, it was a small Waffle House but had enough seats to accommodate everyone. The owner was also very friendly and helped us move to a bigger table when it was available. Highlights - We got a banana split and it was amazing! we also got a normal waffle with the whipped cream, it was nice on its own as well! Avg. Price per Person - 10-15 euros depending on what you get. They have Belgian waffles and even main dishes. They also serve tea, hot chocolate, and many other drinks along with ice cream to go with your waffles. Rating - 4.5/5 #food #antwerp #antwerpen #belgianwaffles

#OverseasTravel #BelgiumTravel #StudentCreatorRecruitment Antwerp is Belgium's second largest commercial centre and port city. It is the terminus for several Belgian railway routes and was designed by architect Louis Delacenserie in the Baroque style. Antwerp Central Station is the main railway station in the Belgian city of Antwerp. The station was originally a simple wooden station built between 1895 and 1905. The station was renovated in 1986 so that trains to the Netherlands can pass directly through Antwerp's underground. Don’t miss it when you come to Belgium!

Antwerp is the fashion capital of Belgium😝 The streets and alleys of the city are filled with a unique literary and artistic atmosphere. There is an understated luxury🥰 It is a very walkable city! First of all, after Antwerp Central Station, you will be amazed to see it😜 because it has the reputation of the world's most beautiful railway station and railway cathedral. Another must-visit is Vlaaikensgang 16th Century Lane Although the space is not large but it is completely preserved the original 16th century street in the shape of the walk in and take pictures is very worth it! There are also many very luxurious shopping malls nearby to visit The last thing everyone will definitely visit is the Grand Place Antwerp! The Town Hall is also there surrounded by different Belgian-style architecture is a must-visit attraction for every traveler! #Belgium #Antwerp #Starwriters April Flash Sale

This is a detail from Congoville, a free temporary exhibition at the open air museum Middelheimpark. Scroll to see further details. In the exhibition,15 artists who were selected by the Belgian-Congolese art historian Sandrine Colard, show their vision on Congoville and the colonial traces in our society. Special focus lies on the former Colonial College of Belgium whose building next to the Middelheimpark is now owned by University Antwerp. Foundet in 1920 and closed in 1962, it trained top civil servants to run the Belgian colonies. The garden also contains the director's villa in colonial style. This photo shows the work of artist Maurice Mbikayi and is called ‘The Aesthetic Observer (2021) ‘. Maurice Mbikayic, born in 1974 in Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of Congo), lives and works in Cape Town (South Africa). In the clothing of this figure we see keys from old computer keyboards. It refers to the raw materials needed in today's technology. The workers who extract the ores from the ground in Congo are still exploited thus enabling the Western way of life. Afterwards, the West often dumps the materials back in Africa as toxic waste. By using this dumped materials in his art, Mbikayi denounces this reprehensible situation. At the same time it honorees the resilience of the African people, who have found endless ways to make the most of limited resources. The dandy-like character of the figure refers to the Sapeurs from Brazzaville-Congo who are members of ‘La Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes’ which means that they belong to ‘the elite of élégance’. They parade across the street like peacocks in striking clothing and create flamboyant identities for themselves showing they haven’t lost their free spirit and self respect. #modernart #sculpturepark #antwerp #antwerpen #middelheimmuseum #instantwerpen #vakantieineigenland #artpark #park #stadantwerpen #museum #terras #summertime #middelheim #visitantwerp #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes

The Central Station immediately has a wow factor for those arriving by train in Antwerp. The impressive building was built between 1899 and 1905 according to a design by the architects Louis Delacenserie and Charles Poupaert in an eclectic style. It is in fact already the third station on this spot after the previous two were demolished. Originally it was a terminus where all trains had to turn in their direction of travel. This changed in March 2007 after a thorough renovation and modernization of the station platform, in which a two-track tunnel was opened that runs under the station and part of the city so that trains can continue their route without turning. #antwerpenstation #treinstation #metrostation #travelmore #slowtravel #station #building #antwerpenmijnstad #antwerpen #antwerpenbelgium #anvers #happynewyear #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes

Since 1883, Hendrik Conscience Square is named after the 19th-century Flemish writer Hendrik Conscience whose statue has been placed on the square. Before that it was called Jesuit Square because the Jesuits built the square in its current form. The partly 17th-century buildings around the square are characterized by a Baroque style. This is especially true for the imposing St. Carolus Borromeo Church, a former Jesuit church. The baroque style of the buildings around the square, with great pomp and splendor, was consciously stimulated by the Jesuits. As part of the Counter Reformation, the order wanted to encourage the population to come to their churches in all kinds of ways. Hence the difference in height of 8 meters between the front of the Sint Carolus Borromeus church and the rear with nothing behind just to make it look more imposant. A 17th century publicity stunt to attract more people. The entire square has been tiled with cobble stones. If you look closely you can see the 4 symbols of the card game (heart, club, diamond, spade). The photo is taken under the Sodality (oldest part of Hendrik Conscience heritage library), a wide passage that connects Conscienceplein with the Jesuitsrui, popularly called the “Jesuitengat". In 1927 a bronze memorial plaque in honor of August Snieders, a writer, was placed. In 1975 this square became the first auto-free square in the city, created through the efforts of local residents and some well-known artists such as Hugo Heyrman and Panamarenko. #erfgoedbibliotheekhendrikconscience #cityview #discoverbelgium #kidsoceanworld #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes

Have you heard of it? The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is located there and it is the hometown of the cartoon Patrasche! It is Antwerp, Belgium The city itself continues to use old buildings so it is truly a city that is like an imaginary Europe:) I remember that when I visited in the summer, there was a market every Saturday;) #SummerCapture

The atmosphere is crazy.... If I had to pick the most beautiful sunset in my life, I would definitely say "Antwerp" in Belgium The sky changes in seconds It's such a beautiful color that you wonder if this is possible And even the clouds drawn by the airplanes taking off from the airport right next door It's really P.E.R.F.E.C.T. The sunset that I want to see with my boyfriend No. 1 selected by Forbes The place I want to see the sunset while eating waffles No. 1 most beautiful sunset in my life #Belgium travel #Antwerp travel #Good atmosphere #Sunset

#Overseas Travel The Antwerp City Hall is a beautiful building that looks very imposing. The most special thing is that the windows of several floors are hung with the flags of many countries. The colorful flags fluttering in the wind are very spectacular and look beautiful in photos. We also sat in the main square and enjoyed the beautiful view while eating. #Overseas Travel

#国外游 This building is in the Federal District of Mexico City, very close to the Plaza Mayor. When I walked by it, I found that it matched the clothes I wore that day so I took a picture of it. I like the color matching of many buildings in Mexico City. #Overseas Travel

#givethanks

If you only look at the picture, wouldnt you think of such a beautiful building but a train station? The Antwerp Central Railway Station in Belgium, built between 1895 and 1905, was built by the Belgian King Leopold II. The magnificent neo-Baroque architecture is decorated with more than 20 kinds of marble and stone. And magnificent. When it was completed, it was criticized for its luxury, but time has confirmed the vision of the builders. Today, this station has become one of the symbols of Antwerp and has been rated as the most beautiful railway station in the world.

Belgium|Antwerp eat and drink Raiders h The hotel opposite the Antwerp station is in an excellent location, the restaurant's large glass windows are the best location to enjoy the station. The location of the hotel is also very good, walking distance to the commercial street and the Rubens House. But spit it out, because it is very difficult to hold the tail room and the room with 4 numbers, in the case of telling the front desk (language communication is no problem, basically can be considered intentional) still give us a room number 4 and the tail room The room, after asking for a room change, gave us another tail room in another direction... This service is very speechless h This shows all kinds of Beautiful diamonds and art collections from around the world, as well as diamond jewelry that various superstars have ever worn. Rubens House The paintings that I once saw in the art book can be seen here! The Rubens Garden is also a great place to take pictures. Antwerp station highly recommended photography, casual shooting is very filming, intricate elevators and huge domes are amazing! There is also a very retro cafe eat Frites Atelier potato roast beef fries a bit like our rice bowl, is a popular local snack, in addition to the traditional potato beef The taste is curry and spicy cabbage Graanmarket 13 fashion avant-garde Antwerp innovative dishes, the chef has also visited China, adding innovative elements to traditional Belgian dishes purchase Belgian chocolate, super rich

Antwerp, Belgium — a city where history stands tall and legends come alive in the heart of every square. On a crisp, overcast morning, I found myself wandering through the Grote Markt, Antwerp’s iconic main square, surrounded by grand guildhalls and the majestic Renaissance-style City Hall. But one monument in particular demanded my attention: the Brabo Fountain. Standing beneath this powerful sculpture, I couldn’t help but feel small in the best possible way. The fountain tells the legendary tale of Silvius Brabo, a Roman soldier who freed the city from the tyranny of the giant Antigoon. The story goes that Antigoon would demand a toll from those crossing the river Scheldt—and if they refused, he’d cut off their hands. Brabo defeated the giant, chopped off his hand, and threw it into the river. That act of rebellion and justice gave the city its name: Antwerpen — literally, “hand throwing.” 🗿 The statue is fierce and poetic, showing Brabo mid-throw, standing atop the beast he conquered. It’s more than a monument — it’s a symbol of resistance and freedom that echoes through the centuries. 📍 Must-See Tips for Visiting Grote Markt: • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and soak in the peaceful vibe. • Grab a coffee nearby and just sit and take in the architecture — every building here has a history. • Look up! The gold-tipped statues atop the guildhalls are stunning in any light. ⸻ Antwerp surprised me. It’s not just a port city or a fashion hub — it’s a living museum. If you’re heading to Belgium, don’t skip it. And when you stand at the base of the Brabo Fountain, look up, breathe in the legend, and take a moment to feel just how deep Europe’s stories go.

Antwerp, where historic grandeur meets cutting-edge cool! This vibrant port city is a captivating blend of magnificent architecture, world-renowned fashion, and a thriving diamond trade. Marvel at the stunning Antwerp Central Station, explore the artistic heritage at Rubens House, and discover the city's rich past at the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom). Don't miss the picturesque Grote Markt with its impressive guild houses, or the unique experience of the Diamond District. Antwerp offers a dynamic mix of culture, shopping, and delicious Belgian delights! #travel #thingstodo #museums #myitinerary #citydaytours

#summervacay 📍 Why Visit in Summer? Antwerp’s 16th-century City Hall dominates the Grote Markt with its gold-accented façade and rich history. Summer brings vibrant café terraces, evening light shows, and fewer crowds than Brussels or Bruges. 🗓️ Half-Day Itinerary: Architecture, Art & Aperitifs Morning: Golden Age Glory 9:00 AM – Arrive Early (opens at 10 AM; enjoy the quiet square). Admire the façade statues symbolizing Justice, Trade, and the Virgin Mary (Antwerp’s protector). Snap the Brabo Fountain (mythical giant-slayer) in front. 10:30 AM – Guided Tour Inside (€7, book online) Highlights: Wedding Hall: Gold-leaf ceiling and 16th-century tapestries. Council Chamber: Where Napoleon once held court. Midday: Grote Markt Vibes 12:00 PM – Lunch at De 7 Schaken Try Flemish carbonnade (beer stew) on their sunny terrace. 1:30 PM – Hidden Gem: Vlaeykensgang A medieval alley with artisan shops (5-min walk). Afternoon: Art & River Views 3:00 PM – MAS Museum (10-min walk) Rooftop free panorama of the Scheldt River. 5:00 PM – Summer Sunset Drinks Bar Paniek (by the river) for Belgian gin & tonics. 🌞 Summer Specials: ✅ Light Show: Evenings in July-Aug, the Stadhuis glows with projections. ✅ Antwerp Summer Festival: Free open-air concerts in the square (check dates). ✅ Diamond District: Cool off in air-conditioned jewelers’ shops nearby. 📌 Must-Know Tips: Transport: 5-min walk from Antwerp Central Station (a UNESCO site itself!). Combo Ticket: Stadhuis + Cathedral (€12) saves money. Avoid Mondays: Many museums closed. "Antwerp’s City Hall isn’t just a building—it’s a golden-hued symbol of the city’s rebellious pride." Ready to step into Flanders’ Renaissance? 🎨🍻