🏛️✨ Antwerp City Hall (Stadhuis) Summer Visit: A Renaissance Masterpiece in the Heart of Flanders

#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? 🎨🍻