Things to do in Antwerp – 22 attractions, experiences and best tips

Writer: Helena Bergström

Updated: July 2026 | We have visited Antwerp several times and especially like the nice mix of classic sights and modern experiences. In this guide we have collected our best tips for things to do in Antwerp - restaurants, museums, excursions and areas to stay.

Antwerp in Belgium

Antwerp is a city of surprises. It combines historic squares, impressive architecture and world-famous art treasures with trendy neighborhoods, shopping, Belgian gastronomy and one of Europe's largest port areas. Plus, the city is big enough to be explored on foot.

1. Grote Markt – the historic heart of Antwerp

The charming Grote Markt is the heart of the city and is surrounded by beautiful guild houses from the 16th and 17th centuries. In the middle of the square stands the famous Brabo Fountain, which tells the legend of the giant Antigoon and the hero Brabo - a story that is said to have given Antwerp its name

The Belgian city of Antwerp is the centre of the diamond trade and processing. The name 'Antwerp' is traditionally thought to mean 'hand throwing', and comes from a myth about an evil giant who demanded a toll from anyone crossing the river, and cut off the hands of those who did not pay. The giant was eventually defeated by the hero Brabo, who cut off the giant's own hand and threw it into the river.

2. Be impressed by the Cathedral of Our Lady

The Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady is Antwerp's most famous landmark and is visible from afar with its 123-meter-high tower. The church began construction in the 14th century and is considered one of the most impressive churches in all of Belgium.

Inside the cathedral, you'll find several world-famous paintings by Peter Paul Rubens, along with beautiful stained glass windows and a magnificent interior. Even if you don't usually visit churches, this is a sight that is definitely worth a stop.

3. Stroll through the picturesque alley Vlaeykensgang

Hidden in the heart of Antwerp is Vlaeykensgang, a narrow cobblestone alley that feels like a trip back to the Middle Ages. Here, you'll find historic houses, quiet courtyards, and a completely different atmosphere than the city's bustling shopping streets.

The alley is one of Antwerp's best kept secrets and a favorite among bloggers/photographers. It's also a perfect little detour when you're walking between the Grote Markt and the cathedral. We loved this!

4. Learn more about diamonds at DIVA Diamond Museum

Antwerp is the capital of diamonds, so what better place than to visit a diamond museum and we were not disappointed? DIVA is a fantastic museum that both showcases sparkling masterpieces and tells you everything you ever wanted to know about diamonds. This is located just 5 minutes from the main square.

5. Explore Antwerp's famous Diamond District

Just a few minutes from the central station is the world-famous diamond district, where thousands of diamonds change hands every day. There are many jewelers and specialty shops offering everything from exclusive jewelry to certified diamonds.

Even if you don't plan on shopping, the area is exciting to stroll through. It's hard not to be fascinated by the importance the diamond industry still has to Antwerp.

6. Visit Antwerp Central Station

Antwerpen-Centraal is often described as one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world – and it’s easy to see why. The grand building, with its large dome, marble floors and impressive staircase, feels almost more like a palace than a train station.

TIPS: Take a moment to look up at the different floors where the trains pass on several levels. Even if you don't travel by train, this is one of the city's most impressive sights.

7. Shopping in Antwerp

Antwerp is known as the fashion capital of Belgium and attracts visitors from all over the world with everything from international brands to exclusive designer boutiques. Along the shopping street Meir you will find the big chains, while the neighborhoods around Nationalestraat offer exciting fashion and design. Don't forget the luxurious Stadsfeestzaal mall

TIPS: Don't forget to shop for chocolate in beautiful packaging for yourself or the world's best gifts.

8. Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum

Our favourite museum in Antwerp was the Plantin-Moretus Museum, which tells the story of bookbinder Christophe Plantin, who published his first book in 1555 and went on to create the successful Officina Plantiniana. Just about everything in the bindery has been left for posterity to see. Fascinating! The museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. See Rubens' House in Antwerp

Rubens is considered the greatest Northern European Baroque painter and was mainly active in Antwerp, where he died in 1640. Today you can visit Rubens' house where he lived. It contains paintings by Rubens and his contemporaries. Some of the paintings depict naked people, and the Flanders Tourist Board has made a very funny promotional film mocking Facebook's rather harsh restrictions on nudity...

TIPS: If you want to see more of Rubens's work, you can find it in, among other places, the St. Charles Borromeo Church at Hendrik Conscienceplein 11, which was largely decorated by the famous artist Rubens.

10. Discover Het Steen – Antwerp’s oldest building

On the banks of the Scheldt River lies Het Steen, a medieval castle that is Antwerp's oldest surviving building. Over the centuries, the castle has been used as a defensive structure, a prison, and the city's gateway to the outside world.

Today, Het Steen is a popular meeting place with nice promenades along the water. From here you also get a beautiful view of the river and the city's modern harbor area.

11. St. Anne's Tunnel

The wooden escalator built in 1933 (over 90 years old) takes you down to the St. Anna's tunnel (Pedestrian's tunnel), which runs under the Scheldt river. It is widely used by pedestrians and cyclists to get to and from work every day and it takes about 30 minutes to walk to the other side. It was built under the river so as not to disrupt the port traffic that Antwerp is famous for.

12. Stroll along the River Scheldt

The River Scheldt has played a crucial role in the development of Antwerp, and to this day the quays are one of the city's most pleasant places to stroll. Large ships pass here, while restaurants, cafés and green areas line the water.

An evening stroll along the river is a perfect way to experience the city's quieter side. Don't forget your camera - the view of Antwerp is especially beautiful in the evening light.

13. Visit MAS – Museum ann de Stroom

Don't miss MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) when you're in Antwerp. The museum is located by the river, and the roof of the tenth floor offers a great view of the city. Visiting the roof terrace is free of charge, and you only pay if you want to see the various exhibitions.

We did not have time to see the permanent exhibitions but focused on the temporary exhibition on the 17th century female artist. Michaelina. At this time, women artists were often overshadowed, and it is only now that she may have received the recognition she deserved!

TIPS: If you get hungry, you can have lunch at Roest at Sint-Aldegondiskaai 64, right next to MAS. Lovely interior with hanging green plants and really good salads!

14. Explore the trendy harbor quarter of Eilandje

The old port area of Eilandje has been transformed into one of Antwerp's most exciting neighborhoods, blending modern architecture with historic warehouses, a marina, restaurants, and several of the city's most popular museums.

The area is perfect for a long walk where you can stop for lunch, enjoy the view of the harbor or just sit down at an outdoor cafe and take in the atmosphere.

15. See the spectacular Port House building

Port House is one of Antwerp's most striking buildings. The old fire station has been replaced with a huge glass structure that resembles a diamond and floats above the roof.

Designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the building has become a modern symbol of the city's strong connection to both the port and the diamond trade. It also looks great in pictures.

16. Stroll among magnificent houses in Zurenborg

Zurenborg is one of Antwerp's most beautiful neighborhoods and a must-see for architecture lovers. Its streets are lined with grand Art Nouveau houses, colorful facades, and elegant buildings from the late 19th century.

Take a stroll along Cogels-Osylei and the nearby streets, where almost every house has its own unique style. It almost feels like walking through a living architecture museum.

17. Eat fries at Fritkot Max

French fries are thought to have originated in Belgium, so if you're going to eat French fries anywhere, it's here! Fritkot Max at Groenplaats 12 is the oldest fries place in town, and here you can order fries along with optional extras, which are also deep-fried. Just make sure you're on your best behaviour - the lady behind the counter is adamant that everything is done the way she wants!

18. Taste Belgian waffles and chocolate

You can't go wrong with Belgian chocolate, and there are a number of shops selling chocolates in Antwerp. We can particularly recommend The Chocolate Line at the Paleis op the Meir, with both stunning interiors and fine chocolate pralines.

19. Taste beer at the De Koninck brewery

The De Koninck brewery offers an interesting experience with beer tasting, a museum and shops selling beer, chocolate, cheese and bread. Read our post about the visit to the brewery on Boomgaardstraat 1.

20. Discover PAKT – a creative neighborhood

PAKT is a modern meeting place where old industrial buildings have been transformed into a vibrant neighborhood with cafes, restaurants, offices and roof gardens. Sustainability and creativity are the focus here.

It's a place that many tourists miss, but has quickly become a favorite among locals. Come here for a coffee, lunch or just to experience a different Antwerp.

21. Check out the street art

Antwerp has become increasingly known for its street art in recent years. Colorful murals and creative artworks are appearing on house facades and along small streets all over the city.

A fun way to discover art is to keep your eyes open while walking or follow a map of the city's street art. It turns every walk into a little treasure hunt.

22. Visit St. Paul's Church and Calvary Garden

St. Paul's Church is one of Antwerp's most beautiful churches, but the real surprise lies behind the building: the Calvary Garden, a dramatic sculpture garden with around sixty statues depicting the suffering and resurrection of Jesus.

It is one of the city's most underrated attractions and a place that many visitors miss out on. For those who want to discover something beyond the classic tourist destinations, this is the perfect end to your tour of Antwerp.

TIPS: Discover Antwerp by bike! The city is also of a size that makes it practical to get around by bike. You can rent a bike or buy a day pass for rental bikes, which can be picked up and dropped off at bike racks around the city.

Best areas to stay and explore

Antwerp is a relatively compact city with many of the attractions within walking distance, so where you choose to stay will depend mainly on the type of trip you are planning.

Historic center – perfect for a first trip

If you're visiting Antwerp for the first time, the Old Town is the best choice. Here you'll be close to the Grote Markt, the Cathedral of Our Lady, Het Steen and several of the city's most popular restaurants and cafés.

Most things can be experienced on foot and in the evenings the area is full of life. You are also close to shopping, museums and the river Scheldt.

The area around the central station – close to trains and shopping

The area around Antwerpen-Centraal is perfect if you're arriving by train or want to be close to the city's best shopping. The famous diamond district and the Meir shopping street are also within easy walking distance.

The area has a wide range of hotels in different price ranges and is a good starting point for discovering the rest of the city.

Eilandje – modern port life

Eilandje is one of Antwerp's most exciting areas. The old port district has been transformed into a modern district with restaurants, cafes, a marina and attractions such as the MAS and Port House.

This is a good place to stay if you appreciate modern architecture, walks along the water, and a slightly calmer pace than in the city center.

’'t Zuid – culture, restaurants and local city life

South of the city center lies the 't Zuid district, which has become a popular area among locals and visitors alike. Here you will find art museums, trendy restaurants, cozy cafes and small designer shops.

The atmosphere is relaxed and the area is suitable for those who want to experience a more local Antwerp while still being within walking distance of the city center.

Our tip

For a weekend getaway we recommend staying in Old Town or around the central station, where you are close to most of the sights. If you have already visited Antwerp before or want to experience the more modern side of the city, Island or ’'t Zuid excellent alternatives.

Motorhome pitches and campsites

Camper park Vogelsang which we stayed at with our camper when we visited Antwerp at Vogelzanglaan 7-9. Here you take the tram to the city which takes 20 minutes. Parking camping-car or city camping Antwerp are two other options.

Peter's Video from Antwerp

See more around Antwerp

Belgium is a relatively small country in terms of surface area, which means that distances to other cities are not too long. Take the opportunity to see Brussels, Ghent and Bruges. You can easily travel by train between all cities.

• Brussels is a big city with grand buildings, cartoon characters, the European area, Belgian pubs and good food. About an hour from Antwerp by train.
• Ghent is a pleasant and relaxed student town with charming medieval neighbourhoods and canal boat trips. Trains from Antwerp take about an hour.
• pier is an old and insanely picturesque little town with canal boats, old-fashioned neighbourhoods and lots of chocolate shops. Trains from Antwerp take about 1.5 - 2 hours.