Attractions and Places To See in Antwerp - Top 20

Antwerp is rich in history. Start at the Grote Markt Antwerp, the city's main square, surrounded by ornate guild houses and the historic Town Hall. Don't miss the Brabo Fountain at its center. The majestic Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp, a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses masterpieces by Rubens. For a glimpse into the city's medieval past, explore Het Steen, Antwerp's oldest building near the port.

Antwerp offers several green escapes. Enjoy scenic walks along the Scheldt Riverbank, especially between Steenplein and the Eilandje district. The Middelheim Museum Park features an open-air sculpture collection integrated into nature. For larger parks, visit Rivierenhof in Deurne or the centrally located Stadspark. South of the city, the Hobokense Polder is a nature reserve ideal for birdwatching. Further out, the Kalmthoutse Heide Nature Reserve, which includes areas like Putse Moer, offers diverse landscapes for hiking and cycling.

Yes, Antwerp and its surroundings are very cyclist-friendly. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as 'Around Antwerpen in 80 kilometers' or 'Waasland Loop from Antwerp'. For mountain biking, explore trails like the 'Putte Blue MTB Loop'. Many routes, including the Netekanaal Cycle Path and the Cycle path through the Kalmthoutse Heath, offer smooth surfaces and scenic views. You can find more detailed cycling guides at Road Cycling Routes in Antwerp and MTB Trails in Antwerp.

Antwerp boasts a rich cultural scene. The MAS (Museum aan de Stroom) offers exhibitions on Antwerp's history and global connections, along with panoramic rooftop views. The Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is dedicated to the history of printing. Explore the Red Star Line Museum to learn about European emigration, or visit the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA) for a superb collection of Flemish and European art. For a unique experience, the Chocolate Nation is Belgium's largest chocolate museum.

Families visiting Antwerp have plenty of options. The Antwerp Zoo, located next to the Central Station, is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in the world. Kids might also enjoy exploring Het Steen, a medieval castle with interactive exhibits. The MAS museum offers engaging displays and a fantastic rooftop view that children often enjoy. Chocolate Nation provides an immersive and tasty experience for all ages.

Yes, Antwerp offers several excellent running trails. Popular options include 'Running through the Rivierenhof - Antwerp' for a scenic park run, or the more challenging 'Stads-GR Around Antwerp Trail' for a longer distance. Other trails like 'Landscape De Liereman - Antwerp' provide diverse natural settings. You can find more running guides and routes at Running Trails in Antwerp.

Antwerp is known for its diverse shopping. The Meir is the city's bustling main shopping street, featuring beautiful 18th-century facades and a wide array of shops. For a more specialized experience, explore the Diamond District near the Central Station, often called the diamond capital of the world, where you'll find numerous dealers and workshops. The Fashion Museum (MoMu) also highlights Antwerp's significant role in the fashion world, inspiring visits to local boutiques.

Beyond the main sights, Antwerp has charming hidden corners. Wander through Vlaeykensgang Alley, a quaint, historic passage that feels like stepping back in time. The Zurenborg District is renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, perfect for a leisurely stroll. For a unique perspective, walk or cycle through the historic Sint-Annatunnel (St. Anna's Tunnel) under the Scheldt River.

Antwerp is enjoyable year-round, but the spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather for exploring on foot or by bike, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Summer (June-August) is vibrant with outdoor events, though it can be warmer and busier. Winter brings festive markets and a cozy atmosphere, with indoor attractions providing refuge from colder days.

Many of Antwerp's main attractions strive for accessibility. The Grote Markt Antwerp and its surrounding areas, including the Brabo Fountain and Groenplaats and the Rubens Statue, are generally accessible. Modern museums like the MAS often have good facilities. Many cycle paths, such as the Blue Cycle Bridge over the Dijle and the Netekanaal Cycle Path, are also designed for smooth passage.

For unique cultural insights, visit the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, offering a personal look into the Baroque era. The De Koninck Antwerp City Brewery provides tours to explore the brewing process of local beers. The Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library, with its vast collection, offers a glimpse into Flemish history and culture in a beautiful setting. Additionally, the DIVA, the Home of Diamonds, explores Antwerp's renowned diamond history.