If you are planning a trip to Europe, Belgium should be on your list. Our first time here was a stop-over from Hamburg to Paris and I am glad we decided to break the trip up. Antwerp, Belgium is a vibrant and historic city that is filled with cultural treasures waiting to be explored. Antwerp is a diverse city with something for everyone. If you are someone who loves exploring historic sites and beautiful architecture then you are in the right place. Love beer and chocolate, Belgium is known for both and in Antwerp you will find an assortment of some of Belgium's tastiest beers while running into decadent chocolate factories on almost every corner. Love shopping? Belgium, Antwerp is home to many talented designers and boutiques that offer unique and stylish clothing and accessories. We also can’t forget that Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world. Antwerp is home to a major port where their biggies export and import is diamonds. The fashion and diamond district is a really cool place to visit.
Overall, this city was surprising in many ways. One thing that I really loved was how kind and friendly everyone was, people loved to have fun conversations and were very helpful with anything we needed. They speak 4 languages in Belgium, French, German, English and Dutch officially but some speak more. This city was especially amazing because even though it was quite a large city, it had such a laid back and calm vibe. Antwerp is a very fun and lesser known gem that everyone should visit.
So without further ado let’s get into the good stuff. Here is your comprehensive guide to the city!
Eating and Drinking…
One of my favorite parts of traveling is trying the local food. A city can be described by its food and that is why I think Antwerp is such a cool city. Did you know there are Michelin star chefs and restaurants in this city? From fine dining to great brews Belgium is known for its high quality dishes, chocolate, and its beer! If you want to know the foods to go for in belgium check out my Foodie blog that goes over all the staple Belgium foods you have to try. Foodie Guide: Belgium
Waffles
Compagnie Belge | Belgian waffles and gelato, need I say more? If you want creamy dreamy gelation with a variety of unique or classic flavors you have to stop by. | |
House of Waffles | Get your fix of the amazing Belgium waffle along with other delicious breakfast options! From Savory to sweet and everything in between you will want to come back and try all of the different types of waffles here. Just make sure to bring your stretch pants. | |
B-Nut | Famous for their wurgers (waffle burgers), B-nut offers a fun twist on the classic burgers by replacing the buns with waffles adding a nice sweetness to the savory burger. You have to try these wurgers and see for yourself! |
Casual Dining
Beni Falafel | Some of the best falafel you will ever taste, with a great combination of spices and paires with fluffy and creamy pita, humus and other dips you have to check out this delicious falafel bistro. | |
Jam | If you are looking for light and fresh with amazing flavor you will find it at this cute little bistro. They have some of the freshest dishes around at a very good price. I recommend going here if you want really good healthy food options without breaking the bank. |
Restaurants
Nage | Oysters, caviar and charcuterie are what make this bistro style restaurant famous. With its assortment of beautiful fresh seafood and cured meats this is an amazing place to have a delicious tasting. | |
Izumi | One of the best, most authentic Japanese restaurants in Europe. Offering some of the most unique sushi creations, unagi, sake and chefs menu. If you love Japanese, definitely stop by. | |
InVINcible | Known for interesting plays on classic dishes, this restaurant has the opportunity for you to watch the chef as he prepares different ingredients beautifully into a master dish. This restaurant is also known for its excellent beverages and wine list. | |
Bistrot du Nord | Did you know that Antwerp is home to a Michlin star restaurant? Well here it is. This beautifully curated menu is crafted with dishes carefully prepared and cooked with the best ingredients. |
Bars and Breweries
Billies | If you are looking for a nice Belgian beer selection and a fun atmosphere here is where you go. This bar/brewpub is a great time with tons of great beers to choose from and always has life. | |
Dr. Beer | Another great pub option with a great selection of Belgian beers and great lively atmosphere! You have to check out this pub when you visit Antwerp. | |
Brouwery + Taproom | With both a huge outdoor and indoor space this taproom is amazing. There are games, music and tons of life here indoors or outdoors. Their selection of beers is outstanding, both Belgium and other types, there's something for everyone! We spend hours here playing their variety of games and talking to people from all over the world. |
Explore the city…
The best times to visit are March to May and September to November as the weather is nice and not too extreme. Also in these times are when most festivals and events occur.
The best way to see the city is by foot and exploring. It is small enough to walk on your own and the museums and sites usually have plaques with an abundance of information.
A<3 Sign (Location)
Time for a photo opportunity! Right in the heart of Antwerp's main harbor area is fun little representation of the city. This lovers lock fence with a giant A and heart is a great way to show your friends where you are! And if you place a lock on the fence with you are your partners initials its will lock in your love forever. Regardless it's a fun memory to make for couples. I always love taking pictures with the city signs so if that’s you too here is where you do it!
Antwerp Central Station (Location)
I put a train station in Antwerp because of how spectacular and beautiful it is. It is magnificent and has been voted one of the world's most beautiful train stations with its eclectic steel and stone work. It’s truly beautiful and a must visit.
The Diamond District
Next to the train station there is a triangle of streets De Keyserlei, Pelikaanstraat, and Vestingstraat, where the rough diamond trading from around the world is done. While you can’t participate in the diamond trade you can walk through the diamond stores where you will be surrounded by the finest diamonds form all over the world.
Mier Shopping Street
Antwerp is a huge fashion district and here is where you will find stunning shops full with high end spending options.
A beautiful cathedral open to the public at 8 € a person.
Hours
Mon-Friday: 10AM-5PM
Grote Markt (Location)
The main square of Antwerp. It contains the Stadhuis (city hall), beautiful Guild building and the famous Brabo fountain that tells the tale of the brave Brabo who fought the giant, charging high tolls for the port. This square is full of life when it is warm as there are tons of restaurants with chairs out in the square and entertainment all around.
Museum aan de Stroom(Location)
A beautiful modern building, crafted out of sandstone in the middle of the main harbor area. The museum is a representation of all of the items imported and exported in the port over the years. Samples of different goods are displayed with descriptions as to their origin and travels. There are items from all over the world that tells the full production history of this famous port. It is really a unique museum with a great way of sharing history.
Het Steen (Location)
One of Antwerp's oldest structures. This medieval fortress offers free walkthroughs where you can read about the history of the fortress and how it traded hands along history. Also seeing the different rooms and the way they used to cook is an interesting experience. Also throughout the fortress there are several beautiful look out to the port. It is a really cool place to explore.
Nello & Patrasche Statue (Location)
A truly sweet statue of a kid and dog sleeping under the cobblestones together that depicts the story of “A Dog of Flanders,” a testament to love and loyalty.
There are so many wonderful things to discover in Antwerp. This is where to start and as always if you have more recommendations share them in the comments along with any more information. I always love a conglomeration of many different onions and recommendations.
Greer Ransom | Travel Advisor
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