Antwerp equals diamonds, banks and art. Or at least those are the three things this wealthy seaport is known for, and those things equal a reputation for fine living. The reputation for wealth is historic, Antwerp occupied a key position on the prime trade routes during the 16th Century, and that's when many of the city's most grand and glorious buildings were built. The art came after, when, in the 17th Century, Antwerp's beauty inspired Rubens and Van Dyck, among others. Our choices of the best places to stay in Antwerp are all perfectly placed to enjoy these to the max.
Modern Antwerp still has that reputation for good living and low stress life, ideal for a relaxing city break. Its Flemish medieval architecture isn't as well preserved as you'll find in Bruges or Ghent, but the beautiful buildings from other historical periods make its skyline much more unique.
And its beauty still attracts artists and artistic types, so it's also wealthy in museums, galleries and arty restaurants, cafes, bars and boutiques.
And while 70% of the world's diamonds are still traded through Antwerp, this city is now promoting itself as a fashion capital as well.
Antwerp is small enough to easily navigate on foot, but if speed is of the essence this is a great city for cyclists. The old town centre is about 2kms across, and many of the major sights are within the radius of the old walls.
Local Spots
Antwerp is proud of its success story, both from the past and present. Rubens is one such famous son, and as well as appearing in many local galleries including the Rockoxhuis and the Koninklijk Museum, Rubens also has his own museum, the Rubenhuis, converted from his home and studio.
Antwerp also has a Diamond Museum, the Diamantmuseum. There's also 'Diamondland' where you can see them being cut and set in the daily 'show'. And if you want to purchase a diamond, skip the sellers near the station and visit the diamond merchants in the diamond district around Hoveniersstraat and Schapstraat.
Antwerp's weekend markets are a lot of fun and you can find stalls selling the usual foods, clothes and gifts to antiques and bicycles. There's a big market on the Theatreplein Square.
If you fancy a poke round the shops visit the area round the Meir, between the station and the Groenplaats.
Those with an interest in fashion may prefer the Kammerstraat, which is where you'll find the Fashion Museum, and boutiques belonging to some of Antwerp's big name designers, including Dries van Noten.
Plenty of Antwerp's most beautiful sights are free to see, from the neo-Gothic grandeur of the central train station to the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal, another Gothic wonder, and the charming sights along the Schekdt Riverbank. The MAS museum, which tells the history of Antwerp is free, so well worth popping into, and the view from the rooftops is excellent.
Antwerp has more pubs per capita than anywhere else in the world. And there's no official closing time. There are also plenty of French style cafes where you can get a good coffee and a range of beers. If you're feeling peckish you can pick up some frites any time from the fritkoten.
Local specialities worth trying include the locally brewed beer, called 'Bolleke', Antwerpse handjes, which are biscuits or chocolates made in the shapes of hands, and Elixir d'Anvers, a plant based liquor.
What Not To Miss
- Be sure to visit Rubenshuis, the former house of legendary Flemish baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. Filled with his and his protege Van Dyck's paintings, this isn't just an art museum; it is intended to be also an accurate replica of what his home would have looked like, with wonderful architecture, period interiors and lovely gardens.
- Grote Markt van Antwerpen, the city centre, is filled with beautifully historic buildings which will take you back to another era. Grab a coffee at one of the buzzy cafes, wander around the museums and then go for lunch. What's more, it's got some nice bars with live music to enjoy at night.
- Go for a walk around Middleheimpark, a cross between a contemporary art museum (with smatterings of sculptures) and a park.
The city offers plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation. Amongst the best places to stay in Antwerp you'll find everything from apartment rentals and hostels to five star and boutique hotels. Just remember to plan (and book) well ahead - this is a popular year round destination for both business and leisure travellers.