Is Antwerp worth visiting? Yes, it definitely is. I wasn’t sure what to expect before my first visit, but Antwerp quickly became one of my favourite cities in Belgium. It has the charm of a historic European city but feels a little less crowded and touristy than some of the country’s more famous destinations. I enjoyed exploring the old town, walking along the river, and discovering how much history, culture, and creativity the city has to offer.
Antwerp is the second-largest city in Belgium and is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, fashion scene, and diamond trade. The city combines centuries-old landmarks with modern shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or simply wandering through beautiful streets, there is plenty to keep you busy.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top reasons why Antwerp is worth visiting and share some useful travel tips and advice to help you plan your trip. Keep reading to discover the many reasons why Antwerp is worth visiting and why it deserves a spot on your Belgium itinerary.
Table of Contents
Top Attractions in Antwerp
- Antwerp: Historical Walking Tour in the Old City
- Antwerp ZOO Entry Ticket
- Port of Antwerp Public Boat Tour with Expert Guide
- From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour
- Antwerp: City Highlights Guided Bike Tour
- Antwerp: City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour
- Antwerp: Royal Museum of Fine Arts Entry Ticket
- Antwerp: Sightseeing Tram Tour
- Illusion Antwerp: Museum of Illusion, entrance ticket
- Antwerp Food Walking Tour with 5 Tastings
Top Reasons You Should Visit Antwerp
1. A Beautiful Historic Center Full of Character
Antwerp was one of those cities that won me over almost immediately. I knew it was famous for diamonds and fashion, but I was surprised by how attractive the old town was. The center is filled with narrow streets, historic guild houses, churches, and lively squares. It feels grand in places, but it also has a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to enjoy at your own pace.
The Grote Markt quickly became one of my favorite spots in the city. It is surrounded by beautifully restored sixteenth-century buildings with decorative facades and golden details. In the middle of the square stands the Brabo Fountain, which tells the story of a local legend involving a giant and a Roman soldier. I spent quite a bit of time there sitting at an outdoor café and simply watching people come and go.
What I liked most about Antwerp’s historic center was that it never felt overcrowded. Compared to Bruges, which can become very busy during the day, Antwerp seemed to have more breathing room. It felt like a city where locals still spend time shopping, eating, and socializing rather than a destination that exists only for tourists.
2. One of Europe’s Great Art Cities
Antwerp has a long connection with art, and nowhere is this more obvious than in its association with Peter Paul Rubens. The famous Baroque painter lived and worked here during the seventeenth century, and many of his masterpieces remain in the city. Even visitors with only a casual interest in art will probably come across his work while exploring Antwerp.
I visited several churches and museums during my stay and was impressed by how many important artworks are scattered throughout the city. The Cathedral of Our Lady contains some of Rubens’ most famous paintings, and seeing them in their original setting made a much bigger impression on me than seeing similar works hanging in a museum.
I also enjoyed Rubens House, which was once the artist’s home and studio. Walking through the rooms gave me a better understanding of how successful and influential he was during his lifetime. Even though I would not normally describe myself as an art enthusiast, Antwerp managed to hold my attention because art here feels closely connected to the city’s identity.
3. A World-Famous Diamond Industry
Antwerp handles a large percentage of the world’s rough diamonds and has been a center for the diamond trade for more than five hundred years. Thousands of people work in the industry, and the Diamond District near the central station remains one of the most important trading areas on the planet.
Before visiting, I expected the Diamond District to feel glamorous, but it actually seemed more like a business area where people happen to deal in extremely valuable stones. Traders hurried between offices, security measures were visible, and shop windows displayed jewelry worth more than I could ever imagine spending.
Even if you have no intention of buying diamonds, it is interesting to walk through the neighborhood and learn about its history. I found it fascinating that such a large part of the global diamond trade passes through one relatively small area. It adds another layer to Antwerp and helps distinguish it from other Belgian cities.
4. A Stylish Fashion Scene
Antwerp is often considered Belgium’s fashion capital. The city became internationally known thanks to the Antwerp Six, a group of designers who graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in the 1980s and helped put Belgian fashion on the global map.
I noticed the influence of fashion almost immediately. Many locals seemed effortlessly stylish, and independent boutiques lined the streets around the city center. Even people who are not interested in designer clothing may appreciate the creative atmosphere that fashion brings to Antwerp.
I enjoyed wandering through neighborhoods filled with small shops selling handmade jewelry, unique clothing, and locally designed products. It felt different from shopping in larger cities where the same international chains dominate every street. Antwerp seems proud of supporting creativity, and that attitude gives the city a youthful and modern edge.
5. One of Europe’s Most Impressive Train Stations
I normally do not get excited about train stations, but Antwerp Central Station is an exception. Often described as one of the most beautiful stations in the world, it was completed in 1905 and combines stone, glass, marble, and iron in an impressive design.
Arriving there for the first time felt almost like entering a palace rather than a transport hub. I actually stopped walking for a moment just to look around at the huge dome, sweeping staircases, and decorative details. It was difficult to believe that people use it for their daily commute.
The station also makes Antwerp very easy to reach from other Belgian cities. Trains from Brussels take less than an hour, which means many visitors come on day trips. Personally, I think Antwerp deserves at least two or three days because there is much more to see than most people expect.
6. Excellent Food and Belgian Specialties
Belgium has a strong food culture, and Antwerp offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy it. Traditional Belgian dishes can be found throughout the city, but there are also international restaurants, trendy cafés, and fine dining establishments.
I tried Belgian fries, waffles, mussels, and chocolate during my stay, and it was difficult to find a bad meal. One evening, I ordered moules-frites, which combines mussels with fries, and it quickly became one of my favorite dishes from the trip. The mussels were fresh, and the portion was much larger than I anticipated.
Antwerp also has a famous local biscuit called Antwerpse Handjes, which is shaped like a hand and made with almonds and butter. I picked up a box as a souvenir and ended up eating most of them before leaving Belgium. Sampling local food helped me appreciate Antwerp beyond its architecture and museums.
7. A Lively Waterfront and Modern Redevelopment
Antwerp has one of Europe’s largest ports, and the city has done a good job transforming parts of its old docklands into attractive places for visitors and residents. Areas along the River Scheldt have become popular for walking, cycling, and relaxing.
I spent one evening strolling along the waterfront and enjoyed watching cargo ships move slowly down the river. The contrast between historic buildings and modern architecture was interesting. One standout building is the Port House, designed by architect Zaha Hadid, which almost looks like a giant glass ship floating above an older structure.
The MAS Museum was another highlight for me. Even if you do not visit the exhibitions inside, you can go to the rooftop for free and enjoy panoramic views over Antwerp. Seeing the city from above helped me appreciate how large and diverse it really is.
8. Plenty of Museums for Every Interest
Antwerp has enough museums to keep visitors busy for several days. Art museums are the obvious choice, but there are also museums dedicated to printing, photography, maritime history, and fashion.
I particularly enjoyed visiting the Plantin-Moretus Museum. It was once a printing house and publishing business, and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through rooms filled with old books, maps, and printing presses felt like stepping back several centuries.
What I appreciated most was that Antwerp’s museums never felt overwhelming. They were large enough to be interesting but small enough that I did not leave feeling exhausted. I found myself spending more time reading exhibits because there was less pressure to rush through endless galleries.
9. A Relaxed Atmosphere Compared to Brussels
One thing I noticed while traveling through Belgium was how different Antwerp feels from Brussels. Brussels is busy, international, and sometimes a little chaotic. Antwerp, on the other hand, seems calmer and easier to navigate.
I rarely used public transport because most attractions were within walking distance. Streets felt clean, cafés had plenty of outdoor seating, and people seemed happy to linger over meals rather than rush from place to place. That slower pace made the city more enjoyable for me.
I also found Antwerp easier to connect with on a personal level. By my second day, I had already discovered favorite coffee shops, restaurants, and quiet corners by the river. It felt less like a capital city and more like a place where I could imagine living for a while.
10. Excellent Connections to Other Belgian Cities
Antwerp’s location makes it a great base for exploring Belgium. Brussels is less than an hour away by train, while Ghent, Bruges, Leuven, and Mechelen can all be reached easily. This means visitors can enjoy Antwerp’s atmosphere while still taking day trips to other destinations.
I liked having so many options because it allowed me to adjust my plans depending on the weather. One day I explored Antwerp’s museums, and the next I was wandering through Bruges’ canals. Returning to Antwerp in the evening felt nice because it seemed quieter and less touristy than some of the other places I visited.
For travelers who want to experience several Belgian cities during one trip, Antwerp works extremely well. It combines history, culture, food, shopping, and art while also giving visitors easy access to the rest of the country. By the time I left, I felt that Antwerp had been one of the most underrated destinations of my Belgian trip and somewhere I would happily visit again.
Where to Stay in Antwerp
- Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp – The Leading Hotels of the World – A 5-star luxury retreat inside a restored 15th-century monastery, with four Michelin-starred restaurants and a spa, right in Antwerp’s historic centre.
- Hilton Antwerp Old Town – A 4-star hotel overlooking Groenplaats Square, steps from the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Meir shopping street.
- Hotel ‘T Sandt – A charming 4-star boutique hotel in a converted 17th-century building, with a garden courtyard and cathedral-view terrace, a short walk from the Rubens House.
- B&B HOTEL Antwerpen Centrum – A budget-friendly, modern 3-star hotel a 2-minute walk from Antwerp Central Station, with a rooftop terrace and easy access to the Zoo and shopping district.
Travel Tips for Visiting Antwerp
When to Visit Antwerp
I think the best times to visit Antwerp are May, June, September, and early October. During these months, the weather is usually pleasant, and it’s comfortable to spend long days walking around the city. Summer brings outdoor dining, festivals, and busy squares, although it can also attract more visitors. Winter is colder, but the Christmas markets and festive lights create a great atmosphere. I visited in late spring and thought it was the perfect time. The weather was mild, and the city felt lively without being overcrowded.
How to Get to Antwerp
Most international visitors arrive through Brussels Airport, which is located about 45 kilometres from Antwerp. Airlines from across Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East operate regular flights there. Direct trains connect Brussels Airport with Antwerp Central Station in around 30 minutes, making the transfer very easy. Antwerp also has a smaller airport with limited regional services. The city is well connected by train to Brussels, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Paris, and other major European destinations. Personally, I think arriving by train from Brussels Airport is the easiest and most convenient option.
Getting Around Antwerp
Antwerp is one of the easiest cities in Belgium to explore. The historic centre is compact, and many attractions can be reached on foot. The city also has an extensive network of trams and buses operated by De Lijn. Tickets can be purchased through the De Lijn app, ticket machines, or contactless payment on many services. Antwerp is also very bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling lanes throughout the city. Personally, I found walking to be the best way to explore the centre, while the trams were useful for reaching neighbourhoods further from the old town.
How Long to Spend in Antwerp
I think two to three days is the ideal amount of time for Antwerp. Two days gives you enough time to explore the historic centre, visit the cathedral, enjoy the museums, and experience the local food scene. With three days, you can take things at a slower pace or add a day trip to nearby cities such as Ghent or Bruges. If you enjoy art, fashion, and architecture, you could easily stay even longer. Personally, I would recommend three days because Antwerp is the kind of city that becomes more enjoyable the more time you spend wandering its streets.
Conclusion
So, is Antwerp worth visiting? Absolutely. From its stunning cathedral and historic centre to its museums, fashion scene, and lively atmosphere, there are plenty of reasons to spend time here. Antwerp offers a great mix of culture, history, and local character while feeling less crowded than some other European cities. If you’re planning a trip to Belgium and want to explore a destination that combines famous landmarks with everyday local life, Antwerp is well worth adding to your travel plans.