Travelstone: Antwerp

Antwerp Belgium

Antwerp is situated on the eastern bank of the river Scheldt, which is connected to the North Sea by the Westerschelde estuary. The city boasts one of the largest seaports in Europe. Antwerp has long been a significant city in the Low Countries, both economically and culturally. The appeal of Antwerp comes from its unique blend of styles and peoples. First, there's the straightforward part of town around Centraal Statio; the shipping, diamond, and garment industries have their headquarters here. Then there's the art and culture that wealth has purchased over the centuries. Flemish Old Masters, particularly native son Rubens, are well-represented here. Lastly, there is the immense port with its own smoky trees. There is more to see and do in Antwerp than in any other Belgian city. Start with a stroll through the oude stad, old town, starting at Grote Markt, where the Stadhuis, town hall, stands as a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture. The nearby Cathedral of Our Lady has a spectacular Gothic tower. Its interior is richly decorated with stained glass and it houses some of Rubens' most famous paintings. Close by is the Steen, a beautiful story-book fortress which dates from the 12th century. The Plantin Moretus Museum is a delightful must. Plantin turned printing into an art during the 16th century, and most of his tools and presses are here on display. The picturesque courtyard and Rubens paintings also make the visit worthwhile. Make sure to visit Rubenshuis, one of the best museums of its kind in the world. Rubens lived and worked for nearly 30 years in this lavish house. His garret is exquisitely furnished and richly stocked with art treasures. Few tourists make it to Cogels-Osylei, an avenue with an uninterrupted procession of art nouveau mansions, each one seeming to outdo the one before it in architectural fantasy. Antwerp is a very cultural and vibrant city. Discover for yourself this effervescent trading, artistic and cultural centre with its typical atmosphere of a port for the ships of the world: cosmopolitan, slightly exotic and at the same time so hospitable.

Recommended airport

Deurne (ANR)

Points of interest

Nearby destinations