Things to do in Antwerpen
Antwerp is famous for its history, buildings, and tasty food. If you want to learn about the city's past, see its lovely architecture, or try some local dishes, Antwerp is always a great place to visit. We've got our best insider tips to help you make the most of your time in Antwerp.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Updated May 2026
Architecture
Antwerp is a city with a blend of architectural styles, with everything from Gothic and Renaissance to Art Nouveau and modernist designs on display. Some of the most notable examples of Gothic architecture include the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Saint Paul's Church, while the Renaissance style can be seen in buildings such as the City Hall and the Plantin-Moretus Museum. Art Nouveau enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the district of Zurenborg, where you can admire some of the city's most stunning Art Nouveau buildings. One of my personal favorite streets is the Cogels-Osylei.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
History
Antwerp has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. The city was once a major economic and cultural center, and many of its historic landmarks, such as the 'Grote Markt' and the 'Het Steen' castle, provide a glimpse into its past. You can explore the 'Museum aan de Stroom' (also called MAS), which covers the history of the city and its port, or take a stroll through the picturesque old town and enjoy the atmosphere of this charming city.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
A few must-visits:
- The Rubens House: The Rubens House, once the home and studio of Flemish master Pieter Paul Rubens, is currently closed for extensive renovations and will remain so for the coming years. However, you can still enjoy the beautifully restored Baroque garden.
- The Red Star Line Museum: Located in the old port area of Antwerp, the museum tells the story of the millions of emigrants who left Europe for America aboard the Red Star Line ships.
- The Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal): A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cathedral is one of the most impressive Gothic buildings in Belgium and is home to several stunning works of art. It's my personal favorite 'to do' in Antwerp.
Nottebohm Room at the Hendrik Conscience Library: The Nottebohm Room is a beautiful and atmospheric library in the heart of Antwerp. It’s hard to describe, but stepping inside feels like entering a scene from a Harry Potter story. The smell of 120.000 old books fills the air, and the noise of the city disappears as soon as you walk in. The wooden floor creaks under your feet, adding to the charm of this hidden literary gem.
You can only visit the Nottebohm Room with a guide and by making an appointment in advance.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Architecture and art
The Central Station: A stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture, the Central Station is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.
The MAS (Museum aan de Stroom): An iconic modernist building located on the banks of the river Scheldt, the MAS tells the story of Antwerp and its port.
Museum of Fine Arts (K.M.S.K.A.): The museum is located in a neoclassical building and has an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages up to the present day. The building was ordered to be constructed by Napoleon Bonaparte.
It's definitely worth a visit and it's a fantastic place. If you're planning to go to this museum, make sure you allow at least half a day to see everything it has to offer. And if you can, try to go with a guide, as that will make the experience even better.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Antwerp's FotoMuseum (FoMu):
FoMu is a place where photography comes alive. Our group visited this museum and found it to be a nice place for anyone interested in photos and their history.
Housed in a revamped old warehouse, FoMu combines old-world charm with sleek design, making it an inviting space for exploring photography. The museum has a strong collection that covers the whole story of photography, from its earliest days to the modern digital age.
When we were there, we had a guide who helped us understand not just the photos we were looking at, but also the story behind them. Although we went to see the works of Cindy Sherman, the guide also talked about the museum's permanent collection and the role of photography in our world.
FoMu has programs and workshops for people of all ages and skills. The museum also has a library full of books on photography.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Antwerp Haute Couture
Belgium's fashion capital became well-known thanks to a group of young, innovative designers called the "Antwerp Six". This group included designers like Ann Demeulemeester and Dries van Noten, who became very popular in the late 1980s. Their flagship stores in Antwerp are definitely worth visiting if you get the chance.
Our favorite little street in Antwerp: Vlaeykensgang
Tucked away in the heart of Antwerp lies the charming Vlaeykensgang, a network of 16th-century alleyways and houses. This historic quarter was nearly lost in the 1960s, when it had fallen into disrepair and was slated for demolition.
However, the property was purchased by renowned antique dealer Axel Vervoordt, who recognized the area's unique character and potential. Vervoordt undertook a careful restoration project, reviving the Vlaeykensgang's 16 historic buildings over the course of several years.
Today, this once-neglected corner of Antwerp has been beautifully restored. The ancient entryway opens up into a maze of cobbled lanes, home to small businesses including restaurants, bars, art galleries and boutiques.
Walking through the Vlaeykensgang, visitors are transported back in time. While the Vlaeykensgang was nearly lost, its restoration has preserved an important piece of Antwerp's history.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Gastronomy
Antwerp is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of delicious local dishes and international cuisine on offer. Some of the must-try local specialties include Flemish beef stew, Belgian waffles, and chocolate. Antwerp is also home to some excellent seafood restaurants, where you can eat fresh oysters and mussels. And of course, no trip to Antwerp would be complete without trying some of the city's famous beers.
'Bolleke'
A Bolleke, in its spherical glass has earned it the name Bolleke. In Antwerp, you order it as a 'Bolleke Keuning'. Since 1952, this has been the iconic beer of Antwerp. If you're looking for a refreshing Bolleke, expertly poured in two steps, you won't have to search far in the city. This Antwerp icon can be found in nearly every café.
© photo: Antwerp City Brewery
Seefbier
And some history about Antwerp beer:
- Middle Ages: As Antwerp flourished, brewing transformed from a household activity to a specialized craft, with numerous breweries settling in the city, particularly in the Kammenstraat. Around 1500, the local Antwerp beer type "Seefbier" emerged.
- 1585: The Fall of Antwerp. When the city was recaptured by Spanish troops, Seefbier faced near extinction due to high beer taxes imposed to fund the war. Buckwheat, an important ingredient of Seefbier, was forbidden in favor of other grains. However, through protests and clandestine brewing, the ban on Buckwheat was eventually repealed, saving Seefbier.
- 17th Century: The Oldest Mention. Renowned painters like Rubens, Van Dyck, and Jordaens achieved fame during this period. In 1677, the name "Seefbier" was first documented in the purchases of the theater association from the Sint Lucasgilde.
- 19th Century: The Seefhoek. Seefbier became the beer style synonymous with Antwerp and the most popular beer in the city. The new neighborhood of Seefhoek, built for dock workers, was named after the abundance of pubs where Seefbier flowed freely. It earned the nickname "working man's champagne." Around 100 breweries in and around the city brewed Seefbier during this era.
© Photo: Antwerpse Brouw Compagnie
Westmalle Trappist
Westmalle is a trappist beer brewed within the walls of the Abbey of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart of Westmalle. Established as a trappist abbey in 1836, the monks began brewing beer for their own consumption and later for sale, in 1856. The brewery has undergone expansions and modernizations over the years, with the most recent one in 2001.
Westmalle Tripel Trappist was acclaimed as the best beer in the world by readers of the New York Times in September 2005, while the World Beer Cup awarded Westmalle Tripel a gold medal in the Belgian-Style Tripel category in 2012.
© Photo: Trappisten Westmalle
A cup of coffee or a Belgian beer?
Paters Vaetje - Our Favorite
This nice café across the Antwerp cathedral is one of our favorites. One of the central Antwerp tour pubs, steps away from half a dozen others. Paters Vaetje's interior is quirky and characterful with its tiny bar, church window-like panels, steam heater, and rickety mezzanine level. It's tiny and cosy, promoting social interaction while serving a decent selection of very good Belgian beers. The exterior with a terrace leads to this cute little bar, and while it's not totally taken up with tourists, it largely serves out-of-towners looking to experience one of Antwerp's core central pubs.
Quinten Matsijs - Antwerp's Oldest Bar
A small street leads to Quinten Matsijs, Antwerp's oldest bar. Founded way back in 1565, this historic café has a charming ambiance, with oak beams and leaded glass windows that make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Try a selection of local Belgian beers or classic cocktails while soaking up the rich history and character of this iconic establishment. Quinten Matsijs has long been a gathering place for locals and visitors, offering a view into Antwerp's vibrant social and cultural heritage.
My favorite hotels in Antwerp
For a Luxury Stay in the City Centre
Botanic Sanctuary
Botanic Sanctuary in Antwerp is a remarkable 5-star Superior hotel that combines heritage with modern amenities. With multiple dining options and a luxurious spa, it offers a world of relaxation.
The hotel's fine dining restaurants, including Michelin-starred establishments, showcase the region's culinary excellence. Our check-in experience was delightful, with a warm welcome and helpful staff. The suite we stayed in was beautifully decorated and well-equipped. The breakfast exceeded our expectations with a wide variety of fresh and locally-sourced options. The spa facilities were great, offering personalized treatments and a range of amenities.
Botanic Sanctuary has won awards for its spa, and Henry's Bar provided the perfect ending to our day. Our stay exceeded our expectations and left us feeling pampered and rejuvenated.
© photo: Botanic Sanctuary suite - Hugo Thomassen
Read our full review here.
Sapphire House
Sapphire House in Antwerp is a good choice for a comfortable, stylish and convenient stay. This boutique hotel is right in the centre of the city, making it easy to reach popular places like Antwerp Cathedral and the Royal Museum of Fine Arts.
The hotel rooms are tastefully decorated and designed for your comfort, with plush beds and modern facilities. The friendly and attentive staff will make sure your stay is memorable, and they can provide help and recommendations for local attractions and restaurants.
We really enjoyed the delicious breakfast, made with fresh local ingredients. It was a mix of a la carte options and a buffet. Free Wi-Fi and a cosy lounge area add to the convenience and relaxation during your stay.
Sapphire House served as an ideal base for exploring Antwerp. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets, visit the Diamond District, or immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of this enchanting city.
© photo: Sapphire House
My favorite restaurants in Antwerp
Restaurant Nathan
Restaurant Nathan is a one Michelin-starred restaurant. The restaurant is run by chef Nathan Van Echelpoel and his partner Eva Van de Peer, hostess & sommelier. It offers a contemporary French-Belgian cuisine.
The restaurant has an elegant and minimalist décor, with a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Even the lavatory looks great. The menu changes regularly to reflect the best of each season, and offers a variety of inventive dishes that showcase the chef's creativity and technical skills.
Some of the dishes that have been featured on the menu include scallops with Jerusalem artichoke, duck liver with beetroot and raspberry, and beef with black garlic and mushroom. The restaurant also offers a carefully curated wine list, featuring both classic and lesser-known labels that pair well with the food.
This place is perfect for foodies who love fancy and artistic cuisine. And the service was simply amazing. Don't forget to reserve in time though.
Restaurant Nathan
Lange Koepoortstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen
Website
Sir Anthony Van Dyck
Restaurant Sir Anthony Van Dyck is set in an extraordinary building located in the historic Vlaeykensgang, my favorite street in Antwerp. It dates back to 1557.
The building has been renovated with an accurate eye for detail by the renowned antiquarian Axel Vervoordt, who is known for his work in restoring historic buildings and creating stunning interiors. The result of this renovation is a beautiful and unique dining space that blends historic charm with contemporary design elements. The interior features high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and antique furnishings, creating a warm atmosphere.
From the seafood to the meat dishes, the menu offers a range of options that showcase the best of Belgian cuisine.
Sir Anthony Van Dyck is in our opinion a good choice for anyone looking to experience traditional Belgian cuisine, and a personal favorite for the last 30 years.
© photo: Sir Anthony Van Dyck
Sir Anthony van Dijck
Vlaeykensgang, Oude Koornmarkt 16, 2000 Antwerpen
Website
Le Pristine
In Antwerp's vibrant shopping neighborhood, Le Pristine Restaurant and Le Pristine Café reside within a 1960s modernist building, offering a tribute to Italian cuisine with a touch of Zeeland terroir.
Within the warm embrace of Le Pristine , an open kitchen showcases a reimagination of Italian cuisine, featuring locally sourced seafood. The menu balances tradition and innovation, crafting "New Italian" dishes that enchant with their creativity. An expertly curated wine selection overseen by Willem Van Den Broeck complements the culinary journey, emphasizing natural wines.
The interior, designed by Space Copenhagen, pays homage to the classic Italian Trattoria while drawing inspiration from Flemish and Dutch masters, showcasing Antwerp's cultural heritage. The restaurant exhibits nice art pieces, including creations made specifically for Le Pristine.
The excellent service really enhanced our dining experience. The staff were professional and hospitable, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're seated in the outdoor courtyard or the 17th century Baroque covered patio, Le Pristine ensures a lovely dining experience.
Le Pristine blends Italian elegance with the flavours of Zeeland, made by Sergio Herman. They're very attentive to every detail, from the food to the service, making it a great choice for a delicious meal.
Le Pristine
Lange Gasthuisstraat 13, 2000 Antwerpen
Website
Fiera
Step into the world of Restaurant Fiera, nestled in the historic Schippersbeurs and Handelsbeurs in Antwerp.
The name "Fiera" not only embodies the concept of a superior fair, but it also reflects the pride and passion with which they invite guests to embark on a culinary journey.
The Schippersbeurs has long been a place where people and products converged, and this influence is beautifully woven into Fiera's kitchen. With a focus on honest, thoughtfully selected ingredients, their menu showcases worldly flavors inspired by vibrant cities across the globe. Chef Andy Decremer's culinary expertise brings these flavors to life.
The Handelsbeurs serves as the perfect backdrop for Fiera's Patio, a harmonious marriage of history and gastronomy. Once a busy hub during the Golden Age, this historical site has been restored to its former glory. It is in my opinion one of the most beautiful buildings in Antwerp.
At Fiera, we had a mix of good and less good experiences. The setting is beautiful, with its historical charm, and the music adds a lively touch. On some evenings, the food and atmosphere really came together nicely. On other nights, things didn’t quite meet our expectations — but overall, it’s still a place with potential.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Fiera is member of Gault & Millau and rated 12/20. This is what Gault & Millau says about Fiera : Fiera draws inspiration from Antwerp's Schippersbeurs. Chef Andy Decremer made a menu where each dish represents a city, like the renowned Mont-Saint-Michel with scallops, grilled asparagus, and smoked egg yolk. A culinary masterpiece blending global influences and artistic flair.
Fiera
Lange Nieuwstraat 14, 2000 Antwerpen
Upton
In Antwerp's lively Cadixwijk neighborhood on the Eilandje, Restaurant Upton awaits to take you on a gastronomic journey.
Inspired by his Italian nonna's culinary prowess, Gianfranco, the talented chef behind Upton, has made a contemporary menu that bursts with flavors. Drawing from his travels and experiences, Gianfranco infuses Italian influences with occasional hints of the Orient, resulting in a harmonious fusion of tastes.
We had the pleasure of dining on their small terrace, which added a delightful touch to our experience. While the surrounding street may not offer anything extraordinary, the culinary creations made up for it. The interior of the restaurant, though small and unremarkable in terms of design, doesn't detract from the overall experience.
Upton is in the MICHELIN Guide, with €€€ and in Gault & Millau with 14/20.
© photo: Travel Magazine Belgium
Upton
Napelsstraat 42, 2000 Antwerpen
Website
U Eat & Sleep
Located in the vibrant Eilandje of Antwerp, U Eat & Sleep Antwerp offers a unique hospitality concept in collaboration with TV personality Hans Otten, top chefs, and hospitality experts.
Situated close to the Sportpaleis, Lotto Arena, historical center, Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), and other attractions, it provides an ideal base to explore the cultural fashion capital of Belgium.
The 3-in-1 Hotel
With its trendy restaurant offering three different food experiences (restaurant, foodbar, and lounge), guests can choose the ambiance that suits their preferences. The boutique hotel features three types of rooms - Cosy, Charming, and Luxury - providing a comfortable stay. Additionally, the hotel has a great view of the marina and is conveniently located across the MAS.
The hotel's terrace, widely regarded as one of the city's most beautiful, adds to the overall charm of the property.
Visitors looking for a vibrant city trip will find U Eat & Sleep Antwerp a good option, combining hospitality with a great location on 'Het Eilandje', the old port of Antwerp.
U Eat & Sleep is in the MICHELIN Guide, with €€€ and in Gault & Millau with 13/20.
U Eat & Sleep
Nassaustraat 42, 2000 Antwerpen
Markets on the Theaterplein
Do you want to get a taste of the real Antwerp? Then head to the Theaterplein on the weekend. On Saturdays, you'll find the Exotic Market there with local and southern specialties. On Sundays, you can pick up antiques, flowers, and clothes at the famous Vogelenmarkt. You can experience the centuries-old Antwerp market tradition here
Exotic Market, Oudevaartplaats, Theaterplein and surroundings. Saturday: 8-16 hours (also on official public holidays)
Vogelenmarkt, Oudevaartplaats, Theaterplein and surroundings. Sunday: 8-13 hours (also on official public holidays)
Antwerpen: my conclusion
Antwerp is a city that has something to offer for everyone, whether you're interested in architecture, history, or gastronomy. With its rich culture, stunning architecture, and delicious food, it's a city to visit.