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Antwerp, Belgium: Travel Guide to the City of Rubens, Diamonds and Fashion

Antwerp is Belgium's second-largest city and one of Europe's great ports, a place where Gothic spires, Baroque masterpieces and cutting-edge fashion coexist. Once one of the richest cities in the world, it was home to the painter Peter Paul Rubens and remains a global centre of the diamond trade. With a lively food scene, striking architecture and a relaxed, creative atmosphere, Antwerp is one of the most exciting cities in the Low Countries.

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Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Antwerp

1. Cathedral of Our Lady and the Grote Markt

The Cathedral of Our Lady is the largest Gothic church in Belgium, and its spire, at 123 metres, is the tallest church tower in the Benelux. Construction took nearly 170 years, from the 14th to the 16th century. Inside, the cathedral houses four masterpieces by Rubens, including The Elevation of the Cross and The Descent from the Cross. Just around the corner, the Grote Markt is surrounded by richly decorated guildhouses and the Renaissance City Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the centre stands the Brabo Fountain, depicting the legend of a Roman soldier who defeated a giant and threw his severed hand into the river, a story said to explain the city's name, from hand werpen, "to throw a hand."

Booking tip: Buy cathedral tickets online to skip the queue, and join a guided walking tour on GetYourGuide to hear the legends and history of the old town.

2. Antwerp Central Station and the Diamond District

Antwerp Central Station, completed in 1905, is often called the "railway cathedral" and is regularly ranked among the most beautiful train stations in the world. Its grand hall features marble, gilded details and a vast iron-and-glass dome. Right next to it lies the Diamond District, where a large share of the world's rough diamonds are traded. The DIVA museum, in the city centre, tells the story of diamonds, silver and jewellery in Antwerp with interactive exhibits.

Booking tip: Diamond tours, available on GetYourGuide, offer insights into the history and craftsmanship of diamond cutting and polishing.

3. Plantin-Moretus Museum

The Plantin-Moretus Museum is the only museum in the world listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right. It occupies the home and workshop of the printer Christophe Plantin, who founded one of the most important printing houses in Europe in the 16th century. The museum displays the two oldest surviving printing presses in the world, rare books, manuscripts and beautifully preserved rooms, offering a fascinating look at the early history of printing.

Booking tip: Tickets can be bought online, and audio guides help you understand the significance of the collection.

4. MAS and the Eilandje District

The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) is a striking red sandstone and glass tower, opened in 2011 in the revitalised Eilandje (Little Island) harbour district. The museum explores Antwerp's history as a port city and its connections with the world. Its rooftop terrace, accessible for free, offers panoramic views over the city, the port and the river Scheldt. The surrounding district is filled with restaurants, bars and converted warehouses.

Booking tip: Museum tickets can be booked online, and the rooftop is free. Consider a harbour boat tour, bookable on GetYourGuide, to see the port from the water.

5. Rubens House

The Rubens House was the home and studio of the painter Peter Paul Rubens, where he lived and worked for much of his life. The elegant Italian-style palazzo, with its Baroque portico and garden, offers a glimpse into the life of one of the greatest artists of the 17th century. Parts of the house have been undergoing restoration, so check what's open before your visit.

Booking tip: Buy tickets online in advance, and combine your visit with a walking tour focusing on Rubens and Baroque Antwerp.

Practical Travel Tips for Antwerp

Getting Around

By train: Antwerp is about 35 to 45 minutes from Brussels, with direct trains from Brussels Airport.
Trams: an extensive tram network covers the city.
Bike sharing: the Velo bike-sharing system is a great way to explore.
On foot: the historic centre is compact and walkable.

Local Culinary Specialties

Antwerpse handjes: hand-shaped biscuits or chocolates, inspired by the city's legend.
De Koninck beer: Antwerp's local amber ale, traditionally served in a round "bolleke" glass.
Elixir d'Anvers: a herbal liqueur produced in Antwerp since the 19th century.
Frites and mayonnaise: a Belgian staple, available at friteries across the city.
Fresh seafood: mussels and North Sea fish served in restaurants near the river.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and summer (April–September): pleasant weather and outdoor terraces.
Autumn: fewer tourists and cultural events.
December: festive Christmas markets.

Conclusion: Plan Your Trip to Antwerp

Antwerp combines Gothic architecture, Baroque art, diamonds, fashion and a vibrant food scene. Whether you're admiring Rubens' masterpieces, exploring the MAS or marvelling at Central Station, it offers a unique and exciting experience.

Plan ahead: book your cathedral tickets, diamond tours and walking tours on GetYourGuide, and get ready to discover Antwerp.