Things to do in Antwerp Belgium

Things to do in Antwerp Belgium
Places to go in Belgium
Antwerp Belgium, the second largest seaport in Europe after Rotterdam Holland, is one of the most popular destinations if you intend to learn more about the history of Belgium.

In fact, Antwerp Belgium was one of the most popular European cities in the 15th century and one of the most important trading centers at the time.


Apart from the many things to do in Antwerp Belgium, taking a day trip to check out nearby attractions across the border is one of the most popular things to do in Antwerp Belgium.

In fact, Antwerp Belgium is just a couple of hours drive from things to do in Eindhoven Holland, tourist attractions in Germany and things to do in France.

Things to do in Antwerp Belgium: Places of Interest

Grote Markt

Grote Markt or Town Square is a lovely square that you can stroll and explore the magnificent Brabo Fountain, the beautiful Town Hall and the houses of the Guilds.

The Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady, located on ‘Groenplaats’ or Green Square, is one of the most popular attractions in Antwerp Belgium as it is home to Peter Paul Rubens’ masterpieces.

Het Steen Castle and the Antwerp maritime Museum

The Het Steen Castle is a medieval castle built in the 13th century which makes it the oldest landmark in the city of Antwerp Belgium. At the castle, you can also visit a war memorial to the Canadian soldiers in WWII which is housed at the Antwerp maritime Museum.

The Dagbladmuseum

The Dagbladmuseum is another important place of interest in Antwerp Belgium, as it is the place where the world's first newspaper was invented.

Things to do in Antwerp Belgium: Fun Activities

Antwerp Aquatopia

A visit to Antwerp Aquatopia is one of the most popular Antwerp attractions. Antwerp Aquatopia, located on Queen Astrid Square, is a great place to wind down and marvel at some of the most colorful tropical fishes in the world.

Boat trip along the River Scheldt

During your stay in Antwerp Belgium, taking a boat trip along the River Scheldt is one of the most popular things to do in Antwerp Belgium, as you get to see the city from a different perspective.

Things to do in Antwerp Belgium: Shopping & Dining

Shopping is also one of the most popular things to do in Antwerp Belgium, and you can choose from street markets and department stores.

If you are looking to buy local produce and second hand goods such as antiques and jewelry, the street markets of Theaterplein and Vogelmarkt are great places to do this.

If you intend to do some retail shopping, Meir and de Keyserlei are Antwerp's main shopping districts, where you’ll find the international department stores and trendy boutiques.

Grote Markt is one of the most pleasant squares in the city and during the summer months you can enjoy a refreshing beer from one of the many terraces.

Things to do in Antwerp Belgium: Nightlife & Entertainment

If you love beer, you’ll be glad to know that beer is Belgium national beverage.

The city of Antwerp Belgium has plenty of cafes and Grote Markt is where you’ll find the bulk of them. At this square, you can also find nightclubs and bars offering live music.

Another district worth checking for nightlife is Vlaamse Kaai which is located by the waterfront and features some of the liveliest clubs in the city.

Also, worth checking out is Antwerp Film Museum which is located at the rococo Royal Palace. At the museum you can see nightly film screenings, and also enjoy classes on film history.

Things to do in Antwerp Belgium: Festivals & Events

Antwerp Rhythm and Blues Festival

Antwerp Rhythm and Blues Festival, held in July, is a popular summer event that features some of the best R&B artists from around the world.

Jazz Middelheim Festival

Jazz Middelheim Festival, held in Park den Brandt in August, is one of the premier Jazz festivals in Europe as it draws the best Jazz musicians from all across the world.

Antwerp Book Fair

Antwerp Book Fair, held in November in the Antwerp Expo, is annual book fair that features stands of local and international publishers, as well as talks and workshops.

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