Belgium

Things to do in Antwerp

Belgium's capital of creativity and cool, Antwerp is a diverse city full of fascinating museums, gourmet food, and lots of shopping opportunities that are sure to keep you entertained. Located just 2.5 hours from the port in Calais, you can be discovering all of the great things to do in Antwerp in no time.

In a single day, you can explore the city's medieval centre, take in striking modern architectural masterpieces, and shop to your heart's content at a host of designer stores, so you will find that there really is something for everybody here

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Antwerp Architecture
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Art and Culture
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Antwerp Tours
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Shopping in Antwerp

Things to do in Antwerp

Antwerp Architecture

Antwerp is full of amazing architecture to admire, and you can discover plenty of examples as you wander around the city.

Start off at the Grand Central Station, named as one of the most beautiful stations in the world, and take a walk from here to the Cathedral of Our Lady. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dominates the Antwerp skyline and reaches an impressive 123m in height.

Boasting the tallest church tower in Belgium, the building is not only striking in appearance but is home to a number of famous artworks too, including many by well-known artist Rubens.

Photo by Wyron A on Unsplash

Art and Culture

One of the best things to do in Antwerp for those looking for a bit of culture is to spend some time in the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom), which is located in creative dockside neighbourhood Eilandje where the city meets the port.

The museum shares stories about Antwerp and its interactions with the world, mainly through the port, and boasts around 500,000 items including everything from artwork to utensils.

Another interesting place to visit during your time in Antwerp is the place where artist Rubens lived and worked. This attraction gives guests an idea of how people lived during the 17th century, and is home to a number of Flemish masterpieces too.

Antwerp Tours

If you want to learn all about Antwerp while you explore you might like to go on one of a number of tours that are available to book in advance so you’re all set you go when you get there.

A walking tour offers a great way to see the main sights such as churches, traditional houses, and secret courtyards, or you might prefer to join a bike tour and hear what an Antwerp local has to say about the city.

Alternatively, immerse yourself into the Belgian culture with a food tour that gives you the chance to try a number of local treats, including frites with sauce, and delicious chocolate.

Shopping in Antwerp

While many might not realise it, Antwerp is actually one of the great fashion capitals of the world, with countless boutiques, exhibitions, and bold concept stores to discover.

Head down to the fashion district on the corner of National and Drukkerijstraat, where nearly every shop is full of eye-catching designs and luxury products. Here, you can also learn all about the craftsmanship and creativity behind the city's fashion stars by visiting the MoMu fashion museum, which features an exciting array of design masterpieces.

For those interested in indulging in some retail therapy, head to Graanmarkt which offers a restaurant, store, and an art gallery all in one building. For vintage wear, Jutka & Riska is a Dutch fashion label well worth exploring during your visit.

With so many fantastic things to do in Antwerp, why not start planning your trip to Belgium and book your Dover to Calaiscrossing today.