Right then, Antwerp! The city nobody can pronounce properly but everyone secretly loves. It’s got diamonds, beer, and buildings that look like wedding cakes. What more do you want on holiday?
What Antwerps All About..
Antwerp’s a proper mix of fancy and funky. You’ve got grand churches, mega old art, mad fashion shops, weird statues, and fries on every corner. It’s cool without trying, stylish without showing off, and weird in the best way. The city’s old (like Roman times old), but also full of trendy bars and murals. And don’t be fooled – it may look posh in bits, but it’s totally down-to-earth, with beers bigger than your head and chocolate shops on every street, perfection!
Antwerp and diamonds? Oh, they go way back – like 15th century back. Here’s the deal: Antwerp has been one of the world’s diamond capitals for over 500 years. It all kicked off when diamond traders started flocking to the city in the late Middle Ages, thanks to its perfect port location and booming trade scene. By the 1500s, Antwerp was the place for cutting, polishing, and trading diamonds – basically, where all the sparkly magic happened.
Fast forward to today, and over 80% of the world’s rough diamonds still pass through Antwerp’s Diamond District. It’s got four big exchanges, loads of expert polishers (aka people who make rocks shiny), and serious bling on every corner. So if you’re into a bit of sparkle, this city’s got your name on a gem.
Getting There
Fly into Brussels Airport (BRU) – it’s the closest major one. Flight from the UK takes about 1 hour. Then hop on the train to Antwerp Central (around 30–40 mins) – they run all the time and are dead easy. Or grab a taxi or shuttle, takes about the same if you’re feeling lazy (or rich).
Easy bookings, flexible payments, loads of choice, ATOL protected and cheap deals – On the Beach sorts it all. Stress-free getaways!
Top Rated Hotels:
Radisson Hotel Antwerp Berchem, OnTheBeach – Super sleek, right by the station, mega comfy beds, tasty breakfast. Chill vibes, cool decor, zero stress.
Crowne Plaza Antwerp, OnTheBeach – Big pool, sauna, city views and cocktails. Bit posh, but still fun.
Van Der Valk Hotel Antwerpen, OnTheBeach – Swanky rooms, killer food, and a banging bar. Near the ring road so perfect for exploring – or escaping.
Stuff You’ve Gotta See!
Start at the Cathedral of Our Lady, massive, gorgeous, and full of giant Rubens paintings. Then wander into the Grote Markt and pretend you live in a postcard that’s stepped back in time. Just around the corner is Het Steen Castle, super old and kinda spooky – great for dramatic Insta pics. Head to MAS Museum, even if you don’t go in, the rooftop views are unforgettable and free. The Central Station will blow your socks off – it’s basically a palace pretending to be a train station. And don’t forget the Fashion District, where everyone and everything looks cool!
Antwerp’s a full-on arty show-off – and we love every second. It’s got Rubens galore (his house is now a museum, fancy), epic paintings in the Cathedral, plus the cool M HKA and KMSKA museums. But don’t miss the cheeky statues and wild street art everywhere – it’s like the city let loose with a spray can, materials and a sense of humour.
Get ready to zip around Antwerp in a tuk tuk like you’re royalty on wheels. This speedy little tour takes you to the big-hitter museums like MAS and Plantin-Moretus without the legwork. Private guide, comfy ride, and no stress – just you, your mates, and a whistle-stop culture trip in the quirkiest taxi ever. TukTuk Tour on Viator
Antwerp’s basically a fairytale that got photobombed by street art and skateboarders. One minute you’re staring at stunning churches and old-school fountains, the next there’s a full-on skatepark or a guy with a guitar. This tour shows you all the city’s secrets – the fancy bits and the weird little gems. You’ll feel like a proper local. Private Guided Cultural and Historical Tour on Viator
Hop aboard a gorgeous vintage boat and cruise through Antwerp’s docks. With drinks, snacks, and a super chilled skipper, you’ll float past MAS, the Havenhuis, and all the old harbours. Private Old Harbour Boat Tour, GetYourGuide
Beer fans, this one’s your pilgrimage. Antwerp’s interactive brewery tour is basically beer Disneyland – loads of cool exhibits, buttons to press, and (best bit) two cold tasters included. Wander round at your own pace, soak up the brewing magic, then finish with another pint and snacks in the bar. You’ll come out half beer genius, half tipsy. City Brewery Tour, GetYourGuide
The zoo’s not just for kids – this one’s got serious animal street cred. Open since 1843, it’s one of the oldest in the world and still going strong. Lions, elephants, penguins, cheeky apes – all chilling in gorgeous enclosures. There’s history, conservation, and loads of places to sit and watch animals do their thing. Proper day out. ZOO Entry Ticket, GetYourGuide
Swap four wheels for two on a bike tour that’s eco-friendly and mega stylish (yes, wooden bikes!). You’ll cruise past the Cathedral, MAS, Rubens House, and even the Diamond District. Your local guide spills all the city’s juicy stories, history, and weird legends – with plenty of stops to gawk, snap pics, and feel smug about your sustainable choice. City Highlights by Wooden Bike, GetYourGuide
Snack your way through Antwerp like a total legend on this foodie walking tour. Belgian beer? Yep. Chocolate? You bet. Fries, cheese, waffles? Oh yes. With a guide who actually knows what’s what, you’ll munch your way around the city, hear some cracking stories. No regrets. Food Walking Tour, GetYourGuide
This tour shows you the Jewish heart of Antwerp – rich in culture, full of stories, and deeply moving. You’ll wander past diamond dealers, kosher bakeries, and meaningful monuments, learning about one of Europe’s biggest Jewish communities. It’s two hours of fascinating, real stuff that gives you proper insight beyond the tourist fluff. Diamond & Jewish Quarter Walking Tour, GetYourGuide
Want to explore further? Hop on and off trains across Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg like a pro with the Eurail Benelux Pass. It’s basically a golden ticket for grown-ups. Travel unlimited on fancy trains (even 1st class if you’re feeling flush), all from an app. No airport faff, just hop on, chill out, and enjoy the views. Best bit? Kids ride free. Eurail Benelux Mobile Pass, GetYourGuide
Best Food Spots
Pasta Hippo Vino – Cosy Italian tucked behind the cathedral. Big bowls, loud laughs, smells like heaven, and super affordable. Absolute carb heaven.
Ellis Gourmet Burger – Juicy burgers, loaded fries, local beers. Right near the Groenplaats. Music and staff are chill, food’s chef’s kiss.
The Butcher’s Son – Right by the river, steak that melts in your mouth, dark moody lighting, and whiskey to match. Fancy with a Michelin star.
Camion – Vegan café with serious attitude. Wild brunches, oat lattes, and cool art all over.
The Chocolate Line – Not a restaurant but who cares – it’s an experience. Wildest chocolates ever. Bacon chocolate? Yep. Gin chocolate? Oh yes.
Tips for doing Antwerp right
Always carry coins – some toilets charge you. No one warns you, we have!
Don’t skip the street art – some of it’s wild (like murals of bananas doing yoga).
Use the tram – it’s easy, fast, and you feel like a local.
Bring stretchy pants – Seriously. Between waffles, fries, and beer… you’ll need ‘em.
Chocolate is mandatory – It’s basically a law.
Try the local beer Duvel – but sip it slow. It’s tiny but mighty.
Watch out for bikes – they come out of nowhere and don’t stop for tourists.
Stay central – walking everywhere is the best way to see all the weird, lovely stuff.
Book Trips in Advance – Check out Viator & GetYourGuide to see what trips Antwerp has to offer!
So there you have it – Antwerp’s not just diamonds and beer (although, let’s be real, that’s reason enough). It’s got style, sass, waffles, and weird art everywhere you look. Whether you’re in it for the boutiques, the beers, or the fancy chocolate shops, Antwerp’s the kind of place that surprises you in the best way. Go once, and you’ll be back!
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