Antwerp city breaks: things to do, see and eat

Antwerp's ancient market place is a stunning example of a typical Flemish town square: a cobblestone plaza lined with medieval step-roofed houses.

Don't miss the fountain in the middle, which depicts a local legend showing Brabo, a Roman soldier, throwing the severed hand of a giant, called Antigoon, into the river.

It's said the name Antwerp is derived from the Dutch ‘hand werpen’ (throw a hand) and you'll spot the hand motif everywhere, even down to chocolates and biscuits.

Rising above the rooftops with its 123-metre spire, the Cathedral of Our Lady is Antwerp's most recognisable landmark. The tallest Gothic church in the Low Countries, it's impossible to miss and all but impossible to forget.

Step inside and you'll find one of the city's greatest cultural treasures: masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens, including The Descent from the Cross. Even if art isn't usually your thing, the combination of soaring architecture, stained glass, and baroque brilliance makes this one of the best things to do in Antwerp.

First impressions count, and Antwerpen-Centraal station delivers. Often described as the 'Railway Cathedral', this extraordinary station combines a vast marble hall with an elegant iron-and-glass dome that feels more like a palace than a transport hub.

For many visitors arriving by train, this is their first glimpse of Antwerp – and one of the city's standout attractions. Take a moment to admire the architecture before heading out to explore. After all, not many stations make your must-see list before you've even left the platform.

After more than ten years of renovation, the KMSKA is back – bigger, brighter, and even more beautiful. If you can take your eyes off the architecture, there are seven centuries of art to explore, from Rubens and van Eyck to the largest collection of Ensor and Wouters in the world.

Make sure you save time for a stroll through the garden, too. Dotted with sculptures, it's a little slice of peace.

Housed in a strikingly modern building in the hip Eilandje docklands, the Museum aan de Stroom documents Antwerp's fascinating history.

With a huge collection of exhibits across its ten floors, there's plenty to see. Don't forget to stop at the roof terrace for spectacular views of the city and the port.

Picnicking on the roof or in the glass 'boulevard' that winds its way up through the building is actively encouraged, so bring some snacks and borrow a free rug from reception.

Antwerp's sparkling reputation isn't just marketing. For centuries, the city has been one of the world's most important diamond centres, with much of the global rough diamond trade passing through its streets.

The diamond district sits just behind Antwerpen-Centraal station, where specialist traders and jewellers have shaped the city's identity for generations. To uncover the stories behind the sparkle, visit DIVA Museum. Packed with precious stones, dazzling jewellery, and fascinating tales of craftsmanship, it offers a glittering introduction to the city often dubbed the diamond capital of the world.

Book lovers and history buffs shouldn't miss the UNESCO-listed Museum Plantin-Moretus. Housed in a beautifully preserved 16th-century townhouse, it's home to two of the world's oldest printing presses.

Wander through elegant libraries, workshops, and living quarters that reveal how one family built a publishing empire centuries before the digital age. It's a fascinating glimpse into the power of words – and proof that Antwerp has always been a city of ideas.

Standing proudly beside the Scheldt, Het Steen is Antwerp's oldest surviving building. Originally part of the city's medieval defences, this compact fortress now serves as a visitor hub and gateway to the waterfront.

From here, you can stroll along the riverside promenades, watch ships glide towards the port, and admire views across the water. It's particularly lovely around sunset, when the golden light reflects sparkles on the river and the city slows to a gentler pace.

Belgium and chocolate go hand in hand, so it's only fitting that Antwerp is home to the world's largest Belgian chocolate museum.

Located next to Antwerpen-Centraal Station, Chocolate Nation takes visitors on a journey from cocoa bean to praline, exploring the history, craftsmanship, and creativity behind the country's sweetest export. Best of all? Tastings are included. Research has never been so delicious.

For one of the city's best views, head beneath the Scheldt. Opened in the 1930s, the Sint-Anna tunnel still features its original wooden escalators, carrying pedestrians under the river to Linkeroever.

The walk itself is part of the attraction, but the reward comes at the other end. Turn back towards the city, and you'll be treated to one of Antwerp's finest skyline views, with church spires, waterfront architecture, and the river stretching before you.

Home to Cogels-Osylei, the city's most beautiful street, this pretty district is an art nouveau-lover's dream.

Hop on a tram to Berchem and pick up a walking guide at the station, then take your time strolling among Antwerp's lovingly preserved Belle Époque buildings.

For a pit-stop, drop in at one of the friendly restaurants or bars dotted around the edge of Dageraadplaats. Our favourite is laidback Café ZeeZicht.

Hidden just off Oude Koornmarkt, Vlaeykensgang feels like stepping through a secret doorway into old Antwerp.

This atmospheric alley dates back to the 16th century and is lined with cobbled paths, historic houses, and peaceful courtyards that feel worlds away from the bustle of the city centre. It's one of Antwerp's most photogenic corners and the perfect place for an unhurried wander between sightseeing stops.

Boasting both local and international names, Nationalestraat is the city's most stylish street, while neighbouring Kammenstraat has an edgier feel, with its denim, skate, and sneaker stores.

For antique-seekers, Kloosterstraat is lined with fascinating shops selling everything from 70s ceramics to art deco chandeliers, vintage postcards, and classic vinyl.

Foodies should make a beeline for Wilde Zee to dip in and out of excellent delis, chocolatiers, and bakeries like Philip's Biscuits. Don't forget to make time for a light, crunchy lacquemant – the addictive, syrupy sister of the traditional Belgian waffle.