A weekend in Antwerp

The city of Antwerp is immediately associated with diamonds, and every day over €150 million worth of diamonds are sold there. And with its port. The port is the city's artery, and has been the lifeblood of Antwerp's economy for centuries. However, your arrival in this beautiful city will undoubtedly be via the central station. A veritable jewel of art nouveau, this station can be visited like a museum. So take a few moments, freshly arrived, to soak up the beauty of the place.

The city of Antwerp is not very large, but it is divided into several districts. For your comfort, opt for a hotel in the city centre.

The old town stretches around the Grand-Place, where you'll find the magnificent Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It bears a surprising resemblance to Brussels, with the same style of Renaissance-style house. However, Antwerp's Grand-Place stands out for its impressive fountain of 'Brabo', a legendary Roman soldier, which is enthroned in its centre.

Then set off to discover Notre-Dame Cathedral. This impressive building is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During your visit, you will see the heart and the five naves of the cathedral. Built over several centuries, this cathedral is a real architectural feat, and contains some magnificent works of art. Sculptures and paintings are carefully preserved. There are four magnificent works by Peter Paul Rubens, all with religious symbolism, such as "The Descent from the Cross" and "The Resurrection of Christ", painted specially to adorn the cathedral.

Lunch break

When it comes to lunch, you'll be spoilt for choice. The city is full of small cafés and restaurants. You can also opt for a lunch on the go by grabbing a packet of chips from one of the city's many chip stands. But if you want to recharge your batteries, why not take a break at TINSEL, a charming lunch café that respects the seasons and adapts its menu accordingly.

Tinsel

Sint-Paulusplaats 30, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

In the footsteps of Rubens

Rubens is absolutely everywhere in the city. He is the pride of Antwerp. His statue is enthroned on the Groenplaars (Green Square). Once you've admired him, take a tour of his house and studio. A veritable urban palace, Rubens' studio is a must-see if you're exploring this port city. You'll discover more about the man and the complete artist that he was. Did you know that he was involved in politics and that this earned him the noble title of Count? Find out in this magnificent museum!

Discover the beguinage

At the end of the day, get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore Antwerp's beguinage! A haven of tranquillity, the walls of these houses reveal an important part of Belgium's history.

End the day in style with a meal overlooking the Scheldt

To end the day in style, head to the restaurant Het Pomphuis. A chic restaurant and bar, Het Pomphuis is located in one of the city's listed monuments. Once a pumping station used to drain the docks, many parts of the building have been preserved to make a modern restaurant that still bears witness to the city's history. What's more, it boasts a terrace with an absolutely sublime view over the Scheldt. A must for lovers!

Het Pomphuis

Siberiastraat, 2030 Antwerpen, Belgium

On your second day in Antwerp, explore the city's many museums. Start with the most emblematic, the MAS, Museum aan Stroom, which is an ethnographic, anthropological and maritime museum. It is located on the quays of the old port, in the Eilandje district. After your visit, walk along the quays to Het Steen, the city's medieval castle, probably the oldest building in Antwerp. Then continue along the Scheldt to discover the MHKA museum of contemporary art. Not far away, still on the banks, you'll find FOMU, the photography museum. You are now in the artists' quarter. You'll find art galleries everywhere!

Lunch break

Head to Charlie's, a great little café where you can brunch on colourful, ultra-gourmet dishes!

Charlie's

Volkstraat 66, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Shopping spree

A visit to Antwerp wouldn't be a visit to Antwerp without a bit of shopping. Head to the Meir district to find the most beautiful pieces! As well as the main avenue, don't hesitate to wander around the district. You'll find plenty of designer boutiques and other trendy concept stores! Don't forget to stop off at the Meir Palace, which once belonged to Napoleon 1st !

Take a gourmet break and discover lacquemants!

Although defined as a Liège speciality, lacquemants were actually invented at a funfair! It's a thin, supple wafer made from wheat cut in half, filled and coated with candy sugar. An ultra-sweet delicacy, its invention is jealously disputed in Belgium. Whatever the case, you'll find the best lacquemants in Antwerp at "Désirée de Lille".

Désirée de Lille

Schrijnwerkersstraat 14/Het 18de-Eeuwse Leeskabinet, 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Discovering diamonds!

Antwerp is the city of diamonds! Several million euros worth of diamonds are sold every day in the Diamant district alone. Just 1 square kilometre in size, its three pedestrianised streets are closed to traffic. Here you'll find rough diamonds, magnificent rings and other treasures. It's well worth the diversions, just to feast your eyes!