Antwerp, my favorite city in Belgium. The city famous for shopping and going out is also perfect for a little getaway with your friends or family. Antwerp has it all! Because of my love for the city famous for its Chocolate museum and Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest animal parks in the world located in the center of Antwerp and a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a range of indoor and outdoor attractions, I’m going to tell you more about the 7 best things to do in Antwerp, Belgium.
1. The Cathedral of Our Lady
We are kicking off our list with a true UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Cathedral of Antwerp. Located right in the city center, making it perfect accessible to visit. Personally I’m always shocked when I realize how high the Cathedral is when standing right in front of it. You can also visit the inside of the Cathedral, but you will need to buy a ticket. Although worth it, as you can also see some art from famous Belgian artists. Visitors can see several large works by Peter Paul Rubens inside the Cathedral of Our Lady.
2. De Grote Markt
De Grote Markt is the beating heart and historic center of Antwerp. Be amazed by the beautiful historic buildings surrounding the square, including the magnificent 16th-century City Hall (Stadhuis) surrounded by beautiful Guild Houses. The lively atmosphere of De Grote Markt is filled with events, cafes, and restaurants, making it a dynamic and vibrant place to visit. Besides that you can also take a look at the famous Town Fall that is also located at De Grote Markt. This is the perfect place to wonder and take some beautiful pictures of yourself and your surroundings.
3. Antwerpen Zoo
One thing that should definitely be on this list is Antwerpen Zoo. One of Europe’s oldest and most prettiest zoo’s. Not for nothing, as the Zoo is located right next to the famous train station. How amazing that Zoo Antwerpen is located in the heart of the city. Tickets can be easily bought online or at the park itself. Personally I loved to mix the zoo with some shopping, making it the perfect addition to your visit to Antwerp.
4. Antwerp Train Station
Antwerp Central Station, also known as the central railway station, might not even need a big introduction. Just looking at the pictures, I think you can already imagine why this is on the list of best things to do in Antwerp. Antwerp Central Station is one of the world’s most beautiful train stations, with an impressive exterior, main hall, Art Nouveau architecture, gilded details, multi-colored marble, massive clock, and glass ceiling. The central railway station’s historical and architectural significance makes it a must-see attraction, and it is highly recommended to visit for a tour or to take photos. Besides that it also goes a few levels down below, what gives it an extra cool view.
5. The Chocolate Nation
A chocolate lover who is wondering how chocolate is actually made? Take a look inside Antwerp’s own chocolate museum. We visited the museum back in 2019 and until this day, I still love this memory. First you start with getting to know more about the journey of making chocolate. You can easily use a audio tour to hear all the information. It was super interesting to learn more about the process for a product that is so well known. At the end of the tour you get to taste all different kind of (fluid) chocolate. Think of milk, white and pure chocolate, all with different percentages of cacao. Chocolate Nation is a must-visit!
6. Shopping
No trip to Antwerp is complete without some shopping. The city’s main shopping street is called ‘de Meir’. A long street filled with all kind shops. Besides a great shopping experience, you also get to enjoy the amazing architecture above the shops, finding some old and stunning Belgium buildings.
7. Enjoy some food
Antwerp is a great city with lot’s of option for some great food. My all-time favorites are:
- Lunch at Wasbar, located with multiple locations in the city. Enjoy a nice lunch besides the washing machines. The overall aesthetic of this cafe is so cute and cozy. I love coming here!
- Dinner at Morso, on valentines day we enjoyed a three course dinner at restaurant Morso, also located near de Grote markt. Best thing besides the food? The amazing speakeasy bar down below. We loved the overall vibe of the restaurant and stayed easily for three hours there.
Antwerp has something for everyone. Nice activities for children but also activities that are fun for everyone. So, I would say, hurry up and get on to explore Belgium’s #1 city: Antwerp!
