One of Belgium's largest cities, but too often overlooked in favour of the capital, Brussels, or more touristy cities such as Bruges or Ghent, Antwerp is nonetheless a destination not to be missed.

Ideal for a weekend break, Antwerp is directly accessible by Eurostar from Paris and Lille. So get ready for a total immersion in Flemish culture.

1- What to do in Antwerp

The essentials

For a short stay in the city, there are a few things you shouldn't miss. So if you're just passing through, we strongly recommend you check them out.

• The central station: If you arrived by train, you're in luck, as you're now in the heart of one of the most beautiful stations in the world. Comprising a metal canopy designed by architect Clement van Boguet and a stone building constructed by Louis Delacenserie in the early 1900s, this building stands out for its eclectic style. Take the time to admire the chequerboard tiling, imposing arches and interior glass roofs before marvelling at its façades, which are worthy of the most beautiful monuments. You will understand why it is nicknamed "the cathedral of railways".

  

• The diamond district: When you leave the station, you will find yourself on De Keyserlei, a lively street that will take you to the city centre. Among the various restaurants, don't miss the diamond shops. Although the shop windows are often overcrowded and untidy, take the time to have a look and admire the sumptuous jewellery and rough diamonds on display. If you don't bring back a small souvenir, at least immerse yourself in the history of this neighbourhood, which has seen diamonds pass through its doors every day since 1880. Today, it is the hub for more than 70% of global production and home to the world's leading rough and cut diamond exchange, the Diamantclub van Antwerpen. In addition to the shops open to the public, the diamond district is a mini city in itself, soak up the stimulating atmosphere and mingle with the thousands of residents who contribute to the neighbourhood's economy.

• Le Meir: Continuing on your way out of De Keyserlei, you'll arrive at the city's largest shopping street and the 2nd biggest in Belgium, Le Meir. Enjoy this pedestrian street lined with trendy shops for a bit of shopping, but don't forget to look up and admire the facades of the historic buildings. If you're lucky enough to enjoy a sunny day, the gilded buildings will light up the city with their brilliance. A few metres from the start of the avenue, step into the majestic Stadsfeestzaal shopping gallery. Continue a little further to the former Royal Palace of Antwerp, dating from the 18th century. Now home to a museum, the palace has welcomed some of the greatest figures in history, such as Emperor Napoleon I, William I King of the Netherlands, and then King Baudouin, King of Belgium.

• Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal: Once your shopping session is over, make your way to the Cathedral of Our Lady. Built between 1352 and 1521, this Gothic cathedral is remarkable for its 123-metre bell tower, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entry is paid, but once inside you'll be able to admire masterpieces by the Flemish painter Rubens, whose statue was erected on the Groenplaats just a few steps from the cathedral.

• Grote Markt: Cross the alleyways lined with restaurants to reach the Grote Markt, Antwerp's main square. At its centre, you won't be able to miss the bronze Brabo fountain, which gave the city its name. According to legend, a giant used to manage the flow of boats and demanded a toll to do so. When he encountered travellers who refused to pay, the giant would cut off their hand. One day, a Roman soldier named Silvius Brabo came to liberate the city, defeated the giant and, after killing him, cut off his hand in turn and threw it into the Scheldt. In Flemish, "Handwerpen" means "throwing of hands", which eventually gave the name Antwerpen. On the square you'll also find the town hall and the tourist office, but above all you'll be able to admire the guild houses. Guilds in the Middle Ages were what associations are in our time. The brick-built guild houses were the place where everything happened, from production to trade, and as shown by the gold-adorned sculptures that crown these buildings, merchants were proud to display their emblems. So, would you be able to tell them all apart?

• The Scheldt Quays: Leave the city centre behind and enjoy some fresh air on the banks of the Scheldt. To the East, you won't be able to miss Het Steen, an old 13th-century fortress, built at the time to protect the city from any threats from the County of Flanders. Under Charles V a few years later, the castle was used as a prison. It was during the development of the quays in the 19th century that part of the castle was demolished. Today, the remaining part of the castle houses exhibitions.

  

• Museum aan de Stroom : Continue your stroll along the quays towards the red sandstone tower standing in the middle of Antwerp's old port. This impressive building has housed an ethnographic, anthropological and maritime museum across 8 floors since 2011. If the exhibitions don't appeal to you, head up for free to the 10th floor to enjoy the terrace, offering a 360° panorama over the entire city. This view of Antwerp is unique and an unmissable activity during your stay.

  

• Huis De Vijf Werelddelen : Known as the House of the Five Continents, this building constructed in 1901 by architect Frans Smet-Verhas at the corner of Schildersstraat and Plaatsnijderstraat is a quirky city landmark, thanks to the boat that appears to be emerging from the facade of the building. Yes, you read that right now all that's left is to go and see it with your own eyes!

To make the pleasure last

If you have a little time left after going through our list of must-do activities in Antwerp, no problem — the city is packed with things to do, so here are a few extra ideas.

• Red Star Line Museum: If there's one museum I would recommend in Antwerp, it's this one. This interactive museum will walk you in the footsteps of 20th-century immigrants who had nothing but hope and the dream of a new world in mind. Built on the former embarkation point of the Eilandje, a historic shipping company, the museum takes you on a journey through the life stories of its passengers.

  

• Rubenshuis: The former home of Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens (1577 - 1640) now houses a museum tracing the key stages of the artist's life, and displays some of his most beautiful masterpieces, such as his famous self-portrait.

• Koningin Astridplein: If upon leaving the station you didn't end up on De Keyserlei avenue, then you find yourself on Queen Astrid Square. While the square was once occupied by French-style gardens, it has since lost much of its greenery. Stand in the centre to admire the eclectic architecture of the square. Facing you, the station itself blends several inspirations, both Baroque and Renaissance. On the opposite side, the Radisson Blu hotel and its modern/contemporary architecture with its bold colours and straight lines. Turn to the side to face the Paon Royal café-restaurant and its Art Nouveau facade with its large windows and generous curves. For a completely different world, Antwerp Zoo alone immerses you in a neo-Moorish, neo-classical and orientalist environment you'll quickly spot the exotic animals painted and sculpted on its facade.

• Van Wesenbekestraat: At the corner of Queen Astrid Square, continue your way to this small street that will transport you straight to Asia. Pass through the imposing red arch and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aromas of food. If you want to taste Asian food during your stay, this is the street where you'll find what you're looking for.

• Schuttershofstraat: If your shopping budget is a little higher or you simply enjoy window shopping, head to Schuttershofstraat, a lively street of luxury boutiques and independent art galleries.

• Bourlaschouwburg: Turning off Schuttershofstraat, you'll be drawn in by the classical architecture of the Bourla Theatre, one of Antwerp's greatest cultural gems. Built in the early 19th century by architect Pierre Bourla, the theatre has retained all of its splendour from that era. The interior, majestically decorated in red and gold, follows the codes of the Italian-style theatre and features an entire collection of period stage machinery that is still fully functional, lending a particular charm to the performances that take place there. Its facade is equally monumental, with its columns echoing ancient theatres and Greek architecture.

  

• Opera House: Before setting off down the Meir avenue, take a step aside onto Opera Square and admire this Renaissance building with Italian influences. Even though it has been renovated, the late 19th-century Opera House retains its prestige with its pediment and projecting arcades. Inside, admire the marble work, the ceiling paintings and all the gilded details, a symbol of the bourgeoisie of the time.

• Begijnhof: Like several Flemish cities, Antwerp has its historic beguinage district. Built in the 13th century, the beguinage was a collection of small houses intended for devout women living in community without having taken definitive religious vows. Come and enjoy a moment of serenity in this district built away from the urban hustle and bustle, and observe its distinctive architectural style. As the district is still inhabited, it is necessary to behave in a calm and respectful manner.

  

• Nationalestraat: This street is surely one of the most interesting in Antwerp, blending 19th-century bourgeois facades with more industrial and discreetly modernist 20th-century buildings, as well as contemporary architecture, giving the street its uniquely distinctive character. As well as being an architectural gem, this street is also at the heart of the fashion district. You'll find the fashion museum there as well as several Belgian designer boutiques well worth a visit. This thoroughfare is often very lively with a constant flow of both tourists and locals, so come and soak up this creative atmosphere.

• Sint-Annatunnel: What better way to admire a city than to contemplate it from the other bank. No, you're not dreaming there are no bridges in Antwerp, but there is a tunnel under the Scheldt! The Saint Anne tunnel, open since 1933, is a passageway for pedestrians and cyclists. If you're not claustrophobic and feel motivated for the 1.2km round trip ahead of you, crossing it is well worth it. If you're short on time, at least head down to take a look at the tunnel's iconic feature: its original wooden escalator, which will transport you straight into a retro atmosphere.

• DIVA Museum: In the world capital of diamonds, a visit to its diamond museum is a must it traces the entire history behind goldsmithing, from the extraction of the raw material to the finished product. Discover sumptuous collection pieces and learn more about the various stages of craftsmanship.

For every taste

Below you will find a more complete list of all the activities the city has to offer. So if time permits, don't hesitate to take a look at these suggestions you'll also find ideas more specific to your interests.

• MoMu: Antwerp's fashion museum is a must-stop for style enthusiasts who want to learn more about Belgian designers and marvel at collection pieces.

• Chocolate Nation : For food lovers and the curious alike, nothing beats a chocolate museum! Chocolate Nation is an interactive museum that will take you through the history of chocolate, from the harvesting of the cocoa bean to the shaping of your favourite bars. The entry fee is a little steep but is well worth it thanks to the tasting at the end of the visit! Bear in mind that the museum draws crowds, so remember to book your ticket in advance. To go even further, the museum also offers workshops with master chocolatiers.

• Antwerpen Zoo : Located on Queen Astrid Square, just outside the station, Antwerp Zoo is the oldest animal park in the country. It opened its doors in 1843 and has retained all of its original architecture. With more than 5,000 animals from 950 different species, this zoo is a fully-fledged attraction in its own right.

• Parks: The only downside of Antwerp's city centre (in our opinion) is its lack of greenery. So if you feel like getting your fill of nature, head to the City Park, not far from the centre. For a longer walk, make your way to the Rivierenhof provincial estate, where you'll find everything you need to spend a wonderful day outdoors.

• De Koninck Brewery: For beer lovers, come and visit this brewery which will walk you through every step of the secrets behind Belgian beer production. Be warned — don't go by car, as here too you'll have the opportunity to sample the beers several times throughout your visit.

• Plantin-Moretus Museum: This museum traces the history of printing and displays a rich period collection, including two of the oldest printing presses in the world, lead type, and an exact reconstruction of a 17th-century press room. The museum also houses an exceptional library, featuring among other things a Gutenberg Bible, period maps and even several paintings by Rubens.

• Museum of Contemporary Art: This museum presents, across several rooms, various installations and thought-provoking works. It also has a cinema and a library specialising in contemporary art.

• Royal Museum of Fine Arts: The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, open since 1810, holds a collection of works spanning the 14th to the 20th century. If you're not a big art enthusiast, go at least for the incredible collection of paintings by Anthony van Dyck, one of the most extensive in the region.

• Boerentoren : In French, the "Tower of the Peasants", standing at 97 metres tall, is the highest tower in the city — so it's hard to miss. Built in an Art Deco style for the 1930 International Exhibition marking the centenary of Belgian independence, the tower was the first skyscraper on European soil. Today, the building is used as the offices of a well-known Flemish bank.

• Zurenborg : This Art Nouveau neighbourhood is perfect for a sunny stroll. Wandering through its streets, you'll come face to face with facades each more impressive than the last, adorned with gilding, rounded shapes and floral stained glass windows.

We hope you found what you were looking for in this selection. Antwerp is a stunning city that we fell head over heels for, and one that deserves to be visited by as many people as possible.

2- Our itineraries for a perfect stay

One day in Antwerp

Coming out of the Station (1), take a moment to admire the eclectic architecture of Astrid Square (2). Then head to the city centre through the diamond district (3). Before venturing down the long Meir avenue (5), turn right to admire the Opera House (4). A few metres from the start of the avenue, step into the majestic Stadsfeestzaal shopping gallery (6). Continue a little further to the former Royal Palace of Antwerp (7). If you look up at the sky, you won't be able to miss, at the bottom of the avenue, the tower that dominates the city: Boerentoren (8). Still with your eyes to the sky, head towards the spires of the Cathedral of Our Lady (10), passing through the Groenplaats (9). Cross the alleyways lined with restaurants to reach the Grote Markt (11), Antwerp's main square. Leave the city centre behind and enjoy some fresh air on the banks of the Scheldt. To the East, you won't be able to miss Het Steen (12), an old 13th-century fortress. End your day at the top of the Museum aan de Stroom (13), a modern building you can't miss in the heart of the port.

Two days in Antwerp

day 1 :

Coming out of the Station (1), take a moment to admire the eclectic architecture of Astrid Square (2). You'll notice a red arch, which you can pass through to discover Antwerp's Asian district on Van Wesenbekestraat (3). Then head to the city centre through the diamond district (4). Before venturing down the long Meir avenue (6), turn right to admire the Opera House (5). A few metres from the start of the avenue, step into the majestic Stadsfeestzaal shopping gallery (7). Continue a little further to the former Royal Palace of Antwerp (8). On the same square, you can make a first visit to the Rubenshuis (9) to learn more about the artist's life. Then continue along Schuttershofstraat (10). A short detour will take you to the Bourla Schouwburg theatre (11), whose classical architecture you can admire. Then let yourself wander along Nationalestraat (12), among trendy shops, galleries and cafés. Next, go and contemplate the masterpieces on display at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (13), and end the day at the surprising boat house Huis De Vijf Werelddelen (14).

day 2 :

Start this second day with a moment of calm in the beguinage district (1). Then head to the city centre and its iconic Boerentoren tower (2). Continue your stroll to the Scheldt quays, passing through the Groenplaats (3). Upon reaching the Saint Anne Tunnel (4), you can cross the river. If you're short on time, at least head down to admire the period escalator, still in service. Make your way back up to the DIVA Museum (5), the diamond museum, to learn more about how they are crafted. Head towards the spires of the Cathedral of Our Lady (6). Cross the alleyways lined with restaurants to reach the Grote Markt (7), Antwerp's main square. Leave the city centre behind and enjoy some fresh air on the banks of the Scheldt. To the East, you won't be able to miss Het Steen (8), an old 13th-century fortress. As the penultimate stop, end your day at the top of the Museum aan de Stroom (9), a modern building you can't miss in the heart of the port. Enjoy a 360° panorama over the entire city. Round off your stay at the interactive Red Star Line Museum (10), and travel through the life stories of its passengers.