1. De Koninck – Antwerp city brewery – De Koninck – Homepage
Antwerp City Brewery, established in 1833, is a historic gem nestled in the heart of Antwerp. Renowned for its distinctive beers and deep-rooted brewing tradition, the brewery offers a fascinating glimpse into both its storied past and the art of brewing. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that uncover the secrets behind De Koninck’s signature brews, such as the iconic Bolleke, known for its unique round bottle and rich, balanced flavor. The brewery’s modern tasting room invites guests to sample a diverse range of beers, from classic favorites to seasonal specials. With its blend of historical charm and contemporary amenities, De Koninck provides a lively and engaging experience for beer enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
2. Grote Markt – Grote Markt | Visit Antwerpen
Situated in Antwerp’s historic district, the Great Market Square, or Grote Markt, is a charming town square encircled by 16th-century guildhalls and the majestic Antwerp City Hall. Visitors can delight in a variety of eateries while admiring the stunning surrounding architecture. This iconic square, adorned with medieval Belgian buildings on all sides, is a visual treat and a must-visit destination for anyone in Antwerp.
3. Middleheim museum – Welcome to the Middelheim Museum | Middelheimmuseum
The Middelheim Museum, a stunning modern art museum featuring a sculpture park and pavilion, is located just outside of Antwerp. Its collection ranges from 1900 to the present day. The museum grounds also include a castle with a café and shop.
4. Museum de reede – Home | Museum de Reede | Grafiek in Antwerpen (museum-dereede.com)
The Museum de Reede is a graphic art museum showcasing works by masters such as Goya, Munch, and Rops. The collection includes prints, etchings, woodcuts, engravings, and drawings from the 17th to the 21st centuries, with a primary focus on the human figure. The staff are exceptionally friendly and helpful, enhancing the experience by providing insightful explanations of the artworks. We highly recommend visiting this museum!
5. St pauls Church – Home – Sint Paulus Antwerpen
The Catholic Church’s Sint-Pauluskerk is a stunning Gothic church featuring paintings by renowned Antwerp artists Rubens and van Dyck. The adjacent courtyard is a must-visit for its calvary sculptures depicting the last days of Christ. Admission is free, and the church’s serene atmosphere is truly unforgettable.
6. Frites Atelier – Home | Frites Atelier
If you’re a fan of French fries, you’ll definitely want to check out Frites Atelier in Antwerp. They serve mouth-watering loaded fries with an array of delicious flavours, making them a fantastic option if you’re looking for more than just a regular fry fix. Prices for packs of fries vary depending on the choice of sauce, but every option is worth it!
7. Bia Maria ANTWERPEN
Bia Mara is a seafood restaurant renowned for its innovative takes on classic fish and chips dishes. Nestled in Antwerp’s historic Grote Markt, this eatery offers a delightful culinary experience with a modern twist on traditional seafood favorites. The menu features a variety of creative options, all prepared with fresh ingredients and a focus on sustainability. Despite the high quality of the dishes, the prices remain affordable, making it an excellent choice for seafood lovers seeking a memorable meal in the heart of Antwerp.
8. Felix Pakhuis – Taste the spirit of the Eilandje (felixpakhuis.nu)
Felix Pakhuis is a restaurant that offers modern Belgian cuisine and aims to become the “go-to” spot for enjoying good life experiences. The venue features two distinct dining areas: Balls & Glory, which specializes in grilled meatballs, and Restaurant Felixpakhuis, which serves classic Belgian dishes like macaroni and cheese. Both areas provide a unique culinary experience, combining contemporary flavors with traditional Belgian comfort food. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meatball or a nostalgic Belgian favorite, Felix Pakhuis promises a delightful dining experience.
9. Kartini – Home | Indonesisch restaurant Kartini te Antwerpen (kartiniantwerp.be)
Indonesian restaurant Kartini is an excellent spot to savor authentic Indonesian cuisine at amazing prices. With its cozy and casual atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect for any meal, whether it’s a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. The menu features popular dishes such as nasi kuning, a rich rice dish infused with coconut milk and turmeric, and nasi goreng, a flavorful stir-fried rice. Kartini offers a delightful culinary journey that captures the essence of Indonesian flavors, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a genuine taste of Indonesia.
10. Cathedral of our lady – Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp | Experience Antwerp
This cathedral is renowned for its exquisite Baroque paintings by the illustrious artist Rubens. Recently undergoing a complete restoration, it now offers visitors a wealth of historical and artistic treasures. Inside, you’ll find remarkable woodwork that dates back centuries, adding to the cathedral’s rich heritage. For those seeking a UNESCO World Heritage Site to explore in Antwerp, this cathedral is an exceptional choice, showcasing both artistic brilliance and historical significance.
11. Antwerp central station – Centraal Station | Visit Antwerpen
Antwerpen-Centraal train station is a stunning and expansive terminus known for its impressive large clock and Art Nouveau ceiling. As one of the most prominent transit hubs in Belgium, it stands out not only for its functional role but also for its architectural beauty. The station’s grandeur and intricate design make it a noteworthy landmark, well worth a visit even if you’re not traveling. Its elegance and historical charm offer a glimpse into the rich heritage of Antwerp and enhance the overall experience of exploring the city.
12. Park spoor nood – Park Spoor Noord: An Urban Oasis of Culture, Leisure, and Greenery (antwerpist.com)
This park is a vibrant and well-maintained space featuring sports fields and a skatepark, making it ideal for children of all ages. Always kept clean, it provides a wonderful environment for walking with kids and cycling, even in the rain. While the park can become crowded on warm weekends, it also boasts a free skatepark that is open 24 hours a day, complete with numerous ramps and bowls for skaters. Whether you’re looking for a family outing or a place to practice your skating skills, this park has something for everyone.
13. Rebenhuis – Welcome to Rubenshuis | Rubenshuis
The museum is rich with paintings and sculptures from the artist’s era, alongside 17th-century tapestries and other artworks. The house itself has been meticulously restored to its original condition, offering a fascinating insight into the life and work of Pieter Paul Rubens. Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved surroundings, which provide a unique and immersive experience into the artistic and historical context of Rubens’ time.
