Antwerp consistently surprises visitors who arrive expecting little more than a transit stop between Brussels and Amsterdam. Belgium’s second city delivers outstanding museums, historic architecture, and a thriving cultural scene that rivals more celebrated European capitals. From its maritime heritage and diamond trading traditions to its reputation for cutting-edge fashion, these guides provide the practical logistics and honest insights needed to navigate one of Europe’s most underrated cities.
Planning and Antwerp City Overviews
The Perfect Weekend in Antwerp: A comprehensive itinerary: How to spend two or three days exploring the Flemish capital, balancing the historic Grote Markt with the city’s modern waterfront developments.
Why Antwerp is Europe’s most underrated destination: An exploration of the city’s unique character and why it deserves far more than a cursory glance on a broader Belgian tour.
5 Reasons to visit Antwerp: A day trip guide: A quick-fire look at the city’s highlights, perfect for travellers looking to squeeze a visit into a busy European schedule.
World-Class Museums and Art
Red Star Line Museum: Belgium’s most fascinating museum: A detailed review of this moving museum located in the original shipping sheds, telling the story of the millions who emigrated to America from Antwerp’s docks.
Plantin-Moretus Museum: A guide to the UNESCO-listed printing press: Everything you need to know about visiting the world’s only museum on the UNESCO World Heritage list, featuring the oldest printing presses in existence.
MAS (Museum aan de Stroom): Panoramic views and maritime history: A practical guide to Antwerp’s riverside landmark, including how to access the rooftop panorama and what to see in the “stacked” gallery spaces.
Antwerp Cathedral (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal): Rubens masterpieces: What to see inside Belgium’s largest Gothic cathedral, including a guide to the four world-famous altarpieces by Peter Paul Rubens.
Regional Travel and Logistics
Amsterdam to Antwerp by Train: Logistics and day trip tips: A realistic assessment of travel times, ticket prices, and border crossings for those visiting Antwerp from the Netherlands.
For a wide range of Antwerp tours, activities and experiences, investigate here.
