Antwerp is a perfect blend of old and new, renowned for its great effort in preserving historic buildings. One such building is the Antwerp Central Station, aka Middenstatie (Middle station). The latter name – now an antiquated expression in Dutch – is seen on the plaque fixed on the north wall of the Station.

A key landmark in the city, this mighty edifice is one of the finest examples of railway architecture in Belgium. It's been repeatedly voted among the world’s most impressive railway stations, including number four in 2009 by the U.S. Newsweek magazine, and number one in 2014 by the British-American magazine Mashable.

The original stone-clad structure, with a steel platform covering, was designed by Louis Delacenserie. It was built between 1895 and 1905 as a replacement for the first terminus of the Brussels-Mechelen-Antwerp railway.

Because of its unique architecture, historians still struggle to attribute the Antwerpen-Centraal to any particular style. The eclectic mix features a Neo-Gothic front, a massive dome over the iron-glass waiting hall, for which the building has been colloquially referred to as the "spoorwegkathedraal" ("railroad cathedral"), and a modern multilevel platform system. Another notable element, the viaduct leading into the Station, was designed by local architect, Jan Van Asperen.

During WWII, the train hall sustained severe damage by V-2 rockets, which is still visible today due to a lasting wave-distortion in the roof.

Recently, the Station was completely renovated, and in 2007 had an underground tunnel opened. Today it operates 14 railways tracts at four different terminals and plays a vital role in connecting various parts of Belgium.

If you're an architecture buff or railway enthusiast, having the Antwerpen-Centraal on your list of things to see is a must! But even if you're neither of these, we still recommend visiting it, just for the spectacle.

Saint James' Church in Antwerp is a historical architectural gem renowned for its Brabantine Gothic style. Originally established on the site of a hostel for pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela, the church began as a chapel in 1431, serving as a pivotal stop for those on their way to the burial place of Saint James the Great. The chapel was transformed into a parish church in 1476 to meet expanding religious and communal demands, leading to the construction of a larger building in 1491. Although it took 165 years to finish, the church retained its Gothic style, even though Baroque architecture became popular by its completion in 1656.

The interior of Saint James' Church is adorned in Baroque style, a transformation largely preserved due to the strategic actions of a priest during the French revolutionary invasion, saving it from plunder. The church houses exquisite Baroque elements such as the intricately carved wooden choir stalls, the lavish main altar, and the finely crafted communion rails. The central pulpit, completed in 1675 by Lodewijk Willemsens, adds to the church’s rich Baroque character.

Saint James' Church also played an important musical role; its organs attracted numerous renowned musicians, including Henry Bredemers. The grand organ, built in 1884 by Anneesens in a Romantic style, and the choir organ from 1727 by J.B. Forceville, still maintain their original mechanical action.

The church is notably the final resting place of several of Antwerp's elite, including the illustrious painter Peter Paul Rubens, whose tomb features a painting by Rubens himself, completed five years posthumously in 1640. Today, Saint James' Church stands as a monument to Antwerp's historical, artistic, and architectural heritage, attracting visitors not only for its religious significance but also for its cultural and historical riches, preserving over 1300 graves and the memories of more than 4500 individuals.

The Spanish invasion of 1584 brought in a wave of forced Catholicism to Antwerp. Protestants either left the city or were converted to Catholicism. The Jesuits decided to counter this reformation and François d'Aguilon, a Jesuit mathematician began work on a Baroque styled church. Similar to the Chiesa del Gesù in Rome, this new church in Antwerp was completed in 1621 and was called the Ignatius Church. Much of the interiors including many ceiling paintings were completed by the local artist, P.P.Rubens. A unique feature of the Church is the mechanism to change the painting at the altar.

The Fire of 1718 destroyed most of Rubens’ work but the mechanism to change paintings survives to this day. The structure became a Parish Church in 1803 when it was given its current name. Today, it stands neatly tucked away behind some modern buildings at the Hendrik Conscience Square. Several protests during the 1960s and 70s have made this area a pedestrian zone which gives the area its instantly appreciated serenity. During your walk to the Church you might come across the soothing notes of violin being played to make your visit very special. We request you to please check the open hours of the Church before visiting. The Artist’s mass on Sundays and other holidays should not be missed.

The Museum aan de Stroom (Museum by the Stream), abbreviated as MAS, is prominently situated along the river Scheldt in Antwerp's Eilandje district. Officially opened to the public on May 17, 2011, the MAS is Antwerp's largest museum and stands as a significant cultural landmark. The decision to construct the museum was made by the Antwerp city council in 1998, and construction began with the laying of the first brick on September 14, 2006.

Designed by Neutelings Riedijk Architects, the museum's architecture is a striking example of the postmodern Art Deco style, characterized by its 60-meter-high structure made of Indian red sandstone and curved glass panels. This design not only provides a visual landmark but also serves as a symbolic gateway connecting Antwerp to global cultures.

The MAS is built on the historical site of the Hanzehuis, where international merchants once resided and worked before it was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century. Today, the museum boasts a collection of 470,000 objects, although the majority are held in storage. A highlight of the museum is the "visible store," the first visitors' gallery, which displays about 180,000 items, allowing public access to a vast array of the collection.

The core mission of the MAS is to explore and celebrate Antwerp's extensive maritime heritage and its rich connections with global trade and culture. The museum's collections include maritime artifacts that illustrate the city’s pivotal role in international trade, as well as diverse artworks and cultural items from Europe, Africa, America, Asia, and Oceania.

The MAS is also known for its dynamic thematic exhibitions that bridge local and global histories, cultures, and artistic expressions. It emphasizes educational outreach and audience engagement through innovative uses of new media and immersive presentations. Notably, the museum has received international acclaim for its "MAS IN YOUNG HANDS" initiative, which empowers young people from diverse backgrounds to participate as event organizers and curators, further enriching the museum's community involvement and educational impact.

Saint Paul's Church in Antwerp is a remarkable architectural and artistic treasure combining Gothic and Baroque elements. Established in 1548 and completed in 1571, the church originally served the Our Lady of the Rosary fraternity. Its construction spans periods of religious and political turmoil, including Calvinist control in 1578, which led to the expulsion of the Dominicans and the repurposing of the church for secular uses such as cannon foundry.

The building was severely damaged during the siege of Antwerp in 1584 but was later reclaimed and refurbished by the Dominicans after 1585, including extensive Baroque renovations and rebuilding efforts that continued until 1662. A devastating fire in 1679 and subsequent French occupation in 1796 led to further changes and restoration, with the church enduring more damage during the Dutch bombardment of 1830 and another fire in 1968. Restoration efforts have been ongoing to preserve its rich historical legacy.

The church's exterior is defined by the Brabantine Gothic style, characterized by austere architecture with minimal decoration-a common feature in mendicant orders' churches. The tower, rebuilt in the late 17th century, features a Baroque top, and the Baroque portal from 1734 adds a significant historical layer.

The interior of the church is notable for its use of brick walls and Ledian sandstone for the structural components and is lavishly decorated in the Flemish Baroque style. It houses an impressive array of art by leading Antwerp artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and Jacob Jordaens, among others. The church's interior also features extensive Baroque sculpture and church furniture crafted by prominent Antwerp sculptors like Artus Quellinus the Elder and Pieter Verbrugghen I.

A standout feature outside the church is the Calvary, an elaborate ensemble of 63 life-size statues and nine reliefs, depicting scenes in a dramatic and accessible style. Inside, the church boasts the most impressive collection of Baroque confessionals in Belgium, conceived as integral parts of the church's architecture, rather than mere pieces of furniture.

Saint Paul's Church not only serves as a place of worship but also as a museum of religious art and Baroque craftsmanship, reflecting the tumultuous history and rich cultural heritage of Antwerp.

Steen Castle (Het Steen), nestled in the historic center of Antwerp, is a medieval fortress with roots extending back to the early 13th century. Originally constructed between 1200 and 1225, it served as a gateway to a more extensive castle complex belonging to the Dukes of Brabant, which unfortunately was demolished in the 19th century. This makes Steen Castle the oldest surviving building in Antwerp and a rare remnant of the city’s earliest stone fortifications.

The fortress's primary role was to control access to the Scheldt River, a crucial economic and strategic waterway for the city, which was one of Europe's largest ports. Steen Castle has undergone several transformations through the centuries. Initially known as Antwerp Castle and later renamed around 1520 following significant renovations under Charles V, it evolved from a royal residence to a local administrative hub. From 1303 to 1827, it functioned as a prison and later housed the city's Alderman's house and court of justice.

By the 19th century, much of the original fortress was demolished for urban development and to prevent the silting of the Scheldt, leaving only part of the structure that was turned into a shipping museum. In 1890, it became an archaeological museum, and by 1952, an annex was added to highlight Antwerp's maritime history. This collection moved to the Museum Aan de Stroom in 2011. The site also features a war memorial dedicated to Canadian soldiers from World War II.

The cultural heritage continues to be celebrated at Steen Castle, evident in the bas-relief of Semini, a Scandinavian god of youth and fertility, positioned above the entrance archway. Additionally, a nearby statue portrays the folklore giant Lange Wapper, who is said to have terrorized medieval Antwerp.

Recently, in October 2021, Steen Castle underwent significant renovations, reopening as a modern visitor center that blends its ancient architecture with contemporary design. This revitalization aims to enhance the visitor experience while preserving the historical and cultural significance of one of Antwerp’s most storied landmarks.

Right in the heart of the city, the Great Market Square is one of the favorite locations for locals as well as tourists. Filled with cafés and restaurant, the Great Market Square is a popular destination if you want to just kick back, bask in the sun with a chilled glass of beer or stroll around lazily admiring the architecture of the city. Dominated by the elegant and grant Renaissance style City Hall on one side and a row of guild houses and old patrician houses on the other, the Great Market Square is a magnet for those who love studying city architecture.

The center of the square holds the magnificent fountain that bears the well sculpted statue of Silvius Brabo, the local mythical hero. As legend has it, the water way was once governed by a giant who demanded a high toll from those who wanted to enter the city. Those failing to meet the requirements, were punished by having their hand cut off. It was Brabo, who fought the giant and cut off his hand and threw it in the Scheldt river.

One of the best ways to enjoy a perfect day in Antwerp is to sit in an open terrace restaurant amidst the elegantly constructed buildings of the Great Market Square, have an authentic Belgian meal on the table and admire the city as it moves past you.

The Silvius Brabo statue is located at Oude Beurs 4 in the city of Antwerp and stands right in front of the Antwerp City Hall. The statue is the result of the mythological story that is believed to give the city its name.

Legend has it that a giant named Druon Antigoon lived near the bridge over the river Scheldt. The giant would forcibly charge the people for using the bridge or else would cut off hands of people who either could not or refused to pay him. According to the story, Silvius Brabo was a Roman soldier who came to the city. Antigoon’s restrictions over using the bridge on the Scheldt were hurting the city’s business and therefore, Brabo decided to bring an end to Antigoon’s tyranny. Brabo killed Antigoon and as a fitting reply to his oppression, tossed the giant’s hand into the river. The statue in front of the City Hall captures the moment when the brave Brabo was about to throw away the giant’s hand. The name Antwerp is corruption of ‘An twerp’ or hand throwing committed by Brabo. The term ‘Brabant’ is also believed to have originated with Brabo.

You can enjoy the statue while relishing a coffee on one of the café terraces located in the area.

Overlooking the city of Antwerp since the 14th century is the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady, which till date dominates the city’s skyline. Built by architects Jan and Pieter Appelmans, the Cathedral boasts a magnificent Gothic structure with hints of Baroque style complementing the interiors of the building.

Whether you are a history buff or an admirer of architecture, the Cathedral of Our Lady is one structure that has something to offer every visitor. The structure stands as the epitome of the perfect combination of artistic architecture, breathtaking interiors and a dramatic past making it a tantalizing site to visit.

Although the construction of the structure began in 1352, it took more than a century to complete the entire construction. The Cathedral that stands today rests on the same site where once stood a small chapel dedicated to Our Lady. The chapel traced its history to early 10th century and it was subsequently followed by the construction of a Romanesque Church.

The Gothic Cathedral that took its place was considered one of the most magnificent structures of its time and one of the largest cathedrals in the whole of Benelux. However despite all its glories, the Cathedral of Our Lady has faced a very turbulent past. From natural fires to raids, plunders and assault by iconoclasts, the structure has born tremendous damage over the years. But it has stood the test of time and stands proudly today in the city of Antwerp.

Great Market Square in itself gives you a glimpse of life in Antwerp as it was a few centuries ago. Parallel to the Square are several alleys that manage to reflect the lifestyle, ambiance and feel of the years gone by as they are still preserved and almost untouched by the hands of time. One such place is Vlaeykensgang, and the entrance to this alley is through a small doorway.

Easy to overlook, once found this alley will transport you to the 16th century. A perfect place to walk and get the true feel of the city, the Vlaeykensgang is filled with authentic peasant houses and residential complexes.

Although today, these may seem like the perfect refuge from the urbanization and the pace of city life, back in those days, these alleys were not considered as places suitable for living. Cramped up and over populated with large families, poor sanitation are just some of the problems one faced here. However today, Vlaeykensgang is looked at as an idealistic and artistic refuge from the hectic city life.

The Saint Anna Tunnel in Antwerp is an impressive engineering achievement and a unique historical site. Situated under the Scheldt River, which bisects the city, this tunnel provides a pedestrian and bicycle passage connecting the old town with newer areas across the river.

Constructed in 1931, the tunnel was built as an alternative to a bridge which would have disrupted the heavy ship traffic crucial to Antwerp's port activities. Spanning 572 meters in length and situated 31.57 meters below the river’s surface, the tunnel features a remarkable installation of wooden escalators. These escalators, dating back to the 1930s, are not only a rarity but are also beautifully preserved, contrasting starkly with the modern escalators found in most contemporary settings.

Visitors descending into the tunnel are greeted by the warm glow of its original wooden escalators, leading deep beneath the river. The journey through the tunnel is lined with ceramic tiles, offering a somewhat monotonous backdrop that is periodically interrupted by historical photographs and informational displays about the tunnel's construction and its role in the city's development.

Despite suffering significant damage during World War II, the Saint Anna Tunnel has been carefully restored and continues to serve as a vital conduit for daily commuters. Its historical significance and the continued use of its original features, like the wooden escalators and staircase, make it a special destination for those interested in both the past and present of urban infrastructure.

Your stay in Antwerp would not be complete without visiting the Vrijdagmarkt (Friday Market). Bustling with life and energy, the Friday Market has stayed the same for over 4 centuries now. This popular square has ever since the 16th century been the epicenter of street shopping and local auctions.

It is believed that a rich real estate merchant by the name of Gilbert van Schoonbeke Jr. bought a big chunk of land near the City Center in 1547. He developed a market for the street vendors who held weekly bazaars on Fridays and because buying second-hand goods was a prevailing practice then, this soon became the market where people auctioned their clothes and furniture. The famous Flemish painter Rubens’ clothes were also auctioned here after his death. Dominating the market is the statue of Saint Catherine, who is the patron saint of ‘old clothes buyers.

Today, the Friday Market is a popular site for both locals and tourists to enjoy the age-old tradition of shopping at this historical market. Although the Friday Market may not have the reputation of having the best in the market, if you enjoy browsing through local goods, handmade souvenirs, etc., this is the perfect place to be.

Antwerp is the perfect destination if you love to laze around on a warm summer’s day under the sun or enjoy watching the city from the comfort of a cozy café. Yet another famous square in Antwerp is the Green Square. Although not as green as the name suggests, the Green Square, is a popular destination amongst both tourists and locals during summer and on weekends.

Overlooking the Square in the north is the elegant Cathedral of Our Lady. Back in the medieval times, the Green Square was used as a cemetery that was attached to the Cathedral. With the Austrian occupation of Antwerp in the 18th century, Emperor Joseph II abolished cemeteries within the walls of the city. Although the premises were then converted to a square for town use, the age old name couldn’t get converted and locals still call it Green Place.

Today the center of the square is dominated by the statue of the much loved Flemish painter Sir Peter Paul Rubens. Installed in 1843, this bronze statue replaced a crucifix that overlooked the cemetery. Created by sculptor Willem Geefs, the statue commemorated death bicentenary of the city’s beloved artist.

De Boerentoren, meaning Farmer’s Tower, was the first sky scraper to be built in Europe. Inspired by sky scrapers in New York and Chicago, De Boerentoren was built on a site that was bombed during the First World War, as part of preparations for Antwerp World Exhibition of 1930. Completed in just three years between 1929 and 1932, the original building stood at 87.5 meters.

Designed by Jan Van Hoenacker, this art-deco styled building was constructed to house offices and residences along with cafés and also had a Beer Hall. In 1954, the building height was raised to 112.5 meters with the addition of an antenna. It remained Belgium’s tallest building till 1967 when the city council discussed the possibility of destroying the structure. However, these plans were dropped and restoration of the building was taken up in 1970. The apartments and other amenities were removed and the building was reserved for office use only. In 1981, the building was declared a protected monument. Currently, it is home to the KBC, the largest bank of Flanders district, which also gives the tower its official name, the KBC Tower.

Tourist legend has it that you can see the Atomium in Brussels from the roof of this building. We leave it for you to find out whether it’s a myth or fact, when you visit the KBC Tower in Antwerp.

Right in the heart of the city, amidst the chaos of the urban life of Antwerp is a quiet and tranquil place. What started off as a small medicinal garden to benefit the students of medicine and science is today one of the most loved public gardens in Antwerp. Created over 200 years ago, the Botanic Gardens were strictly used by Saint Elisabeth Hospital that still stands and functions today. A popular stop for locals, the Botanical Gardens till date is a relatively undiscovered haven of peace and serenity within Antwerp.

Boasting a wide variety of over 2000 species of plants the Botanical Gardens are a protected landscape. In fact, many of the plants grown within the Botanical Gardens are categorized as endangered species and are legally protected. Embellished with ornate lamp posts and sculptures, the Botanical Gardens have picture perfect scenery with a little pond to add to the beauty of its greenery. The Gardens also have within them a green house, which unfortunately is closed for visitors.

Dominating the Gardens is the statue of Peeter van Coudenberghe, a pharmacist and botanist who lived during the 16th century. An avid gardener, Peeter was known for his extensively grown herb garden. So passionate was he about his plants, he stored them in an underground repository during the harsh winters. For tranquility or for the love of botany, the Gardens must be visited if you are in Antwerp.

The Stadspark is an English styled park laid out over 35 acres of land not very far from Antwerp Centraal Station. This triangular park located between Rubenslei, Van Eycklei and Quinten Matsijslei is the only park located in the city center of Antwerp. Constructed in the late 1860s by architect E. Van Cuyck, the Park is a conversion of an old Spanish fortification.

A pond in the Park adds to the scenery while also playing host to some common water birds. A white pedestrian bridge was constructed over the pond which makes it even more picturesque. Various statues decorate the Park along with war memorials. A World War II bunker has remained a part of the Park since it was created. Today, the Park is a destination for joggers, rollerbladers and elderly walkers. You can often see rabbits around the Park who are more than willing to jog (or hop) along with you. However, the Park is too centrally located and cannot manage to take you completely away from the traffic noises arising from the city.

The Park is filled with different kinds of trees, some of which are not even native to the land. Open all times of the day, you can visit the park anytime you prefer although a day light visit is recommended. Once here, you can always go back to shopping areas which are located just outside the Park.