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.

Known for his Counter Reformation portraits, landscapes and paintings, Sir Peter Paul Rubens was a Baroque painter, book illustrator and a diplomat during the early 1600s. The Rubens House is a city of Antwerp-owned and curated building that Rubens designed himself and spent most of his lifetime in.

Located on Wapper Street, Rubens purchased this house in 1610 and added a gallery, porch and a large studio in Greco-Roman classic styles and a hint of Italian Renaissance to the structure. Within the walls of this house, Rubens and his students, such as Anthony Van Dyck and Jacob Jordaens, created most of their works. Rubens’ work is categorized by various stages of productivity of his own life. However, all of Rubens’ work that is on display in the House today came back only after great efforts were put in by the people of Antwerp once it was decided to make the building into a monument in 1937.

The Rubens House is home to paintings such as Saint Claire of Assisi, The Annunciation and Adam and Eve made by the great painter himself in addition to the works of other contemporaries of his time. The House also displays various objects of art from the 17th century giving visitor a peek at the lavish lifestyles of those times. The Renaissance Garden which was renovated in 1993 takes inspiration from Rubens’ paintings and should not be missed.

Whether you are a theatre buff or not, you are sure to get captivated and enthralled by this enchanting little theatre in Antwerp. Standing tall, boasting a neat Neo-Classic style of architecture, the Bourla Theatre is a must visit in Antwerp.

Although there are bigger names that beat Bourla in terms of magnitude and status, they all lack the charm, brilliant design and sheer grandeur that the Bourla Theatre proudly showcases. Atop this magnificent structure are the noted figures of theatre right from Shakespeare and Mozart to Aeschylus and Gluck.

Built in 1827, the Bourla Theatre was designed by Pierre Bruno Bourla, a French architect who served the city of Antwerp since 1819. At a time when Europe was going through a Golden Era in theatre and performing arts, the only theatre that Antwerp possessed was the Tapissiers House, once a market for tapestry. When the rest of Europe boasted grand world class theatres, the main theatre of Antwerp lacked style and modern amenities. It was during the Dutch occupation when the Pierre Bruno Bourla was commanded to come up with innovative and revolutionary designs for a new opera house and theatre. The result of his hard work is the Theater that stands to this day.

Apart from its rich history, the Bourla Theatre is well known for its magnificent design and opulent interiors. And if you want to really get a feel of this majestic building without sitting through a play, you can stop for brunch at a restaurant in the foyer of the building.

Nestled in the heart of Antwerp, the Hans Burie Chocolate Shop is a revered institution in the realm of fine chocolates. Established by Hans Burie, who began his chocolate-making journey at home at the tender age of 20, this shop has evolved from a small business catering to local bakers and shops in Ostend to a cornerstone of Belgium’s chocolate scene in Antwerp.

In 1960, the shop moved to Antwerp, beginning a new era that peaked in 1964 when Hans Burie acquired and renamed a small shop, specializing in traditional chocolate making. Known for quality and innovation, Hans' shop thrived, and in 2000, his son Lieven took over, continuing the tradition of fine craftsmanship. Today, the shop not only sells chocolates but also showcases innovative and artistic creations in its display window each month, often inspired by current events and attracting media attention.

The Hans Burie Chocolate Shop has not only satisfied local and tourist palates but has also reached an international audience with its chocolate sculptures. Notably, the shop created a remarkable chocolate sculpture for Cirque du Soleil, displayed at the prestigious Casino Bellagio. This sculpture, celebrating a water-themed show, remains a highlight of the Casino Bellagio’s patisserie through the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Burie’s chocolates are more than just sweets; they are a homage to the rich history and tradition of Belgian chocolate making. Each praline is a blend of classic flavors and textures with a touch of modernity, offering both a nostalgic taste and a new experience.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Who can resist the temptation of diving into the past of a city and experiencing the tall tales and legacies of the land? And when the city in question is Antwerp, this opportunity just cannot be missed.

At the Vleeshuis Museum get the opportunity to unravel the history of Antwerp. The Museum is one of a kind and specializes in showcasing local history and artifacts that are in some way or the other connected to the land. Equally fascinating is the building that has served as home to the Vleeshuis Museum since the early 20th century. With a late Gothic façade, the building was once home to the Butcher’s Guild of the city. Although the building once sold meat and other animal produce, the structure and design is no short of an architectural treat.

Illustrating about 600 years of a rich and vibrant past, the Vleeshuis Museum displays a collection of antiquities and artifacts that stand to display the rich diversity of culture and art in the pool that is Antwerp.

With a priceless collection of ceramic, metal work and iconography unravel the past of the region along with the illustrations of dance and music. From the history of street musicians to opera singers, the section manages to portray how music and dance were an integral part of the Antwerp society.

The Chocolate Nation museum recounts the proud history of Belgian chocolate, from day one to the present. The innovative display – 14 themed rooms, 4,000 square meters of space – offers an extensive and informative journey, from the cocoa plantations in the equatorial jungle to the world's largest cocoa storage in the Port of Antwerp.

A giant, moving fantasy machine shows how Belgian chocolate is made and what inspires its worldwide adoration. The museum has ateliers, rooms for workshops, and its own Bean To Bar Laboratory where visitors can see chocolatiers at work or even partake in a workshop, learning to make chocolate themselves.

There are multiple sampling opportunities along the way, where you can taste many different kinds of chocolate to your heart's content – great fun for those with a sweet tooth! The museum also has its own restaurant, Octave, where you can enjoy typical Belgian dishes with a twist, combining classic flavors with contemporary influences.

A trip to Antwerp is not complete without a visit to Chocolate Nation – undoubtedly Belgium’s most delectable attraction! Especially not to be missed by chocolate lovers!

Why You Should Visit:
A unique insight into Belgian chocolate traditions and innovations; packed with experiences and tales of chocolate brands and chocolatiers.

Tip:
The ticket prices include an audio guide and various chocolate tastings.

Antwerp's Chinatown, centered along Van Wesenbeke Street (Van Wesenbekestraat), offers a vibrant and multicultural slice of Asia in the heart of Belgium. This district began shaping its identity post-World War II with the settlement of the Chinese community and has since evolved into a dynamic pan-Asian hub. Today, it not only retains a strong Chinese influence but also celebrates a rich tapestry of Asian cultures.

The street is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, with restaurants serving an array of Asian cuisines including Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indian, Pakistani, and Nepali. This culinary diversity is a testament to the broad Asian representation in the area. Additionally, Van Wesenbeke Street features Belgium's largest Asian supermarket, Sun Wah, which serves as a community hub with a diverse array of products from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

Chinatown in Antwerp is also a cultural and community center. It hosts numerous organizations and businesses that support not only the Chinese but also Nepali, Indonesian, and Filipino communities. Significant landmarks include a Buddhist temple and a school dedicated to teaching kung fu, enhancing the cultural richness of the district.

Architecturally, the district is marked by significant symbols of its heritage. At both the entrance and the end of Van Wesenbeke Street, majestic Chinese lions stand guard, symbolizing protection and strength. Moreover, the "Pagodepoort" or Pagoda Gate, a pairing erected in 2010 at the southern entrance, adds a monumental touch to the street, celebrating its Asian cultural identity.

Despite its origins as a Chinatown, the area has seen an influx of people from across Asia, leading some to refer to it as "Asiatown." This reflects the changing demographics and the inclusive spirit that characterizes the district today, making it a true melting pot of Asian cultures in Belgium.