Belgium’s second city is a center for diamonds, fashion, and Flemish art, anchored by a magnificent Gothic cathedral and the works of Rubens.

Why Visit Antwerp

Antwerp built its wealth on the diamond trade and it still handles a large share of the world’s rough diamonds today, visible in the dedicated Diamond District near the train station. Beyond the diamonds, the city is a showcase for Peter Paul Rubens, whose works hang in the Cathedral of Our Lady and his restored home studio. A thriving fashion scene, led by the Antwerp Six designers, adds a modern edge to the historic center.

Top Experiences

  • Cathedral of Our Lady: Belgium’s largest Gothic cathedral, housing four major Rubens paintings.
  • Antwerp Central Station: often called a railway cathedral for its ornate stone and glass architecture.
  • Rubens House: the restored home and studio of painter Peter Paul Rubens.
  • Diamond District: the historic center of Antwerp’s global diamond trade, with shops and a diamond museum.
  • MAS Museum: a modern museum on the harbor with a rooftop offering panoramic city views.

Book Antwerp Tours & Activities

Explore Antwerp’s diamond district, Rubens’ masterpieces, and Flemish architecture with guided walking and museum tours.

Private MAS Antwerp Aperitif Cruise (8 - 12 Guests)

Private MAS Antwerp Aperitif Cruise (8 - 12 Guests)

★ 5.0 (28)
From USD 50.35
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Private MAS Antwerp Aperitif Cruise (13–50 Guests)

Private MAS Antwerp Aperitif Cruise (13–50 Guests)

★ 5.0 (20)
From USD 50.35
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Antwerp Pub Crawl

Antwerp Pub Crawl

★ 5.0 (12)
From USD 67.13
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Antwerp Private Beer Tour

Antwerp Private Beer Tour

★ 5.0 (8)
From USD 218.17
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Guided Antwerp Port Tour, in your Car or Minibus

Guided Antwerp Port Tour, in your Car or Minibus

★ 5.0 (7)
From USD 290.89
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Antwerp: Port of Antwerp Public Boat Tour with Expert Guide

Antwerp: Port of Antwerp Public Boat Tour with Expert Guide

★ 5.0 (6)
From USD 72.72
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Practical Tips

  • Antwerp Central Station is worth visiting even if you are not catching a train.
  • The MAS Museum’s rooftop terrace is free to access and offers some of the best views in the city.
  • Antwerp is a short train ride from Brussels, making it an easy day trip or standalone stop.
  • The city’s fashion district around Nationalestraat is known for both established and emerging Belgian designers.

FAQ

Is Antwerp worth visiting compared to Bruges?
Antwerp offers a larger, more lived in city with strong art, fashion, and diamond trade history, while Bruges is smaller and more focused on medieval charm.

How do you get from Brussels to Antwerp?
Direct trains run frequently and take under an hour, making Antwerp an easy day trip from Brussels.

Final Thoughts

Antwerp combines old master paintings, Gothic architecture, and a genuinely modern fashion and diamond trade in a way few cities its size can match.

Planning a full trip to Antwerp? See our complete Antwerp Travel Guide for a day-by-day itinerary, practical tips, and a nearby day trip idea.