The diamond capital of the world, the newly crowned fashion hub of Europe and home to the second largest port on the continent, Antwerp is a vibrant, cosmopolitan and alluring destination dubbed Europe’s latest place to be.

History

Antwerp is said to have originated as a Gallo-Roman vicus civilization around the mid 2nd to late 3rd century with the city first being named following the settlement of the Germanic Franks in the 4th century. Due to its prime location on the River Scheldt and the decline of Bruges and consequent transfer of foreign trading houses from Bruges to Antwerp, Antwerp soon prospered as the greatest economic centre of Western Europe. In the early 17th century the city prospered again following the signing of the Twelve Years’ Truce. Antwerp was once again open to the rest of the world and saw its arts and trade flourish with local artists, particularly Rubens, gaining international acclaim and new industries, namely diamonds, thriving. However, the city was dealt a huge blow in 1648 when the Scheldt was closed off to all but Dutch ships. Trade links were lost, the economy suffered and Amsterdam rose as the nation’s new trading capital. By the end of the 18th century Antwerp’s fortunes had turned around following the arrival of Napoleon and the rebuilding of the docks and by the mid 19th century Antwerp had become the third largest port in the world after London and New York. The city hosted the 1920 Olympic Games and in 1928 started building Europe’s first skyscraper – the Torengebouw. Antwerp today is the diamond capital of the world, Belgium’s second largest city and a vibrant hub for fashion.

Getting In & Getting Around

Antwerp International Airport is located just 4 km (2.5 miles) from the city centre and serves a number of UK destinations. A wider range of international operators use Brussels International Airport which is connected to Antwerp by frequent bus and train services with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes to an hour. Antwerp is served by a number of international and domestic train services. Antwerp Central Station is an architectural masterpiece and is well worth a look.

Culture, Sights & Attractions

Antwerp is a truly fascinating destination, with a long interesting history and a vibrant culture to match. There is so much to see and do in this magnificent city that it will be difficult to decide where to start. Wander Grote Markt (Old Market Square) and Groenplaats to see some of the city’s most iconic architecture including the City Hall, the numerous guild houses, the famous Cathedral of Our Lady and the statue of Rubens. The city is home to a wealth of museums and galleries including the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the Diamond Museum and the Mode Museum – MoMu. For shopping head to Kammenstraat and Nationalestraat for Antwerp’s most fashionable boutiques where as in the Diamond District you can purchase some of the finest jewels in the world. 

Eating Out

Like much of Belgium, the cuisine in Antwerp lives up to its reputation. From fritkotten stands serving fries to top notch restaurants offering some of the city’s finest fare, whatever your taste or budget, Antwerp has it all. Delicious chocolate shops, cosy cafés and welcoming pubs serving some of Belgium’s finest brews, you will be spoilt for choice.

Outside The City

Visiting Antwerp means that a number of Belgian and European destinations are within very easy reach. The medieval town of Bruges, known for its plethora of canals, is easily reached by train and is a great destination for a day trip or a romantic evening out. Brussels, the nation’s capital, bursting with sights and attractions is just 40 minutes away by train. Direct trains connect Antwerp with Amsterdam. This popular city is famed for its canals, tulips, bicycles and more. If you have a lot of time on your hands then why not catch the Thalys train to Paris. These high speed trains will get you to the French capital in approximately two hours allowing you to see the sights, tour the museums or shop till you drop in the iconic city.

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