Antwerpen-Centraal, nicknames the railroad cathedral, is often called one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. With soaring glass domes and ornate details, it’s worth a visit whether or not you’re traveling in by train.

The Grote Market is the historic main square that is lined on all sides by traditional Flemish architecture as well as the distinguished City Hall. The buildings date back to 1565 and is a UNESCO world-heritage site.

Despite being the most frequented tourist spot in Antwerp, it doesn’t feel overwhelming and is a great spot to grab a beer at Billie’s Beer (recommended by several locals), soak in the scenery and enjoy people watching. The Barbo Fountain in the center of the square depicts the mythological origin story of the name Antwerp, meaning hand throwing.

The main landmark of the city’s skyline, this Gothic cathedral houses several important works by Belgium’s beloved painter, Peter Paul Rubens.

Originally a church, the Cathedral of Our Lady was built between 1352 and 1521 and after nearly being destroyed it was converted into the city cathedral. Entry is €12 pp and is well worth the cost to enjoy the paintings, sculptures and stained glass housed within. Visiting hours and additional information available on the cathdral website.

Visit the home where one of the most famous Baroque painters of the 17th century, Peter Paul Rubens, lived and painted many of his masterpieces. One of the most successful artists of his time, this home includes several of his original artworks in addition to art pieces Rubens personally collected from his fellow artisans.

The property includes the Rubens Experience, library and a beautiful garden. Cost of entry is €12 pp. Click Here To Learn More

A UNSECO world-heritage site dedicated to the history of printing and bookmaking. This site is devoted to the history of printing and bookmaking and includes many preserved original printing presses (Including the oldest printing presses in the world) and manuscripts. The garden in the courtyard is also a peaceful and beautiful area to sit and relax.

A modern waterfront museum in the port district that not only boasts an impressive view of Antwerp from the rooftop, but houses an informative and engaging exhibit on the history and culture of Antwerp.

The roof terrace is a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic and a panoramic view of Antwerp!

Built by the renowned architecture studio of Zaha Hadid, this structure seems to defy gravity as it combines the historic remnants of the old port forestation with a futuristic glass addition that juts from the original building in spectacular and shocking fashion. It’s well worth renting a bike and exploring the harbor district to see this architectural marvel.

A great stop for adults and kids alike! Chocolate nation walks you through an interactive and very well done showcase of the history of chocolate and the process makes Belgium chocolate stand out from the rest. You’ll see chocolatiers hard at work and with a prior booking can learn from the masters in chocolate workshops. At the end of the exhibit, you’ll enter a tasting room where you have the opportunity to try freshly dispensed chocolate of different flavor, origin and cocoa content to choose for yourself what you like best!

Located next to central station, the Antwerp Zoo is one of the oldest Zoos in Europe!

Located by the Schelt River, Het Steen or “Stone” is the oldest building in Antwerp and dates back to the 13th Century. This fortress was used to control and protect the river until 1549 when it served as a prison until 1823.

It is now home to the National Maritime Museum and open to visitors to explore its beautiful courtyards.

A small square, the Handschoenmarkt is the home to an ornately detailed well and the statue of a sleeping boy (Nello) and his dog (Patrasche). Using the ground itself as a blanket, this creative statue is an image from the novel A Dog of Flanders and was donated by Toyota to the city of Antwerp.