Antwerp is a wonderful city to spend a weekend wandering around in. It is close to the Netherlands and is therefore easily accessible for dutchies by both train and car. Below are the 8 best things to do in Antwerp during your city break in Antwerp.
Content of this blog:
1. Stay in the city center
We stayed in a very nice studio. The location of this studio is in the middle of town, a 5-minute walk from the stores and a 2-minute walk from the restaurants. The studio itself looks exactly like the pictures and was nice and spacious. The location and facilities for this price were really good. Look here for more information about the studio.
2. Fiesta Europa
In summer, the Fiesta Europa festival takes place here. This is a special attraction. It only occurs a few days a year in Antwerp (usually sometime in July) so it’s best to check with locals or your hotel. You will find all different stalls from other countries. So you can buy sausage with sauerkraut from the German tent, or tapas with sangria from the Spanish. It’s not just food and drink sold here, as you’ll also find many fun souvenirs and stages with bands. Highly recommended if you happen to be there during these dates!
Fun fact: the owners of the stalls almost only speak their own language, so even when you’re in Antwerp you still feel like you’re somewhere completely different.
3. The central station and the Ferris wheel
Antwerp’s Central Station is an attraction and landmark in itself to put on the list of things to do in Antwerp. That is the reason that this station has been described as one of the most beautiful stations in the world. When you walk out of the station you immediately find yourself in the middle of the city.
The Ferris wheel is right next to the station. From here you have a great view of Antwerp and see all the beautiful buildings and sights. If you are not afraid of heights, it is fun to take a ride in this.
4. Shopping
There are dozens of great clothing stores for extensive shopping. In the streets surrounding the center, you will also find many vintage stores and second-hand boutiques. In addition to clothing stores, there are some real tourist shops selling mostly magnets and figurines of Antwerp.
5. Going out
If there’s one thing you can do well in Antwerp it’s go out. There are many different bars to enjoy drinks and many clubs to dance the night away. Most bars and clubs do not require you to pay an entrance fee to enter. That’s why it’s hearty fun to go to a few different clubs to discover more of the nightlife!
6. The center with the old buildings
There are a number of historic buildings in Antwerp, including the Onze lieve vrouwe Cathedral and the aforementioned central station. Also in the streets (and buildings) where the stores are located you will see many beautiful, tall and old buildings. These are special attractions. It has such a charm to walk through here and look at all those beautiful buildings.
7. Christmas Market
What Antwerp is also known for is the fun Christmas market held there every year. Around the Great Market you will find countless wooden stalls selling delicacies, Christmas decorations and gifts. Have a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate and warm up a bit. There is also an ice skating rink where you can rent skates and you can start showing your skills on the ice.
8. Terrace hopping
At the green place and the big market there are many nice terraces. When the weather is nice you can sit here outside, but there is plenty of room inside as well. Enjoy a nice wine here, or of course a Belgian special beer. You’ll find plenty of these in Antwerp.
0 Comments