Antwerp

Antwerp's Central Station is a magnificent architectural feat with its steel canopy over the platforms. Architecturally inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, the station was inaugurated in 1905. In 2007, the station was expanded, and a tunnel was added. The large station hall is frequently used for all kinds of events. Centraal Station has been voted one of the most beautiful stations in the world on numerous occasions.

If you visit one museum in Antwerp make it MAS. The 60-metre high museum tower has become a new focal point in Antwerp. Here, the city and the port meet in every sense of the word. On the roof of MAS you can enjoy a 360° panoramic view of Antwerp.

Het Steen is Antwerp's medieval fortress and its oldest building. Today, it houses a Visitor Center, a cruise terminal, and The Antwerp Story exhibition. This historic site offers a deep dive into the city's heritage, complemented by stunning views from its terrace and a sleek, modern interior. Take the opportunity to snap a photo with Druon Antigoon, the mythical giant who lived in Antwerp. His statue towers over the passers by next to Het Steen.

After 169 years of construction, the cathedral of Antwerp finally dominated Antwerp’s skyline in 1521 with a height of 123 metres. It was and still is the biggest Gothic building of the Benelux. The Cathedral is a huge treasury of works of art. Eye-catchers include two masterpieces by Rubens: The Raising of the Cross and The Descent from the Cross.

Zurenborg, a quiet neighbourhood known for its whimsical architecture, is packed with impressive art nouveau villas. Start your journey at Cogels-Osylei, hailed as Antwerp's most splendid street. Don't miss Dageraadplaats and Draakplaats, both excellent for brunch or evening drinks. Put on your walking shoes and let your imagination soar among the urban palaces and verdant roundabouts.

In the late 1800s, a passionate collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh amassed an amazing art collection. He purchased paintings by Peter Brueghel for a pittance, managed to beat major museums purchasing stunning medieval sculptures. Mayer van den Bergh had an eye for the best quality in almost every genre. After his death, his mother finally managed to make her son’s dream come true: she built a museum, which showcased his collection. Today, the museum stands largely uncharged: it is still a museum of one man... and his mother. Highly recommended in the Great smaller museums of Europe.

Between 1873 and 1934, the Red Star Line’s ocean steamers ferried about 2.6 million adventurers and fortune seekers from Antwerp to New York. For many people, their passage started in the Red Star Line buildings in Antwerp. This museum tells the story of these passengers. The old buildings render their feelings, emotions and experiences tangible and visible. This new Antwerp museum also examines the issue of migration today.

Right in the heart of the Antwerp fashion district is the ModeMuseum, also known as MoMu. Whilst the museum manages a collection of more than 25,000 objects (including garments and shoes) that are not accessible to the public, it does organize alternating exhibitions on specific themes: designer, fashion house or any other fashion-related topic.

The Museum of Contemporary art or M HKA is located in the bustling Zuid district, among the galleries and the lively cafés. Explore a fascinating collection of modern art in the old, converted corn silo.

Near the river Scheldt, you find Saint Paul’s Church, the former Dominican church completed in 1639. Masterpieces by the likes of Jordaens, Rubens, Van Balen and Van Dyck emphasise the church’s unique appeal.

FOMU, Antwerp's photography museum, offers a deep dive into the world of photography, spanning its inception to contemporary works. With a vast collection of images, books, and equipment, the museum features thoughtfully curated exhibits showcasing both Belgian and international photographers. FOMU also hosts engaging tours, lectures and workshops.