Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city and one of Europe’s most important port and commercial centres. The city is beautifully situated on the River Scheldt and is a popular stop on a cruise to Antwerp, where historical sights, impressive architecture and modern city life go hand in hand. Antwerp is world-renowned as the ‘City of Diamonds’, but it also boasts a rich cultural heritage, elegant shopping streets and a vibrant café and restaurant scene, making it one of Belgium’s most attractive destinations.
A cruise to Antwerp offers the chance to experience a city with over 1,000 years of history. The historic city centre is filled with beautiful Renaissance buildings, cobbled streets and impressive squares, with the Grote Markt forming the city’s natural centre. Here stands the magnificent town hall, surrounded by the characteristic guild houses, which bear witness to the city’s heyday as one of Europe’s most important trading centres. At the same time, Antwerp is renowned for its many museums, art galleries and its connection to the famous Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, whose former home is now a popular museum.
Along the Scheldt, you’ll find modern promenades, cosy cafés and restaurants overlooking the river, whilst the shopping street Meir offers everything from international fashion houses to local specialist shops.
Worth seeing
Grote Markt: Antwerp’s historic square is surrounded by beautiful guild houses, the impressive town hall and the famous Brabo Fountain.
Cathedral of Our Lady: Belgium’s largest Gothic church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses several masterpieces by Peter Paul Rubens.
MAS – Museum aan de Stroom: A modern museum by the harbour with fascinating exhibitions on the city’s maritime history, as well as a fantastic panoramic view from the roof terrace.
Currency
Euro (EUR)
