Antwerp Tourist Information and Tourism

(Antwerp, Antwerpen, Flanders, Belgium)

Known as Antwerpen in Flemish, the Belgian city of Antwerp is perhaps one of the most underrated cities within the whole of Belgium. Antwerp is sadly overlooked by many travellers, in spite of its considerable size (being second only to the capital city of Brussels) and indisputable tourism appeal.

The historic old city centre is where the most well-known tourist attractions are based, such as Belgian's most glorious cathedral, the Cathedral of Our Lady (Kathedraal), which resides on the Groenplaats. Visitors are surprised at how intimate and attractive this part of Antwerp is, appearing as it did many centuries ago and remaining almost unchanged, with numerous cobblestone lanes.





Today, these alleyways are lined with bars, restaurants, Belgian chocolate shops, and jewellers selling a host diamonds, and it is this diamond industry that the city has become extremely famous for. For the latest in the way of tourism, head to the office of the Antwerp Tourist Information (Stadtladen), which is located on the Grote Markt square and operates the modern Ticket Antwerpen system.

Antwerp Tourist Information and Tourism: Top Sights

There is more than enough to keep you fully occupied during your stay in Antwerp. Tourists should plan their time sensibly, choosing between attractions such as the sharks at the Aquatopia Aquarium, the brewery tours of the Brouwerij de Koninck, and the many animals and the extremely central Antwerp Zoo. Alternatively, why not take a boat trip along the River Scheldt, or a cruise around the port (Haven van Antwerpen), allowing you to fully appreciate the waterfront skyline. More information about Antwerp Tourist Attractions.

The very heart of the Old Town district, known locally as the Oude Stad, is presided over by the Groenplaats Square, where the truly magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady resides. Close by is another important plaza, the Grote Markt (Grand Market Square), which is rather dominated by Antwerp's grand 16th-century Town Hall (Stadhuis) and the numerous guildhalls and their Renaissance-style architecture. More information about Antwerp Landmarks.

Many museums reflect the true character of Antwerp and celebrate its achievements over the years, with a range of interesting exhibits and related information. The very first newspaper ever published was created more than 400 years ago by a local resident of Antwerp and this is celebrated at the Dagbladmuseum, while the Diamantmuseum offers an insight into how the city's diamond trade has led the world. Film lovers will find a host of movie memorabilia at the Filmmuseum, and if it is art that you are after, then look no further than the exceptional Royal Museum of Fine Arts (KMSKA). More information about Antwerp Museums and Antwerp Art Galleries.

A day or too exploring the Belgium outside of Antwerp is time well spent. There are many tourist attractions extremely close by and nobody can really holiday in Antwerp without visiting the Belgian capital of Brussels, which is less than an hour to the south of the city. Also close are the towns of Lichtaart and Lier, and the city of Mechelen, where St. Rumbolds Cathedral is a particularly favourite for many, along with its rather surprising selection of museums. More information about Antwerp Attractions Nearby.

More Antwerp Information / Fast Facts and Orientation

• Country: Belgium
• Location: Flemish Region
• Status: city / municipality
• Area: approximately 79 square miles / 205 square kilometres
• Population: approximately 480,000
• Language: Flemish, also Dutch, German and French
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Time zone: GMT +1 (summer time GMT+2)
• Country dialling code: +32
• Telephone area code: 03
• Average daily Antwerp January temperature: 6°C / 43°F
• Average daily Antwerp July temperature: 23°C / 73°F