What to See in Antwerp: Fashion, Art, and Old Town Stops
Antwerp is one of Europe’s most underrated city breaks: a port city where cutting-edge fashion rubs shoulders with medieval guild houses, Rubens masterpieces, and cosy brown cafés. This guide walks you through what to see in Antwerp—from fashion districts and world-class museums to atmospheric corners of the historic old town.
What to see in Antwerp
Antwerp fashion district
Antwerp old town
Why Antwerp Belongs on Your European City-Break List
When travellers think of Belgium, Brussels and Bruges usually steal the spotlight. Yet Antwerp quietly offers a richer blend of fashion, art, and old town charm than many larger capitals. Compact and walkable, it is ideal for a long weekend, but dense enough in culture and style that you could happily stay a week.
What to see in Antwerp depends a little on who you are. Culture lovers can spend days exploring Rubens’ former home, Gothic churches, and riverfront museums. Fashion enthusiasts gravitate towards the boutiques of the Fashion District and the ModeMuseum. Foodies linger in classic cafés, trendy wine bars, and chocolate shops tucked inside centuries-old streets.
This article focuses on three pillars that define Antwerp’s personality:
- Fashion — concept stores, local designers, and the legacy of the Antwerp Six.
- Art — from Rubens and Baroque splendor to daring contemporary architecture.
- Old Town — cobbled streets, grand squares, and atmospheric alleyways.
Whether you arrive by train at the ornate Antwerpen-Centraal station or step off a river cruise along the Scheldt, you will notice the same thing: Antwerp feels historic but never frozen in time. Let’s look at what to see in Antwerp, area by area, so you can design a trip that fits your style.
Antwerp for Fashion Lovers: Where Style Lives on Every Corner
Antwerp’s fashion reputation was cemented in the 1980s, when a group of designers known as the Antwerp Six graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and went on to influence global style. Today, their avant-garde spirit still shapes what to see in Antwerp if you love fashion, from edgy boutiques to sleek museum spaces.
ModeMuseum (MoMu): Antwerp’s Temple of Fashion
If you are serious about style, start at the ModeMuseum (MoMu). This museum digs into fashion as a living art form, with changing exhibitions that highlight Belgian designers, historical garments, and contemporary trends. Rather than a static collection, MoMu feels like an ongoing conversation about how we dress and why.
The building itself, located in the Nationalestraat area, sets the tone with clean lines and subdued colours. Inside, you might see avant-garde silhouettes one season and intricate historical textiles the next. Check the rotating program: exhibitions often focus on topics such as sustainability, identity, or the relationship between fashion and art.
Nationalestraat and Fashion District Boutiques
One essential thing to see in Antwerp for fashion fans is the network of streets around Nationalestraat, Lombardenvest, and Steenhouwersvest. This is the heart of Antwerp’s Fashion District, where flagship stores mingle with tiny ateliers.
- Nationalestraat offers a mix of international brands and Belgian labels.
- Lombardenvest leans more towards luxury boutiques with carefully curated interiors.
- Side streets and alleys hide small studios, vintage stores, and accessory shops.
Even if you are not planning to buy anything, browsing is half the fun. Antwerp’s style scene is creative rather than showy, and shop owners tend to be approachable, happy to talk about designers and materials.
Kammenstraat and Kloosterstraat: Urban, Vintage, and Quirky
For a more laid-back feel, head to Kammenstraat, a street loved by students and younger locals. Sneakers, streetwear, record shops, and colourful window displays make it one of the most energetic areas to explore.
Just a short walk away, Kloosterstraat is the city’s vintage and antiques corridor. On weekends, this is one of the best things to see in Antwerp: shop fronts spill onto the pavement with old posters, furniture, and fashion pieces that feel like time capsules. It’s a great contrast to the cutting-edge pieces near MoMu.
Design Hotels and Concept Stores
Antwerp’s love of style stretches into its accommodation and shopping concepts. Instead of staying in a generic hotel, look for design-led properties and guesthouses in the Fashion District or the South (Zuid) neighbourhood. Interiors here often mix Flemish traditions—wooden floors, exposed brick—with contemporary art and minimalist furniture.
Concept stores around the city combine clothing with books, homeware, and local crafts. Visiting them offers one more way to experience what to see in Antwerp beyond classic sightseeing: you get a feel for how locals actually live, decorate, and dress.
Art in Antwerp: From Rubens to Bold New Architecture
Antwerp is deeply tied to the Baroque master Pieter Paul Rubens, whose presence is still felt in churches, museums, and his former home. Yet the city refuses to live only in the past: dramatic new buildings like the MAS museum and the Port House showcase daring modern design. If you are planning what to see in Antwerp as an art lover, you can easily fill several days.
Rubenshuis: Inside the Home of a Baroque Icon
Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of Rubens, is one of Antwerp’s essential art stops. Tucked close to the historic centre, the house offers a glimpse into both his private life and his working world. Walls are lined with paintings, drawings, and decorative details that show how art intertwined with daily existence in the 17th century.
The garden, inspired by Italian Renaissance villas, is a quiet retreat in the middle of the city. Even visitors who are not Rubens experts will appreciate the atmosphere: it feels like walking into a meticulously staged painting.
The Cathedral of Our Lady: Towering Gothic and Masterpieces Inside
Dominating the skyline of the old town, the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its delicate spire, visible from many streets and squares, acts as a natural wayfinder for travellers wandering the city.
Inside, several Rubens altarpieces, including famous works such as The Raising of the Cross and The Descent from the Cross, make this not just a religious site but also a key art stop in Antwerp. Stained glass, sculptures, and side chapels add layers of detail, rewarding slow observation.
MAS (Museum aan de Stroom): Antwerp’s Vertical Storyteller
In the Eilandje docklands district, the MAS — Museum aan de Stroom stands out as a stacked red sandstone tower, with glass boxes creating panoramic views at every level. For many visitors, MAS is one of the most memorable things to see in Antwerp because it brings together history, art, and architecture in one experience.
The museum’s exhibitions explore Antwerp’s relationship with the river, global trade, and migration. Artefacts from different cultures tell the story of a city that has always looked outward. Even if you have limited time, you can take the escalators and walkways to the rooftop terrace, open to the public, for 360-degree views over the port, old town, and riverside.
M HKA and Contemporary Art
While Rubens and Gothic churches define historic Antwerp, the city also nurtures contemporary art. The M HKA (Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp) in the Zuid district focuses on works from the second half of the 20th century to today. Installations, video art, and experimental exhibitions make this a good counterbalance to the more classical collections elsewhere.
Port House and Other Architectural Landmarks
If you are interested in architecture, add the Port House (Havenhuis) to your list of what to see in Antwerp. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the structure appears like a glittering ship’s hull perched atop a former fire station. The contrast between old and new makes it one of the city’s most striking photo spots.
Around the city, you will also notice:
- The restored Antwerpen-Centraal railway station, with its grand hall and iron-and-glass train shed.
- Industrial warehouses in Eilandje converted into restaurants, galleries, and apartments.
- Elegant 19th-century façades in the Zuid neighbourhood, now home to galleries and creative offices.
Together, these spaces show why Antwerp is not just a city of paintings, but a city where the buildings themselves form an open-air museum.
Antwerp’s Old Town: Squares, Streets, and Stories
For many visitors, the most evocative part of Antwerp is its historic centre. This is where cobbled lanes, stepped-gable houses, and centuries-old cafés cluster together. When you think about what to see in Antwerp if you have only a day or two, the old town usually comes first.
Grote Markt: The Beating Heart of the City
Start at Grote Markt, the grand main square framed by ornate guild houses and the Renaissance-style City Hall. Golden statues, decorative façades, and flags make this a quintessential Antwerp scene. At the centre stands the Brabo Fountain, which references a local legend about a Roman soldier and a giant.
In winter, Grote Markt hosts a Christmas market and sparkling lights; in summer, café terraces stretch across the cobblestones. No matter the season, it is a natural place to pause, take photos, and absorb the city’s atmosphere.
Het Steen and the Scheldt Riverfront
From Grote Markt, walk down to the river to find Het Steen, an early medieval fortress recently restored and reopened as a visitor centre and cruise terminal. While small compared to later castles, it is one of the oldest buildings in Antwerp and offers views over the Scheldt.
The riverfront promenade is an essential addition to any list of what to see in Antwerp. Locals come here to jog, cycle, and watch the changing light over the water. For travellers, it provides a relaxed contrast to the busy streets of the old town.
Vlaeykensgang and Hidden Alleys
One of the most atmospheric corners of the old town is the Vlaeykensgang, a narrow alleyway dating back to the 16th century. Tucked behind a discreet passage, it opens into a cluster of tiny courtyards and whitewashed walls. Lanterns and cobblestones make it feel almost untouched by time.
Exploring the Vlaeykensgang at dusk is one of the most magical things to see in Antwerp. Many visitors walk past without realising it’s there, so consult a map or follow a guided walking tour if you want to be sure of finding it.
Chocolate, Beer, and Café Culture
The old town is also where Antwerp’s culinary identity comes alive. Belgian chocolate boutiques, waffle stands, and traditional brasseries line the narrow streets.
- Chocolate shops present neat rows of pralines, truffles, and bars, often made on-site in small batches.
- Brown cafés — traditional pubs with dark wood and vintage décor — serve local beers and simple snacks.
- Modern bistros reinterpret Flemish classics using seasonal, regional ingredients.
To really feel the city, plan to spend at least one unstructured afternoon wandering the historic streets, stopping whenever a café, bookshop, or shop window draws your attention.
Beyond the Centre: Neighbourhoods and Walks Worth Your Time
Once you have explored the classic sights, expand your plan of what to see in Antwerp by reaching into surrounding districts. Each neighbourhood offers a slightly different flavour, from docklands renewal to gallery-lined avenues.
Eilandje: Docklands with a Maritime Soul
North of the old town, Eilandje has transformed from working docks into a lively waterfront district. MAS rises above the area, but there is more to discover at ground level. Former warehouses now hold restaurants, bars, and lofts with views over the docks.
A stroll along the quays reveals old cranes, moored ships, and wide-open views. At night, reflections from the illuminated MAS building and restaurant terraces give Eilandje a cinematic feel.
Zuid: Galleries, Museums, and Leafy Streets
South of the centre, the Zuid (South) neighbourhood is known for its elegant streets, squares, and abundant culture. The M HKA and other institutions sit alongside commercial galleries and design studios. Outdoor terraces here are popular with locals who gather for brunch, after-work drinks, and long dinners.
Zuid is also a comfortable place to stay if you prefer a more residential area while remaining within easy walking distance of the old town and the Fashion District.
Zurenborg and Cogels-Osylei: Architectural Gem
For architecture fans, an essential item on your “what to see in Antwerp” list should be the Zurenborg neighbourhood, especially the Cogels-Osylei street and its surroundings. Here, rows of late 19th and early 20th-century houses display a dizzying mix of Art Nouveau, eclectic, and neo-styles.
Facades show off wrought-iron balconies, stained glass, dramatic rooflines, and ornate stone carvings. It’s best explored on foot, ideally in the late afternoon when sunlight softens the details and side streets are calm.
Parks and Green Spaces
When you need a break from museums and boutiques, Antwerp’s parks offer space to breathe. Stadspark, close to the centre, is a classic city park with ponds, lawns, and footpaths. Further out, Park Spoor Noord brings a more contemporary, industrial feel, with playgrounds and open areas for events.
Adding at least one park to your plan of what to see in Antwerp gives your trip a sense of balance, especially on sunny days when locals flock outdoors.
What to See in Antwerp in 1, 2, or 3 Days
How you structure your visit depends on how much time you have. Below are sample itineraries that focus on fashion, art, and the old town—the core themes of what to see in Antwerp.
One Day in Antwerp: Essentials Only
With just one day, concentrate on the historic centre and one or two major sights.
| Time | Area | What to See |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Historic Centre | Arrive via Antwerpen-Centraal and walk through the station hall. Explore Grote Markt, the Cathedral of Our Lady, and surrounding streets. Stop for coffee and a Belgian pastry. |
| Afternoon | Old Town & Riverfront | Visit Rubenshuis or another museum of your choice. Walk to Het Steen and the Scheldt riverfront. Continue to Vlaeykensgang and nearby alleys. |
| Evening | Old Town | Dinner in a traditional brasserie or modern bistro. Enjoy a drink in a brown café before heading back. |
Two Days in Antwerp: Fashion and Art
With two days, you can dive deeper into Antwerp’s fashion and art scenes.
| Day | Focus | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Old Town & Classics | Follow the one-day itinerary: station, Grote Markt, Cathedral, Rubenshuis, riverfront, and historic alleys. |
| Day 2 | Fashion & Docklands | Morning in the Fashion District: MoMu, Nationalestraat, Kammenstraat. Lunch in the area, then head to Eilandje for MAS and dockside walking. Sunset from MAS rooftop if the weather cooperates. |
Three Days in Antwerp: Neighbourhoods and Fine Details
A three-day trip allows you to explore more neighbourhoods and slow the pace.
| Day | Area | What to See |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Historic Centre | As per the one-day essentials: old town squares, Cathedral, Rubenshuis, riverfront. |
| Day 2 | Fashion District & Eilandje | Dive deeper into boutiques, concept stores, and MoMu. Spend the late afternoon in Eilandje, visiting MAS and exploring the docks. |
| Day 3 | Zuid & Zurenborg | Visit M HKA and galleries in Zuid, enjoy lunch or coffee on a sunny square, then head to Zurenborg to walk the Cogels-Osylei and nearby streets before dinner back in the centre. |
Practical Tips for Visiting Antwerp
Knowing a few practical details will help you make the most of what to see in Antwerp, from opening hours to language and local customs.
Getting Around the City
Antwerp is walkable, and many of the main things to see are clustered in or near the historic centre. However, trams and buses help you connect more distant areas such as Zurenborg, Park Spoor Noord, and some residential neighbourhoods.
- On foot: Ideal for the historic centre, Fashion District, and riverfront.
- Bicycle: Local bike-sharing schemes and rentals are common, especially useful for reaching parks and outlying districts.
- Public transport: Trams and buses supplement walking, with stops near major museums and squares.
Language and Where It’s Spoken
The main language in Antwerp is Dutch (Flemish). However, English is widely spoken in shops, restaurants, and museums, and many locals also understand French and German. You can explore what to see in Antwerp comfortably even if you don’t speak Dutch, though learning a few basic phrases is always appreciated.
Dutch and its regional variants are spoken in multiple countries and regions, including:
- Belgium (Flanders and Brussels region) — Flemish Dutch is the primary language in Flanders, with a strong presence in Antwerp and other northern cities.
- Netherlands — Standard Dutch is the official language nationwide.
- Suriname — Dutch is an official language used in government and education.
- Caribbean parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands — including Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten, where Dutch is one of the official languages.
Antwerp itself is quite international, so it is common to hear multiple languages on any given street or tram.
When to Visit Antwerp
You can visit Antwerp year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons.
- Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and blooming parks make this a pleasant time for walking tours and outdoor terraces.
- Summer (June–August): Long days, festivals, and busy streets. Ideal if you want to experience nightlife and outdoor events.
- Autumn (September–November): Often a sweet spot: fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and warm colours in parks and along the river.
- Winter (December–February): Christmas markets, cosy cafés, and quieter museums. Some days can be cold and grey, but the atmosphere is charming.
Budgeting and Tickets
Antwerp is not the cheapest city in Europe, but it offers good value if you plan ahead. Some museums have free days or reduced late-afternoon tickets, and combination passes sometimes cover multiple attractions.
When planning what to see in Antwerp, consider how many paid attractions you truly want to enter. Many of the city’s best experiences—walking historic streets, exploring neighbourhoods, or enjoying the view from MAS’s rooftop—are free or low-cost.
FAQ: What to See in Antwerp
Is one day enough to see Antwerp?
One day in Antwerp is enough to visit the historic centre, see the Cathedral of Our Lady, stroll Grote Markt, and perhaps explore one major museum such as Rubenshuis or MAS. However, if you want to enjoy the Fashion District, neighbourhoods like Zuid or Zurenborg, and more than one museum, two to three days will feel more relaxed.
What are the must-see sights in Antwerp for first-time visitors?
For a first visit, focus on the essentials: Antwerpen-Centraal station, Grote Markt and City Hall, the Cathedral of Our Lady with its Rubens paintings, Rubenshuis, the riverfront and Het Steen, the Fashion District around Nationalestraat and MoMu, and MAS in the Eilandje district. These highlights give you a balanced picture of what to see in Antwerp across fashion, art, and old town history.
Where is the best area to stay in Antwerp?
The best area depends on your priorities. The historic centre is ideal for first-time visitors who want to walk to major sights. The Fashion District and Zuid offer a trendier, design-focused atmosphere with good restaurants and galleries. Eilandje provides a waterfront setting near MAS and renovated docks, with a slightly quieter feel in the evenings.
Is Antwerp a good destination for fashion shopping?
Yes. Antwerp is one of Europe’s most influential fashion cities, thanks to the Antwerp Six and the Royal Academy of Fine Arts. The area around Nationalestraat hosts MoMu and many designer boutiques, while Kammenstraat and Kloosterstraat add streetwear, vintage, and quirky finds. Even if you only window-shop, this fashion culture is a central part of what to see in Antwerp.
Do people in Antwerp speak English?
Dutch is the main language in Antwerp, but English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, shops, and museums. Most visitors have no difficulty getting around, reading menus, or understanding signage. Learning a few simple Dutch greetings is a nice gesture, but you can comfortably explore what to see in Antwerp using English alone.
What is the best way to get around Antwerp?
The centre of Antwerp is compact, so walking is usually the best way to experience the old town, Fashion District, and riverfront. For longer distances or if you are short on time, trams and buses connect key neighbourhoods such as Zuid, Eilandje, and Zurenborg. Bicycles are another popular option, with good infrastructure and flat terrain.
Which museums in Antwerp are unmissable?
The most important museums for many visitors are MAS (for its combination of history, culture, and rooftop views), Rubenshuis (for Baroque art and atmosphere), MoMu (for fashion), and M HKA (for contemporary art). Depending on your interests, you can pick two or three of these to anchor your plan of what to see in Antwerp.