A city of many colours

Belgium's largest city is best known for its diamond trade. But on our August weekend, it is Antwerp itself that shines and sparkles for us. Because there is so much we simply did not expect in the metropolis of the province of Flanders.

Take the magnificent architecture, for example. Visitors to Antwerp's central square, known as the “Groete Markt,” are surrounded by the magnificent town hall, towering guild houses, and a fountain that is perhaps a little over the top. Turn around and you will see the 120-meter-high tower of the "Cathedral of Our Lady". A little further on, the alleys become narrower and the street cafés, winding corners, and green-covered squares become more frequent.

The Groete Markt in the evening sun.

 

Belgium is also worth a visit because it is a foodie paradise. Not only are French fries a serious matter here and the result of good craftsmanship, but other traditional dishes also make the local cuisine very exciting. Examples? Stoofvlees, the local interpretation of goulash, based on beer, of course, because this is Belgium after all. Garnaaltomaat, a tomato stuffed with shrimp. Or waffles, of course, preferably fresh.

Antwerp is also a city on the water. After Rotterdam, it has the second-largest port in Europe, and even the largest cargo ships can use this port – despite the fact that the river called the Scheldt is a tidal river, meaning that its water level sometimes rises and sometimes falls. Not only can you take a leisurely stroll along the Scheldt, there is also a pedestrian tunnel with beautifully preserved historic wooden escalators.

How to remain dry under water.

 

And what we weren't prepared for was Antwerp Pride, which took place on our travel weekend – according to reports, the largest parade and party of its kind ever held in Antwerp. Despite loud music and over 160,000 people in the parade and in the audience, the atmosphere in the city was peaceful and characterized by a diversity that, at least in our eyes, was very laid-back and suited Antwerp very well. 

 

So who is Antwerp a suitable destination for? Definitely for anyone who wants to be surprised, because Antwerp may not be a typical weekend destination, but we still wonder why not. Foodies will get their money's worth, as will those interested in history and culture. And Antwerp is no slouch when it comes to throwing a huge party, either. In all the colours of the rainbow and beyond.

 

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Good to know

 

Antwerp is well connected to the European transport infrastructure. For example, it is located directly on the train route from Paris to Amsterdam and is easily accessible from both cities. From Switzerland, the train journey takes around 8 or 9 hours, either via Paris or Cologne. Those who prefer to fly can reach Brussels from Zurich in just over an hour and then take the train – the transfer to Antwerp takes around half an hour. Of course, Antwerp can also be reached by car, with the approximately 700 km journey taking a good seven hours.

Antwerp is not a destination for mass tourism – fortunately. However, this also means that accommodation options are somewhat less widespread than in comparable European cities. This time, we took a practical approach and stayed at the NH Collection Antwerp Centre, which is located right next to the train station. The rooms are solid, relatively new, and, depending on which direction they face, also very quiet. The very nice and extensive breakfast buffet is worth mentioning.

Typical of Belgium, Antwerp is also very welcoming to hungry guests. The following places have stuck in our memory:

• Frituur No. 1 right next to the town hall: Belgian-style French fries – freshly prepared and with a wide selection of sauces;

• Restaurant De Bomma, located near the river: Here, the focus is on typical Flemish cuisine, which means that this is not a place for light snack;

• Ultimatum Food Bar: Not a place for culinary wonders, but the location on the Groete Markt is indescribable and invites you to take a long coffee break in the middle of the action. 

Maybe this view alone is worth the trip.