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.

At Grote Markt, the Brabo Fountain stands as a striking centrepiece amidst the historic architecture of Antwerp's central square. This celebrated monument is based on the legendary tale of Brabo, a local folk hero who defied the giant Antigoon, probably inspiring the city's name by throwing the giant's hand ("werpen" the "hant" in Middle Dutch) into the Schelde River.

St Anna's Tunnel, a historical marvel beneath the Scheldt River, offers a passage from Antwerp's core to Linkeroever (the left bank). Its rare wooden escalators, a novelty since the 1930s, guide cyclists and pedestrians through the tiled tunnel, making it a favourite for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts.

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.

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.

The Antwerp Zoo was founded in 1843, which makes it one of the oldest zoos worldwide and the oldest in Belgium. About 5,000 animals from 950 species call this zoo their home. They live in monumental buildings and an impressive, meticulously maintained garden. A visit to the Zoo is a chunk of pure relaxation in the middle of the city.

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.

Explore seven centuries of art at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp. Home to masterpieces from Flemish Primitives to Expressionists, it boasts extensive collections of James Ensor and Rik Wouters. This newly renovated museum displays works by Rubens, Van Dyck and Van Eyck, alongside mode modern artists like Magritte and Modigliani. A fusion of tradition and innovation, it's a must-visit for art lovers.

In the early 16th century, the Augustinian Friars built St Andrew’s Church in the popular St Andrew’s neighbourhood. Inside, you can see stunning Baroque altars and works of art from the 17th century.

Hop on the Antwerp Diamond double-decker bus and visit Antwerp’s best-known hotspots. It’s a first timers’ ideal introduction to the city. Daily departures from April until November, the other months only in the weekend.

Plopsa Station Antwerp is the newest alteration of the indoor park at Antwerp's Central Station. Plopsa offers a variety of fun rides based on cartoon characters: The Bumbamoles, The Flying Bicycles, Jommeke Carrousel, K3 Disco Cars, Maya's playground, Storm at Sea, Wickie's fall tower and Wickie's ball pool, the Suske & Wiske Raging Race. It's a perfect family activity on a rainy day.