18 must-see historical buildings in Antwerp

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Introduction

Antwerp is a city full of rich history and architecture. It is home to many historic buildings that bear witness to the city’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. From classical Gothic styles to Baroque masterpieces, Antwerp offers a unique combination of ancient and modern architecture.

In this article, we will explore 18 historic buildings in Antwerp, each contributing in its way to the splendor and sophistication of the city. You can use this article as a guide to take a comprehensive city tour.

Of course, there are more than 18 historic buildings in Antwerp. After all, the city is centuries old. But with this list of buildings you will certainly have a good impression of what the city of Antwerp has to offer.

To visit all these buildings you need a lot of time.

Make yourself comfortable and use a city guide to discover the highlights of Antwerp.

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Short of time to read the whole article? Go directly to your favorite building via the table of contents.

1 Cathedral of Our Lady

The Cathedral of Our Lady is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture and an important historical building. It is also the tallest building in the city. Built in the 13th century and one of the largest Gothic cross churches in Europe.

The cathedral is known for its impressive interior, including a fine collection of works of art and sculpture including some works of art by the Flemish painter Peter Paul Rubens. Over the centuries, the cathedral has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Including during the iconoclasm in the 16th century and the bombings of World War II.

Nevertheless, the cathedral has retained its splendor and charm and remains an important religious and historical symbol for the people of Antwerp.

Today, the cathedral is a popular tourist attraction and offers a unique opportunity to discover Antwerp’s rich history and architecture.

location: Handschoenmarkt

2 City Hall

Antwerp’s City Hall is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built-in the 16th century, it is one of the most beautiful city halls in Belgium.

Known for its impressive facade and interior, including a rich collection of artworks and sculptures.

It is surrounded by beautiful historical buildings and landmarks.

Over the centuries, the town hall has undergone several changes, including extensions and renovations. The latest renovation has just been completed and the town hall is once again open to visitors.

It has been able to retain its historic charm and architectural features. Today, the city hall is still the center of political decision-making in Antwerp and a popular place for wedding guests.

It is an important symbol for the city and offers a unique opportunity to discover Antwerp’s rich history and architecture.

location: Grote Markt

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3 Steen Castle

Het Steen is a historic fortress in Antwerp, located on the banks of the river Scheldt. It was built in the 13th century and originally served as a fortress and defensive wall for the city. It has had various functions, including that of a prison, royal palace, and museum.

Since its recent renovation and expansion, the building also functions as a tourist reception center.

The fortress has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, including during the Dutch Revolt in the 16th century and World War II. The Steen has retained its historical charm and architectural features and remains an important symbol of Antwerp and its defensive history.

Today, the Steen is a popular tourist attraction and displays various exhibits on the history and culture of Antwerp and the region.

location: Steenplein 1

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4 Central Station

The Central Station in Antwerp is an icon of the city and an important historical building.

Built between 1895 and 1905 under the direction of architect Louis Delacenserie.It is a fine example of an eclectic architectural style. The station was an important link for trains traveling throughout Europe.

Over the years, the Central Station has undergone several changes and renovations, but it has retained its historic charm and architectural features. Today, Central Station is still an important hub for the city and remains a popular attraction for visitors.

Listed as a protected monument in Belgium, it is a vivid example of the sophisticated architecture of the early 20th century and Antwerp’s rich railroad history.

location: Koningin Astridplein 27

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5 KBC tower

The KBC tower also called the Boerentoren was built in the 30s and was one of the first skyscrapers in Belgium. It is the second-tallest building in Antwerp.

The art-deco building served as the headquarters of the KBC bank for many years and is now owned by Fernand Huts owner of Katoennatie.

Currently, the building is under renovation and will become a modern skyscraper with shops, restaurants, offices, and homes within a few years.

Location: Schoenmarkt 35

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6 Stadsfeestzaal

The Stadsfeestzaal is a historic building in Antwerp. It was built in the 19th century and is an impressive example of neoclassical architecture.

The building is best known for its beautiful interiors and decorative elements, including an impressive dome and richly decorated ceilings.

The Stadsfeestzaal was originally built as a party and concert hall and has since had various functions, including that of a concert hall, theater, and congress center.

The building is now used as an event location and by various shops.

It is an important cultural icon in Antwerp. The Stadsfeestzaal is a popular attraction for tourists and shoppers.

Location: Meir 78

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7 Bourla theatre

The Bourla theatre is a historic building in Antwerp, located in the heart of the city. It was built in the 1800s and has a rich history as a center for the arts and culture in Antwerp.

The Bourla theatre is designed in a traditional style and is known for its beautiful interior, including the impressive ceiling paintings, the gilded ornaments, and the beautiful wooden finishes.

After a thorough renovation in the 90s, the theatre was equipped with modern technologies to improve acoustics and comfort for the audience.

Today, the Bourla theatre is still an important center for the arts and culture in Antwerp and remains a popular attraction for residents and visitors alike.

The theatre offers regular performances of plays, ballet performances, musical performances, and other cultural events.

location: Komedieplaats 18

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8 Vlaamse Opera

The Opera House of the Flemish Opera in Antwerp is located in the center of the city and is known for its imposing architecture and historical value.

The building was built in the 19th century and is one of the oldest surviving opera houses in Belgium. It has beautiful décor, including an impressive dome and richly decorated interiors. The opera house has a capacity of more than 1500 spectators.

It hosts various productions, such as operas, ballet performances, symphonies, and concerts. It is also an important cultural icon in Antwerp and a tourist attraction.

Location: Frankrijklei 3

9 Palace on the Meir

The Palace on the Meir was built in the 18th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and decorative elements. The palace is located on the Meir, one of the most important shopping streets of Antwerp.

The building has a rich history and has had many well-known owners including Napoleon Bonaparte and the Belgian Royal Family.

In the early 2000s it was completely renovated and is today an important cultural icon in Antwerp and a popular attraction for tourists.

It has a chocolate shop by Dominique Persoone on the ground floor.

Location: Meir 50

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10 Nationale Bank

The National Bank of Belgium is the headquarters of the Belgian central bank and is located in Antwerp. However, it has been empty for several years in anticipation of a new destination.

It was built in the 19th century in an imposing eclectic architectural style. It has a beautiful courtyard and a richly decorated façade. The building is known for its historical value and is an important cultural icon in Antwerp.

Moreover, it has also played an important role in Belgium’s economic history as a central bank and as an administrator of the Belgian money system. The building is not open to the public, but it is a popular attraction for tourists interested in the architecture and history of Antwerp.

Location: Frankrijklei 166

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11 Handelsbeurs

The Handelsbeurs is a historic building in the center of Antwerp. It was built in the 16th century as a trade and commerce exchange.

The building has beautiful Renaissance-style architecture and is an impressive sight.

Over the years, the building has had various functions, including those of a fair, cultural center, and library.

Today, after a thorough renovation, the building is used as a cultural center and host location for various events, including concerts, lectures, and parties.

The building is also an important cultural icon in Antwerp and a popular attraction for tourists interested in the history and architecture of the city.

Location: Borzestraat 31

12 Havenhuis

The Havenhuis is a modern and striking building in Antwerp, distinguished by its futuristic architecture and unique location on the Scheldt.

The completely renovated building was designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid. The old and original 1920s building originally served as a fire station.

The Port House is known for its striking facade of glass and concrete and its unusual shapes and lines. The building also focuses on sustainability and environmental friendliness and features various technologies to increase energy efficiency.

Today, the Port House is an important symbol of modern architecture and the future-oriented attitude of Antwerp.

The building also offers a unique view over the city and the Scheldt and is a popular tourist attraction.

location: Zaha Hadidplein 1

13 KMSK

The Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Antwerp is an important museum in Antwerp. The museum has an extensive collection of artworks from the 15th to the 21st century, including works by world-famous artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck, Ensor, and Magritte.

The museum is housed in a beautiful building and offers visitors a look at the art history of Antwerp and its surroundings. The museum’s collection is very varied and includes paintings, sculptures, drawings, and graphics.

The museum is a popular attraction for tourists and art lovers and also regularly offers exhibitions, lectures, and guided tours. After a thorough renovation that lasted 11 years, it has recently been reopened to the public.

Location: Leopoldplaats 1

14 Koningin Elisabethzaal

Queen Elisabeth Hall is a concert hall named after Queen Elisabeth of Belgium and is located in the center of the city.

The completely renovated concert hall is known for its excellent acoustics and can accommodate about 2,000 spectators.

It is an important cultural place in Antwerp and offers an extensive program with concerts, opera performances, ballet, and theater.

The hall has a beautiful interior and offers visitors such as tourists and music lovers one of the best concert halls in Belgium and Europe.

Location: Koningin Astridplein 20/26

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15 Modepaleis

The fashion palace was built in the late 1800s and is nowadays the signboard and shop of fashion icon Dries van Noten. Definitely worth a look.

Location: Nationalestraat 16

16 The 5 continents

Behind the Museum of Fine Arts is an iconic building with a very striking façade.

It is one of the most original Art Nouveau buildings in Antwerp and was built in 1901 by a shipping company, which explains the nave on the corner of the building.

Location: Schilderstraat 2

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17 Vleeshuis

This former guild house dates from the 16th century and has served as a museum since 1913. It was originally used as a slaughterhouse and later as a warehouse.

It has been exhibiting musical instruments since the archaeological collection moved to the Museum aan de stroom. The meat house will undergo a complete renovation within a few years and will be given a new purpose.

Location: Vleeshouwersstraat 38

18 Gildehuizen Grote Markt

The most beautiful houses on the Grote Markt of Antwerp are originally Gildehuizen.

Most have been rebuilt after a major fire. The original guild houses were built in The 16th and 17th centuries. The gilded statues on the roofs of the houses refer to the guild to which the building belonged. They were meant to showcase the wealth and power of the guilds.

Location Grote Markt

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FAQ

Yes, Antwerp is a walkable city. The city center is compact and most of the main attractions, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Grote Markt (Great Market Square), and the Antwerp Central Station, are within walking distance of each other. Walking around the city is also a great way to discover the charming historic streets, picturesque neighborhoods, and hidden gems that Antwerp has to offer.

Yes, Antwerp is definitely worth visiting! It’s a beautiful city with a rich history and culture, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Antwerp is known for its stunning architecture, including the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady and the modern Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), as well as its vibrant arts and fashion scenes. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, including the works of famous artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and the diamond industry, for which Antwerp is renowned.

The best time to visit Antwerp depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your visit. Here’s an overview of what to expect in Antwerp throughout the year:

Summer (June-August): Summer is peak tourist season in Antwerp, with warm temperatures and long days. However, it can also be crowded, and many locals go on holiday during this time. Expect higher prices for accommodations and attractions.
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): These seasons are generally mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds and lower prices than summer. Spring in Antwerp is particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers and foliage.
Winter (December-February): Antwerp can be cold and gray during the winter, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy, such as museums and cozy cafes.

Overall, the best time to visit Antwerp is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. However, if you’re interested in summer festivals or holiday markets, then those seasons might be more appealing to you.

Yes, you can drive into Antwerp. The city is well connected to the surrounding areas by a network of highways and major roads, making it easily accessible by car. However, traffic in the city center can be congested, especially during rush hour, and finding a parking spot can be challenging.

If you plan to drive into Antwerp, it is recommended to park your car outside the city center and use public transportation to get around. There are several park-and-ride facilities located on the outskirts of the city, where you can park your car and take a tram or bus into the city center. This is a convenient and affordable way to avoid the hassle of driving in the city and finding parking.

It’s worth noting that Antwerp has a low-emission zone (LEZ) in place, which restricts the access of older, more polluting vehicles in the city center. If you’re planning to drive into Antwerp, make sure to check if your vehicle is compliant with the LEZ requirements and if not, consider alternative modes of transportation.

In Belgium parking restrictions are clear. Most on-street parking is chargeable parking, with parking meters on the streets. For long term parking you need to go to the car parks.

No, parking is not free on Sundays in Antwerp. In fact, parking is not free on any day of the week in most parts of the city center.

There are paid parking zones throughout Antwerp, including the city center, where you need to pay for parking on all days of the week, including Sundays. The cost and time limits of parking may vary depending on the location and the type of parking zone.

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, some parking garages and lots offer free or reduced parking rates on Sundays. It’s best to check with the specific parking facility beforehand to see if they offer any discounts on Sundays.

Overall, if you plan to park in Antwerp, make sure to check the parking regulations and fees for the specific area you are visiting to avoid any parking fines or other issues.

The amount of time needed to explore Antwerp depends on your interests and travel style. However, in general, I would recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Antwerp to see the main attractions and get a feel for the city’s culture and vibe.

During a 2-3 day trip to Antwerp, you can explore the historic city center, visit some of the city’s famous museums, such as the Rubenshuis and the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS), and take a stroll along the Scheldt River. You can also visit the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Europe, or take a bike ride to the nearby Rivierenhof park.

If you have more time, you can explore some of the surrounding areas, such as the charming village of Lier, the picturesque town of Mechelen, or the beautiful nature reserve of Kalmthoutse Heide.

Yes, Antwerp is generally English friendly. Many locals, especially those who work in the service industry, speak English fluently and are accustomed to communicating with visitors in English. Most signs, menus, and other information for tourists are also available in English.

In addition, many tourist attractions, such as museums and galleries, have English audio guides or offer guided tours in English. English-language maps and brochures are also widely available at tourist information centers and hotels.

Antwerp is famous for many things, including:

Diamonds: Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world, with over 80% of the world’s rough diamonds passing through the city.
Fashion: Antwerp is a fashion hub and has produced many renowned fashion designers, such as Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, and Walter Van Beirendonck.
Art: Antwerp was home to the famous Flemish Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens, whose works can be seen in the city’s many museums and galleries.
Architecture: Antwerp is home to a wealth of architectural styles, from medieval buildings to modernist structures, including the stunning Antwerp Central Station.
Food: Antwerp is known for its culinary delights, such as Belgian chocolates, waffles, and beers, as well as local specialties like Flemish stew and Antwerpse Handjes (a type of cookie).
Culture: Antwerp has a rich cultural heritage, with a thriving arts and music scene, numerous festivals throughout the year, and a UNESCO-listed historic city center.

Overall, Antwerp is a city with a lot to offer, from its world-renowned diamonds and fashion to its stunning architecture, art, and culinary delights.

Yes, foreigners are allowed to drive in Belgium with a valid driver’s license from their home country. However, if your license is not in English, French, German, or Dutch, you will need to carry an official translation or an international driver’s permit (IDP) along with your license. The IDP is a document that translates your driver’s license into several languages and is recognized in many countries worldwide.

It’s also worth noting that Belgium, like many European countries, drives on the right-hand side of the road, and speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h). Additionally, seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a cell phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free device.

If you plan to stay in Belgium for an extended period of time, you may need to exchange your foreign driver’s license for a Belgian driver’s license, depending on the rules of your home country and the length of your stay in Belgium.

Antwerp is not the most expensive city in Europe, but it is also not the cheapest. Prices in Antwerp can vary depending on the type of activity you are engaging in and the location you are in. Here are some general price ranges for common expenses in Antwerp:

Accommodation: Prices for hotels and Airbnb rentals in Antwerp can vary widely depending on the location and level of comfort. On average, expect to pay around €70-€120 per night for a mid-range hotel room.
Food and drink: Food and drink prices in Antwerp can also vary, but on average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around €20-€30, while a local beer or coffee can cost around €2-€4.
Transportation: Public transportation in Antwerp is relatively affordable, with a single trip on the tram or bus costing around €3. A taxi ride in the city center will typically cost around €10-€20.
Entertainment: Prices for entertainment in Antwerp can vary widely, with some museums and galleries offering free admission and others charging a fee. On average, expect to pay around €10-€15 for admission to a museum or gallery.

Overall, Antwerp can be a moderately expensive city to visit, but there are ways to save money, such as staying in a budget hotel, taking advantage of free activities, and eating at local cafes and street food vendors instead of restaurants.

Antwerp has a variety of transportation options to help visitors and locals get around the city. Here are some of the most common ways to move around in Antwerp:

Walking: Antwerp is a relatively compact city, and many of its major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city center, and it’s free!
Public transportation: Antwerp has an extensive public transportation network, including trams, buses, and trains, that connect the city center with the suburbs and surrounding towns. You can buy single tickets or a day pass from machines at the stations or onboard trams and buses.
Biking: Antwerp is a bike-friendly city, with a network of bike lanes and rental services. You can rent a bike from a bike rental shop or use the city’s bike-sharing program, Velo Antwerpen, which has more than 400 bike stations around the city.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Antwerp and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Taxis are generally more expensive than public transportation but can be a good option for short distances or when traveling late at night.
Car rental: If you prefer to have your own transportation, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental agencies in Antwerp. However, keep in mind that parking can be difficult and expensive in the city center.

Overall, Antwerp has many transportation options to suit every budget and preference, so you can easily explore the city and its surroundings.

Antwerp is generally a safe city, and visitors should not encounter any major safety issues if they take reasonable precautions. Like any other city, there are some areas that can be less safe than others, and it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid certain areas, especially late at night.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe in Antwerp:

Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like train stations and shopping districts.
Keep your belongings close: Keep your valuables close to you and be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Use official taxis: If you need to take a taxi, use official taxis from a reputable company, rather than unmarked or unofficial taxis.
Stay in well-lit areas: If you’re out late at night, stick to well-lit areas and avoid dark or isolated streets.
Follow traffic rules: Be aware of traffic rules and cross streets at designated crosswalks. Bicycles are common in Antwerp, so keep an eye out for them when walking or driving.

Overall, Antwerp is a safe city, and visitors should not encounter any major safety issues if they take reasonable precautions.

As a foreign visitor in Belgium, you are required by law to carry a form of identification with you at all times. While it is not necessary to carry your passport with you at all times, it is a good idea to have a copy of your passport or a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, with you at all times in case you are stopped by the police or immigration officials.

In Belgium, EU citizens or family members of EU citizens must at all times be able to show proof of identity and right of residence if they are: 15 years of age or over, and. in a public place.