About Antwerp

An 11th century castle by the river, a Gothic Cathedral, and the Renaissance Town Hall all mark Antwerp, Belgium's second largest city, as one of great architectural beauty. Its culture and beauty have been recognized in such awards as 1988 “Europe Nostra Award” and the 1993 “Cultural Capital of Europe” award. Antwerp's outstanding art museums offer a wide collection of masterpieces from the old Flemish era to the modern period, allowing a glimpse into Antwerp's artistic history. They also house numerous paintings of Peter Paul Rubens, who lived in Antwerp in the 17th Century.

Animal lovers will enjoy Antwerp's zoo, one of the oldest and best-known zoos in the world. The Royal Society for Zoology has watched over the welfare of numerous animals and helped protect threatened animals for more than 100 years.

The diamond industry in Antwerp has been a major part of the city's economy for most of its history, and Antwerp's diamond trade boasts the largest volume of diamonds in the world. Visitors have a chance to explore the diamond district around the Railway Station.

Students will appreciate the location of the city. Antwerp is located only thirty minutes away from Brussels (the capital of Belgium) by train. Amsterdam and Paris are both only a 2-hour train ride away, while Luxembourg and London can be reached in 3-3 1/2 hours. In addition, Antwerp is one of the largest ports in the world, linked to the North Sea by the Scheldt and the Westerschelde.

Transportation

Antwerp has a large and good network of buses, trams and underground stations.  A ticket costs 1 euro and you can travel for an hour, even if you jump over for a different line. Taxis are quite expensive.  

Belgium is ideally located for travel in Europe, practically next door to Paris, London, and Amsterdam. You are free to travel as time permits. Within the city, bicycles are the most popular way to get around, but be sure to lock your bike at stops. Furthermore, Belgium has the densest train network in the world.

Climate

Despite its northern latitude, the North Sea keeps Belgium at a warm temperature for most of the year. Summertime temperatures average between 54° and 72° F, and between 32° and 43° F during the winter. Of course, the weather in Belgium can also change quickly. Rain and drizzle can set in at any time, but are especially common during the months of April and November.

Top Sights

• Grote Market
• Flemish Opera
• International Art Centre “de Singel”
• Royal Elisabeth Auditorium
• Bourla Playhouse
• Rubenshuis
• Cathedral of Our Lady

Learn More

• Fodor's online Antwerp guide
• Visit Antwerp
• Province of Antwerp
• Port of Antwerp
• Tourism province of Antwerp