Antwerp

🎭 Activities

Antwerp Fashion Week – February: Antwerp is renowned for its fashion scene, and this event showcases the work of emerging and established designers. It features runway shows, pop-up events, and exhibitions highlighting the city’s role as a fashion capital. 

Summer of Antwerp – July: The Summer of Antwerp festival takes over the city with a series of music, art, and theater performances. It includes open-air concerts, cultural exhibitions, and interactive events that make Antwerp’s streets come alive. 

Antwerp Pride – August: This vibrant LGBTQ+ celebration brings together parades, parties, and performances. The city’s beautiful streets and squares are filled with rainbow flags and the spirit of inclusivity during this colorful event. 

Antwerp Light Festival – November: During this winter event, the city’s landmarks are illuminated with spectacular light displays. The festival features light sculptures, projections, and installations, transforming Antwerp into a glowing wonderland. 

Antwerp Christmas Market – December: The city’s Christmas market is a magical winter experience with festive stalls, ice skating, and cozy holiday treats. Visitors can explore the historic city center, which is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights. 

Carnival in Antwerp – February/March: Antwerp celebrates Carnival with street parades, costumes, and local music. This lively festival brings a festive atmosphere to the city, with dancing, marching bands, and lots of traditional Belgian fun. 

Antwerp International Film Festival – April: A celebrated event for film enthusiasts, this festival showcases independent films from across the globe. It includes screenings, discussions, and special guest appearances, making it an exciting time for film lovers. 

Antwerp Boat Show – January: The Antwerp Boat Show is a major maritime event, where boat enthusiasts can explore the latest in boating technology and luxury yachts. It features exhibits, water sports demonstrations, and product showcases. 

Museum Night – March: Several museums in Antwerp open late during Museum Night, offering special exhibitions, live performances, and interactive art displays. It’s a chance to experience Antwerp’s rich cultural heritage in an exciting after-hours setting. 

Antwerp Beer Festival – October: Beer lovers gather in Antwerp for this festival to sample beers from local brewers and international labels. The festival also offers beer-related activities, including tastings, food pairings, and expert-led discussions. 

Antwerp Book Fair – November: The Antwerp Book Fair is one of the largest book events in Belgium, featuring a wide variety of books, authors, and literary activities. Visitors can meet authors, attend workshops, and discover new literary works. 

Antwerp Diamond Days – June: This event focuses on Antwerp’s famous diamond industry. It includes exhibitions, guided tours, and workshops where visitors can learn about the history and craftsmanship behind Antwerp’s diamonds.

🔹 Small Facts

The Diamond District: Antwerp is often referred to as the “diamond capital of the world.” The city handles over 80% of the world’s rough diamond trade, and you can freely walk through the Diamond District to see how these precious gems are traded and cut. 

City of Art Nouveau: While Brussels is more famous for Art Nouveau architecture, Antwerp has its share of beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. These can be spotted in the city center for free, including the distinctive Horta-inspired facades. 

Antwerp’s Hidden Courtyards: The city is home to many quiet courtyards, often hidden behind large doors or gates. These peaceful retreats are free to explore, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Antwerp’s historic residential life. 

Free Art in Public Spaces: Antwerp is filled with free outdoor art. From sculptures in parks to murals along walls, the city’s public spaces are open-air galleries for those who enjoy art without any entrance fees. 

St. Anna Tunnel: The St. Anna Tunnel runs underneath the Scheldt River, offering a unique way to walk or cycle between the city and the riverbanks. It’s free to cross, providing an interesting historic link between the two sides of Antwerp. 

Historic Beguinage: The Beguinage of Antwerp, a serene and quiet area with beautiful old houses, is free to visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers insight into the lives of the Beguines, women who lived in a semi-monastic community. 

Cultural Free Tours: While Antwerp offers paid tours, there are also free walking tours led by enthusiastic guides. These tours often focus on the city’s history, landmarks, and lesser-known facts, and visitors can pay tips at their discretion. 

View from the MAS: The Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) has a free observation deck offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It’s a perfect spot for photography, relaxation, and taking in the skyline. 

The “Lange Wapper” Statue: A quirky and mysterious statue of a giant figure known as “Lange Wapper” is located near the Scheldt River. This free-to-see statue is a fun reminder of local legends. 

Antwerp’s City Hall: The Antwerp City Hall is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It’s free to visit and located in the stunning Grote Markt, surrounded by cafes and vibrant squares. 

Free Walking Tours of the Old Town: Antwerp’s Old Town offers guided walking tours, and while they are technically free, participants are encouraged to offer tips. These tours cover everything from the city’s medieval past to its modern-day cultural scene. 

De Ruien (Antwerp’s Canal System): The historic underground canals of Antwerp, known as De Ruien, were once used for transport and sanitation. There are occasionally free public tours showcasing the system’s fascinating history. 

Public Gardens and Parks: Antwerp has numerous green spaces that are free to explore, such as the Middelheim Park, which houses sculptures and works of art. These parks offer beautiful natural surroundings and historic significance. 

Grote Markt’s Historical Buildings: The Grote Markt in Antwerp is surrounded by historical buildings with stunning facades. Visitors can wander the square for free, admiring the architecture, including the Town Hall and Guild Houses. 

Public Murals in the South District: Antwerp’s South District is home to several street art murals, many of which are massive in size. These murals are free to admire, adding a vibrant, creative touch to the city.