Anversa - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Anversa

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Anversa, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Anversa and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Anversa, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Anversa for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Anversa

Antwerp (Anversa in Italian) is a city in Belgium, situated in the Flemish region. With a population of around 520,000 inhabitants, it is the second-largest city in Belgium after Brussels. Antwerp is known for its diamond industry and its beautiful historic district, which features stunning architecture and cultural attractions such as the Cathedral of Our Lady, the Rubens House, and the Museum aan de Stroom. It is also a popular shopping destination and is home to one of the largest seaports in Europe. Antwerp is easily accessible by train or car, and is situated approximately 45 minutes from Brussels by train.

What to visit in Anversa

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Antwerp, Belgium: 1. Antwerp Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is a must-visit for its Gothic architecture and impressive art collections. The cathedral is one of the largest in Europe, and it features works by Rubens and other notable artists.
2. Central Station: This beautiful train station is known as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. The architecture is breathtaking, and inside you'll find luxury shops, cafes, and restaurants.
3. Rubens House: This museum was once home to the famous Flemish Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens. Inside, you'll find his paintings, furniture, and other artifacts. The building itself is also of architectural interest.
4. MAS Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of Antwerp, with exhibits on the city's port, fashion, and culture. The building's architecture is also noteworthy, making it a popular spot for photos.
5. Grote Markt: This is the main square in Antwerp and it is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants. It's a great spot to enjoy a drink or a meal while people watching.
6. Antwerp Zoo: This is one of the oldest and most famous zoos in Europe. It's home to over 800 species of animals and has several indoor and outdoor exhibits.
7. St. Anna Tunnel: This is a pedestrian and bicycle tunnel that runs under the River Scheldt. It's a unique way to cross the river, and there are great views from either side.
8. Plantin-Moretus Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of printing and publishing, and it's housed in a 16th-century mansion. You can see old printing presses and books, as well as learn about the history of the printing industry.
9. Middelheim Museum: This outdoor sculpture museum features over 200 works of art in a beautiful park setting. The sculptures range from ancient to contemporary, and they're set among the trees, flowers, and grass.
10. Diamond District: Antwerp is known as the diamond capital of the world, and the Diamond District is where you'll find many of the diamond dealers and sellers. Even if you're not interested in buying diamonds, it's worth walking through the district to see the glittering storefronts and learn about the industry.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Anversa.

When to go on holiday to Anversa

The best time to visit Antwerp (Anversa in Italian) is during the months of April to September, when the weather is warmer and the city is alive with events and festivals. The peak tourist season in Antwerp is during the summer months of July and August, so it's recommended to book your accommodations in advance if you're planning to visit during this time. However, if you're looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quieter experience, visiting in the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to October can still provide pleasant weather and fewer tourists. It's important to note that winter in Antwerp can be quite cold, so if you're not a fan of cold weather, it may be best to avoid the months of November to March.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Anversa

To get to Antwerp (Anversa in Italian) in Belgium, you have several options depending on your location: - By plane: The nearest airport is Brussels Airport (BRU), which is about 30 minutes away by train. You can take a train from the airport to Antwerp Central Station.
- By train: Antwerp has a well-connected railway station which is just 30 minutes from Brussels. Brussels Airport also has a direct train connection to Brussels Midi Station, where you can change trains to Antwerp Centraal. You can check the schedules of the Belgian National Railways on their website.
- By car: Antwerp can be reached by car via the E19 highway from Brussels or the A12 highway from The Hague. Note that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive, so it's recommended to park at one of the park and ride facilities on the outskirts of the city and take public transport to the center.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Antwerp!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Anversa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Anversa

Sure, here are some typical foods of Antwerp, Belgium: 1. Stoofvlees: This is a Flemish beef stew made with beer, onions, and a variety of spices. It's often served with fries and mayonnaise.
2. Mosselen: Mussels are a popular dish in Belgium, and Antwerp is no exception. The mussels are typically cooked in a broth made from wine or beer, and served with fries.
3. Garnaalkroketten: These are croquettes filled with grey shrimp and a creamy sauce. They're a popular appetizer or snack in Antwerp.
4. Filet Américain: This is a type of steak tartare that's made with raw ground beef, onions, capers, and spices. It's often served on bread or with fries.
5. Antwerpse Handjes: These are small almond cookies that are shaped like hands. They're a specialty of Antwerp and are often given as a gift.
6. Speculaas: This is a type of spiced biscuit that's traditionally eaten around the holidays. It's flavored with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
7. Elixir d'Anvers: This is a local herbal liqueur that's made with a blend of different herbs and spices. It's often served as a digestif after a meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Anversa an expensive destination for tourists?

Antwerp (Anversa in Italian) is generally not considered a very expensive destination for tourists, but it also depends on your travel style and budget. Accommodation prices can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation you choose, but in general, you can find reasonably priced hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals in Antwerp. Eating out can also range from budget-friendly options like street food, to more expensive restaurants, but there are plenty of affordable dining options available. Some of the main attractions in Antwerp, such as the Cathedral of Our Lady and the MAS museum, have entrance fees, but they are not prohibitively expensive.
Overall, with a bit of planning and research, Antwerp can be a very affordable destination without sacrificing quality or enjoyment.

Where to find accomodation in Anversa

The best areas to find accommodation in Antwerp, Belgium are typically the city center (also known as the Old Town), South Antwerp (Zuid), and the trendy district of Het Eilandje. These areas are within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions and are surrounded by great restaurants, shops, and nightlife. However, you may also find good accommodation options in the Diamond District or near the Central Station. It ultimately depends on your preferences and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Anversa here:
Booking.com

Is Anversa a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Antwerp (Anversa in Italian) is considered a safe place for tourists. Like any city, it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur. However, Antwerp has a low crime rate and is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful historic center, charming cafes and restaurants, and world-renowned museums such as the MAS and the Rubens House.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Anversa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Anversa the most?

Antwerp, Belgium can be enjoyed by travelers of all types, but it is particularly popular with couples and families. For couples, Antwerp offers romantic strolls along cobbled streets, picturesque waterfronts, and cozy cafes. They can visit the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady, stroll along the famous Rubenshuis, or enjoy the antique shopping district in Kloosterstraat.
For families, Antwerp has a variety of attractions such as the Antwerp Zoo, the Museum Aan de Stroom (MAS), the chocolate-making museum, and the indoor playground named Ballorig. The city also has plenty of parks and gardens where families can spend their weekends between museums and historic buildings.
For young people, Antwerp is known for having a vibrant nightlife and a lively music scene. They can visit the trendy neighborhood of ‘t Eilandje, the Zurenborg district, or the student area around the Mechelseplein to enjoy the best bars, clubs, and restaurants in town.
Therefore, Antwerp is a great destination where everyone can find something they enjoy!

How to get around Anversa

Anversa (Antwerp) is a city in Belgium that has a good transportation network. The most common and convenient way to move around Anversa is by using public transportation, such as buses, trams, and trains. You can also rent a bike or take a taxi to get around the city. Another option is to walk, as Anversa is a very walkable city with many pedestrian-friendly areas.

What to see around Anversa

Yes absolutely! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Antwerp (Anversa): 1. Brussels - The capital of Belgium and the European Union, only 45 minutes away by train or car from Antwerp, is a vibrant city with beautiful architecture, museums, and delicious food.
2. Ghent - A picturesque medieval city with canals and beautiful architecture, Ghent is only 35 minutes away from Antwerp by train.
3. Bruges - Known as the "Venice of the North," Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming canals, beautiful architecture, and delicious chocolate. It's only 1 hour away from Antwerp by train.
4. Mechelen - A smaller charming city with a historic center, beautiful churches, and lovely markets, which is only a 20-minute train ride away from Antwerp.
5. Leuven - A university town with beautiful architecture, lively student life, and a famous beer culture, Leuven is only 40 minutes away from Antwerp by train.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any further information.
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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