Antwerp is the city of diamonds.
The second largest port city in Europe occupies the first place in the world when it comes to the trade in diamonds, and Antwerp's most famous personality is the baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.
From the Grote Markt in the historic old town you can reach most of the sights on foot. The medieval square is surrounded by the town hall and the guild houses with their stepped gables and beautifully restored facades. Its centre is dominated by the Brabob Fountain with the sculpture of the hero of the same name. Hidden between pop-off snacks and Argentine steaks, the secret Vlaeykensgang is located at Oude Koornmarkt 16. In the medieval alley of 1591, art galleries, antique shops and restaurants.
The 123 metre high tower of the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady is a World Heritage Site. The cathedral and other churches in Antwerp house paintings by the baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens.
Not far from Antwerp Central Station, nicknamed the Railway Cathedral, is the Diamond Quarter, where you can admire the fine display of jewellers. Antwerp is the world centre of diamond trade. For more than 500 years a large part of the coveted gems have been processed and traded here and the Antwerp cut is still the best and most expensive. The Diamond Museum DIVA presents the world of dazzling high-carat diamonds.
- Travel period: 3 days
- Best time to visit: June to September
- Main dish: 15 €
