Welcome To the e-travelguide to Hotels, guest houses and attractions in Antwerp

Make the most of your time in Antwerp, use the information provided on this web site by clicking on the links above to plan your visit.

Antwerp is Belgium’s second city and capital of the province of Antwerp in the region of Flanders. Whilst it may not be the Belgian capital Antwerp has the reputation (and the self-esteem) to match Brussels and many of Europe’s other major cities such as Liverpool, Paris and Prague. Antwerp is a centre of commerce in Belgium, one of the world’s largest ports and the hub of the diamond trade in Europe; as such it is a city with much cultural and economic significance amongst the Benelux countries and although frequently overlooked as a tourist destination Antwerp has as much to offers to visitors as the nearby cities of Rotterdam and Bruges. Antwerp has long been a wealthy city, particularly during the 16 th and 17 th centuries when it enjoyed its heyday. Frequently referred to as the city’s ‘Golden Age’ Antwerp flourished as the trading capital of Europe during the 16 th century and enjoyed great prosperity and prestige. Evidence of Antwerp’s heritage as a wealthy commercial centre and a key port abounds in the form of churches, Renaissance architecture, winding medieval streets and the Steen – all that remains of Antwerp’s original fortifications. However, following extensive bomb damage sustained during World War II, parts of Antwerp have been rebuilt and now showcase stunning contemporary architecture alongside these historic treasures. Antwerp’s reputation as an economic centre prevails and it is home to many major international organisations and businesses but it is also one of Western Europe’s top cultural cities where history stands side by side with innovation. Grand cathedrals and traditional inns sit alongside contemporary architecture and flamboyant cocktail bars. Old buildings are sensitively converted into new arts venues and the city is home to both a centuries old diamond industry and a thriving fashion scene that makes Antwerp one of Europe’s top destinations for designer shopping.

Old Town life in Antwerp revolves around the historic Grote Markt Square, which is surrounded by 16th century guildhouses and is home to the spectacular 14 th century tower of Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal (Our Lady’s Cathedral), which is decorated inside with paintings by Rubens and an impressive statue of the Virgin Mary. The square sits amidst a maze of winding lanes that are home to numerous boutique shops, charming cafes and distinctive houses that make it easy to pass time just meandering around these medieval streets. The Old Harbour district has undergone recent regeneration to become one of the city’s most fashionable areas that is now flanked by desirable apartments, modern hotels, designer shops and exclusive restaurants. The Diamontwijk or diamond district is still populated by skilled tradesmen who have had workshops here for centuries and some of the shops and showrooms offer the possibility of seeing diamond cutters at work. MORE>>>

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