Antwerp lies in the Flemish region of Belgium and is the capital of the Antwerp province. As the second-largest city, Antwerp has embraced its commercial heritage and is known as the shopping capital of Belgium. Brussels to Antwerp is less than 50 minutes by train. The Antwerp central train station is one of the city’s top attractions, as well as, the town square lined with its incredible 16th and 17th century buildings.
Although Antwerp lacks the charm of other Belgium cities, it makes up for it when it comes to the large selection of restaurants, cafés, and accommodations. A popular attraction is the city’s museums- the Red Star Line museum, the Rubens House, Platin Moretus museum to name just a few.
23 Comments
simplyjolayne
I have had the good fortune of visiting Ghent, Bruges and Belgium and loved them. I’m sure there is so much more to see.
The.Holidaymaker
Yes, lots of fantastic places to visit in Belgium.
Linda (LD Holland)
I must admit that I have never been to Belgium. So this was a great guide of places to add to our list besides just Brussels. I would certainly head out to enjoy the architecture in all of the other cities. And to marvel at the preserved medieval city of Ghent. Visiting less known places like Leuven is always a treat.
The.Holidaymaker
Belgium is such a beautiful country and hopefully you get a chance to visit it one day soon.
Sarah
I’ve only been to Brussels so far since I have family there so free accomodation, but I definitely want to explore more of the country next time I visit! Most of these places were already on my list, but I’d not heard of Dinant before and absolutely adore that photo so it’s gone straight onto my to-visit list!
The.Holidaymaker
How lucky you are to have family there. I would highly recommend Dinant. It is a hidden gem for sure! Thank you for your comment.
Dominika
Such a great post! I love discovering second and third cities and lesser known destinations. I haven’t been to Belgium yet so might need to add it to my list as those cities look gorgeous!
The.Holidaymaker
Thanks for stopping by Dominika! Glad the post inspired you to rethink Belgium. It’s a great destination, and central spot in Europe to see beyond.
Hannah Eunice Padilla
I so wanted to go to Brugge when I was in London and Paris in October. But we didn’t have enough time, we had 4 days in the UK and 3 days in Paris. I’m from the US so I am really sad not knowing when we will ever go back especially with the coronavirus cases 🙁
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your comment Hannah. Brussels makes for such a good home base for exploring many cities in Belgium as it is a small country in size and very easy to use the train. Hopefully you can return to Europe soon.
Steph
What an amazing list! It made me realize how many places I still have to explore right at my front door. Belgium is so close to where I grew up (and still spend a lot of time), but I have never been to any of the five cities on this list. It’s always been one of those ‘one day’ things, but I guess I should finally visit them.
The.Holidaymaker
Wow! To think I brought something new to a local! Thanks for your comment Steph. Glad to have given you some new options to explore.
Justine
We loved Belgium when we went last year but only got to see Brussels, Bruges and Ghent. Would love to go back and see Antwerp and Dinant next time though, so thank you for the tips! 🙂
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your comment Justine. Wasn’t Belgium a great destination to visit- close proximity to so many great places to visit?
Gus Feliciano
Ugh I miss Belgium so much! I did a weekend trip while in Europe and fell in love with Bruges! It was my first time in Europe but to this day that might be my favorite city in Europe so far. We spent about half a day in Antwerp and the shopping is no joke!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Gus for your comment. Did you see the Antwerp train station? It must be one of the best ones in Europe.
Riana Ang-Canning
I love this list! I visited Antwerp for the second time in 2018 and loved it. Just the train station alone was enough to wow me. Leuven looks amazing – especially that Stadhuis. Adding to my must-visit list!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you Riana for your comment. Leuven is such a beautiful city, I think most tourists stay away because it is a university town, full of young people. But I loved it!
Emma
I visited Belgium a few years ago and spent time in Brussels and Bruges. I hope to get back though and see some more places. I think Ghent would be my next stop. Beautiful country and I found it very easy to get around by train
The.Holidaymaker
Thanks for stopping by Emma, and your comment. Many people stay in Ghent for a weekend, as there is much to see and do while there. Hopefully you are able to return and see it.
Brooklyn
Belgium looks beautiful! I’ve never been, but I would love to go someday. I love your photos, they show off the incredible architecture!
The.Holidaymaker
Thank you for your kind comment Brooklyn.
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