In the Belgium jungle

Private tours Antwerp

Welcome to Antwerp!

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? As your personal travel guide, I am excited to show you the amazing city of Antwerp. My hometown.

What makes Antwerp worth a visit?

History

Antwerp is known for its fascinating history, having been one of Europe’s most important cities during the Renaissance. Its centuries-old buildings, cobbled streets, and charming cafes make it a perfect destination for history buffs.

Diamonds

Antwerp is renowned as the diamond cutting and trading capital of the world. Visitors can explore the Diamond District and even attend a diamond cutting workshop to learn more about this precious gem.

Fashion

Antwerp is also known as the fashion capital of Belgium, with its renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts producing some of the world’s top fashion designers. The city boasts numerous designer boutiques, high-end stores, and quirky vintage shops, making it a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts.

Food

Antwerp is home to a diverse range of cuisines, from traditional Belgian dishes like moules-frites (mussels and fries) to international flavours influenced by its multicultural population. Visitors can indulge in delicious street food or dine at Michelin-starred restaurants.

Art

The city has a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing both contemporary and classic masterpieces. The city is also home to the Rubenshuis, the former home of famous painter Peter Paul Rubens, which now serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Festival

Throughout the year, Antwerp hosts a variety of festivals and events, from music to food to cultural celebrations. Some notable ones include the Belgian Beer Weekend, the Antwerp Pride festival, and the Christmas market held in December.

A very short history of Antwerp!

First settlement

Antwerp is located in the Flemish region of Belgium. The city has a rich and storied history that dates back to ancient times. The first settlements in Antwerp can be traced back to the pre-Roman era, with evidence of human presence found at the site of the current city center.

Middle Ages

It was not until the Middle Ages that Antwerp truly began to flourish as a city. In the 10th century, Antwerp was granted city rights by the Holy Roman Emperor and established itself as an important trading hub due to its location on the river Scheldt.

During the 16th century, Antwerp became one of Europe’s most prosperous cities thanks to its booming trade industry in textiles, luxury goods, and art. It also became a melting pot of cultures, with merchants from all over Europe coming to live and work in the city.

End of the golden ages

The golden age came to an abrupt end when Antwerp was besieged and captured by Spanish troops during the Eighty Years’ War. The city’s economy suffered greatly, but it did not stop Antwerp from rising again in the 19th century as an industrial powerhouse.

In the 20th century, Antwerp played a significant role in both World Wars, with the city being occupied by German forces in both conflicts. The city quickly bounced back and emerged as one of Europe’s major port cities and a center for diamond trade.

Modern time

Today, Antwerp is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, and breathtaking architecture. It continues to thrive as a major economic and cultural center in Europe. The city is attracting visitors from all over the world to experience its unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global city, Antwerp’s history is one of resilience, adaptation, and progress.

The city has also played a significant role in the world of fashion, with designers such as Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester calling it their home.