Antwerp

Antwerp's Central Station is a magnificent architectural feat with its steel canopy over the platforms. The large station hall is frequently used for all kinds of events. In 2014 the website Mashable ranked it the most beautiful station in the world.

Romantic at heart, Antwerp unfolds for those travelling at this deliciously slow yet charmingly old-fashioned and enjoyable pace. The horses depart under good weather conditions from Grote Markt near the Town Hall.

Hop on the Antwerp Diamond double-decker bus and visit Antwerp’s best-known hot spots. It’s a first timers’ ideal introduction to the city. Daily departures from April until November, the other months only in the weekend.

This shuttle is a unique way to discover the city. Departure and arrival: Grote Markt with STOP Eilandje (MAS / RSL), STOP Central Station, STOP Groenplaats and STOP Zuid

In the late 1800's the passionate collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh amassed an amazing art collection. He purchased paintings by Peter Brueghel for a pittance, managed to beat major museums purchasing stunning medieval sculptures. Mayer van den Bergh had an eye for the best quality in almost every genre. After his death his mother finally managed to make her son’s dream come true: she built a museum, which only showcased his collection. And today Museum Mayer van den Bergh hasn’t changed: it is still a museum of one man... and of his mother. Highly recommended in the Great smaller museums of Europe!

Between 1873 and 1934 the Red Star Line’s ocean steamers ferried about 2.6 million adventurers and fortune seekers from Antwerp to New York. For many people their passage started in the Red Star Line buildings in Antwerp. This museum tells the story of these passengers. The old buildings render their feelings and emotions tangible and visible. This new Antwerp museum also examines the issue of migration today.

Step into the shoes of the leading Baroque artist of his era. Rubens and his family lived in this palatial setting for well over 25 years and it is here that the artist created the lion’s share of his work. Here he entertained Europe’s nobility and Royalty and stored his impressive art collection in a beautiful art room. The charming garden, the creators’ workshop and the fabulous collection draws hundreds of thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Right in the heart of the Antwerp fashion district is ModeMuseum of the Province of Antwerp, also referred to as MoMu. Whilst the museum manages a collection of more than 25,000 objects (including garments and shoes) that are not accessible to the public, it does organize alternating exhibitions on specific themes (designer, fashion house or any other fashion-related theme).

The Museum of Contemporary art or M HKA is located in the bustling Zuid district, among the galleries and the lively cafés. Explore a fascinating collection of modern art in the old, converted corn silo. The museum is currently closed for renovations, on the 27th April it will reopen with new exhibitions in a brand new setting.

Near the river Scheldt you find Saint Paul’s Church, the former Dominican church, which was completed in 1639. Masterpieces by artists such as Jordaens, Rubens, Van Balen and Van Dyck emphasise the church’s unique appeal.

Guided bike tours (individual and group bookings accepted)