In the late 1800s, a passionate collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh amassed an amazing art collection. He purchased paintings by Peter Brueghel for a pittance, and 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 showcased his collection. Today, the museum stands largely uncharged: it is still a museum of one man... and his mother. Highly recommended in the Great smaller museums of Europe.

Middelheimmuseum is a unique place in Antwerp. This stunning park features an impressive art collection and temporary exhibitions. Some of the leading artists whose sculptures are on display in Middelheim Museum include: Auguste Rodin, Rik Wouters, Ai Weiwei and Erwin Wurm. The completely renovated castle — with a reception, café and museum shop — is the open-air museum’s beating heart. There’s always something new to discover!

This museum is a combination of two historic homes: the home of the 17th century artist Frans Snyders and his neighbour, mayor Nicolaas Rockox. The permanent exhibition brings together masterpieces from Jan Fyt, Cornelis Massijs, Peter Paul Rubens, Jan Sanders van Hemessen, Hans III Jordaens, Jacob Jordaens, Maerten de Vos, David Teniers, Quentin Matsys, Joachim Patinir, Frans Snyders himself, Lucas Faydherbe, Paulus Pontius and Lambert Lombard. In the other rooms, you can admire art cabinets, sculptures, tapestries and ceramics.

Cyrano de Bergerac is the titular fictional character from poet and dramatist Edmond Rostand’s great comedic work, adopted by the town of Bergerac. The statue is surrounded by quaint restaurants and is a great place to take a break from exploring the town.