Top hotels in Antwerp

Over 510,000 people call this municipal capital their home, and the outer commuter zone includes nearly two million inhabitants. It is rumored that the city originated from a legend about a mythical giant by the name of Antigoon. Much like a troll, this giant collected a toll to cross the bridge over the Scheldt River. Today, a statue stands in front of town hall in celebration of this fun tale. Since then, the city of Antwerp has become a modern metropolis that offers everything you expect from a livable city. Its backdrop of intact historical buildings is mixed with new age urban homes, creating a lovely flair like no other.

Location: Seaport in the Scheldt River Delta

The municipality is located on the river Scheldt, which leads to the North Sea, making it one of the largest ports in Europe and an important cultural and economic city to the Low Countries. It is situated in northern Belgium and therefore easily accessible from the bordering Netherlands, Germany, and France.

Business: One of the Largest Seaports in Europe

Antwerp's port handles large quantities of cargo, including project and bulk cargo. The petrochemical industry is booming, with five oil refineries located in the docklands. Also nearby are four nuclear power plants, a conventional power station, and a wind farm, making the power industry a huge employer in the area as well. Yet the most important branch is diamond trade, with four diamond bourses and the Antwerp World Diamond Centre calling the city their home.

Culture: A Passion for Fashion

Once known for art because of its school of painting, Antwerp is now a rising fashion city. The location of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts has allowed for the production of many big names in fashion. Furthermore, the city is known for its unique local products, including the amber beer Mokatine sweets, and locally roasted coffee.

Activities: Sightseeing, Family Fun, and Ocean Attractions

Antwerp has fun for all ages with towering cathedrals, palaces, arts museums, and even petting farms. However, it is also known for unique attractions that give a taste of another life. Two such attractions are Pirateneiland, a children’s theme park, and Aquatopia, which houses 35 aquariums in 7 theme worlds.