The Top 10 Things To Do And See In Antwerp's Old City

Antwerp is a bustling metropolis full of modern entertainments, but it’s the centuries-old history in the old city center that fuels the local tourist industry. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 cultural attractions to look out for on the charming cobbled streets.

1. Cathedral of Our Lady

Cathedral

This cathedral has undergone several changes since its inception in 1352 – including the long process of actually becoming a cathedral. The structure’s distinctive tower was finished in 1518, making Our Lady the tallest structure in the Low Countries for the next several hundred years. The cathedral has been plundered and raided by various forces throughout the years, but many of its artistic treasures have remained safe despite the conflict. The cathedral’s fittings could be seen as art objects in their own right, such as the altars and confessionals, but it’s the Rubens paintings that steal the show.

Watch out for: Rubens’ Descent from the Cross

Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1pm-4pm

Rubenshuis

Peter Paul Rubens was one of the most prominent Flemish painters of his time, and has remained a national favourite in the years since his death. Rubenshuis is a museum dedicated to his life and work, located in the artist’s former home and studio. The house is vast, with many rooms, a courtyard, and Rubens’ art room where he housed his personal collection. In another building at the back of the garden visitors will find the Rubenianum – a more focused centre dedicated to the study of Rubens’ works.

Opening Hours: 10am-5pm Tue-Sun

Watch out for: The self-portrait in the dining room

Rubenshuis, Wapper 9-11, Antwerp, Belgium, +32 3 201 15 55

2. The Plantin-Moretus Museum

Museum

Christophe Plantin and Jan Moretus were two of the foremost printers of their time, and The Plantin-Moretus Museum is dedicated to the history of their trade. Like the Rubenshuis, the museum is housed in Plantin’s and Moretus’ former residences and studios. The two printers’ workshops and living spaces are separate yet interconnected in structure, and the walled garden they share offers guests a brief respite under the Belgian sky. Plantin Press was one of the main publishers of the printed word in the 16th century, and this museum holds an extensive collection of their beautiful works.

Opening Hours: 10am-5pm daily

Watch out for: The rare 36-line Bible

3. St. Paul’s Church

Church, Cathedral

Just a stone’s throw from the Scheldt River, St. Paul’s Church is a standout example of Gothic architecture, topped with an ornate Baroque tower. The interior is richly decorated in the Baroque style as well, with impressive columns, a leaf motif, and rare works of art by some of the most famous Flemish painters. While visiting St. Paul’s be sure to stop outside and admire The Calvary, a group sculpture consisting of 63 life-sized statues of angels, prophets, and other religious figures.

Watch out for: The main altar