Having been a neglected and discarded neighborhood only a few years ago, ‘t Eilandje is now the hotspot for hipsters and artsy folk. Although the gaudy yachts might not be for everyone, the small harbor is a pleasant place to dream about stormy seas and faraway adventures. Towering above the entire neighborhood and a must visit for every Antwerp lover is the MAS museum; a landmark between the city and its port, this brand new museum tells the story of Antwerp and its inhabitants. The view from the roof is breathtaking on a clear and sunny day, and those who dare to look down can spot a beautiful artwork from renowned Belgian painter Luc Tuymans hidden somewhere on the museum site itself.
Address: 1 Hanzestedenplaats, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium +32 3 338 44 00
MAS | © littlewormy/Shutterstock
The Summer of Antwerp is one big feast that lasts over two months every summer. On several locations across the city, from rooftops and hangars to parks and upgraded industrial areas, concerts, theater performances and circus shows are organized. Movie nights along the river Scheldt and innumerable parties light up the summer nights. Drink cocktails in the exotic chill-out spot Zomerbar, dance in the Zomerfabriek and stay at the Nulsterrenpension. This ‘zero-star pension’ provides a once-in-a lifetime experience, located in an abandoned gas factory and equipped with second-hand beds and furniture.
World famous and located in Antwerp city, this jazz café has been hot and happening ever since 1964. Café De Muze represents everything the city stands for; artists and forgotten writers, up and coming musicians and those who have already made it. Only in De Muze can you find this wonderful blend of people that is so characteristic of the city itself. At least three times a week there is a music gig during which up and coming bands test their jazzy beats on the public.
Address: 15 Melkmarkt, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
Jazz Club | © pointbreak/Shutterstock
Extra City is off the beaten track, but entirely worth being on this list. Art adepts will love this place; Extra City Kunsthal is a platform for the production, presentation and debate of contemporary art and there are exhibitions, performances and talks going on all the time. The venue is located in a former industrial launderette and accommodates artist studios, ateliers for art students, a cool bar and a cinema space. It’s totally hip and arty, and visitors will feel inspired from the moment they set foot in the building.
Address: 31 Eikelstraat, 2600 Antwerp, Belgium +32 3 677 16 55
This narrow and always pleasantly crowded street in the south of the city is a favorite route for flaneurs with a soft spot for antiques. Numerous minuscule stores filled with old furniture, collector’s items and retro gadgets make for long and slow afternoons in the sun. You can find anything you want here and everything you never knew you wanted. After digging through all the knick-knacks, a well deserved fresh beer is to be found in every bar along the street.
Address: Kloosterstraat, Antwerp, Belgium
Translating to the House of Rubens, this small museum is located in the former studio and home of one of the most famous Flemish painters of all time. Peter Paul Rubens lived in the 17th century and created some of the most beautiful altarpieces, portraits and landscapes in a specific baroque style. The Rubenshuis itself is a masterpiece of architecture and the walls of the building are adorned with an impressive selection of Rubens’ artwork and paintings, including his very own self-portrait.
Address: 9-11 Wapper, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium +32 3 201 15 55
Rubenshuis | ©yanugkelid/Shutterstock