Antwerp may not be much of a political power compared to its neighbour Brussels, but it is one of the true gems of Flanders. With a amassment of baroque bars and antique constructions, Antwerp is also known as the diamond capital of the world. Almost all the diamonds imported from Africa are cut and prepared here. This notable charm and modest lifestyle in Antwerp make it one of Belgium's larger underrated tourist destinations. Antwerp has the right mingle of the old and the new, cradled in its place roads and monuments. Here, you may spot Art Nouveau mansions, Renaissance villas, and antiquated castles. These crucial architecture provide the backdrop for a romantic location in this diamond country.



You may start your "Antwerpen tour" by seeing the Antwerp Zoo. This zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world. Since it was founded in 1843, it continued to collect exotic animal species from Belgium's African colonies. You may still see the lion panels from the 1800's. The Grote Market in the old town centre is an icon of gothic lifestyle in Flanders. The triangular area that covers the market is lined with guild halls straight from the Renaissance, and you may also spot the Brabo fountain in the centre of the market.

Shopping is one activity that you should not miss in Antwerp. Once you leave the Antwerpen Centraal Station, head over to the diamond district just contrasting to the station. After you stroll through the diamond district, you can walk through the old city, as you are greeted by antique frameworks and lighthearted citizens. You may also drive to the Antwerp's north side to find ancient oil refineries. Then, go back to the town centre and shop for souvenirs, as well as consume some of Antwerp's local produce.

The Pelgrom comes to mind as a dissimilar form of entertainment. It is a building that has a fabulous pub underground. It also gasconades the "poortershuis," a remake of a 17th century meeting hamlet. One other thing of note when it comes to entertainment is the little obvious view of the center skyline when one takes the pedestrian tunnel in St. Jansvliet. It is simply breathtaking to see how the diamond capital of the world sparkles at night. The view is nothing short of dazzling. For shoppers, visiting the Meir is a satisfactory idea, especially for those looking for brand name items.

The residents of Antwerp cherish splendid food. You could get satisfying French temptations like french fries and other fried dishes in the standing eateries found on the allies. Antwerp has a unique custom of creating great bread, one of which is labeled "smos". Smos is bread topped with lots of layers of garnish. The only custom to eat it is to plunge in and chew them the messy form. For dinner, Antwerp has a store of fine dining restaurants. They say that the food in Antwerp is greater than in Brussels. You will need to be the judge.

Antwerp's past as a trading hub allowed it to accumulate humanism and experiences unlike from other municipals in Belgium. Now, Antwerp is going back to top form economically. Antwerp is one of the middling tourist ports in Europe that is classic and compelling, ready to bring its spirit in the new century.