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 mass of baroque bars and antique frameworks, Antwerp is also called the diamond capital of the world. Almost all the diamonds imported from Africa are cut and prepared here. This memorable charm and modest lifestyle in Antwerp make it one of Belgium's most underrated tourist destinations. Antwerp has the right infusion of the ancient and the new, cradled in its metropolitan area parkways and traces. Here, you could locate Art Nouveau mansions, Renaissance villas, and dark ages castles. These pivotal architecture provide the backdrop for a romantic location in this diamond country.



As with legions other locales in historically rich Belgium, Antwerp has a magnificent past. The area is a paradise for those who treasure literature, art, or even architecture as seen in places like the Rubenshuis, the Plantin Moretus Museum, and the Cathedral of Our Lady, respectively. Since it is the diamond capital of the world, one might ask where one could buy some splendid diamonds. As mentioned earlier, 3/4ths of the world diamond trade happens in Antwerp, so the question is misleading, as one could buy diamonds just about anywhere in Antwerp. The superior would never be in question either as the pride of the province lies in the diamonds one brings home.

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 different from the station. After you stroll through the diamond district, you could walk through the bygone city, as you are greeted by antique constructed dwellings and lighthearted citizens. You could also drive to the Antwerp's north side to find old oil refineries. Then, go back to the town centre and shop for souvenirs, as well as consume some of Antwerp's local produce.

As with all things Europe, the bars are always of note. Every country has its own public house civilisation, and Belgium is not any different. The Pelgrom is a peerless underground pub that day-trippers should not forget to pop in. Unlike other countries that have "locals" frequenting the bars, Antwerp bars are lush due to the friendliness of the Antwerp populace. There is also the high-class shopping area in Meir for vacationists who desire to spend commendable money on some novel Belgian gear and shoes. The items are without question worth it as they represent the convention of life in Antwerp.

Antwerp stands out from the rest of Belgium when it comes to food. While Brussels is mighty for its chocolate, Antwerp has a delicacy christened "smos" which is made out of bread. It is difficult to say where the supreme "smos" is, as every human being in Antwerp has a unlike opinion about it, but one favored store is Jean-Pierre. The friendly members of public of Antwerp will gladly direct the strangers to a village near the university where the favorite "smos" is served. The greater restaurants in Antwerp do not offer Belgian food, unfortunately. The common food offered is just like the other locales with regard to ethnic food.

Antwerp has been under the radar for so long, so expect this municipality to emerge as a elite tourist spot in the coming years. The supreme style to get around Antwerp is with bikes. Look around museums, royal houses, and the famed Cathedral of our Lady.