Antwerp might not be much of a political power compared to its neighbour Brussels, but it is one of the true gems of Flanders. With a accumulation of baroque bars and antique constructed dwellings, Antwerp is also named 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 merger of the bygone and the new, cradled in its conurbation streets and monuments. Here, you may locate Art Nouveau mansions, Renaissance villas, and dark ages castles. These decisive edifices provide the backdrop for a romantic site in this diamond country.

You could commence your "Antwerpen journey" 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 can still see the lion panels from the 1800's. The Grote Market in the ancient city centre is an icon of dark ages lifestyle in Flanders. The triangular area that covers the market is lined with guild halls straight from the Renaissance, and you can also find the Brabo fountain in the middle 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 a far cry from the station. After you stroll through the diamond district, you can walk through the bygone city, as you are greeted by antique fabrics and lighthearted citizens. You may also drive to the Antwerp's north side to spot bygone oil refineries. Then, go back to the town centre and shop for souvenirs, as well as consume some of Antwerp's local produce.

Antwerp has its own brand of amusement found in the ancient town centre. The Cafe Beveren is a quaint shop frequented by university students, singles, and sailors. There is also an antique organ and jukebox that is played by local talents. The Bourlaschouwburg is a round theatre that was once fabricated for the French elite in the 1830's. Now, you can watch the Het Toneelhuis theatre company display their talent in this theatre. Cartoons is a cinema house for foreign films and independently produced features. You could sit down and take in the cosy feeling of the cinema house with your date.

Antwerp stands out from the rest of Belgium when it comes to food. While Brussels is noted for its chocolate, Antwerp has a delicacy labeled "smos" which is made out of bread. It is difficult to say where the supreme "smos" is, as every human in Antwerp has a divergent opinion about it, but one leading store is Jean-Pierre. The friendly folk of Antwerp will gladly direct the strangers to a town near the university where the leading "smos" is served. The preferable restaurants in Antwerp do not offer Belgian food, unfortunately. The common food offered is just like the other places with regard to ethnic food.

Antwerp is a tourist spot that must not be missed by members of public taking a European road peregrination. It is engrossing to learn how Belgium and Antwerp mattered in world affairs the whole time the centuries. Drop by Antwerp and experience Belgium's history at its most masterly.