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 collection of baroque bars and antique houses, Antwerp is also known as the diamond capital of the world. Almost all the diamonds imported from Africa are cut and prepared here. This important charm and modest lifestyle in Antwerp make it one of Belgium's larger underrated tourist destinations. Antwerp has the right integration of the old and the new, cradled in its center roadways and landmarks. Here, you could spot Art Nouveau mansions, Renaissance villas, and dark ages castles. These pivotal structures provide the backdrop for a romantic scene in this diamond country.

You may lead off your "Antwerpen trip" by visiting the Antwerp Zoo. This zoo is one of the most old 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 dated town 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 pinpoint 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 altered from the station. After you stroll through the diamond district, you can walk through the old place, as you are greeted by antique constructions and lighthearted citizens. You could also drive to the Antwerp's north side to pinpoint bygone oil refineries. Then, go back to the city centre and shop for souvenirs, as well as consume some of Antwerp's local produce.

Pleasure options in Antwerp are hot tickets in Europe. The place has a character for esteemed ballet displays and operas. You can hear the Royal Flanders Philharmonic do their magic in the concert halls around the borough. For film breaks, the UGC Antwerpen has wonderful seats and big screens. Recreation halls populate the city centre. Consult local people on the best spots to display pastime along casual night outs.

Antwerp stands out from the rest of Belgium when it comes to food. While Brussels is powerful for its chocolate, Antwerp has a delicacy christened "smos" which is made out of bread. It is difficult to say where the utmost "smos" is, as every being in Antwerp has a variant opinion about it, but one accepted store is Jean-Pierre. The friendly people of Antwerp will gladly direct the travellers to a location near the university where the famed "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.

The economic dominance of Antwerp didn't start with diamonds. The sheer economic success of the province dates back to the 16th century, and quite obviously, the success has carried over to recent times. Nowadays, the diamond trade is a sparkling feature that gives the metropolitan area its deserved lustre, yet it still gives us umpteen enlightening value that folk will appreciate.