It is one of the oldest stadiums in Belgium. It first opened its doors in 1923 and has been the seat of Antwerp ever since. After several renovations, most recently in 2017, it is one of the most beautiful and well-mannered small capacity stadiums in Europe. Its capacity is 16,144 spectators. Among other things, the stadium has hosted UEFA Euro 1972 matches and the European Cup Winners’ Cup final in 1964.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO BOSUILSTADION
*** BUS: 19, 33
*** LIGHT RAIL: 5
ANTWERP: THE CITY OF DIAMONDS
It is the largest port in the country and the second in Europe. Legend has it that the city’s name came from a giant who cut off and threw away the hand of any man who tried to cross the river. It is called the “city of diamonds” for a simple reason: Over 70% of the world’s diamonds are traded and sold through Antwerp! It combines the past with the present, the multicultural with the Flemish element and the whole city looks like an architecture museum.
Currency: Euro
Calling Code: +32
Nearest airports from city center: Antwerp Airport (6km), Brussels Airport (45km), Eindhoven Airport (90km), Charleroi Airport (106km), Lille Airport (134km), Amsterdam Airport (162km).
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** ZOO ANTWERPEN (Koningin Astridplein 20-26, 2018 Antwerpen)
One of the largest and oldest zoos in the world is in Antwerp. It opened in 1843 and you will see hundreds of species of animals in awesome facilities. The most popular attractions are the beloved koala couple who live together in a small village house.
*** CATHEDRAL OF OUR LADY (Groenplaats 21, 2000 Antwerpen)
It is the tallest cathedral (Gothic) in Belgium and the Netherlands and took almost 170 years to build (most of it completed in 1521). Enter the temple and see the strong baroque element and Ruben’s works of art.
*** ANTWERPEN – CENTRAAL (Koningin Astridplein 27, 2018 Antwerpen)
Most people will wonder why a train station is one of the must-see attractions for a visitor to Antwerp. The Gothic architecture of the building’s impressive exterior and its main hall will impress you. It is one of the three most beautiful railway stations in the world.
*** MUSEUM PLANTIN – MORETUS (Vrijdagmarkt 22, 2000 Antwerpen)
In the building which dates back to the medieval grounds and together with the courtyard is worth a visit, you can see the world’s oldest printing press, a 17th century library and many valuable works of art.
*** RUBENSHUIS (Wapper 9-11, 2000 Antwerpen)
A visit to the former home of the painter Pieter Paul Rubens (1577-1640) which was built by the artist himself is a must! There he stayed and there he had his studio to work. You will see period objects and many works of art.
*** HET STEEN (Steenplein 1, 2000 Antwerpen)
Visit the beautiful little castle that sits next to the Escaut River and dates back to the 1200s! See the statue outside the castle and capture the moments with several photos.
*** MUSEUM MAS (Hanzestedenplaats 1, 2000 Antwerpen)
If you want to learn all about the History of Antwerp and its role as an important port city, then you have come to the right museum.
*** RED STAR LINE MUSEUM (Montevideostraat 3, 2000 Antwerpen)
It is the museum of immigrants who left Belgium for a better future and mainly for the other side of the Atlantic via the Red Star Line ships. You will see personal belongings and photographs of the immigrants who started their long journey from this building that now houses the museum.
*** ANTWERP CITY HALL (Grote Markt 1, 2000 Antwerpen)
The impressive looking Town Hall is one of the most impressive in Europe and since 1999 it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the first examples of Renaissance architecture and opened its doors in 1565! It is visitable and you can see beautiful rooms and fine works of art.
*** KONINKLIJK MUSEUM VOOR SCHONE KUNSTEN (Leopold de Waelplaats 2, 2000 Antwerpen)
Opened in 1810, you will find collections of paintings, sculptures and other works of art from the 14th to the 20th century. It is worth a visit for those who love art.
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Chocolate lovers have found the most ideal place. Take a tour of Chocolate Nation and make your necessary purchases.
*** Antwerp has other museums to visit as well, such as Fashion Museum, Fotomuseum Antwerp, Museum Mayer van den Bergh, Museum Vleeshuis, Vlaams Tram- en Autobusmuseum and the diamond museum (DIVA).
*** A wonderful temple to visit is Saint Charles Borromeo. Sint-Pauluskerk is also nice.
*** Famous paintings can also be found in the historic Rockoxhuis residence.
*** Provincial Domain Rivierenhof and Stadspark are nice for walking and relaxing.
*** We would recommend you to go to De Koninck – Antwerp City Brewery to tour and taste the local beer.
FOOD AND DRINK
The classic traditional food of the city is “Frites and friteries”. Other traditional delicacies are Asperges op z’n Vlaams, Carbonade alla Fiamminga, Mussels, Carrot stoemp, Waterzooi, Konijn met pruimen. Of course you can find all cuisines (European to Asian, African and American). You definitely have to taste the wonderful chocolates, Gaufres de Liege and waffles. Local beer should not be missing from your menu.
WHERE TO STAY
You will find many hotels for all budgets, both in the historic city center and next to the train station.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** A very nice option to have a good time, carefree and playing, is Plopsa Station Antwerp.
*** A popular street with shops for your shopping is Meir. Also are Kammenstraat and Nationalestraat
*** For your shopping also visit Stadsfeestzaal, Grand Bazar Antwerp, Century Center
*** For water games visit LAGO Beveren De Meerminnen.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot or by bike.
CITIES NEAR ANTWERP
Major cities close to Antwerp are Mechelen (26km), Brussels (46km), Ghent (60km), Tilburg (77km), Eindhoven (85km), Genk (90km), Rotterdam (98km), Brugge (110km), The Hague (123km), Lille (126km), Liege (128km) and Amsterdam (158km).
