Introduction

The citizens of Antwerp call it the Metropolis, and for good reason. The "City on the River Scheldt" is the second largest in Belgium, with a population of nearly 500,000. It is made up of so many different features that those looking to know it well must really take their time. There are a variety of unique, bustling neighborhoods to explore, each with their own personality.

The Old City

Many of the splendid architectural highlights can be found in the Old City, which was established in the 16th century. It encompasses the area around the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Grote Markt. The Vlaeykensgang is an example of the picturesque medieval streets. The golden age of Antwerp can also be found in the numerous paintings of Peter Paul Rubens who lived in Antwerp in the early 17th century. The destruction caused by WWI and WWII impacted the vitality of the Old City, but recent renovation projects have restored it to its former grandeur.

Quartier Latin and Avant-Garde Fashion

Antwerp has also earned a place among the fashion cities of the world thanks to the efforts of numerous young Flemish designers who have received international acclaim. Some of them include Nadine Wynants, the extravagant Walter van Beirendonck and the popular Ann De Meulemeester. You can find the new fashion district of Antwerp around Nationalestraat and the more mainstream boutiques in the back streets of Huidervetterstraat. Some great window-shopping is guaranteed. This part of town is also known as the Quartier Latin.

Port of Antwerp

Antwerp is the second largest seaport in Europe, following Rotterdam. The harbor was originally situated in the district which is now called 't Eilandje or "the Island." This district has definitely preserved some of the authentic harbor life. Expansion pushed it north to the left bank area, where you can now find large docks and Europe's largest energy facilities.

Sailors Quarter

The main Red Light District of Antwerp is situated in what is called Schipperskwartier or Rosse Buurt which is the area between Sint Paulusstraat and Brouwersvliet, not so far from the main tourist draw around the Grote Markt square. The mood is not as playful as it is in Amsterdam, but you can still find some trouble to get into.

The South

The main attraction in the Zuid, or South of Antwerp, is the Royal Museum of Fine Arts which is housed in a monumental, neo-classical building. This area really started to buzz a few years ago after numerous successful redevelopment projects. Now you'll find many fine brasseries and bistros that serve great food at reasonable prices. The annual amusement fair, Sinksenfoor, is held here in June.

Meir and de Keyserlei

These are Antwerp's main shopping streets and among the prettiest in Europe. Most of the Meir is reserved for pedestrians only and the stylish buildings with international department stores are quite a sight. You'll find a wide range of trendy boutiques here and in the side-streets.

Central Station

As you walk down de Keyserlei at the end of your shopping spree, you'll catch a glimpse of the magnificent Central Station. The surrounding area is a strange mixture of nouveau riche and underground cool. The shops on de Keyserlei and the fabulous postmodern Astrid Park Plaza Hotel stand not far from raucous, loud bars in Statiestraat. If you walk from Koningin Astrid Square towards De Coninck Square you'll wander into Antwerp's small Chinatown and the more discreet Red Light District.

Jewish Antwerp and the Diamond Center

Antwerp is also the "Diamond Capital of the World" and near the Central Station, you will find the Diamond District. The streets between the station and the city park, called Stadspark, is also the Jewish part of the city and the area where many live and work. The people add a unique atmosphere to the city. Estimates put the number of Jewish citizens in Antwerp from 15000 to 20000. However, before the Second World War, the Jewish population was much larger, at 55000 inhabitants.