Lorsque vous séjournez à PREMIER SUITES Anvers, you place yourself at the crossroads of a city rich in history, culture, and creativity. Antwerp is not just one experience. Each district tells a different story, with its own architecture, traditions, and energy. From medieval streets to vibrant docklands, Antwerp’s neighborhoods invite you to slow down, explore, and discover what makes the city stand out.
The Historic Centre
If it is your first visit to Antwerp, begin in the Historic Centre. This is the oldest part of the city, where cobbled lanes lead towards the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady. Inside, you can admire works by Peter Paul Rubens, the Baroque painter whose art is woven into Antwerp’s identity.
The Grote Markt is the main square, framed by guild houses with ornate façades. The Brabo Fountain at its centre recalls the legend of Antwerp’s name. Around the square, terrace cafés offer a perfect break to try Belgian favourites like waffles, beer, or mussels with fries. Visiting early in the morning or in the evening lets you enjoy the square with fewer crowds and more atmosphere.
The Diamond District
Beside Antwerp Central Station lies the Diamond District, where over four-fifths of the world’s rough diamonds pass through each year. The area is home to cutters, traders, and jewellers with centuries of expertise. Even if you do not plan to buy, walking past the glittering shop windows is an experience in itself.
For more context, visit the DIVA Museum, which explores Antwerp’s diamond and silver heritage through interactive displays. The district shows why Antwerp has long been known as the “diamond capital of the world.”
Meir and the Fashion District
Shopping in Antwerp begins with the Meir, the city’s busiest retail street. Here, you’ll find international brands in historic buildings, including the former Royal Palace and the beautifully restored Stadsfeestzaal shopping centre.
A short walk away, Nationalestraat takes you into the heart of Antwerp’s fashion world. The ModeMuseum (MoMu) tells the story of the city’s design scene, shaped by the “Antwerp Six,” a group of designers who rose to fame in the 1980s. Boutiques and concept stores line the streets, making this district a must for anyone interested in style and creativity.
Het Zuid (The South)
Het Zuid has become Antwerp’s cultural hotspot. Wide boulevards and elegant townhouses now hold galleries, bars, and restaurants. Art is the main draw here, with two major museums worth visiting.
- Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) recently reopened after a long renovation and holds masterpieces by Rubens, Van Dyck, and Ensor.
- Museum of Contemporary Art (M HKA) highlights modern and experimental works.
After a museum visit, Het Zuid offers plenty of choice for dinner, from fine dining to lively cafés. At night, the district becomes one of Antwerp’s busiest areas, popular with both locals and visitors.
Eilandje (The Little Island)
Antwerp’s oldest port area, Eilandje, has been transformed into a stylish district while keeping its maritime character. The standout building here is the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom), which combines history, art, and culture across ten floors. Even if you do not enter, the rooftop offers free views across the city and the river.
Nearby, the Red Star Line Museum tells the story of emigrants who departed Antwerp for North America in the 19th and 20th centuries. The quays around Eilandje now host restaurants and bars, perfect for waterfront dining. In summer, the district is full of open-air events and a relaxed, festival-like energy.
Zurenborg
For a quieter side of Antwerp, head to Zurenborg, known for its stunning architecture. The neighbourhood grew during the late 19th century, and its streets are lined with houses in Art Nouveau, Neo-Gothic, and eclectic styles. Cogels-Osylei is the most famous street, often described as an open-air museum of architecture.
Zurenborg also has a cosy village feel, with small restaurants and cafés clustered around Dageraadplaats square. It is the ideal district for an evening stroll and a relaxed dinner away from the city buzz.
Borgerhout
To see a different face of Antwerp, visit Borgerhout, just east of the centre. This is a diverse district where cultures mix, giving it a vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find international food markets, colourful street art, and a strong sense of community.
The Roma Theatre, a restored cinema from the 1920s, is now one of Antwerp’s best live music venues. Its programme ranges from jazz and soul to world music and theatre. Borgerhout may not be as polished as other areas, but it is authentic and creative, making it worth the short trip.
Exploring from PREMIER SUITES Antwerp
Séjourner à PREMIER SUITES Anvers places you within walking distance of many of these neighbourhoods, especially the Diamond District and Meir. Our serviced apartments combine comfort with flexibility, giving you space to cook, work, or relax after a day in the city. You can experience Antwerp at your own pace, with the freedom to step into different districts and return to a base that feels like home.
Réflexions finales
Antwerp’s neighbourhoods reflect the city’s many layers. The Historic Centre shows its medieval roots, Het Zuid and Eilandje highlight its cultural revival, while Borgerhout and Zurenborg reveal its diversity and architecture. No matter how you spend your days, each district offers something unique. With PREMIER SUITES Anvers as your base, you can explore them all with ease and return each evening to the comfort of your own apartment.
