Antwerp: Belgium’s Best-Kept Secret for Summer Fun

For anyone harboring the misconception that Belgium lacks excitement, a visit to Antwerp is an absolute necessity. This vibrant, artsy, and delightfully quirky city is a true revelation, brimming with an impressive array of cocktail bars, charming coffee shops, and thought-provoking independent art galleries. As summer unfolds, Antwerp truly sparks into life, embracing an energetic alfresco culture that captivates locals and visitors alike.
Sunny weekends transform Sint-Anneke beach, located on the left bank of the River Scheldt, into a bustling hub of activity. Locals flock to its shores, dipping their toes into the refreshing water and indulging in leisurely lunches of fresh mussels at the numerous bistros that line the riverbank. The city’s parks and open spaces also become dynamic venues for a diverse range of entertainment, hosting captivating street theatre, mesmerizing circus acts, and enchanting open-air cinema, particularly during the highly anticipated Zomer van Antwerpen arts festival, running from June 19th to August 31st.
To truly grasp Antwerp’s rich historical tapestry, a visit to MAS is indispensable. This architecturally striking museum, perched elegantly on the riverbank, offers a fascinating journey through Antwerp’s illustrious past as a global trading port, with each floor meticulously charting a different aspect of its history. The experience culminates on a massive rooftop terrace, providing spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the city – an ideal spot for breathtaking photographs.
Antwerp undeniably runs on its stomach, a city where culinary delights are never far away. Microbreweries, artisanal chocolate shops, and the quintessential moules frites stands can be found on virtually every corner, catering to every craving. The latest addition to Antwerp’s vibrant food scene is Wolf, a sprawling food market featuring no less than ten distinct restaurants, offering a diverse array of culinary experiences. For a perfect alfresco meal, consider picking up a picnic to enjoy in the serene gardens of the Middelheim Museum’s world-class sculpture park. This expansive park features six distinct zones, each thoughtfully exploring the intricate relationship between humans and nature through abstract installations and strikingly innovative pieces, such as Erwin Vurm’s thought-provoking “boat curving off a jetty, Misconceivable.” For accommodation, Hotel Matelote (from €115 B&B), situated in the historic center, offers chic, minimalist design seamlessly integrated within two beautifully preserved 16th-century buildings.