Being a busy and modern city, Antwerp is home to a number of attractions which will keep the children occupied for hours. The zoo is one of the oldest in Europe and has been acclaimed for its work with endangered species. The aquarium can be found in the city centre and is great fun for all of the family. If your children need to get rid of some excess energy, take them to Pirate’s Island, an enormous indoor activity centre where they can run around and make as much noise as they like until they’re worn out.

Antwerp Zoo
This zoo is one of Europe’s oldest and is home to over 4,000 different species of animals which include marine mammals and fish. Some of the larger animals have very natural enclosures and all have plenty of space. Every enclosure has a structure in it which is modelled on famous buildings throughout the world at different times in history. The zoo is renowned around the world for its work to save endangered species. 
Phone: +32 03 024 540

Antwerpen Miniatuurstad
This is a great place to take children of all ages. It is a mini version of the city, made to scale in the middle of parklands. The children are like giants running among the mini skyscrapers, churches and landmarks. There are a number of picnic sites throughout the park where parents can sit and relax. Guided tours are available as are audio-visual programmes. 
Phone +32 03 370 329

Aquatopia
This very modern aquarium will keep the children entertained for hours. The two-floor venue boasts an exciting range of underwater ecosystems such as mangroves, swamps and rainforests. Sea life ranges from fish to coral reefs and from reptiles to sharks and stingrays. There are a number of shows throughout the day and guided tours are available. 
Website: www.aquatopia.be

Pirate's Island (Pirateneiland)
The country’s largest indoor playground is a big hit with the kids. It is three floors of pure fun with attractions including: pirate ships, ropes, slides, ball pools, soft play equipment and refreshments. 
Phone: +32 32 315 0601

Provincial Park (Schranshoeve Sprookjeshuis)
This large park can be found in the centre of the city and is very popular with families from all over the world. The park is home to a children’s play area, an educational centre, a small petting farm and a wide range of plants which are all discussed in the centre. 
Phone: +32 03 324 8270

Antwerp was given the prestigious title of ‘Cultural Capital of Europe’, which was mainly due to the large number of museums and galleries the city boasts. Some of the most popular include the Fine Arts Museum and the house of the great art master Rubens. Other important cultural landmarks include the Cathedral of Our Lady and a notable mansion which once belonged to the mayor of the city and now offers an important insight into the historic culture of the city.

Antwerp Royal Museum of Fine Arts
This is one of the best galleries in the city and its collection of art work is hardly rivalled anywhere else in the country. It hosts a collection by famous Belgian painters such as Rubens. It has many paintings which date to the 15th century including works by Renaissance and Baroque artists. It is a must for art and culture buffs. 
Phone: +32 32 387 809

Begijnhof
This is a very beautiful convent which dates to the 13th century. There is a lot to explore within the grounds and a certain serenity to enjoy. Entering the convent allows people to step back in time and imagine what life was like in 13th-century Antwerp.

Cathedral of Our Lady
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, this cathedral is the largest in the city and the most significant in terms of historical importance. It dates back to 1352, boasts many impressive features and is the most important of Antwerp’s many historic churches. The cathedral has many prominent features such as the white spire, imposing tower and beautiful façade. However, it is the artwork on the interior which this cathedral is really famed for. The church boasts one of the best collections of 17th-century religious art in the world. A visit to the church will reveal four of Ruben’s most valuable masterpieces, known as ‘the altarpieces’, of which The Assumption is the most famous. 
Phone: +32 03 213 99 40

Rubenshuis
This house was designed and built by Rubens, Antwerp’s most famous artist. He was one of the most influential artists of his time and as well as being a scholar was also granted a knighthood. The house has been transformed into a museum detailing his life and showcasing some of his artwork (most of his work is displayed in galleries across the city). The highlight of the museum is his studio, which has been reconstructed to appear as it was while he was alive. 
Phone: +32 32 011 555

Rockoxhuis
This museum is located within the 17th-century mansion which once belonged to Nicholas Rockox. Rockox was the mayor of Antwerp in the 17th century and was a notable figure of society. The mansion overlooks a stunning courtyard, and inside it has been furnished in a traditional Flemish style with ornate decoration and furniture. There is a very small collection of paintings including some by Rubens, who was a close friend of Rockox. 
Phone: +32 03 201 9250

Antwerp is a large city with a great deal of choice when it comes to restaurants and styles of cuisine. There are a number of small eateries serving snacks and light meals and many cafés serving up more hearty meals in a relaxed atmosphere. If you are looking for a bit of local cuisine, you will find a number of Belgian restaurants serving local Flemish dishes and a selection of restaurants offering some of the best food in the city.

The best traditional restaurants and cafés can be found in Oude Stad and around Grote Markt. Eating out in Antwerp is very popular so be sure to book a table in advance if you are heading to a particularly popular restaurant. The best selection of top-end restaurants can be found along the waterfront, while the Het Zuid district is also a trendy district.

Antwerp is very proud of its culinary heritage and boasts a wide range of dishes which are centred on seafood. Local dishes are simple, without too much garnish and reliant on the freshness of the ingredients. Popular dishes include: poached turbot, steamed mussels, baked sea snails and fried shrimp. For lighter snacks, try some local cheese and filled Belgian waffles.

Antwerp is famous across Europe for its shopping opportunities. Diamonds and designer fashion are two of the city’s most popular buys. The Golden Mile, which stretches from the Meir to the Groen Plaats, is the city’s main shopping district where you will find designer boutiques, high street shops and plenty of shoe shops. Antwerp’s fashion labels Ann Demeulemeester, Dirk Bikkembergs and Dries Van Noten are famed around the world. If it is diamonds you are after, you need to make your way to the Diamond Quarter, which can be found west of Centraal Station.

If you like to mix shopping with sightseeing, taking a walk along the promenade will allow you to enjoy both. There are many sights to see alongside the many boutiques and souvenir shops. The waterfront runs along the entire length of Antwerp’s coastline and riverside, from Scheldt past the harbour and onto the beaches. It is also a chance to view some of the impressive ships which dock here. As well as sightseeing and shopping, there are also many restaurants lining the strip.