Antwerp is Belgium’s second-largest city. It lies at the heart of the country and despite not being the capital, is still a bustling and thriving place to visit. It is regarded as being the ‘Diamond Capital of the World’ and is popular with history and art buffs as it is so economically and culturally rich.

Some of the favourite places that tourists visit here include: the Scheldt River, the Old Town and the countless museums. There is also lots going on after dark and a number of green areas to escape to if you need to get away from the city.

Other popular sights include the many parks and gardens which are dotted around the city, and the zoo and aquarium. Antwerp was once home to the famous 17th-century artist Rubens, and you will find his old house and a number of art galleries showcasing his work.

Aside from sightseeing visitors can enjoy the fabulous cuisine and Belgian beers on offer at eateries around town, as well as delicious Belgian chocolates, waffles and mussels. The dining is an attraction in itself in this popular Belgian city.

There are a number of different hotels and guesthouses to stay at which cater to all tastes and budgets. The waterfront and Old Town are home to the best hotels while mid-range establishments can be found everywhere. If you are on a tight budget, you will find many guesthouses and hostels offering rooms for very little money. Booking online in advance is recommended.

Antwerp is located between two international airports and also has a railway station servicing trains from all over Belgium. The road network in Belgium is very good, making driving a possibility, and the city is very close to a cross-Channel port.

Antwerp experiences a variable climate with unpredictable weather from year to year. There are long periods of sunshine during the summer months followed by heavy rain. Winters can often be very cold while spring is often cooler than autumn. One good summer does not mean that the next one will be the same. Rain can fall at any time of year although in the depth of winter, rain usually turns to snow.

Unlike many European destinations, the summer months of July and August are not actually the busiest months. Many Belgians head off to the Mediterranean for their summer break, meaning that the city is often fairly quiet. Temperatures are warm but not hot, often averaging in the low 20s°C so locals head off in search of some summer sun. As winters are usually very cold, with temperatures often below freezing, many people arrive to take part in winter sports although if you do come between the months of November and February, be sure to wrap up warm.