Antwerp: Where Summer Art and Food Collide in Belgium

Antwerp, a city poised to challenge any preconceived notions of Belgium as unexciting, is a vibrant, artsy, and wonderfully unique urban escape. It pulsates with an impressive selection of trendy cocktail bars, inviting coffee shops, and stimulating independent art galleries. As the summer months unfold, Antwerp truly comes into its own, embracing a dynamic alfresco lifestyle that infuses the entire city with energy.
On sunny weekends, Sint-Anneke beach, located on the left bank of the River Scheldt, becomes a lively gathering spot. Locals flock to its shores to cool off in the water and enjoy delightful mussel lunches at the charming bistros that line the riverbank. Furthermore, the city’s abundant parks and open spaces transform into vibrant stages for various performances, including engaging street theatre, thrilling circus acts, and enchanting open-air cinema, particularly during the renowned Zomer van Antwerpen arts festival, which runs from June 19th to August 31st.
To gain a profound understanding of Antwerp’s rich historical narrative, a visit to MAS is essential. This architecturally stunning museum, gracefully situated on the river, offers a comprehensive journey through Antwerp’s illustrious past as a global trading port, with each floor meticulously detailing a different aspect of its history. The pinnacle of the experience is its expansive rooftop terrace, providing breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the city, ideal for capturing unforgettable moments.
Antwerp is a city that thrives on its culinary offerings, with microbreweries, exquisite chocolate shops, and classic moules frites stands virtually ubiquitous. A recent and exciting addition to its food scene is Wolf, an extensive food market boasting ten diverse restaurants, offering a rich tapestry of flavors. For a perfect outdoor dining experience, consider assembling a picnic to enjoy amidst the serene gardens of the Middelheim Museum’s world-class sculpture park. This remarkable park is intelligently divided into six zones, each exploring the intricate relationship between humans and nature through abstract installations and profoundly innovative pieces, such as Erwin Vurm’s compelling “boat curving off a jetty, Misconceivable.” For accommodation, Hotel Matelote (from €115 B&B), situated in the historic center, features chic, minimalist design seamlessly integrated within two charming 16th-century buildings.