Renaissance architecture, cultural vibrancy, designer cafés and a vibrant nightlife… Belgium ‘s second-largest city has all the ingredients to fascinate city-trip enthusiasts. According to Time Out‘s 2025 ranking, it’s THE city to visit this summer, far ahead of Brussels and Bruges. Just 1 hour by train from Brussels, in the north of Belgium, you’ll be fascinated by its major museums, remarkable Renaissance heritage and trendy brunches and strolls. No need to travel to the other side of the planet: this summer, Antwerp is the place to be.
Antwerp, Time Out magazine’s destination of the summer
Good news for Belgians. Time Out has placed Antwerp at the very top of its list of European destinations to discover this summer. The editors explain the choice by a subtle mix of “stylish cafés, craft beer bars and arty ambience”.
Terraces, trendy bakeries (Tinsel, Andy, Funk) and bars (Beerlovers Bar, Amber Bottle Shop) create a vibrant backdrop for every style of escape. Thanks to its human scale, everything can be explored on foot or by bike, with cultural stops at MAS or the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and vintage shopping breaks in the historic center.
Gastronomic experiences, heritage and creativity: a recipe for success
As soon as you leave the Central Station – regularly cited as one of the most beautiful in Europe – the magic begins. Head for the Grand-Place to see the typical architecture, the Brabo fountain, then the narrow streets where guild houses and art galleries mingle. Museums, from the House of Rubens to the UNESCO-listed Plantin-Moretus, reveal the city’s artistic past.
Culinary delights are also on offer. The Wilde Zee district is brimming with concept stores and innovative addresses, perfect for a gourmet stopover. The MAS, Antwerp’s new flagship museum, offers a 360° panoramic view of Antwerp, encapsulating the open, cosmopolitan spirit of the Flemish city. According to Time Out, Antwerp combines everything that works in a big city: creativity, conviviality, quality of life and accessibility. As a result, the Flemish metropolis has become a summer hotspot, as popular with locals as it is with curious visitors from all over Europe. And for music fans, don’t forget the Lady Gaga concert in Antwerp, of course!