Car Hire Antwerp - Mini guide to Antwerp

With its Gothic and Baroque architecture, well-preserved medieval center, and wide selection of brilliant artwork, this city is one of the most enjoyable places in the world to tour during the day and enjoy an excellent beer at night. It is also famous as the diamond centre of the world.

Perhaps the most fascinating place in this city is the Grote Markt. Here you will find an eclectic blend of Gothic, Renaissance and 19th century architecture. The centerpiece of the square is the baroque Brabo Fountain that depicts the slaying of a giant by a legendary Roman warrior, from which Antwerp was named.

Other places of interest in the city include the Etnografisch Museum and the Rubenshuis. The Etnografisch Museum contains a variety of artifacts from the history of Belgium as well as some pieces on loan from some of its former colonies including the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Rubenshuis has become one of the city’s most popular attractions. This restored former home and studio of Pieter Paul Rubens offers a unique look into the life of one of the worlds most renowned artists.

The Grote Market area has gourmet restaurants as well as opportunities to sample local delicacies such as pralines, (a filled chocolate candy), or oude jenever, (a smooth hard liqueur unique to Flanders and the Netherlands). Also scattered around the city are brown café’s (pubs) where you can sample the famous Belgian beer.

Owing to the size of Belgium, it is easy to tour the whole country from Antwerp via train or car. Other interesting places in the country include the unofficial capital of Europe, Brussels, the beautiful medieval town of Brugge and the college town Ghent.

The international airport in Brussels offers flights to cities around the world and can easily be reached from Antwerp by car, train, or bus.