Historic Centre

Find your new favourite restaurant, bistro or bar at Antwerp’s historic centre. Enjoy a great breakfast, lunch or dinner in Antwerp’s finest restaurants and eateries.

Antwerp’s historic centre has so much to offer, you won’t know where to look first. The historic centre is packed with interesting architectural features and cosy eateries, pubs, bars and restaurants.

If you’re into architecture, you’ll feel right at home in this district. Right along the Scheldt River you will spot Het Steen. This old fortress is one of Antwerp’s oldest landmarks and a perfect gateway into the city centre. From there, you wander right to Grote Markt, where Brabo stands proudly above his fountain. With the grand city hall and the beautifully decorated guild houses around you, it’s hard not to stop and stare.

Keep walking and you’ll end up at Hendrik Conscienceplein, home to Borromeuskerk. This cosy, little square is absolutely worth a detour. If Gothic architecture is your thing, head to Groenplaats. From there you’ll get a postcard-perfect view of Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal. It’s 123 metre tower dominates the Antwerp skyline. Look down just a bit and you’ll spot Boerentoren. This tower is Europe’s first skyscraper and a treat for Art Deco fans.

The historic centre is also the perfect place to slow down for a moment. Grab a Bolleke De konick in a vintage Antwerp café. It does not get more local than that. Walk through Groenplaats and you’ll hit Meir: Antwerp’s shopping Boulevard. Between the impressive architecture, Stadsfeestzaal, and the nearby Rubenshuis, this area is a mix of culture, crowds, and constant energy.

Food lovers won’t go hungry here either. On Pelgrimstraat you’ll find Tapabar, a Spanish tapas spot with great wine and a laid-back vibe. Need a coffee break? Nõa has you covered. Walk toward the Oude Koornmarkt and you’ll reach Sir Anthony van Dijck for classic French dishes. A bit further is Pasta Hippo Vino, where pasta and wine stand front and centre.

In Lange Koepoortstraat you’ll find Croquettenbar Smaek, the go-to spot for gourmet croquettes. It pairs perfectly with a visit to Letterenhuis. Nearby you’ll also find Restaurant Nathan, a Michelin-starred French Belgian spot with Asian influences.

The historic centre is full of surprises. Every street, square, and alley reveals another little piece of Antwerp.