Summer in Antwerp: A Quirky Belgian Adventure Awaits

Antwerp, a city that will undoubtedly shatter any preconceived notions of Belgian dullness, is a vibrant, artsy, and wonderfully quirky destination that truly thrives in the summer. It’s a city teeming with an impressive selection of sophisticated cocktail bars, cozy coffee shops, and stimulating independent art galleries. As the warmer months arrive, Antwerp seamlessly transitions into an energetic alfresco lifestyle, drawing both residents and visitors outdoors.
On sun-drenched weekends, Sint-Anneke beach, located on the left bank of the River Scheldt, becomes a popular gathering point. Locals flock to its shores to cool off in the water and indulge in leisurely mussel lunches at the charming bistros that line the riverbank. Beyond the beach, the city’s numerous parks and open spaces transform into dynamic performance venues, hosting engaging street theatre, thrilling circus acts, and enchanting open-air cinema, particularly during the highly anticipated Zomer van Antwerpen arts festival, running from June 19th to August 31st.
To immerse yourself in Antwerp’s rich historical narrative, a visit to MAS is an absolute must. This architecturally striking museum, elegantly perched on the river, offers a fascinating journey through Antwerp’s illustrious past as a global trading port, with each floor meticulously detailing a different aspect of its history. The highlight is undoubtedly its expansive rooftop terrace, offering spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the city – an unparalleled vantage point for capturing its beauty.
Antwerp is a city that embraces its culinary identity, with microbreweries, exquisite chocolate shops, and classic moules frites stands seemingly on every corner. A recent and exciting addition to its culinary landscape is Wolf, a sprawling food market featuring ten diverse restaurants, offering a rich tapestry of global and local flavors. For an ideal 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 thoughtfully divided into six zones, each exploring the complex relationship between humans and nature through abstract installations and profoundly innovative pieces, such as Erwin Vurm’s intriguing “boat curving off a jetty, Misconceivable.” For accommodation, Hotel Matelote (from €115 B&B), situated in the historic center, offers chic, minimalist design seamlessly integrated within two beautifully preserved 16th-century buildings.