Antwerp
Due to its economic importance – Antwerp is the center
of the diamond trade all over the world – the city can be easily defined as a miniature metropolis. In addition, the economic importance of the place is paralleled by the many features which appeal to numerous tourists who come here to enjoy the overall friendly air of the city, by its many chocolate shops, restaurants and bars, and by its historic background.
Indeed, even if few of the historically significant objectives have been properly preserved – as compared to Bruges, for instance – Antwerp continues to draw visitors due to all the other tourist assets which can not be challenged in terms of their ability to render the city as one of the most recommendable tourist destinations.
Short History of Antwerp
The origins of the place are somewhat under the sign of the legendary approach; however, the city is historically first mentioned in the 4th century. Somewhere in the 16th century, Antwerp is said to have been the hub international economy, and this is the moment when the city started to become a true cosmopolitan establishment. In this respect and due to its renowned tolerance, a large community of Jews found its home in Antwerp.
Accommodation in Antwerp
All categories of tourists have the possibility to find lodging solutions in Antwerp. Camping sites are probably the most recommendable for those traveling on a short budget. And Antwerp really excels in this respect, since it has at least three camping sites well managed by the local administration. However, youth hostels and bed and breakfast establishments can be considered if necessary. But Antwerp also hosts holiday homes and five-star hotels, so tourists who can afford to splurge are just as welcomed as all others.
Traditional belgian cuisine in Antwerp
Antwerp is deemed a gastronomic paradise being replete with a generous offer of specialties and establishments where such specialties can be tried. The Antwerp handjes, which are hand shaped cookies with marzipan, the Antwerp gebak and the apple dumplings, not to mention the chocolate products, are few of the most popular sweets in the city. But one should also try the worstenbrood (sausage rolls) and the abundant offer of local beers for which the city is famous. All these delights are to be tried in restaurants, coffee shops and other establishments spread all over the city.
Tourist Attractions and Objectives of Antwerp
Once in Antwerp, one should not miss, for instance, the Grand Market Square, which is overlooked by another significant objective, namely, the Town Hall (Stadhuis); another square which is worth mentioning is the Groenplaats Square. But the ancient building of the Cathedral of Our Lady is definitely a must-see. More than twenty museums and art galleries are available in Antwerp, but other tourist objectives, such as the Zoo, the Aquarium and the Pirate's Island must be visited in order to gain a complete image of the city.
Events and Festivals in Antwerp
Antwerp houses the Academy Fashion Show, taking place in June, but is also the host city of the Free Summer Concerts and of the Tallships Race. Rubens Market, which is a festival dedicated to Paul Rubens, and the Antwerp Book Show are among the more cultural events to be expected to happen in August and October, respectively. There are also two Ice Skating Days, one in December and the other in January, events which are increasingly popular nowadays.
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