The 10 most impressive buildings in Antwerp
1
Cathedral of Our Lady: Gothic beauty in the heart of Antwerp
The Cathedral of Our Lady is the Gothic masterpiece of Antwerp. Its façade is adorned with intricate sculptures and ornaments, each telling its own story. The 123-meter tower makes it one of the tallest church towers in Europe. At night, when the slender tower is illuminated, it creates a magical sight among the cozy restaurants.
Groenplaats 21, 2000 Antwerpen | www.dekathedraal.be
2
Palace of Justice: modern masterpiece
The Palace of Justice is a futuristic icon in the south of Antwerp (‘t Zuid district). It was designed by British architect Richard Rogers, who is also known for the Centre Pompidou in Paris. Its striking glass and steel structures catch the eye, as do the quirky cone-shaped “bags for french fries” on the roof.
Bolivarplaats 20, 2000 Antwerpen
3
MAS: museum and architectural gem
Standing at 63 meters, the MAS towers over the city. Its red sandstone blocks and wavy glass windows create a striking structure in the harbor area. The windows glisten at sunset and offer impressive views of Antwerp, the port, and the Scheldt River inside the museum.
Hanzestedenplaats 1, 2000 Antwerpen | www.mas.be
4
Antwerp-Central: more than just a train station
This station feels like a palace. It reflects Antwerp’s wealth at the beginning of the 20th century. Architect Louis Delacenserie took inspiration from Lucerne station and the Pantheon in Rome, creating a “railway cathedral” that makes you forget you’re there to catch a train. The highlight? The enormous steel dome above the platforms.
Koningin Astridplein 27, 2000 Antwerpen
5
Port House: Antwerp’s diamond on the water
The Port House is a tribute to Antwerp’s past and future. Architect Zaha Hadid placed an impressive glass structure resembling a ship atop a historic fire station. The triangular glass panels nod to Antwerp’s status as a diamond city. The play of light and shadow makes the Port House look different at every time of the day. It is a modern landmark on the city skyline.
Zaha Hadidplein 1, 2030 Antwerpen
6
Felix Warehouse: industrial charm with a modern twist
The Felix Warehouse (Felixpakhuis) exudes 19th-century industrial architecture. Its long brick façade and classic arched windows give it a unique character. Thanks to restoration efforts, it now blends old and new. Want to see it in its full glory? Walk through the long, light-filled passage connecting Godefriduskaai with Oude Leeuwenrui.
Oude Leeuwenrui 29, 2000 Antwerpen | www.felixarchief.be
7
St. Charles Borromeo Church: baroque at its finest
This 17th-century church is a baroque gem. The façade is richly decorated with deep, impressive reliefs, inviting you to look closer. Inside, you’ll experience the splendor of the baroque era. The square in front is a calm oasis in the middle of the busy city center.
Hendrik Conscienceplein 12, 2000 Antwerpen | www.carolusborromeus.com
8
Opera: grandeur on the Frankrijklei
The opera radiates elegance with its neo-baroque style. Large windows, ornate pilasters, and an impressive dome on the roof give this building its theatrical vibe. Built between 1899 and 1907, it’s a stunning example of grandeur and drama. A true eye-catcher for both culture lovers and casual passers-by.
Frankrijklei 3, 2000 Antwerpen | www.vlaamseopera.be
9
Bourla Theatre: architectural elegance in the city
Its round shape makes the Bourla Theatre stand out among the straight façades in the area. The temple-like structure with Ionic columns gives it a stately appearance. Inside, the acoustics and sightlines create an unforgettable theater experience. It is a monument that impresses both inside and out.
Komedieplaats 18, 2000 Antwerpen | www.toneelhuis.be
10
The townhouses of the Zurenborg district: eclectic beauty
Zurenborg district is a paradise for architecture lovers. Here, you’ll find a mix of styles ranging from neo-Gothic to Art Nouveau. The façades of the townhouses are adorned with elegant balconies, brick patterns, and colorful tiles. Each building tells its own story. No wonder every Antwerp local dreams of living here!
Around the Dageraadplaats, at the border of Berchem and Borgerhout
Ready to discover Antwerp’s beauty?
Antwerp has everything if you’re a Gothic, modernist, or eclectic style fan! Head out and admire these impressive buildings with your own eyes. Prefer a guide to share fascinating stories about Antwerp and its locals along the way? Book a tour with Antwerp by Bike. Choose our Highlights of Antwerp Tour or create a custom tour based on your interests.
