- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Antwerp Guide (PDF)
Antwerp is Belgium’s shopping and fashion capital. An artistic energy pulses through its streets as people eat at roadside cafes, explore its attractions or take a quiet moment in one of its parks.
Shopping in Antwerp
Expats will find all the variety they’d expect from a major city. They'll be able to shop at modern malls and along historic pedestrian streets. The main shopping area is Meir, which is also Antwerp’s most famous street. Though the street draws comparisons with other major shopping streets such as 5th Avenue in New York City, this iconic street has been a prominent part of the city for centuries and many historical buildings remain.
The Wijnegem Shopping Centre is Belgium's largest mall with the retail area clocking in at 6 hectares. With 250 stores ranging from supermarkets and restaurants to fashion and hobby shops, there's something for everyone at this must-see mall.
The diamond district, known as the Diamantkwartier (Diamond Quarter
Eating out in Antwerp
Antwerp has a good selection of restaurants and its historical architecture means that many of the best establishments provide a feast for the eyes too. The wide variety of restaurants reflects the city’s diverse modern population. Diners can savour a broad palette of everything from Asian Fusion to Mediterranean food to French cuisine and local fare.
Outdoor activities in Antwerp
Expats who enjoy the outdoors won’t be short of things to do in Antwerp. The city has several parks and sports facilities and lends itself well to being explored by bicycle and on foot.
The triangular piece of land occupied by the Stadspark was once the site of a 16th-century fort. Close to the station and the zoo, its central location gives expats a chance to escape the city’s bustle without leaving its boundaries. The park boasts a lake and several historical monuments and is especially popular with joggers, walkers and families.
There’s also plenty to do outside the city, including various cycle routes around the Flanders region, which can be used to explore the surrounding towns or tour the tranquil Belgian countryside.
Further reading
►Kids and Family in Antwerp offers ideas for family-friendly activities
Expat Experiences
"I love Antwerp’s energy. Avant-garde fashion, street food, modernist design stores, concept pop-ups, all on a smaller (and easier to navigate) scale than London. I love to go out, to dine in great restaurants and to meet new people from all walks of life." Read more about expat Nina's experience in Antwerp.
Are you an expat living in Antwerp?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Antwerp. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
Cigna Global can tailor an international health insurance plan to perfectly fit the needs of you and your family. With 86 million customers in over 200 countries, Cigna Global has unrivalled experience in dealing with varied and unique medical situations and delivering high standards of service wherever you live in the world.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.