Antwerp: Belgium's Underrated Gem Awaits

Stay at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp

Make your home base the stunning Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, the city's first member of Leading Hotels of the World. This 5-star superior hotel seamlessly blends historic elegance with contemporary amenities paying respect to its former monastic legacy. This hotel is incredible. The property is beautifully laid out, the location in town is centrally located and they have a heavenly Health & Spa Club. Wake up to the lavish Botanic Breakfast Experience buffet celebrating local producers. The hotel feels like you are living in a perfectly cozy greenhouse. The staff is incredibly attentive and kind, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable.

Michelin-starred dining at Botanic

Antwerp is a foodie paradise with several Michelin-starred restaurants right at Botanic Sanctuary. Don't miss Hertog Jan's world-class cuisine incorporating a glasshouse, beehives and herb garden. The Michelin-starred Het Gebaar and Fine Fleur also offer extraordinary seasonal tasting menus. For a chic French/Belgian brasserie experience, visit Bar Bulot. Don't forget to indulge in a refined High Tea by Roger Van Damme or the legendary Botanic Sunday Brunch. Henry's Bar & Bistro provides a stylish setting for craft cocktails and refined dining. The hotel also offers sublime private dining experiences.

Local foodie favorites

For lunch, the acclaimed Sir Anthony Van Dijck is a must. Osaka and Tannin are hip spots for wine and sharing plates. Grab a smash burger at the trendy Plump or explore Michelin-starred Nebo. The Butcher's Store and its restaurant Maven highlight incredible meat and charcuterie. Don't leave without stocking up on cheese from Van Tricht, named the world's best cheese book.

Fuel up at Andy Roasters

Keep your energy up with third-wave coffee from the fantastic Andy Roasters. Their perfectly roasted beans will power you through days of sightseeing.

Taste traditional flavors

For classic Belgian fare, head to Dancing Chocola for lunch, dinner or drinks in their cozy indoor/outdoor setting. Or try Sumac for flavorful Lebanese sharing dishes.

Explore the city

After indulging, walk off the calories by visiting the incredible KMSKA - Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp. Or take a fascinating walking tour with renowned local guide Tanguy Ottomer to learn about Antwerp's diamond history, fashion and culinary culture.

With world-class hotels, an incredible food scene from Michelin stars to casual gems, amazing museums and charming streets to wander. Antwerp is an underrated European destination worth discovering. Add it to an itinerary from Paris or Amsterdam — it's an easy train ride away!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Antwerp. In need of further inspiration? Check out Jennifer Jo De Witt's guide, Your Perfect Weekend Guide to Antwerp, Belgium.