Art. Architecture. Diamonds. The city is beautiful, if not a little crowded. Not as bad as Paris or Venice though.

Nav:

Cathedral of Our Lady: This is a must see. The sheer scale alone left me in awe. There are a few paintings from famed Peter Paul Rubens here. Go for these alone and go to his house museum if you want more.

City Highlights: Painters, tunnels, alleys, and architecture.

Peter Paul Rubens house / museum.
St. Anna Tunnel goes under the river. Built in the 1930’s, even the escalator stairs are made of wood.
Vlaeykensgang Historic Alley. It’s a quiet passage in the heart of the old town that houses wonderful smelling restaurants.
Antwerp Central Station…Beautiful!
Trains come and go in four levels!
All the diamonds. Shops abound just outside the train station. There are gem cutting schools nearby as well.

Nosh:

Kannika Thaibistro: Tasty Thai food. Limited hours so plan ahead and enjoy the food! Service welcoming and food is freshly prepared.

Pad See-eiu with chicken

Nip:

Beer Tasting: Stopped by the local grocery and picked up a few Belgian beers to try. Stella is well known. Jupiler is an easy drinking and cheap lager. Kasteel wasn’t one I’d recommend. A bit harsh and almost herbal on the taste profile.