April/May 2026


Beyond The Bustle of Brussels…


Exploring Belgium’s second city BY SARAH PICKERING


sarah@nitravelnews.com


THE de facto capital of Europe brings many tourists to its midst, with its lure of cultural diversity,


plentiful


architecture, and famous eats - but many fail to travel beyond its city borders, and there you will find the true authenticity of the Belgian nation. Travel north of the country and find its vibrant second city with an abundance of wealth and energy, enough to fill any travellers needs.


A maritime city, Antwerp pays homage to its role in World War Two, marking its vital port dwelling as a key support for allies. A similar theme which runs throughout the entirety of this country whose history is soaked in stories and tales of both wars gone by. Now, with its modern flare


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and business importance, Antwerp’s history may be a little bit harder to spot, but seek and you shall find. Its impressive port now sits as Europe’s second largest where it provides essential links to Europe and beyond. Maritime enthusiasts can see the great locks which stand as some of Europe’s largest here, with boat trips and tours available from the inner city daily. Diamonds are not just a girl’s best friend but Antwerp’s too! Potentially the city’s one


pole position, its diamond district carries around 80% of the world’s rough diamond production, along with over 50% of the polished variety. Forget the city of love - here is where the real action is happening! It’s diamond quarter (diamantkwartier) sits near the local train station, with labs and shops in abundance. Take a walk along the many specialised shops and take a peek through its windows, or even get yourself the catch of the season - diamonds here will generally be at a lesser price due


to the supply and direct demand within the area. Come home with a million memories and a new sparkly accessory.


Despite its move beyond its fellow countryside towns and villages, Antwerp still offers that authentic Belgian-style


hospitality. With showstopping cafe views within


its Grote Mrkt, and beer and frites on tap at every turn, visitors can rest assured they will be treated like a true local here.


It’s De Koninck local brewery makes for the ideal afternoon as pints flow (thought perhaps in a much fancier glass than one would be used to back home) and the history of its creation settles around. It’s inhouse tour is not one to be missed for the avid beer lover and also creates the perfect opportunity to pick up that much needed souvenir. Of


course, frite shops are at almost all corners novelty


you can indulge in the


where cone


tower of fries. The only problem you may incur is the uniquely large array of condiments, with garlic,


mustard and,


ketchup, its


local family serving up these delights and really settle into the Belgian way. Back in Grote Mrkt, whilst you sip on a morning coffee, or dig into a Belgian pastry, take a moment to gaze upon the Brabo fountain. Its legend reference is an eye-opener for the city in which you stand and also plays part in its name. The oxidised copper statue depicts a man attempting to throw a severed hand - this is mythical Silvius Brabo, a Roman Soldier. Local legend speaks of giant,


Druon most


popular, mayonnaise. I kindly ask you opt for the traditional Andalouse sauce


- an interesting


mixture of mayo, tomato, peppers and chilli. All Belgians divert your eyes, I would describe the sauce as a slightly spicy taco, perfectly paired with chips at home so why not whilst on your travels too! Pop into any fritkot, speak with the


Antigoon, who would cut the hand of any travellers passing his fortress by boat who refused to pay his toll. Brabo too did such but challenged the giant to a duel. The untimely end of the giant came with a served head and hand, which he aptly threw into the river. This is how Antwerp got its name, translating to hand


throwing.


Be sure to check out the ‘hand-throwing’ city on your next visit to belgium.


BELGIUM’S SECOND CITY| 29


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