Antwerp is well known for its diamond industry, yet it is the most underrated city in Belgium. However, it is has one of the most undisputed tourist attractions. Most of the visitors who come to Belgium will definitely find something to occupy there time with once they get to Antwerp.
The tourist attractions in this city are found at the heart of the old historic city. It offers one attractive monuments and landmarks that still look like they did way back. These buildings remain unchanged until now, except for a few renovations that have been made to preserve them. The attractions that can be found here are:
The Zoological Gardens/ City Zoo – Koningin Astridplein 26, Antwerp, BE-2018, Belgium, BE Tel +32 03 202 4540
This is home to more than 5,000 animals with nearly 1,000 different species, and it was opened before 1844. The most sought after sights in this zoo are the penguins that have a state of the art enclosure. In addition, there are also elephants whose large compound has attracted many tourists. It is easy to get to this zoo since it is located at the centre of the city near the central station. The other animals you can expect to find here are the giraffes, hippos, tamarins, tapirs and also the reptiles. All these animals are kept in themed enclosures.
The Aquatopia Aquarium – Koningin Astridplein 7, Antwerp, BE-2018, Belgium, BE Tel: +32 03 205 0740
This offers tourists an excellent view of the different types of fish and other creatures of the sea that are found in large droves. It is this aquarium that has a shark tank where people can watch the sharks easily and quite safely. There are other things that one can get to enjoy once they are here. These are the beautiful coral reefs, the sharks and also there is possibility to see reptiles living in a tropical rainforest inside this aquarium. Furthermore, for kids these is now a play area that has been opened where kids can now get to enjoy themselves as they look at sharks in the shark tank.
Brouwerij de Koninck / Brewery Tours – Mechelsesteenweg 291, Antwerp, BE-2018, Belgium, BE Tel: +32 03 218 4048
If you have never seen a 19th century brewery, you can get to see one at the Brouwerij de Koninck, also called brewery tours. There are tour guides offered round the brewer that is allowed for interested tourists. You will get to see how they make the beer and you can also get to taste the actual product.
River Scheldt / Flandria Sceldetochten – Steenplein, Antwerp, BE-2000, Belgium, BE Tel: +32 03 231 3100
On the westerly side of the city, it is possible to see River Scheldt. This river can help you see the sights that are located near it in style, as you cruise across it.
Catamaran Castle – Rederij Prinsenland, Sasdijk 2D, 461 RN Dinteloord, Antwerp, Belgium, BE Tel: +31 16 752 1030
The Catamaran castle is actually a floating castle since it is on a boat. This large boat has a restaurant and a bar, a casino and also conference facilities incorporated into it. It also offers events and parties that you can get to enjoy
Pirateneiland (Pirate’s Island) – Kribbestraat 12, Antwerp, BE-2000, Belgium, BE Tel: +32 03 231 5060
There is a big indoor play ground at the Pirates Island and is mostly visited by kids. The theme of this place is that of a pirate ship and has refreshments to offer.