Are you considering where to go for a Winter break? Have you considered Antwerp, Belgium’s vibrant, fashionable second city? If you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, some winter shopping, and so much culture and history you’ll never fit it all in in one weekend, Antwerp is the place for you. Here are some of our favourite reasons to visit Antwerp during the Winter months.
1. Festive Atmosphere
We all know that Christmas does not begin and end on 25th December. The lead up to and wind down after Christmas are usually the most exciting part! This Winter, if you’re looking for a festive atmosphere, complete with winter activities and thousands of twinkling lights illuminating the darkness Antwerp is ideal for a winter break. The opulent decorations across the city complement the magnificent architecture, giving the city a magical feel.
2. Christmas Shopping
No other European city holds a candle to the fashion boutiques and shopping you’ll find in Antwerp. We even have our very own academy of fine arts that produces some of the worlds most renowned and talented designers, many of whom have their flagship stores on our main streets. We can’t forget about the most festive shopping experience of the year, the Christmas Markets. The market takes place in the picturesque central square, where there are almost 100 stalls to browse, selling festive fare, traditional crafts and other handmade goods perfect for Christmas gifts. Winter shopping in Antwerp will put you in a very festive mood.
3. Food & Drink
We may be biased but we believe that Antwerp produces some of the world finest cuisine and for us, that’s a good enough reason to visit anywhere! Artisanal Belgian chocolate, Belgium’s famous waffles and many other delicious national treats make Antwerp a very popular prospect for a Winter break. Antwerp stocks the largest supply of coffee beans in the world and we take our liquid gold very seriously, evidenced by the huge array of artisanal coffee shops dotted across the city. Around the festive season, you should enjoy a very special Glühwein or hot chocolate while you explore the city. You should also try smoutebollen, the unique Belgian take on a sweet dough ball with a golden crispy crust and gooey centre
4. Winter Activities
What are your favourite things to do in Winter? For us, Winter activities don’t get any better than ice skating in the open air surrounded by happy people enjoying themselves and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Groenplaats. The 1000m2, skating rink is suitable for all ages and abilities, including the little ones. If you don’t fancy your luck on the ice, instead visit the enchanted forest, ride the iconic Ferris Wheel or go on an adventure trail searching for our giant Christmas trees. Above all else, enjoy your Winter break in Antwerp!
5. History & Culture
If you’re not here for the Christmas festivities, Antwerp is still a gorgeous place to visit during the Winter months. There is so much to see and do any many beautiful buildings to admire. Our picturesque squares, a magnificent cathedral, the heritage library, ornate residential streets, The Grote Markt, the 16th-century City Hall and guild houses, the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady, and the medieval fortress Het Steen are just some of the many attractions in the city, each with its own unique and fascinating history.
This Winter, avoid overpriced hotels in Antwerp. Instead choose extra space, better value and a perfect location to explore the city when you stay in PREMIER SUITES Antwerp. Our exclusive special offers and best available rates are available when you book online using our official website. Our friendly staff are always happy to recommend some winter shopping destinations or special festive activities in Antwerp too.
