Antwerp by Night: Entertainment
The Cathedral of Our Lady (Dutch: Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) is a Roman Catholic cathedral in Antwerp, Belgium. Today's see of the Diocese of Antwerp started in 1352 and, although the first stage of construction was ended in 1521, has never been 'completed'. The setting today is partly baroque and partly neo-Gothic, which is what makes the Antwerp Cathedral so special. In addition, several paintings by Peter Paul Rubens can be admired.
- Walking dist: 10 min
- Price: Low
If the grand architecture around this area wasn’t enough, the Meir is also the most important shopping destination in Antwerp. Hundreds of thousands of people descend on the streets here occasionally, Fashionwise, whatever it is you’re looking for, you’re likely to find it here. Ever possible brand has a presence. Naturally, this makes it a great place to people watch.
- Walking dist: 5 min
- Price: Medium
A mecca for Jazz enthusiasts and a must- visit for a taste of Antwerp-ian nightlife, De Muze hosts exciting live performances that beckon you to shake a leg.
- Walking dist: 10 min
- Price: Medium
Cafe Den Engel is the second oldest bar in Antwerp, Belgium. If you want to visit a real traditional bar in Antwerp, you should definitely visit this place. Their staff is very passionate about their customers, patience and politeness always on display. With all sorts of people visiting the bar, you will get the true sense of Belgian culture in the cafe. Going by their reputation, they serve the finest beer in the land, along with some delicious finger food.
- Walking dist: 10 min
- Price: Medium
UGC is the only cinema complex located in the heart of the city, close to Central Station. You can watch all the big movies here in different halls. Most films are played in English and have French and Dutch subtitles.
- Walking dist: 5 min
- Price: Medium
One of the oldest zoos in the world, this place hosts over 5000 animals across 950 different species. Okapis, polar bears, Siberian tigers, Indian elephants, orang-utans, … the animals here are pretty exotic and from all over. They are segregated in some areas by habitat type. The gardens themselves are pretty relaxing, so if you’re tired, head over there for some rest and peace. Make sure to watch the sea lions. Be prepared to spend a while here if you want to cover everything.
- Walking dist: 15 min
- Price: Medium
Elegant and beautiful, Antwerp’s famous theatre was built in 1819 and has since then undergone many renovations. The Toneelhuiscompanyperforms there today. Before entering, notice the sculptures of Apollo and the nine muses looking down at the patrons. The threatre is lovely from the inside and the café is pretty good too.
- Walking dist: 15 min
- Price: Medium
The Stadsfeestzaal is a neoclassical building from 1908. The name means City Festival Hall, and in that function it is exemplary. Its architecture, restored and innovated upon after a fire in 2000, is magnificent and modern, and every inch of it breathes opulence. It was built specifically to host Antwerp’s many civil functions. It’s a popular place for exhibitions, markets and even lunch. Any hour you spend here is bound to be lively.
- Walking dist: 5 min
- Price: Medium
Het Steen is a famous performing arts theatre cum castle in Antwerpen. Earlier the castle was named as Antwerpen Burcht until it derived its current name in 1520. During 1303-1827, the major part of the theatre was used as prisons. It houses many antique canal barges which were exhibited to the visitors. To honor the death of Canadian Soldiers during WW II it houses war memorial here. The histories of the formation of this theatre and Semini are also displayed here. You can find a statue of a giant at the entrance of the Het Steen who used to rule over the city once.
- Walking dist: 20 min
- Price: Low