Antwerp- the best weekend in Europe (Antwerp)

Member Name: siantone

Product:	Antwerp
Date:	20/05/09 (7 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Much to do for mind and body

Disadvantages: If you don't like beer, might be a bit of a waste

I have been to Antwerp for a number of weekends away from London as I believe it is the most culturally and gastronomically satisfying experience for anyone who can get on the Eurostar easily. The travel aspect is also very comfortable, with no airport or long hikes from out of town stations and when you get there, you will find relatively few tourists, lots of art and culture and some epic meals and beer on offer.

The Eurostar pricing system enables you to go to any station in Belgium for the same price as a London - Brussels return. When you reach Brussels Midi you need to change for a local train to Antwerp- making sure you doin't get on the high-speed Thalys train, as this carries a supplement. When you arrive at the truly monumental Antwerp station, the hotels to head for are those within a short walk. I wouldn't recommend those in the shabby diamond shop streets next door unlees your budget was really tight- however I have stayed in the Tourist Hotel opposite the station and it was acceptable for £40 for two per night.

Must-visit places include the highly respected zoo (one of the oldest in Europe), Reubens' House, Plantin-Moretus Museum (the charming preserved house of a 17th century printer), the Royal Museum of Fine Arts and the central square, Grote Markt. You will also be able to see many fine buildings in this walkable city from the fortress-like Steen which contains the maritime museum to the oldest skyscraper in Europe, the 1931 Art Deco Boerentoren.

Best of all has to be the food and drink. Apart from the endless (and delicious) mussels on offer, you can eat a variety of modern European cuisine that is much better value than in France. Near the contemporary art museum there are eating and drinking establishments with a quasi-industrial aesthetic, with some overlooking the wide river Scheldt.

The variety of beer on offer is also a delight though be aware that some beers like Bush are 12% vol and will cause an immediate headache even if it does come in a small bottle. A draught of Kwak in a glass that looks like an egg-timer will keep you amused for an hour at least. The regional favourite here is De Koninck, which has a full sharp flavour.

In summary, forget Paris, avoid the hordes in Barcelona and pick Antwerp for a long weekend. Much to feed the body, eyes and mind and relatively easy going on the pocket.

Summary: Excellent overland travel from the UK- much to see and do with few tourists