Fashion capital isn’t a title that is thrown around lightly. While Europe is known for the likes of Paris and Milan, Belgium has a secret fashionista on its scene: Antwerp. The city is built upon a history of style, from its Diamond District to Gothic cathedrals, and the legacy of the “Antwerp Six” — young designers who graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts.

Here’s how to spend a weekend exploring Antwerp’s design and style scene. From architecture to accessory shopping, this itinerary reveals an edgier side of Belgium.

The Atmosphere in Antwerp

Architecturally, Antwerp is a classic European city. One foot in the future, one foot in the past, the cityscape is mid-metamorphosis. There’s the Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady, Central Station showcasing Art Nouveau, and the contemporary vision of MAS (a jenga-like museum constructed using red bricks and glass paneling).

In fact, the most unique thing about Antwerp is its craftsmanship. From generations of diamond cutters to the “Antwerp Six,” whose designs pushed Belgium onto the international fashion scene, the city pays special attention to style. For the “fashion-curious” extrovert who thrives on striking up conversations, Antwerp is the place to be.

Day One: Architecture

Today is dedicated to architecture, but not before breakfast. For sweet-toothed travelers, there’s one place to start: Ray’s Speciality Coffee. Throwing its doors open at 8:30am, this store is one of the earliest opportunities to try a Belgian waffle. Order this classic treat alongside a coffee, grabbing an al fresco table to eat overlooking the Cathedral of Our Lady.

From this popular Old Town breakfast haunt, detour briefly to Vlaaikensgang. This 16th-century cobbled alleyway is a magnet for photography, and is best appreciated without the afternoon crowds.

Afterwards, it's a short distance to Grote Markt plaza, instantly recognizable by its 18th-century Brabo Fountain. The fountain is backed against the fluttering facade of Antwerp City Hall and its flags, with the narrow windows of the Baroque-style Guild Houses on the opposite side of the square.

Keep lunch simple and scenic. Bistro de Plek, tucked into a courtyard of Our Lady’s Cathedral, serves Antwerp-brewed beer and traditional soups.

By late afternoon, switch things up and head underground. De Ruien has a subterranean network of former canals and sewers, now illuminated with colorful lowlights, spotlighting the route for travellers on guided tours. Alternatively, keep your feet dry by crossing the Sint-Annatunnel, a 1930s commuter tunnel with iconic wooden escalators.

For dinner, try The Jane, set inside a former chapel near MAS, or RAS, located alongside the Scheldt River with waterfront views.

Day Two: Fashion

Put your trendiest foot forward with breakfast at Caffènation. This artisanal roastery chain is Vogue-approved and opens at 10am, serving pastries and a ridiculous array of coffees.

In Antwerp, Sundays are for shopping, inarguably a tried-and-tested way to immerse yourself in any city’s fashion scene. Start with a mid-morning wander around the city’s flea markets. Near the Sint-Anna Tunnel, Sint-Jansvliet Market runs every Sunday from 9am until 5pm, with vendors selling antique trinkets.

With souvenirs secured, shift into learning mode. MoMu Antwerp Fashion Museum is the place to discover the city’s fashion legacy, and in 2026, has special exhibits to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the six designers who put Antwerp on the map. Unsurprisingly, it has a stylish cafe onsite (perfect for a quick lunch).

Afterwards, apply that knowledge in real time. Admire street styles while walking along Meir, Antwerp’s famous shopping street. From there, continue to the iconic Diamond District, strolling Hoveniersstraat or Lange Herentalsestraat to peer at precious stones through windows.

To finish on a high, secure a dinner reservation at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp. Nicknamed the “Disney of fine dining” by one Telegraph reviewer, this hotel has two Michelin-starred restaurants, with Michelin-starred chef, Chef Yves Mattagne, soon to open a further two. Its botanical gardens offer peaceful surroundings – a small solace of green space to celebrate your final night in Antwerp.

Where to Stay in Antwerp

Antwerp is design-conscious; there’s style coursing through its veins. The trickiest decision is choosing where to stay.

Does a lazy afternoon spent wandering the Diamond District sound heavenly? Or do you veer towards Old Town architecture? Neither answer is wrong, but it's advisable to craft your experience accordingly.

Here are the neighborhoods to consider:

• •Theaterbuurt: This cultured district is nicknamed the Quartier Latin and has a reputation for its theater performances and galleries. Stay at Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, which has an in-house apothecary and is beautifully located in a former monastery.
• •Historisch Centrum: This neighborhood is the city’s Old Town and is ideal for first-time visitors wanting an immersion in Gothic or Baroque-style architecture. Convenient and historic, expect doorstep access to attractions like the Cathedral of Our Lady.
• •Het Zuid: Labeled as Antwerp’s “cool neighborhood,” Het Zuid is situated on the riverbank, approximately a 30-minute walk from Old Town. It’s an alternative base for anyone seeking a downtown atmosphere.
• •Central Station: This convenient neighborhood is centred around Antwerp’s train station, so naturally suited to anyone planning European rail connections. Sandwiched between Diamant (the Diamond Quarter), Van Wesenbekestraat (Chinatown), and Antwerp Zoo, it’s a central base for a weekend of sightseeing.

Takeaway

Antwerp is shrugging off its reputation as a “second city.” Brussels might have a stiff upper lip, but elegant Antwerp is a certified fashionista. Arrive in your fanciest attire, and consider bringing a spare suitcase.