The Grote Markt

The Grote Markt Square is one of the most beautiful squares in the country and the perfect place to begin sightseeing. It is lined on two sides by splendid old guildhouses showing the influence and wealth of the various trade guilds. It is also home to the town hall (Stadhuis), a Renaissance building dating back to the 16th century, and the famous statue of Brabo, the mythical hero said to be responsible for founding the city.

One of the best ways to appreciate the square is over a coffee or a Belgian beer on the terrace of one of the old-fashioned cafés; Den Engel, at Grote Markt 3, is a good one to try.

Onze Lieve Vrouwe Kathedraal (Cathedral of Our Lady)

Antwerp’s cathedral is one of the most stunning Gothic buildings in Belgium. It took 200 years to build, and was completed in 1521. At the time of its construction, Antwerp was one of the richest cities in Europe, and the cathedral was intended to reflect the city's mercantile success. It contains a wonderful collection of Gothic paintings and sculptures, and several of Rubens' masterpieces, including The Raising of the Cross and The Descent from the Cross.

Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten (Royal Museum of Fine Art)

The Museum is divided into two sections, one for the works of the Old Masters (15th - 17th centuries) and one for artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. Between them, they contain a superb collection of European painting, including works by Van Eyck, Van Dyck, Rembrandt, Rubens, Hals, Magritte, Delvaux, Ensor and Van Gogh. Plaatsnijdersstraat 2.

Diamonds

The Diamond district spreads west of the station. It's a far cry from the picturesque museums and squares of the city centre, but is interesting nonetheless. If you want to see the commercial side of the industry, go to the city's largest showroom, Diamondland at 33A Appelmansstraat, where you see craftsmen at work, or to find out about the history and production of diamonds, visit the Provinciaal Diamantmuseum, which has just relocated to gleaming new premises near Antwerp's zoo (at Koningin Astridplein 19-23, (00 32 (0) 3 385 03 70) and provides fascinating tours and exhibitions.