Is it worth visiting the Antwerp Diamond District on a weekend?

It depends on your goal; on weekends, the diamond shops and exchanges are closed, so you won't see the 'hustle and bustle' of the trade. However, the architecture is still visible, and the area is much quieter for a peaceful stroll.

What is the best walking tour in Antwerp for architecture lovers?

This route from the Central Station to St James's Church is ideal for architecture fans. It features the 'Railway Cathedral,' Neo-Baroque opera houses, and Brabantine Gothic churches, showcasing the city's diverse styles.

Can I see real diamonds in the Diamond District?

Yes, while the wholesale exchanges are private, there are many retail jewelry showrooms surrounding the district where you can view and purchase diamonds. Most are located on Pelicanstraat and De Keyserlei.

Is Antwerpen-Centraal station free to enter?

Yes, the main halls and the architectural areas of the station are free to enter and photograph. You only need a ticket if you intend to board a train and enter the platform areas beyond the gates.

Where is Peter Paul Rubens buried?

Rubens is buried in a private chapel inside St James's Church (Sint-Jacobskerk) in Antwerp. His tomb is located directly behind the main altar and is marked by one of his own paintings, 'The Virgin Surrounded by Saints'.

Is this walking route accessible for strollers?

Yes, the entire route follows city sidewalks which are generally flat and well-maintained. It is very stroller-friendly and accessible for those with limited mobility.

What is the best time of day to start this walk?

Morning is best, specifically around 10:00 AM. This allows you to see the Diamond District while it is active and ensures you reach St James's Church when it is likely to be open for visitors.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Antwerp is a city where every corner tells a story of immense wealth, artistic brilliance, and architectural ambition. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the 'Gilded Gateway' of the city, starting at what is widely considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in the world. As you begin your self-guided adventure, you will step out of the industrial grandeur of the late 19th century and directly into the shimmering heart of the global diamond trade. This walking route offers a unique perspective on how Antwerp’s commercial success fueled its cultural and religious monuments, creating a skyline that blends medieval Gothic styles with opulent Neo-Baroque designs. You will wander through the high-security Diamond District, where billions of dollars in gems change hands behind unassuming facades, before transitioning into the cultural sophistication of the Opera district. The experience culminates at the final resting place of Peter Paul Rubens, the master painter who defined the city's artistic identity. This neighborhood stroll is perfect for those who want to discover at their own pace, offering the flexibility to linger over architectural details or pause for a coffee on a grand boulevard. Unlike a traditional walking tour Antwerp, this audio walk allows you to skip the crowds and focus on the stories that interest you most. From the 'Railway Cathedral' to the hidden synagogues and the final majestic church, this itinerary captures the essence of a city that has always known how to display its riches. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a history enthusiast, this route provides a comprehensive introduction to the elegance and power of Antwerp's golden age.

Highlights

Marvel at the 'Railway Cathedral' of Antwerpen-Centraal

Walk through the world-famous Antwerp Diamond District

Discover the history of the Portuguese Synagogue

Stroll the grand 19th-century boulevard of De Keyserlei

See the opulent Neo-Baroque facade of the Antwerp Opera

Visit St James's Church, the burial site of Peter Paul Rubens

Tour Stops (6)

Antwerpen-Centraal Station

Start exploring with Zigway at what locals call the 'Railway Cathedral.' Built between 1895 and 1905, this station is an architectural masterpiece designed by Louis Delacenserie. Look up at the massive 75-meter high dome and the eclectic blend of styles that range from Neo-Baroque to Art Nouveau. The station was intended to signal Antwerp's status as a global hub of trade and travel. Notice the use of over twenty different types of marble and stone. It isn't just a transit hub; it's a monument to the industrial prosperity of King Leopold II’s reign. Even if you aren't catching a train, the monumental staircase and the glass-and-iron train hall are essential sights for any architecture enthusiast.

Portugese Synagoge

A short walk from the station brings you to the Portuguese Synagogue on Houtbriel. This building serves as a reminder of the deep historical roots of the Jewish community in Antwerp, particularly the Sephardic Jews who arrived here centuries ago. The current building, designed in a Neo-Romanesque style, dates back to the early 20th century. While its exterior is somewhat understated compared to the station, it represents a vital part of Antwerp's cultural fabric. The synagogue is a cornerstone of the local community, which has been instrumental in the city's diamond trade for generations. It stands as a symbol of religious freedom and the multicultural history that has shaped modern Antwerp.

Antwerp Diamond District

You are now entering the Square Mile, the heart of the world’s diamond industry. While the streets of Hoveniersstraat and Rijfstraat might look like ordinary office blocks, approximately 80% of the world's rough diamonds pass through these very buildings. This area is home to four diamond exchanges and over 1,500 diamond firms. You may notice the high level of security, including bollards and cameras, which protects the billions of dollars in inventory housed here. The trade has been centered in Antwerp since the 15th century, and today, it remains a bustling hub where dealers, cutters, and polishers from around the world converge. It is a place where tradition meets high-stakes modern commerce.

De Keyserlei

Step onto De Keyserlei, Antwerp's grandest boulevard. This wide thoroughfare connects the Central Station to the main shopping district of Meir. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this was the place to see and be seen, lined with luxury hotels, theaters, and grand cafes. While many of the buildings have modernized, you can still feel the 19th-century 'Belle Époque' ambition in the scale of the street. It serves as a transition point between the industrial wealth of the station and the cultural heart of the city. Take a moment to appreciate the urban planning that transformed Antwerp into a cosmopolitan European capital during the Gilded Age.

Opera Antwerpen

Dominating the corner of the Teniersplaats is the Vlaamse Opera, or Antwerp Opera House. Opened in 1907, this Neo-Baroque building was designed by Alexis Van Mechelen and Emiel Van Averbeke. The facade is adorned with statues representing music, drama, and dance, reflecting the city’s commitment to the arts. The interior is equally lavish, featuring a painting by Karel Mertens on the ceiling of the auditorium. The Opera House was built during a time of Flemish cultural revival, and it remains a premier venue for world-class performances today. Its presence here marks the northern edge of the city’s historic theater district, where commerce and culture finally meet.

St James's Church (Sint-Jacobskerk)

The final stop on your walking route is St James's Church, a magnificent example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. While the exterior is impressive, the interior is a treasure trove of Baroque art. This church is most famous as the burial place of Peter Paul Rubens, Antwerp’s most celebrated artist. Rubens and his family are interred in a private chapel behind the high altar, which features a painting by the master himself. The church served as the starting point for pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela, but for locals, it was the parish church of the wealthy elite. The sheer number of private chapels and ornate altars reflects the immense private wealth of Antwerp’s 17th-century citizens.

Frequently Asked Questions

The walk takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. This includes time to admire the architecture of the Central Station and the interiors of the church, covering a distance of about 1.5 kilometers.