Antwerp is the capital of Flanders - one of Belgium's three regions. Known locally as the "world's leading diamond city", some reports suggest that more than 70 per cent of all diamonds are traded within its city limits.

In addition to this, over 85 per cent of the world's rough diamonds, 50 per cent of cut diamonds and 40 per cent of industrial diamonds are traded in the city.

Antwerp is a very old city - there have been excavations of materials dating back to Roman times. But at the same time, with its trendy shops, bars and cafes, the city is very much a hip and happening 21st century metropolis. Visitors are urged to find flights online and book that last minute holiday because a relaxing break in Antwerp awaits.

Traditions and culture in Antwerp

The city's culture is heavily influenced by its rich artistic heritage. Antwerp's artistic reputation dates back to the 17th century and is based on its school of painting, which included Rubens, Van Dyck, Jordaens, the two Teniers and many others.

Fashion is also an important aspect of the city's contemporary culture - Antwerp is a rising fashion destination soon to potentially rival the likes of London, Paris and Milan.

Antwerp is beginning to produce many notable fashion designers who are starting to make a name for themselves on the world stage such as the Antwerp Six, a collective of influencial avantgarde fashion desginers who graduated from the city's Royal Academy of Fine Arts between 1980 and 1981.

It is the Royal Academy which has given Antwerp its cult status in the fashion world. It is one of the most important fashion academies in Europe and has taught many of Belgium's leading fashion designers.

Anwerp is also quite big on sport and is home to major football clubs such as K F C Germinal Beerschot and R Antwerp F C.

Recommended in Antwerp

Art lovers should definitely fit in a visit to Rubenshuis, the artist Rubens' former abode, which has been converted into a museum dedicated to his life and works. For a mere seven euros, tourists are admitted entrance to absorb the history of this master painter.
Plantin Moretus museum, the home of 16th century bookbinder and printer Christoffel Plantin, is also a must-see.
Regarded as one of the best museums dedicated to printing in the world, the Plantin Moretus houses an extensive collection of important books and printing presses. The musuem is also on the Unesco World Heritage List.

Weather in Antwerp

The best weather is usually reserved for the months between May and September, while the more inclement weather typically occurs between November and March.

Summer temperatures average at around 25 degrees C (77 degrees Fahrenheit), while average winter temperatures are typically pegged around three degrees C (32 degrees Fahrenheit).

Destination checklist for Antwerp

Antwerp's population is just over 1.5 million.

The official languages are Dutch, French and German, so a holiday guide with language tips is recommended.

The official currency is the euro.

Antwerp is just one hour ahead of GMT and uses the international dialling code +32.