Running in Antwerp: the diamond of Flanders
- audreyubertino
- Mar 24
- 4 min read
Selected as one of the best places to go in Europe in 2024 by Condé Nast Traveler, Antwerp is a cosmopolitan city with an exceptional cultural, historical and architectural heritage. Beyond its port and diamond trade, the Flemish city is packed with museums, historic buildings and architectural marvels, all set in idyllic surroundings, between the green banks of the Scheldt and Galgenweel rivers and the many parks and gardens. But Antwerp is also a modern and vibrant city, with trendy bars and restaurants, avant-garde fashion designers and a wealth of street art. With JOOKS, discover the city of diamonds with our 10 audio-guided tours!
The city of Antwerp grew from a small port near a jetty, inhabited by a modest Roman-speaking population in the 7th century, and owed its development largely to its strategic river position along the Scheldt. Even today, a third of Belgian exports pass through the Flemish city, making Antwerp the second largest port in Europe.
Although the city went into decline between the end of the 16th century and the beginning of the 17th century, it has managed to bounce back and now welcomes many visitors every year in search of historical and architectural treasures, as well as shopping, fashion and design.
Diamonds, architecture and culture
Since the 19th century, Antwerp's history and economy have been intimately linked to diamonds. Thanks to its geographical position and the excellent reputation of its cutters, the city quickly established itself as a key player in the diamond trade. Several of our tours will take you through the narrow streets of the diamond district, nestling in the heart of the city and home to 1,700 diamond companies and 4,500 diamond cutters. Considered one of the largest diamond trading centres in the world, this district bears witness to the important role played by Antwerp in the diamond industry. If you're curious, don't forget to visit the Diamond Pavilion at MAS or the DIVA Museum to find out more about these jewels.
As you stroll through the streets of the city, you can't fail to admire its eclectic and vibrant architecture. Stone, iron, glass, gilt... Antwerp's architecture mirrors its history, culture and ever-evolving identity. Its harmonious blend of historic and contemporary elements offers visitors a captivating journey through time and design, making it a destination that appeals to both history buffs and lovers of modern aesthetics.
As well as being the diamond capital of the world, Antwerp is also a leading cultural centre. Its art scene is marked by the legacy of the Baroque painter Peter Paul Rubens and the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, which houses Flemish and Dutch masterpieces. Antwerp also shines in the world of fashion, known for encouraging the innovative designers of the ‘Antwerp Six’ and for maintaining a vibrant fashion district. The Royal Academy of Fine Arts and the ModeMuseum contribute to the city's fashion identity, while events such as the Antwerp Fashion Festival celebrate its design prowess.
Street art
Despite its rich past, Antwerp is not just a historical city. Street art has become as much a part of the Diamond City as Brabo, the Scheldt and the Tower of Our Lady. From the tags of graffiti pioneers to the huge murals of street artists, the city is an open-air playground and museum for urban art lovers. The Zomerfabriek, a creative centre, is home to street artist Gijs Vanhee's iconic Antwerp mural, a celebration of colour and culture.
The city's commitment to street art is also evident in its participation in initiatives such as the Tizarte street art festival, where international artists converge to leave their mark on Antwerp's walls. From thought-provoking murals to playful installations, Antwerp's streetscapes are a celebration of the city's modern creative energy. JOOKS offers two routes that will take you on a tour of the masterpieces that adorn the city's walls. Keep your eyes peeled!
A green oasis
As well as its lively streets and historic monuments, Antwerp is surprisingly rich in green spaces. Antwerp's many parks and gardens bear witness to the city's commitment to providing ample green space for its residents and visitors alike. The Rivierenhof park, a vast green setting, offers a haven of relaxation and leisure with, among other things, a zoo, an open-air theatre and a rose garden. From lakes and canals to wooded paths, this park invites you to relax in the heart of nature.
For a touch of enchantment, take our Three Parks for the Price of One route to explore Middelheim Park, an open-air museum that seamlessly blends art installations with lush landscapes. Antwerp's commitment to sustainable living is also evident in its urban farming initiatives, such as the Rooftop Farm and EcoHuis Antwerpen, which present innovative approaches to combining urban living and nature. These islands of greenery in the heart of the city offer a welcome respite from Antwerp's urban bustle.
If you're looking for a bit of fresh air, why not take a breath of fresh air by the water? The Scheldt and the Galgenweel play a starring role in our Run Along Water walking route. Thanks to two unique passages in a tunnel under the river, you can discover both the verdant left bank and the beautiful architecture of the Scheldt quays on the right bank.
Run, walk or cycle with JOOKS, from the main square to Notre-Dame Cathedral!
Find all the routes in the city of Antwerp and more than 1,500 others on the JOOKS application.
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