Summer in Antwerp

Antwerp has made a lot of plans for the coming months. In this newsletter, we have collected highlights, news and tips. Would you like to know more about a particular subject, are you looking for visual material or do you feel like coming and discovering it for yourself in Antwerp? Please contact us!

KMSKA nearly ready to reopen! ​

On Saturday 24 September, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) will finally open its doors to the general public again, after years of restoration and renovation by KAAN Architecten. In a brand-new museum building, KMSKA will display more than 600 works of art. You will be able to admire the works of Rubens, Ensor or Fouquet in a phenomenal setting. Learn more about the preparations here.

KMSKA © Karin Borghouts

Tall Ships moor up

From 22 to 25 July, Antwerp is once again welcoming The Tall Ships Races. For the seventh time, the world's finest and largest sailing ships will moor up along the docks and quays. The whole city will be infused with the maritime atmosphere. Four days full of wonder and celebration. The programme includes visits to historic ships, the crew parade, musical performances and fireworks.

Tall Ships Races 2016 © Jonathan Ramael

Visit the renovated Town Hall with a guide

After more than 4 years of intensive restoration and renovation work, the historic Town Hall is completely ready. The Renaissance building no longer met current comfort and sustainability requirements, and the paintings and other heritage in the building were also in need of thorough maintenance. Those who would like to take a closer look can book a guided tour at Experience Antwerp.

Stadhuis Antwerpen © Frederik Beyens

Antwerp rises in international ranking of sustainable cities

Every two years, Arcadis publishes its 'Sustainable Cities Index'. For this purpose, 100 cities will be screened and their sustainability investigated in terms of 3 pillars: people, planet and well-being. Antwerp scores highly in terms of sustainability, rising from place 43 to 27 this year. For example, in recent years the city has invested in bicycle lanes, heat grids and an efficient waste policy.

New director for Antwerp Fashion Department

In early June, more than 4,000 fans gathered for the annual SHOW of the world-famous Fashion Department. Two days of glitz and glamour, but also a historic edition because Walter Van Beirendonck officially stepped down as head of the department. Starting next academic year, American Brandon Wen will take the torch.

New places in the city

YAYS Antwerp Opera

Near Central Station, this aparthotel opened its doors last month. The former office building has 94 spacious and stylish apartments, all decorated in a homely atmosphere. With tips from insiders, YAYS makes you feel like a local. For example, at the reception desk there is a large map with (hidden) hotspots and guests receive a guide to the neighbourhood.

Summer bars

Time for bare legs, barbecues and balmy nights. But also time for a refreshing cocktail, good food or dancing to summer beats in one of the many summer bars popping up all over town. Discover the most fun places to be here.

© Bar Chapel

© YAYS© YAYS

The Leienpaleis

This stunning former banker's house opened its doors in early March and is the new cultural hub in the heart of Antwerp. The interior of the building had long remained a well-kept secret. Artists, dancers, writers and musicians are breathing new life into this building. You can expect to see performances, exhibitions, parties, meetings and workshops at the Leienpaleis. ​

Blueness Antwerp

Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman opened the doors of his new restaurant in the premises of fashion store Verso. The chef himself isn't at the helm here, that honour has gone to 2 women: chef Jaclyn Kong and maître d'hotel Dorine Van den Eynde. The dishes combine modern French cuisine with Japanese accents.

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