The NAME. It's name probably comes from "aan de werpe", which is Dutch for "at the throw" referring to where the river throws its sand. The name also has a funny anecdote saying it comes from "Hand werpen", which translated is "throwing (a) hand(s)". In the official flag, the castle "het Steen" and the hand of Antwerp are shown.
CATHEDRAL of our LADY (Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal). One of the most impressive and biggest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe, built 1351-1521, 400 ft tall. It also houses some of Rubens' most famous paintings.
Het STEEN ("The Stone", literally). This a rather small medieval castle on the banks of the river Schelde. It used to function as a city fortification, now it houses a naval museum. It is the starting point of the Wandelterrassen, a scenic boardwalk with a cafe/restaurant at either end.
ZOO. One of the oldest zoos in the world, with over 4000 animals and lots of 19th century design and architecture. Right by the Central Station. You will not find such a fine zoo very often, and it's location is a monument in its own right: it is a few years younger than the London Zoo (1850), but retains all of the original buildings, cages and gardens.
RED LIGHT DISTRICT. It's pretty small and right in the centre of town. If you want to visit just to do some sightseeing : ) consider going during the day. Although it's not as bad as it sounds, the district might be a little less safe at night. Ive been there once - but unfortunetely have no pics. Resembles Amsterdam one - with women standing\sitting in the red-lighted windows.
BRILLIANTS. Antwerp claims to be the "world's leading diamond city". It has every right to claim this, as more than 70% of all diamonds are traded in Antwerp. More than 85% of the world’s rough diamonds, 50% of cut diamonds and 40% of industrial diamonds are traded in the city.
SAVETY. Most parts of Antwerp are pretty safe. Some neighbourhoods are to be avoided in the evening. The warnings (purses, cells etc) that are used in every city have to be observed here too of course. Although you should be careful not to leave valuables on view in your car!!! And be sure to lock your bike to a fixed object with a very good lock! Like in the rest of Europe, the number centralised for emergencies (ambulance, police and firemen) is 112.
TRANSPORTATION. Since Flanders (and Belgium) is not big, it's very easy to take the train and go visit another city. The city has many special areas for cyclers and most 1-way roads can be accessed in both ways for cycles. It's much easier and more comfortable than a car. There are few free parking spaces but many spaces where you have to pay (on the street or in underground car parks). The prices are typically 2 euros per hour. There are many one-way roads, that can make it difficult to get to a specific place. Try to park your car as close as possible and go on foot!!!
FOOD. People often go eat a "smos", a bread with several layers of garniture in it. The name refers to the mess you make when trying to eat it. At most Flemish towns, you can find many fritkotten in the city. These are places where you can buy french fries and other fried food for a reasonable price. They usually have no place to sit so you must eat standing. But so what, they are only the best in Belgium!
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