Antwerp, the diamond of Flanders, is a city that charms with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. During our recent visit to this city, we chose to stay at the centrally located Hotel Mercure City Center. It turned out to be the perfect choice for a short but unforgettable family getaway.
Central comfort at Hotel Mercure City Center
Our family, consisting of two adults and two children, stayed for one night at Hotel Mercure City Center, a hotel that is not only centrally located but also recently renovated. The location couldn’t be better: just a stone’s throw from the Meir, Antwerp’s famous shopping street, and surrounded by various tourist attractions.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed into the modern and stylishly decorated hotel. Our family room was a pleasant surprise: spacious, contemporary, and equipped with all the amenities. The beds were comfortable, and the room could be fully darkened, ensuring a good night’s sleep, even with the warm weather outside, thanks to the efficient air conditioning.
The next morning, we were treated to an extensive and well-presented breakfast in the beautifully decorated dining area. The breakfast buffet offered a wide range of local products, with the hotel clearly focusing on their ‘Discover Local’ concept. This initiative by Mercure helps guests discover hidden gems in the city, something we greatly appreciated.
The practical side of our stay was also well-organized. The private parking, which we could book for a reasonable price of €25 per day, gave us peace of mind knowing our car was safely parked while we explored the city.
Top 10 attractions in Antwerp
During our stay in Antwerp, we explored some of the city’s highlights. Here are our recommendations:
- The Grote Markt
The Grote Markt of Antwerp is the historical heart of the city. Surrounded by beautiful guild houses and the impressive town hall, it’s a must-see for every visitor.
Website: antwerpen.be
Admission: Free - The Cathedral of Our Lady
This Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its impressive architecture and the artworks by Rubens housed within.
Website: dekathedraal.be
Admission: Adults €12, children (7-14 years) €6 - Museum aan de Stroom (MAS)
This museum tells the story of Antwerp as a global port city. In addition to the exhibitions, the rooftop of the MAS offers panoramic views of the city.
Website: mas.be
Admission: Adults €12, children <12 years free - Zoo Antwerp
One of the oldest zoos in the world, where you can enjoy over 5,000 animals with the whole family. The zoo is located right next to the Central Station, making it easily accessible.
Website: zooantwerpen.be
Admission: Adults €27, children (3-11 years) €22.50 - Rubenshuis
The former home and studio of the famous painter Peter Paul Rubens is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
Website: rubenshuis.be
Admission: Adults €12, children <12 years free - Het Steen
This medieval castle on the Scheldt River offers a glimpse into Antwerp’s rich past. It was recently renovated and now also includes an interactive visitor center.
Website: hetsteen.be
Admission: Free - ModeMuseum (MoMu)
Antwerp is a fashion capital, and the MoMu showcases the best of Belgian fashion design. The museum reopened in 2021 after an extensive renovation.
Website: momu.be
Admission: Adults €12, children <12 years free - Het Eilandje (The Island)
A trendy district in Antwerp where you can enjoy modern architecture, cozy cafés, and the lively atmosphere around the MAS and the marina.
Website: visiteilandje.be
Admission: Free - The Meir
For shopping enthusiasts, a stroll along the Meir is an absolute must. This famous shopping street offers a mix of international chains and local boutiques.
Website: visitantwerpen.be - The Red Star Line Museum
This museum tells the stories of migrants who traveled from Antwerp to America. It offers an impressive insight into an important part of the city’s history.
Website: redstarline.be
Admission: Adults €12, children <12 years free
Conclusion: A stay thatlLeaves you wanting more
Our stay at Hotel Mercure City Center and our visit to Antwerp was an absolute success. The combination of a modern and comfortable hotel with an excellent location, and the city’s rich cultural and historical attractions, made this an experience our family will not soon forget. We will certainly return to discover more of this beautiful city.
Practical Information: Hotel Mercure City Center Antwerp
If you are interested in staying at Hotel Mercure City Center Antwerp, here are the practical details:
Hotel Mercure City Center offers a perfect base for visiting Antwerp, combining comfort, modern design, and an excellent location. Ideal for families looking to explore the city!
