There are a lot of diamonds in Antwerp. In fact, I could probably say it’s the diamond capital of the world. So when I was invited to visit Antwerp to celebrate the city as being part of the diamond trade worldwide for more than 500 years, I could hardly say no, could I?
This year there are a number of initiatives to celebrate the history of diamonds in Antwerp since 1447. So I flew over to Antwerp as part of a press trip with the tourist board Visit Antwerp to find out more. Those of you who have been readers for a while may know that I used to own a third-generation family jeweller and that is how The Diary Of A Jewellery Lover blog came about. So with my love of diamonds and also travel I was in the lucky position to be chosen for this trip.
So a quick 55-minute flight to Amsterdam from Cardiff and then a two-hour journey on the train to Antwerp meant it was almost quicker to get to Antwerp than to go to London by car for me from South Wales. There are flights direct to Antwerp from London City Airport so if you live in this part of the world it is even easier to get there, and of course, you can also get there from London on Eurostar.
Did you know Lonely Planet's Best In Travel 2018 named Antwerp as one of northern Europe's best-kept secrets? So I was excited when I arrived for my two-night stay.
I got to Antwerp late on a Saturday night and walked the short 15-minute journey to my hotel. I felt totally safe walking to the hotel, but I obviously kept my wits about me in an unfamiliar place.
My stay for the trip would be at Hotel Franq. This boutique luxury hotel really has the wow factor when you enter. A gorgeous lobby with beautiful flowers, comfortable sofas and chic decor greets you. Check-in was quick and efficient and before long I was in my room.
The rooms at Hotel Franq are well-appointed and exceptionally comfortable. A large king-sized bed graced the room, which also had a desk and chair, as well as a comfortable armchair. The bathroom had double sinks, a rainfall shower and luxury toiletries as well as a large flat-screen TV. Little touches in the room such as complimentary water, an espresso coffee machine and a Marshall Bluetooth-enabled radio set the room apart from other boutique hotels I have stayed in recently.
The decor was simple but very well done, and the quality of the furnishings appeared to be exceptional. A dash of colour added some vibrancy to the room which was in muted shades of cream and beige.
That night I slept well and in the morning went down to breakfast.
Hotel Franq prides itself on using high-quality and local ingredients in its restaurant. Continental breakfast was included and involved a variety of bread, homemade jam and homemade granola, whole yoghurt, meat and cheese, boiled eggs, and fresh orange juice with tea or coffee. If you wanted something more substantial then you could choose from avocado on toast, smoked salmon and other delights at an additional charge. If you want to read more about my review of Hotel Franq be sure to check it out.
As I strolled around Antwerp, I came to the main shopping street called Meir. As it was early on a Sunday most shops were closed. However, the shopping area looked great and contained a number of household names such as Zara, and H & M.
Belgium is known for its waffles so I was keen to try these out later in my trip.
Close to this area was the world-renowned Rubens House, a museum of the artwork of Peter Paul Rubens, known for his Baroque style of art. Admission costs 8 euros to get in for adults 25-65, concessions are 6 Euros and free for certain groups. Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to visit but I thought the cost was reasonable.
Time to return to the hotel before meeting everyone for lunch, but on my way back I saw the most wonderful chocolate shop called The Chocolate Line. It certainly looked like THE place to go for artisan chocolates. I mean look at the cake above and the chocolate frog below!
A leisurely stroll back to the hotel and before I knew it I was back. Sylvia and Anja from Visit Antwerp had arranged to meet the press here and had arranged lunch for us all.
All finished with a selection of petit fours, all utterly delectable in their own way.
After our lunch, we took a short 15-minute walk to the MAS Museum.
The MAS Museum otherwise known as the Museum aan de Stroom is a museum located along the river Scheldt in the Eilandje district of Antwerp, Belgium. It opened in May 2011 and is the largest museum in Antwerp. We were here to visit the newly open Dazzling Desire exhibition, which looks at how diamonds are linked to our emotions.
Diamond boots are believed to be the world's most expensive valued at 3.2 million dollars in 2014
Designed by Belgian fashion label AF Vandevorst
Designed by Belgian fashion label AF Vandevorst
Themes of status, power, love, eternal life and wealth are woven throughout the exhibition. Stand-out pieces include Mary of Burgundy’s engagement ring, the impressive Our Lady’s Jubilee crown, and the Cartier tiara worn by Queen Elisabeth of Belgium. Some beautiful original pieces also included these diamond boots above believed to be the most expensive in the world.
C.B. II by Subodh Gupta, 2009. Materials: Stainless steel, stainless steel utensils, neon, lightbox, fibreglass
Private Collection Switzerland
With a mix of original precious diamonds as well as models of diamond jewellery, showing incredible detail, this exhibition is well worth visiting if you have an interest in fashion, jewellery or diamonds. The admission price of between 8 and 10 euros is affordable too. Catch it when you can until 14th January 2018.
Crown of the Infant Jesus, Antwerp, 1899 Gold, Emerald, pearls, Ruby and diamond
Cathedral-Chapel of our Lady of Praise Antwerp
A quick stop next to the Brilliant Foodies festival with stalls of street food, then back to Hotel Franq.
That evening we ate at the restaurant RAS. This modern chic restaurant is perfectly positioned overlooking the water and was designed by leading architect Bon Van Reeth.
My starter was croquettes which are a speciality of the restaurant, made with tiny brown shrimps, onto a prawn linguine in a tomato sauce and then Creme Brulee.
The food was delicious, tasty and well presented and I have to say I really enjoyed my meal. The ambience of the restaurant was lovely too. Upscale but relaxed. It was busy but service was efficient and the staff were welcoming, helpful, and explained any queries we had with smiles all around.
As I was in Belgium I had to try the local beer too! Considering I am not a beer drinker it went down well and was a great end to the meal.
So it was with full stomachs, that our party returned to our hotel to rest before day two tomorrow, where we would visit a high-end jeweller and the Antwerp Diamond Centre as well as hear about the new Diva diamond exhibition.
There was so much to see in Antwerp in one day, so be sure to catch my day two very soon on my blog. Speaking of which, if you are interested in finding out more about diamonds, Beyond4Cs.com is a fantastic resource to check out.
*I was a guest of Visit Antwerp. Silvius Brabo statue CC Wikimedia
The food was delicious, tasty and well presented and I have to say I really enjoyed my meal. The ambience of the restaurant was lovely too. Upscale but relaxed. It was busy but service was efficient and the staff were welcoming, helpful, and explained any queries we had with smiles all around.
As I was in Belgium I had to try the local beer too! Considering I am not a beer drinker it went down well and was a great end to the meal.
pin for later
So it was with full stomachs, that our party returned to our hotel to rest before day two tomorrow, where we would visit a high-end jeweller and the Antwerp Diamond Centre as well as hear about the new Diva diamond exhibition.
There was so much to see in Antwerp in one day, so be sure to catch my day two very soon on my blog. Speaking of which, if you are interested in finding out more about diamonds, Beyond4Cs.com is a fantastic resource to check out.
*I was a guest of Visit Antwerp. Silvius Brabo statue CC Wikimedia
I cannot believe how quick the flight was. Makes it ideal for a weekend break. Looks like a great trip
ReplyDeleteI know! It was super quick. I did have to get a train though from Amsterdam but if you live in London you can fly from London City Airport I think straight to Antwerp.
DeleteIt really looks like a fab place to visit. Your guide is awesome and deffo has provided some inspiration x
ReplyDeleteThat looks like an incredible place to explore. I really want to visit the chocolate shop and the buildings just look perfect
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous looking hotel it looks like such a lovely place to visit.
ReplyDeleteWow this sounds like such an awesome trip, I'd never thought about Antwerp as a destination but now I will x
ReplyDeleteI must admit, I hadn't thought of it as a destination before I went either, but I am so glad I did go. It's cities like this I adore. Ones you can really feel you discovered yourself without any expectations.
DeleteI love travelling around Europe as I think it is so full of beautiful architecture and culture. I have never been to Antwerp but it looks amazing, can't wait to read part 2!
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't have thought of visiting Antwerp but now I'll add it to my 'to visit' list!
ReplyDeleteI've been to other places in Belgium but somehow not to Antwerp and I'm loving the look of the city. I love the combination of history, architecture and great food. They can keep the diamonds though, they do nothing for me! Your hotel looks really nice too.
ReplyDeleteThat is exactly why I loved Antwerp too. Food, culture, history, and amazing architecture, not forgetting diamonds!
DeleteAntwerp looks like the perfect destination, given your blog name! I haven't yet visited but the MAS Museum sounds fascinating and I'd love to visit that chocolate shop!
ReplyDeleteI would have loved to have explore the MAS Museum more, but there is always a next time.
DeleteThey have a chocolate line in Brugge as well and it is amazing for chocolate. Antwerp looks incredibly beautiful, what a great time it sounds like you had!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know this, thank you! I have yet to go to Bruges but when I do I will certainly look out for the shop.
DeleteWhat a fab place for a short break - and that hotel looks gorgeous. Art, history and food together are always a winning combination especially with a sprinkling of diamond dust and chocolate! That frog is fab 😁 Thanks for linking up with #citytripping
ReplyDeleteThe hotel was beautiful!
DeleteWhat a fantastic trip, the city looks beautiful and the short flight is such a bonus!
ReplyDeleteWoah I can't take my eyes off those diamond boots! Can't believe how much they cost!
ReplyDeleteNot practical exactly but who needs practicality when you have diamond boots!
DeleteOh those diamond boots! Imagine how amazing they’d look on a night out. I didn’t know much about Antwerp but after reading this it’s somewhere I’d love to see for myself.
ReplyDeleteGlad you enjoyed the post Helerina!
DeleteThis sounds like a great place for a city break! I've got to admit it wasn't somewhere we had thought of visiting before reading this
ReplyDeleteOh what a beautiful city. We only ever drove through here on a bus. Now I'm regretting that! One day I'll be sure to return and explore more.
ReplyDeleteI hope you get the chance to visit one day.
DeleteI don't know what I was loving more, the jewels or the food! Probably the food! LOL! This looks like a gorgeous city. Thanks for sharing so I can save it for future reference!
ReplyDeleteThe food looks so good *-* and is that beer from "De Koninck" cherry bear?? I hate beer but I love cherry beer haha.
ReplyDeleteI must say that, as a Belgian, I don't like Antwerp that much... BUT you took very beautiful pictures and provide a great explanation. I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it. :)
It tasted like normal beer to me. I didn't realise De Koninck is known for cherry beer.
DeleteI have been to Bruge, Ghent and Bruxelles in Belgium but I have never thought that Antwerp is such an amazing destination! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteIf you enjoyed your trips to these cities then you must visit Antwerp :)
DeleteAntwerp is near the city I live in, and I really love Antwerp. It really is a nice place to visit (:
ReplyDeleteIt is a great city to visit. I am glad you like it.
DeleteYou pulled me in with the stunning architecture, but literally sucked me in with that creme brule. That looks so good! This is not somewhere that has ever appeared on my radar, thanks for introducing me.
ReplyDeleteI had limited time during our visit to Belgium, and we missed Antwerp, but I hope to get back someday, and when I do I'll be making it a priority! #citytripping
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed my stay, so if you do have a chance to go then let me know.
DeleteI've been to the Netherlands and yet I never knew that Antwerp was the world capital for diamonds! I see there's so much more to this city and yet I recognize the typical architecture I've come to love in that country, how beautiful!
ReplyDeleteIt has made me want to explore the rest of Belgium too, after a return visit to see the new diamond museum next year.
DeleteWow- I've never been to Antwerp but you were really able to jam pack a lot into one day! Hotel Franq looks lovely and your breakfast more than satisfying- yum! I'd definitely have to give that waffle stand a try as well as the Belgium beer! Oh and that chocolate frog was just the cutest!
ReplyDeleteI know Antwerp is thought of as the diamond capital of the world, but the architecture looks gorgeous and the food options had my mouth watering! I'd definitely consider adding Antwerp to my next European itinerary especially given how quick and easy it is to get to from London.
ReplyDeleteYes, it is really easy to get to from London. I hope you get the chance to visit one day Jackie.
DeleteI had no idea there was so much to see and do in Antwerp, or that it was the city of diamonds. I definitely want to plan a visit now!
ReplyDeleteI love the Dutch part of Belgium (it's not in the Netherlands..Dany lol..he he) and Antwerp is a great place to explore. Never really got involved in the diamonds area but do prefer to take walks along the massive river/canal in the centre of the city. Cycling there is awesome also. Great post and loving the photos.
ReplyDeleteYes it appears a flat city and great for cycling.
DeleteI really need to get to Antwerp! And I agree that diamonds evoke such emotion! (I couldn't care less 'bout those boots, but I love diamonds in a tiara and jewellery!)
ReplyDeleteAn excellent round up of Antwerp. I was there on a windy day yet enjoyed walking around. Not sure you had a chance to drop by the railway station in Antwerp. It is beautiful with its architecture and tall windows.
ReplyDeleteYes, I came into the railway station but my photos weren't great. I will see if I can put one on my next post.
DeleteI've been reading a lot about Antwerp being the city of Diamonds a lot lately! Who knew?! The Brilliant Foodies festival sounds amazing. I love street food, so this sounds like the perfect thing for me to try out! I love the look of Chocolate Line. That 'death by chocolate' is amazingly cheeky!
ReplyDeleteWow! The architecture in Antwerp in definitely astonishing, Mellissa. When would be the best time of the year to explore it?
ReplyDeleteI think the weather is similar to the UK. I would say anytime is a good time to visit but I think Spring and Autumn would be particularly lovely.
DeleteAntwerp is on our list - We live 4 miles from Doncaster airport, and we have a 45 minute flight and 20 minute taxi ride to be in Amsterdam! Far better than trying to get to London...
ReplyDeleteWhen you go to Amsterdam next, take the train journey to Antwerp, you won't be disappointed!
DeleteI've never thought of going to Antwerp before, looks very interesting and the food looks delicious!
ReplyDeleteIt was really interesting and the beer, waffles, and chocolate was delicious!
DeleteWow, what a great place to visit.
ReplyDeletenever considered Antwerp before, great review and pics will definitely think about this as a destination now ;)
ReplyDeleteI must admit before I went I didn't really know that much about Antwerp but I was pleasantly surprised!
DeleteI want to eat the chocolate frogs eye 😂 Sounds like a wonderful trip and the hotel room looks lovely! A place I've never been there before but I would after this review!
ReplyDeleteThat's good to know, I have another post -my part 2 going live later this month.
DeleteWhat a stunning city, looks a great place to visit.
ReplyDeleteIt was very interesting.
DeleteLooks amazing. The creme brulee is mouth watering
ReplyDeleteWhat an incredible trip. You are so lucky. The architecture is stunning and the hotel you stayed at is simply lush! I'll pop Antwerp on my list of places to visit! Great Post
ReplyDeleteThe hotel was simply beautiful! I loved the architecture too. It's definitely a city worth visiting for sure.
DeleteI had to laugh at those diamond encrusted boots. To spend all that money for something so ugly!
ReplyDeleteBeauty is in the eye of the beholder!
DeleteI'd love to go there. looks like you had a great time.
ReplyDeleteIt looks like a wonderful city to visit.... I don't fly but it's a place I can get to ..... thanks for the blog
ReplyDeleteMargaret Clarkson
ReplyDeletelove the photographs of all the lovely buildings
The food looks amazing
ReplyDeleteLooks a nice place to explore
ReplyDeleteI've never thought about visiting Antwerp before, but after reading your blog and seeing the beautiful photos, it's definitely a city I'd love to go to. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteHope you get the chance to visit one day Jules!
DeleteThis isn't somewhere I'd thought of going, but you've definitely caught my interest with this. The hotel and that chocolate cake are especially gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteAmazing place to visit .
ReplyDeleteI must admit that I have not really given much thought to visiting Antwerp but after reading this article I have changed my mind x
ReplyDeleteThat's interesting, thanks for your comment.
DeleteSuch a great review of this place. Better review than what you would get if you bought a book on the country!
ReplyDeleteAw thank you Karen, that is very kind. I am not sure about that but it's nice to know you appreciated it!
Deletewow - those stunning buildings!!!
ReplyDeleteLooks like an amazing place!
ReplyDeleteI love city breaks, but haven't been here as yet. There seems lots to do and the food looks amazing.
ReplyDeleteWow l didn't realise Antwerp was so lovely! love all the cultural building and there's lots to do, its great to check blogs lie this to find new places to travel.
ReplyDeleteAntwerp is really lovely and very under rated!
DeleteYou make me want to go.
ReplyDeleteLooks a wonderful place to visit .. a foodies heaven. 💕
ReplyDeleteA lovely & interesting place to visit.
ReplyDeleteLovely photos, it's a beautiful place!x
ReplyDeleteHi Mellissa, love your blog post on Antwerp and stunning photos :)
ReplyDelete