Are you an avid museum visitor? Then there is plenty to indulge in in Antwerp. There are all kinds of amazing museums in Antwerp for you to visit. Antwerp is, therefore, a very popular destination for museum lovers. Thanks to its rich history you will find numerous museums in Antwerp. From art and culture to fashion and history, the museums in Antwerp hold something for everyone. Do you prefer a tour with a guide or would you rather set out on your own? It is up to you!
DIVA | Museum for diamonds, jewellery and silver
DIVA is the number one museum for diamonds, jewellery and silver in Antwerp. The museum is located at an historic site from the 16th century which was the place to be for people who were looking for objects made of gold, silver and precious stones. DIVA’s permanent collection takes you on a journey back in time through 500 years of craftsmanship and artisanship. After a visit to DIVA, you can go on a treasure hunt in Antwerp armed with your new-found knowledge.
Address: Suikerrui 17/19, 2000 Antwerp
Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library
For over five centuries, this place has been preserving and collecting Flemish cultural heritage, from old prints and historical newspapers to recent publications. Just as impressive as the unique collection is the Nottebohm Room. You can only discover this beautiful historical library space during a guided tour.
Address: Hendrik Conscienceplein 4, 2000 Antwerp
Here you can experience photography like nowhere else. The FOMU is one of the leading museums of photography in Europe, with unique collections of images, equipment and books. FOMU creates ambitious exhibitions every year and is an ambassador for both local young talent and established photographers. You can attend a wide range of activities, such as vernissages, artist talks and debates. Or you can browse through the library, leaf through photo books and magazines, relax in the museum café, stroll through the museum shop or catch a quality film. The hip Zuid, where the museum is located, is an excellent starting point for a day in Antwerp.
Address: Waalsekaai 47, 2000 Antwerp
This is THE literary archive of Flanders. The museum houses the finest collection of archival documents on Flemish literature from the 19th and 20th centuries. Great stories and ‘petites histoires’, rough drafts and the finest tomes, forgotten gems and unforgettable classics. Conscience and Claus, Antwerp and Reetveerdegem … In a sense, you get a glance over the shoulders of the authors.
Address: Minderbroederstraat 22, 2000 Antwerp
In this former orphanage for girls or ‘maidens’, you will discover the history of the orphan girls and of poor relief in Antwerp. The rich art collection, with works by Rubens, Van Dyck and Jordaens, fits in surprisingly well with that story. A nice bonus: the neighbouring Mechelseplein is now one of the hippest squares in Antwerp.
Address: Lange Gasthuisstraat 33, 2000 Antwerp
