Het Eilandje: Antwerp’s sparkling jewel
Culture, heritage, architectural gems, culinary delights and a good glass of Belgian beer. Het Eilandje (“the little island”) in Antwerp has it all. This neighborhood is arguably Europe’s trendiest island.
Flanders has a stunning coastline: 67 kilometers of highlights. Our beautiful part of the North Sea is something to be proud of — only there are no islands. You can head off in a different direction and make your way inland, specifically to bustling Antwerp. In this proverbial sea of art, culture and heritage you’ll find a particularly special neighborhood: Het Eilandje. This is possibly the trendiest place in the already pretty cool city of Antwerp.
This neighborhood bears the name “the little island” because it’s wedged between the mighty River Scheldt and the many docks of the former port. Since the 1980s, what was a robust industrial area has evolved into a vibrant neighborhood. Check out this handful of highlights.
Your tour starts at the Museum aan de Stroom (MAS). This impressive city museum is housed in an imposing building: its ten floors are reminiscent of a stack of boxes alternating between deep red sandstone and clear glass. At the MAS, you can learn the stories of Antwerp, the river, the port, and the world. Various exhibitions successively lead you upstairs to a literal high point. From the rooftop terrace, a magnificent view of the city will take your breath away.
After this wonderful panorama, explore Het Eilandje from ground level. A walk along the marina leads to the next highlight: The Port House, the headquarters of the Antwerp Port Authority. The famous Zaha Hadid designed this architectural jewel. The one-of-a-kind building sparkles like a diamond, a nod to Antwerp’s status as a diamond capital.
After this contemporary landmark, continue towards another piece of history. At the Red Star Line Museum, follow in the footsteps of countless people who went in search of a better life. Between 1873 and 1935, approximately two million people boarded steamships destined for North America here, heading for their own American dream. Among others, the great Albert Einstein departed for the other side of the ocean from this spot. The fascinating museum tells his story and that of many others in the former sheds of the famous Red Star Line shipping company.
Het Eilandje is an inexhaustible source of not only stories but also experiences. This neighborhood is a great place to get to know Flanders’ many culinary delights. Looking for a Michelin-worthy experience? The Michelin-starred kitchens of Pont Neuf and Zilte (at the top of the MAS!) are ready and waiting. Desiring a deliciously sophisticated cocktail? You’ll find what you seek in the vaulted cellar of BelRoy’s. Fancy an introduction to Belgium’s rich beer culture? The Antwerp Brewing Company (ABC) will welcome you with open arms. Are you searching for something in between? Just stroll around and you’re sure to come across the perfect place. Het Eilandje is an island of treasures.
