Leisure Options In Antwerp
While not renowned for sport, Antwerp does have quality facilities for all the traditional individual and team sports such as golf, football and tennis. However, it is for its range of leisure attractions that the city is most famous, with shopping topping the list.
Football
Antwerp is home to one of Belgium’s top football teams, Royal Antwerp FC. Successful in both Belgium and European competitions, the club is based at the Bosuilstadion. Part of the club’s success can be linked to its close relationship to Manchester United, who regularly loan their young players to Royal Antwerp for valuable top-flight experience. The stadium is quite small, allowing spectators to be right up close to the action.
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Ice skating
If you happen to be wintering in Antwerp, then don’t miss the chance to ice skate at one of the many temporary rinks set up in parks and squares throughout the city. The atmosphere is very traditional and timeless, and you can circle the ice with magnificent 16th century buildings all around.
Shopping
Antwerp is world famous for its shopping. In particular, diamonds and designer fashion are great buys and there is a spectacular selection of outlets. The ‘Golden Mile’ between the Meir and the Groen Plaats is the city’s main shopping district and it has some of the best boutiques, with Antwerp’s world-famous fashion designer labels such as Ann Demeulemeester, Dirk Bikkembergs and Dries Van Noten. If it is jewellery and diamonds you are after then head to the Diamond quarter, west of Centraal Station, where you will be dazzled by the designs and prices.
The Promenade
A great way to take in the sights of the waterfront district is to stroll along the Promenade, which runs along the entire length of Antwerp’s coastline and riverside, from Scheldt past the huge harbour to the small beaches. The range of sights here is extensive, with the path passing massive cruise liners in the port, the ancient Steen fortress, modern waterfront entertainment districts and small sandy beaches.