A visit to Antwerp, Belgium is a bucket-list item, to be sure. The chance alone to sample delectable Belgian chocolates and taste Belgian waffles made in the place they originated is reason enough to make the trek, but Antwerp has countless other amazing opportunities when it comes to making purchases. With so many wonderful options, how is a traveler to know what to spend and what to skip? Our buying guide will give you several good ideas to get you started on your shopping journey through Antwerp, Belgium.
Diamonds
First on the list is diamonds. Since the 15th century, Antwerp has been a major player in the diamond trade, and it is no different today. More than 85% of the world’s rough diamonds are traded here. Likewise, 50% of the world’s cut diamonds are here, and Antwerp’s diamond artisans pay meticulous attention to detail as they design and create unique pieces of jewelry art. Before you go, educate yourself about the four c’s of diamonds (cut, clarity, carats, and color) to prevent being taken advantage of. The diamond district is on and around Pelikaanstraat Street, and the district is closed on Saturdays. If you prefer other precious stones, those are readily available in Antwerp, as well.
Clothing
In the Golden Age of the 1500s, Belgium was a fashion center. After falling into fashion anonymity for a significant period of time, The Antwerp 6 reintroduced Belgium to the fashion scene at London’s Fashion Week in the 1980s. Each of the six designers now has a fashion label, as do many who have come after them, and Belgian designers have dressed American celebrities including Sandra Bullock and Kerry Washington. Be sure to take a stroll through the fashion district, but check store hours ahead of time, as they aren’t open every day.
Artwork
Belgium has a rich art history, and Antwerp’s art market proudly displays a wide range of artwork for purchase. Everything from sculpture and photography to graphic design is available to purchase as a special souvenir of your time in the city.
Lace
Belgian lace is world-renowned and has been for some time. Since the early 1800s, a lace-making school and lace market has been housed in a distinctive red building in Handschoenmarkt. Today, fourth-generation family members run The Kantwinkeltje (lace market), which has an amazing range of lacework available for purchase. Word to the wise: Handmade lace is not cheap, so consider buying some as a heritage purchase.
Tapestries
Besides the other fabric arts of fashion and lacemaking, Antwerp has a rich history of tapestry production. In the sixteenth century, Antwerp was the tapestry distribution center for all of Europe, in addition to being a place where tapestries were created. While taking home one of these handmade beauties is sure to set you back a pretty penny, it will, no doubt, be the crown jewel of your home for years to come.
There’s no shame in spending your money on Belgian chocolates or waffles. They’re both delicious! However, be sure to save back some for souvenirs that will last more than a second on your taste buds and an hour in your stomach. Make purchases that will be statement pieces and conversation starters (skip the slide show and display your souvenirs!) once you return home to the States.
Traveling to Belgium offers so much, plan your next trip to see the charming towns, beautiful gardens, wonderful food, and plenty of souvenirs.
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