Biyahilo - Tourist Attractions

Antwerp is the second largest city of Belgium. The capital city of the province of Antwerp, it is also the second largest harbor in Europe after Rotterdam. It is a leading commercial center famous for cutting, trading and polishing of diamonds. Since the last 15 years, Antwerp has been elevated to the status of being one of the leading cities for fashion design in Europe.

MUST SEE TOURIST SPOTS

Antwerp’s Grote Markt (Town Square)

Not as big as the ‘Grand’Place’ of Brussels, but certainly as beautiful is the ‘Grote Markt’ (= Town Square) of Antwerp. Here is still the heart of the old city. The Grote Markt is beautifully surrounded by the Town Hall and the so-called houses of the Guilds or corporations. In the background the tower of Our Lady’s Cathedral completes the magnificent view.

In the middle of the town square lies a statue of the first hero of Antwerp Brabo. He was the man who had killed a giant, who according to a legend used to control river traffic and extract money from people. The roman soldier Brabo cut the giant’s hand and threw it into the Schedlt River.

Our Lady’s Cathedral

Our Lady’s Cathedral is another important landmark. With its Gothic architecture, the 123 meter lofty tower is a sight to behold. The cathedral is home to two of the masterpieces of Reubens, ‘The Descent from the Cross’ and the ‘Elevation of the Cross.’

Antwerp Castle

The Antwerp castle, known as Steen (stone) is called such because castles in the 13th century were built of wood. This was the first castle at that time to be built of stone.

Meir

The Meir is another tourist attraction and the main shopping street in Antwerp. The Osterrieth House and the former royal residence of the Belgian kings in Antwerp are two of the important buildings in the Meir. The first stock exchange building in the world was built on Meir. It was gutted down in the middle of the nineteenth century and was reconstructed in Neo-Gothic architecture.

CLIMATE IN ANTWERP

There really isn’t a bad time to visit Antwerp. Although during the winter months it can be cool and damp there are plenty of things to do indoors - like museums and shopping. If you are not a fan of crowds, late autumn to early spring is probably the best time to visit.

The city is definitely more up-tempo in the summer, with more street markets and a special Rubens festival in August when the stall-holders dress in traditional costumes. The nightlife is always especially good in the summer, and sitting out at a terrace café and watching the world go by is a favourite pastime.

Popularity: 63% [?]

Fashion, fine food and finance, Milan is as much gloss and glamour as it is business. A place of charming juxtaposition, this stylish metropolis is home to Dolce & Gabanna as well as Italy’s stock market and business centers. Practical yet beautiful, one can only anticipate world-class pleasures in this city of pure indulgence.

In spite of its frenetic urban pace, you can sill appreciate Milan’s rich history and culture by visiting its passionate operas, unique art treasures, delightful churches and museums.

NICE SIGHTS

Duomo
Dating back to 1300, the Duomo is Milan’s most outstanding artistic and religious monument. Also the world’s third largest Christian church, this Gothic wonder has one of the best views in the city.

La Scala
Since 1778, this famous opera house is dedicated to Italy’s most celebrated composers and performers. It was here that Rossini made his name, where Verdi premiered most of his works nad Puccini’s “Madame Butterfly” had its first airing.

Santa Maria delle Grazie
A pilgrimage for all Leonardo Da Vinci’s fans, this church houses Milan’s greatest art treasure - Leonardo da Vinci’s “The last Supper”. The recently restored fresco can be admired on the refectory wall. And unlike most of the church, the refectory miraculously escaped the bombs of World War II.

BE IN VOGUE

Arguably one of the world’s fashion and design capitals, it’s no surprise that shopping is a religion here. Check out these exciting and must-sees and must-do, especially if you are a fashionista.

Monte Napoleone
Shop till you drop. Or maybe just window-shop if your budget doesn’t stretch to designer goodies. It is still worth taking a stroll down Milan’s high-fashion emporia, Monte Napoleone, and its equally chic sister street, Via Spiga.

photo by Luisfran

Milan Fashion Week
In recent years, the Milan Fashion week has been extended to include some 100 shows. Expect to see hot new creations of the world’s top designers like Versace, D&G, Armani and more.

burberry

Galleria Vittorio Emmanulle II
Designed by Gluseppe Mengoni in 1864, Galleria Vittorio Emmanulle II is a stunning glass-domed arcade lined with chic restaurants, cafes and bookstores - a great place to sip coffee and watch the world go by.

photo by James Martin

INDULGENCE IN STYLE

There will never be a shortage of stylish places to wine, dine and party in Milan. Here are the hot spots not to be missed.

Teatro 7
One of Milan’s most popular restaurants - known for its hip decor and open kitchen where flamboyant chefs Rico Guarnieri and Claudio Colombo cook up complicated delicacies effortlessly.

10 Corso Como
Located in a former mechanic’s workshop, it is a 13,000 square foot complex housing a restaurant, bar, bookstore and homeware/ fashion boutique all rolled into one. It even has an exhibition space for art that attracts collecotrs and enthusiasts alike.

II Volo
Trendy and unique, this bar is at the forefront of the Milanese aperitif revolution. Set in a typical Milan house, there’s a special garden where Armani-suited clientele sip on cocktails under the trees.

Popularity: 58% [?]