Shopping in Antwerp
What to Buy
- Belgian Chocolate: Premium pralines from Neuhaus, Leonidas, The Chocolate Line. Bring home boxed assortments or visit chocolate boutiques.
- Diamonds & Jewelry: Certified diamonds from the Diamond District. Request certificates, compare prices, and buy only from established dealers.
- Fashion: Avant-garde Belgian designer pieces from Antwerp Six boutiques (Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester). More affordable at & Other Stories, COS.
- Beer: Specialty bottles from beer shops like De Biertempel, De Vagant. Include Trappist ales, local brews like De Koninck.
- Lace & Textiles: Traditional Belgian lace, linens. Look for authentic handmade pieces, not mass-produced tourist items.
- Antiques: Vintage treasures from Sunday markets in Zuid, Kloosterstraat antique shops.
- Speculoos & Waffles: Traditional cookies and fresh stroopwafels make excellent gifts.
Shopping Areas
Meir: Main shopping street with international brands (H&M, Zara, Mango). The Stadsfeestzaal is a magnificent shopping arcade worth visiting for architecture alone.
Nationalestraat (Fashion District): Belgian designer boutiques, MoMu museum shop, cutting-edge fashion from local talents.
Kammenstraat & Schuttershofstraat: Independent boutiques, vintage shops, shoe stores.
Hoogstraat & Kloosterstraat: Antiques, galleries, specialty shops in historic buildings.
Zuid Neighborhood: Art galleries, design shops, Sunday antique market at Leopold de Waelplaats.
Markets
- Sunday Antique Market (Zuid): 9 AM-2 PM, Leopold de Waelplaats. Vintage finds, collectibles, furniture.
- Saturday Exotic Market: Theaterplein. Multicultural foods, textiles, spices.
- Vrijdagmarkt: Friday flea market near MAS, 8 AM-1 PM. True bargain hunting experience.
Shopping Hours
Typically Monday-Saturday 10 AM-6:30 PM. Many shops close Sundays except Meir area. Thursdays often have extended hours until 9 PM. Small boutiques may close Monday mornings.
Tax Refunds
Non-EU visitors can claim VAT refund (21%) on purchases over €50. Ask for tax-free forms at shops displaying "Tax Free" signs. Process refund at airport before departure.