Grand Market Place (Grote Markt van Antwerpen)
Antwerp, Antwerp Province
The historical and cultural heart of Antwerp, Grand Market Place (Grote Markt van Antwerpen) is surrounded by lavish 16th-century guild houses and the Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze Lieve Vrouwekathedraal). Although many of the buildings burned down in the 16th century, they were rebuilt in the same style and showcase Flemish architecture.
Nearly all Antwerp sightseeing tours stop at Grote Markt due to the area’s cultural and historical significance. Travelers can get an intimate glimpse into historic Antwerp during a walking tour, or cover more sights in less time on a tour by Segway, bike, or coach. Private tours provide a great option for families or history buffs, as they allow you to tailor your sightseeing itinerary.
Grand Market Place is one of Antwerp’s top sights.
The market square is surrounded by cafés and restaurants that serve Belgian delicacies such as waffles, french fries, and beer.
Relatively even ground makes Grand Market Place wheelchair-accessible.
Located in the heart of the old city quarter, Grote Markt is easy to get to by metro or bus. It’s a short walk from Green Square (Groenplaats) and the Scheldt River and about a 20-minute walk from Antwerp Central Station.
Antwerp is famous throughout Europe for its Christmas market, which epitomizes the spirit of the holidays with mulled wine, decorated pine trees, and stalls selling handcrafted souvenirs. The market takes place in squares throughout Antwerp, including Grote Markt, and runs throughout the month of December and into the new year.
Sitting prettily beside Grand Market Place is the Cathedral of Our Lady, one of the highest Gothic structures in Europe. The cathedral, which took 169 years to complete, boasts a prestigious collection of religious art, which includes the Elevation of the Cross and Descent from the Cross, both by Flemish baroque master Peter Paul Rubens.
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