Het Zuid is undoubtedly one of Antwerp's most attractive and enjoyable neighbourhoods to visit. With its award-winning museums, vibrant catering establishments and an exceptional shopping scene, you get the weekend feeling every day here. For peace and quiet in green surroundings, head to the brand new Zuidpark or the renovated Scheldekaaien (quays). Indoors or outdoors, you will always feast your eyes here.
Art and culture galore
Het Zuid has been setting the tone in cultural and creative terms in Antwerp for decades. Just a five-minute walk apart, you'll find three top museums and two culture houses.
The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) showcases seven centuries of top art, ranging from the Flemish Primitives to modern masters, with prominent roles for Peter Paul Rubens and James Ensor.
Fotomuseum Antwerpen (FOMU) regularly stages daring exhibitions of (inter)national talent. In addition, FOMU manages a large collection that is displayed in thematic exhibitions.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Antwerp (M HKA) focuses on contemporary visual art from its own region and Eurasia.
Entertainment house Play Zuid lays on recordings of well-known TV shows, as well as musical performances and theatre.
Finally, from films and festivals to comedy and music, the Zuiderpershuis is the place to be for a cultural night out.
The green heart of the neighbourhood
The Zuidpark is the ideal place to unwind or where your children can play to their heart's content. You can instantly see why this park is the neighbourhood's beating heart: it is surrounded by museums and culture houses, dozens of bars and restaurants, and exclusive stores.
You can also get some fresh air on the revamped Scheldt Quays , a green artery with seating, playgrounds, sports areas and a skate park. Bad weather and out and about with kids? Not to worry, the museums lay on special family activities. Or pop round to Circuit on Nieuw Zuid, a circular hub that includes a thrift store, natural hairdresser, circular garden and a social studio run by Antwerp-based fashion designer Tim Van Steenbergen.
A culinary hotspot
The culinary scene is as impressive as the cultural offering: from brunch spots and brasseries to world cuisine and wine bars. You can also enjoy a drink and a snack at the museum cafes. Looking for something more luxurious? The district boasts dozens of restaurants that feature in culinary guides such as Michelin and Gault&Millau.
Exclusive shopping
At Het Zuid, it is just a short walk from the art galleries to design stores. Pop into Gallery Sofie Van de Velde or Tim Van Laere Gallery. Get inspired at one of the exclusive interior design stores on Vlaamsekaai. Volkstraat is filled with cute boutiques and trendy concept stores. Opposite the KMSKA you will find the flagship store of renowned fashion designer Ann Demeulemeester. Many galleries and stores are located in a majestic warehouse or a beautifully renovated mansion, so it is always worth having a look inside.
Events & exhibitions
With its many museums, cultural houses and squares, there is always something to do at Het Zuid and Nieuw Zuid. Check out the events calendar and select under 'District' Het Zuid.
Guided walks
The best way to get to know the neighbourhood better is with a guide during a walk.