Het Zuid, 'the South', is a handsome 19th-century district of grand boulevards, galleries and Antwerp's cluster of major art museums. It has a denser, more local restaurant and bar scene than the Old Town while remaining walkable to the centre, making it ideal for culture lovers, foodies and those who want good nightlife without the tourist crush.
The area spreads south of the historic core around leafy squares and the riverfront, close to the fine-arts and contemporary-art museums. Wide streets and squares make it pleasant to wander; by day it's calm and residential-feeling, and in the evening its restaurants, wine bars and cafés fill up with a mix of locals and visitors.
Getting around
The Grote Markt is roughly a 20-minute walk or a short tram ride north; for Brussels (BRU), head to Antwerpen-Centraal by tram or taxi and continue by train to the airport.
Before you book this area
- Vibe
- Elegant, artsy and food-focused, with a genuine neighbourhood feel.
- Nightlife
- One of the city's strongest concentrations of bars and restaurants.
- Green space
- Tree-lined squares and riverside walks give it more breathing room than the Old Town.
Frequently asked
Is Het Zuid a good base for a first visit?
Yes, if you value dining and culture over being right at the landmarks — it's walkable to the Old Town while feeling more local and relaxed.
Is it lively at night?
Very — it's known for restaurants, wine bars and galleries, though it's more of a dinner-and-drinks scene than a late-night club district.
Comparing areas? See the full Antwerp area guide →
An independent guide to Het Zuid (The South), Antwerp — honest orientation, no invented data.