A guide to Antwerp’s new luxury
Travel guide19 juin 2023
Beyond the Gothic architecture and cobblestone streets, you'll find a metropolis pulsating with avant-garde art, cutting-edge fashion and hip hangouts. Antwerp, a creative hub of innovation and boundary-pushing design, awaits your visit this summer.
To stay

Check in to the Botanic Sanctuary, a hotel of unparalleled prestige hidden within the ancient walls of the Botanical Garden. Recognised with the coveted ‘5-star superior classification’ by Tourism Flanders, it is a truly exceptional experience. Dining is a particular highlight here; not content with one Michelin-starred restaurant, the hotel boasts a staggering three: Hertog Jan (two stars), Fine Fleur (one star) and Het Gebaar (one star) – the definition of star-studded gastronomy.

GlobeAir operates flights to Antwerp from €5,900

A destination of its own

69,99 €

Garcia

Maxi skirt
INSIDER SECRET

Sample the world's rarest single malt Scotch whiskies at The Unprecedented, housed in the centuries-old vaulted cellar of the Botanic Sanctuary. Debut your best midi skirt, from Garcia, for this exclusive experience.

Complete the look

195 €

Sandro

Chiffon blouse

315 €

Sunglass Hut

Gucci sunglasses

145 €

Swarovski

Feather bracelet

595 €

Coach

Bandit Shoulder Bag

Just landed! New season drops

Bookmark the most coveted trend pieces and new season styles from 2023’s Spring/Summer full-price collections.

295 €

Zadig & Voltaire

High flash sneakers
INSIDER SECRET

Tap into Antwerp's art mecca by consulting your hotel concierge for exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours at renowned museums such as The Royal Museum of Fine Arts. Stay comfortable with these sleek trainers from Zadig&Voltaire as you explore the city's cultural treasures.

To sightsee

Uncover the captivating stories of Antwerp's spirited art scene with a tour of the city’s latest exhibitions. Don't miss the third edition of Art Antwerp, running from 14 to 17 December, which brings together contemporary art galleries from across the globe, each presenting a refreshing mix of mid-career and up-and-coming artists. Or catch Grace Ndiritu Reimagines at FOMU Antwerp for a radical reinterpretation of the museum’s classic collection.

An artistic epicentre
To shop

Celebrating the best of Belgian talent, this winter, world-famous flower house Daniel Ost transforms Maasmechelen Village into a magical scenescape. Encapsulating the traditions of the festive season, you’ll find twinkling boutique facades, reams of red and green ribbons and a mesmerising 10 ft Christmas tree. If you’re in need of ticking off your gift list, book into our private shopping space, The Apartment, where our experts will curate a hand-picked edit that’s sure to delight even the most discerning of tastes.

Feels like home

200 €

Kenzo

Tiger sweatshirt
INSIDER TIP

Whilst in The Apartment, admire the elegant Japanese-style Christmas decorations. They nod to our first collaboration with Daniel Ost just over a year ago where the team created a discreet, Japanese-inspired oasis in the private gardens. If you’re heading out to see them, you’ll need a warm enveloping layer – something like this from Kenzo will do the trick.

For this project I wanted to art to be as accessible as possible for everyone – even two-year-olds. I want people to see the hearts and the colours, and just feel cheerful and optimistic.

HER ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCESS DELPHINE OF SAXE-COBURG

PRINCESS OF BELGIUM

Dates for your diary

This winter, discover showcases from your favourite brands in our private shopping space, The Apartment. On 15 and 16 December, ease into the festivities with an exclusive wine tasting event, hosted by the Village’s Casa Paglia and esteemed wine expert, Tancredi Biondi Santi.

BOOK NOW

149 €

Hackett London

Cotton silk V neck
STYLE TIP

In Antwerp, where good style is inherent, embrace the city's more relaxed vibe. Switch effortlessly from daytime exploring to fine-dining-worthy dressing with this simple but stylish sweater from Hackett London.

To eat

Antwerp is experiencing a culinary revolution as a new generation of chefs takes the stage. Don't miss The Jane, a gastronomic gem housed in the converted chapel of a military hospital. With its Michelin-starred status and captivating decor, this restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience. The exceptional wine list perfectly complements the exquisite cuisine, predominantly showcasing fish and shellfish. Securing a coveted spot at The Jane can be tricky, so be sure to book ahead.

Bold Belgian Flavours
More from Hackett

325 €

Hackett London

Utility backpack

139 €

Hackett London

Johnny collar polo

159 €

Hackett London

Texture chino

195 €

Hackett London

Linen overshirt
To drink

Don't miss Michelin-starred The Jane’s equally stunning sister restaurant, Untitled. – a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in a warm and intimate space with natural daylight gracefully illuminating the marble bar. Whether you’re looking for a pre-meal aperitif or impromptu late-night cocktails, take a seat and indulge in a thoughtfully curated menu of drinks and snacks. We’ll have the negroni, please…

Mixologist magic at Untitled.

250 €

ba&sh

Cardigan Gaspard
INSIDER SECRET

Discover the hidden gem that is Dogma Cocktails in the Old City, where you’ll find a spirit of adventure and expertly crafted cocktails called ‘Instant Happiness’ and ‘The Last Dessert.’ This non-traditional bar pairs perfectly with this elegant jacket from ba&sh.

A shopping experience like no other

The Bicester Collection: a name synonymous with style and service. This is a world of superlative luxury in which to enjoy a suite of tailored services and complete discretion.

As a discerning Virtuoso customer, you can enjoy the following when you visit any of the Villages across Europe...

  • Exclusive access to the Village's Apartment

  • A dedicated concierge who will welcome you to the Village; offer personalised assistance all day; book any transfers (subject to an additional fee); make restaurant reservations for you; and assist with mileage redemption for all our frequent flyer programmes

  • Complimentary Hands-free Shopping

  • Complimentary refreshments available all day

  • An exclusive welcome gift or experience

  • such as the complimentary personalisation of their purchases or access to a styling workshop

  • Préparez votre visite

    Des moyens d’accès aux horaires d’ouverture, en passant par les services, voici tout ce qu’il vous faut savoir en vue d’une merveilleuse escapade. Votre prochaine aventure est plus proche que vous ne le pensez...

    EN SAVOIR PLUS
  • Devenir membre

    N'oubliez pas de scanner votre carte de membre lorsque vous faites vos achats. Vous pouvez cumuler des étoiles dans tout le réseau The Bicester Collection et gagner des récompenses pour votre prochaine visite.

    S'inscrire

Looking for more travel inspiration?

Discover The Bicester Collection’s ultimate guide to your European summer