Nightclubs and bars in Antwerp

Well, there is no shortage of fine establishments serving beer in Antwerp. If you only have a short time, I'm assuming that you'll be near the historic center and will want to stay near there where things are convenient. So to sample some of the fine beers Belgium has to offer, try these.

Near the historic center, I'd suggest the following (in no particular order) based on ambiance and size of the beer menus:
Het Elfde Gebod‎ (Torfbrug 10) -- kathedraalcafe.be‎
Den Engel‎ (Grote Markt 3) -- cafedenengel.be‎
Afspanning 't Waagstuk‎ (Stadswaag 20)
Kulminator‎ (Vleminckveld 32)

Dress Code: All of these are casual dress.

Zuiderpershuis is an Art Center which presents artists from all cultures over the world.

So, go there to learn about different cultures via different media. Many leaflets while entering the Foyer pub (cf. previous tip) would advise you about the events. Activities include plays, concerts, poetry evenings...

Countries that are featured are numerous. Fancy N'debele art? Chinese poetry? Curious about Mongolian music? In African Masks festival? Or doesn't all of that make sense to you buty you're still curious? You'd better check the program (sorry only in Dutch).

Besides, the Zuiderpershuis is a historical monument. It is located on the ancient quays... meaning this would have played a huge role in the area. In fact, it did...

The Zuiderpershuis was designed to produce energy, for the ever growing port. That was when mechanics gradually overcame human power (and horses') in energy supplying. Built in 1883, its hydraulic system is reported to have been inaugurated circa. 1878

To be honest, i only saw the facade but am quite impressed when i saw over the net some details (rather BIG details :)) on the use of the building. The monumental facade was the one that stroke me at first. Quite interesting.

The whole complex (power central?) used to comprehend lots of engines, installations... a guided tour, something that obviously I haven't done, would show how to turn a hydraulic power plant into a cultural "power plant". :) I guess it would be an off-beat path activity in Antwerp? More details

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In the shade of the cathedral this relatively new and very cosely furnished establishment offers its costumers something quite out of the ordinary. Hot chocolate in all kinds of tastes and combinations, which are all equally delicious as well as snacks and icecreams. Apart from that some of the more standard beverages can also be obtained.

My personal favourite is the name bearer Quetzal, a delightful mix of four kinds of chocolates.

Orders are to be made and collected at the bar at the entrance and one is required to deliver ones tray there afterward. However patrons are received very friendly by a staff of kind and professional people. Combined with the realxing interior decoration and the delightful product they sell a visit to this establishment can only be a pleasant experience.

A savings card with a validity of one year from the date of purchase is available which will result in a 3€ deduction on your 11th order.

Dress Code: no particular dresscode is required

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De Kulminator is world renowned for its selection of specialty & vintage beers. They have over 500 beers to choose from, and most are served in the appropriate brewery glass. It's a rather small place with a big reputation.

I don't know much about beer, but am willing to try just about anything. For this reason, I allowed somebody else in our group order the beers - but here's what he chose:

1987 Hoegaarden Grand Cru
2000 Tsjeejes
1996 Still Nacht
1999 Rodenbach Grand Cru
1997 Chimay Grand Reserve

Besides these beers, my wife had two 'Lambics'; a Jules de Kriek black cherry, and a Lindemans Cassis.

We ended up spending twice as long as anticipated at this place, and ended up back in Amsterdam after 3am.

Dress Code: Didn't notice any.

A famous city centre bar with adjoining shop and restaurant, renowned for only serving liqueurs and jenever - Belgian gin. But what a choice: there are more than 200 gin selections in the bar and over 400 in the shop - plus a choice of 1,000 miniature bottles to buy or try - just in case you get thirsty.

At the end of a night on the town, me and my friends have the habit of passing by the Vagant before going home for one or some jenevers ... they'll help you sleep for sure!!

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This is an excellent watering hole, situated on a very nice historical square. Getting to know the Waagstuk I must give my kudos to the wonderful local VTers whom I met here. The pub even offers beer seminars where you can learn more about the hopsy stuff. Very reasonable prices, this also goes for the pub grub. Try one of their trappistes from the tap. Mmmmmmmmh! And of course you must order a "bolleke" -- a half pint of the local beer "De Koninck". Highly recommended also to try some of the Lambic, Geuze and fruit beer specialties.

Dress Code: no special dress code in operation

When you are a movie-lover I advise you to visit Metropolis, great moviecomplex with24 movie rooms!!! Not only Hollywood productions, but also alternative movies.
A great tip before going out in Antwerp! Inside also lots of snacks, popcorn, drinks,... There is even a restaurant next to the complex.

During summertime, Monday night is an excellent night to go to the old city center. Starting at 20.00 there is a 'beiaard' concert; a concert played in the cathedral which can be listened to in the surrounding streets. Café's are very busy during these nights. Have a look...

Dress Code: Take a jacket, it might be chilly when you stay out late...