The Antwerp Zoo was founded in 1843, which makes it one of the oldest zoos worldwide and the oldest in Belgium. About 5,000 animals from 950 species call this zoo their home. They live in monumental buildings and an impressive, meticulously maintained garden. A visit to the Zoo is a dose of pure relaxation in the middle of the city.

In the late 1800s, a passionate collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh amassed an amazing art collection. He purchased paintings by Peter Brueghel for a pittance, and managed to beat major museums purchasing stunning medieval sculptures. Mayer van den Bergh had an eye for the best quality in almost every genre. After his death, his mother finally managed to make her son’s dream come true: she built a museum, which showcased his collection. Today, the museum stands largely uncharged: it is still a museum of one man... and his mother. Highly recommended in the Great smaller museums of Europe.

This museum of oddities is a temple of all things weird, bizarre, and — at times — gross and creepy. From an alien autopsy table and (somewhat disturbing) crime scene recreations to treats served at the on-site café (dessert with crickets and scorpion bits, anyone?), the Peculiarium is a bloody good time if you're not too squeamish (or underage).