Belgium's second largest city is also its most hip. Always creative - in the 16th and 17th century, it was the great masters such as Rubens and Anthony Van Dyck; in the 20th and 21st centuries, its fashion designers like the world-famous Antwerp Six. There is much to do of a cultural nature, but the city is also well worth a visit for its excellent restaurants, bars and clubs, as well as for its shopping. It’s also easily accessible for English visitors, not only via Eurostar, but also its own airport, from which there are direct flights to London and Manchester.