2 Best Sights in Belgium

What seems like a million miles from the Rubens paintings and shops of the Meir is actually just a few meters below street level. Beneath Antwerp lie 8 km (5 miles) of sewers, streams, and tunnels that date from the 16th century. In 1885 they disappeared from view when the city brought in covered drains, but their story continued. During World Wars I and II, these tunnels became a way to smuggle goods into the city and people out. Suit up (protective suits are supplied) and wander old vaults, canals, bridges, and medieval fortifications on guided tours (day and night), with boats for the deeper sections; or simply explore by yourself with a tablet and map. Rats and some rather big spiders also make these tunnels their home, so the squeamish should beware. Tours will also be called off in the event of heavy rain, which makes parts of the tunnels unnavigable.

In 1874, the city set about connecting the left and right banks of the Scheldt. The importance of shipping meant a bridge just wasn't feasible at the time, so nearly 60 years later they eventually decided to dig down instead. The tunnel's rare wooden escalator and almost hypnotic tiling make it a reason to enter in itself, though it's worth spending some time exploring Linkroever, across the water. A trail leads from the exit on the left bank up to a petite stretch of beach known as Sint-Annastrand that looks out over the Scheldt—a bizarre splash of nature amid the docks.