INSPIRATION Antwerp 2025 sparks inspiration and creativity

Antwerp, February 21, 2025 – At INSPIRATION Antwerp 2025, we uncovered the magic formula, through history, creativity, and unexpected discoveries. Antwerp Convention Bureau successfully hosted another edition of INSPIRATION Antwerp, an inspiring event designed to ignite creativity and showcase the best of Antwerp. Held at the brand-new Parklane Van der Valk Hotel, we welcomed 106 decision-makers from BeNeLux companies for an immersive experience of networking, learning, and discovery.

A story of Antwerp through events

Antwerp has a long tradition of hosting world-class events, bringing together people, ideas, and business for centuries. A striking example is the Jewel Parade of 1925, a spectacular three-day celebration with elephants, zebras, and over 1.5 million spectators, marking the revival of Antwerp’s diamond industry. Today, Antwerp shines as a diamond hub and a glittering stage for unforgettable events.

Antwerp offers venues for every occasion, whether a large-scale congress, an intimate networking event, or an immersive corporate experience. Thanks to Filip Muyllaert’s captivating presentation the attendees were transported through Antwerp’s hidden gems and iconic venues, weaving history with event possibilities.

• Sapphire House Antwerp – Once home to Antwerp’s 16th-century diamond traders, now a five-star boutique hotel with elegant meeting spaces next to the historic Handelsbeurs, where 1,800 m² of event space can transform any occasion into a grand experience.
• Nottebohm Room – Hidden within the Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library, this awe-inspiring hall with 150,000 books creates an intimate setting for meetings, lectures, and exclusive gatherings. “Imagine brainstorming your next big idea, surrounded by centuries of knowledge,” Filip suggested.
• Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp – Once a 15th-century monastery, now a five-star city resort with 14 event rooms, a 300-seat auditorium, and a chapel that can be privatized for corporate events and celebrations. “Step inside, and you can still feel the serenity of its past,” he described.
• AMUZ – A church turned event venue – Originally St. Augustine Church, this stunning baroque space now serves as a music and conference venue, accommodating up to 500 guests. “Imagine your guests dining beneath centuries-old frescoes, where history and modern events blend seamlessly,” Filip illustrated.

And there are so many more hidden gems to explore!

Beyond the inspiration on stage, participants also had the opportunity to experience Antwerp firsthand and discover how the city itself becomes your venue.  

There were guided site tours, during which they visited the De Koninck City Brewery, which offered a behind-the-scenes look at one of Antwerp’s most famous breweries. The participants enjoyed a private beer tasting and an exclusive visit to 1833, a hidden speakeasy, which highlighted how Antwerp seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary experiences. 

A walking exploration of the PAKT area introduced attendees to Antwerp’s creative hub, where rooftop gardens, co-working spaces, and industrial heritage unite in a unique event setting.

At Yust, a hybrid hotel concept, participants discovered how flexibility, design, and sustainability shape modern event venues. At August, history and serenity come together in a space that once served as a monastery and is now a refined boutique hotel with intimate event spaces. 

During the historic city tour, the participants visited Antwerp’s Handelsbeurs, once the world’s first stock exchange, which is now a breathtaking event venue where history meets modern grandeur. In A Room with a ZOO, nature and sustainability take centre stage, proving that innovation and heritage can go hand in hand. The visit to Horta, with its elegant Art Nouveau Hall, and Zaal Athena, a historic yet versatile event space, further emphasized how Antwerp preserves its architectural gems while making them accessible, functional, and inspiring for today’s events.

The success of INSPIRATION Antwerp 2025 reinforces Antwerp’s position as a leading European destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. 

For those who couldn’t attend, Antwerp Convention Bureau is ready to guide you through Antwerp’s endless possibilities. 

“INSPIRATION Antwerp 2025 was a fantastic opportunity to showcase Sapphire House Antwerp and the Handelsbeurs as a premier event venue. We connected with incredible event planners, built strong relationships, and generated valuable leads. In the heart of the world’s diamond capital, we were proud to highlight our venue’s historic grandeur and luxury—where Antwerp’s rich trading heritage meets modern elegance.” – Jamie, Sapphire House Antwerp

“INSPIRATION Antwerp 2025 was a fantastic opportunity to showcase our venue and connect with event planners meaningfully. Hosting the group at De Koninck City Brewery, guiding them through our brewery, and letting them experience our beer tasting firsthand really brought the spirit of Antwerp to life. The energy, the networking, and the insights shared truly highlighted why Antwerp is such a unique event destination. We were thrilled to be part of this inspiring day!” - Chiara, Antwerp City Brewery De Koninck