Borgerhout, Antwerp, Belgium — community spirit, creative spaces, thriving cafes

Borgerhout (Antwerp, Belgium) — Highly praised for its unpretentious, collaborative community spirit. It features multicultural creative spaces, neighborhood-led initiatives, and thriving independent cafes. Affectionately dubbed "BoHo" by locals, has skyrocketed into the international spotlight 2026. What makes this Antwerp district so compelling for travelers right now is its raw, unpretentious "DIY spirit" where massive multicultural diversity blends seamlessly with a cutting-edge creative boom. It serves as a true global crossroads where 140 nationalities interact, allowing you to walk down the central Turnhoutsebaan artery and see traditional Moroccan bakeries like Bakkerij Roma operating right alongside forward-thinking, artist-run contemporary galleries like Base-Alpha and DMW. This summer, the neighborhood breathes a laid-back, community-driven energy. You can rent a bike via local apps to explore massive public murals during the Borgerhout Mural Festival, grab a scoop of artisanal gelato from Borgo Gelato, or lounge on the expansive sun-soaked terraces of Krugerplein at Bar Leon. By night, the epicenter of the neighborhood's soul focuses on De Roma, a stunningly restored 1920s Art Deco cinema turned volunteer-run concert venue, and high-vibe culinary pop-ups like Briquet and Glue, making it the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a creative alternative to Antwerp's historic center.