Bolivarplaats - brown watch tower besides trees
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Bolivarplaats

4.6
·491k reviews·Antwerpen, Belgium

Bolivarplaats, home to the striking 'Butterfly Palace' of Justice, offers modern architecture and a lively terrace scene.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise/Sunset

Golden hour light on architecture

CrowdLow
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Bolivarplaats - brown watch tower besides trees

Bolivarplaats

Best Time

Sunrise/Sunset

Golden hour light on architecture

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bolivarplaats, home to the striking 'Butterfly Palace' of Justice, offers modern architecture and a lively terrace scene.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Admire the unique 'Butterfly Palace' and enjoy the vibrant terrace scene at Bolivarplaats."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the 'Butterfly'

Photograph the unique roof of the Palace of Justice, especially during sunrise or sunset.

🥂 Relax on the Terraces

Enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafes when the weather is nice.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palace of Justice

Palace of Justice

Bolivarplaats

Iconic modern architecture, known as 'The Butterfly Palace' for its distinctive roof.

Instagram
Terrace Scene

Terrace Scene

Around Bolivarplaats

Vibrant outdoor seating areas perfect for enjoying drinks and people-watching.

Instagram

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Architecture

Bolivarplaats is dominated by the striking Palace of Justice, nicknamed 'The Butterfly Palace' for its unique roof. Admire its modern design and consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for stunning photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Terrace Culture

When the weather is good, the terraces around Bolivarplaats come alive. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors to relax with a drink and soak in the atmosphere. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Sunrise/Sunset
Why
Golden hour light on architecture
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Enjoy the lively terrace scene
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Esta ciudad del estado Bolivar merece ser más conocida y visitada, su historia es única y tiene una cultura fascinante así como varios de los lugares más increíbles de Venezuela dentro de una misma ciudad 😳 @aerolineasestelar
@eygraffe
24.8K likes • 231.2K views

📸 Capture the 'Butterfly'

Photograph the unique roof of the Palace of Justice, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram+1

🥂 Relax on the Terraces

Enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafes when the weather is nice. Instagram+1

De paseo por El Mirador Las Marías San Jacinto ( bolivar ) El corroncho El Corroncho Y El Bajito De Sal. #TravelColombia #ExploreBolivar #DiscoverNature
@yo_soy_oliviaa
19.6K likes • 361.8K views
#tgif! De terrasjes aan het justitiepaleis staan al klaar. Waar doe jij liefst je terrasje? ☀️🍺🤗 (📷: @katriendegraef) #antwerpen #anvers #amberes #antwerp #bolivarplaats #justitiepaleis #instantwerpen #vierkantwerpen
stad_antwerpen
1.6K likes • 0 views

🚗 Parking Advice

Consider parking at 'the kaaien' for potentially cheaper options if driving. Reddit

Day 2 of my virtual tour of Antwerp: the new courthouse. People of Antwerp call it “The Bags of Chips” (eat that @bagachipz - you are architecture here!) because of the pointy shaped roof. It is also called The Butterfly Palace (swipe to the second photo to see why) and it also has some of the brightest stairs of Antwerp (swipe to the third photo). #courthouseantwerp #virtualantwerp #vlinderpaleis...
orange_eccentricity
164 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the 'Butterfly'

Photograph the unique roof of the Palace of Justice, especially during sunrise or sunset. Instagram+1

🥂 Relax on the Terraces

Enjoy a drink at one of the many outdoor cafes when the weather is nice. Instagram+1

🚗 Parking Advice

Consider parking at 'the kaaien' for potentially cheaper options if driving. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bolivarplaats is primarily recognized for its striking modern architecture, particularly the Palace of Justice, often called 'The Butterfly Palace.' Visitors enjoy the vibrant terrace scene during good weather, making it a pleasant spot for socializing. While the architecture is a major draw, some may find the area less historically rich compared to other parts of Antwerp.

What People Like

Unique architecture
Lively terraces
Great photo ops

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bolivarplaats is easily accessible by public transport in Antwerp. Tram lines often stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from other central areas. If driving, parking can be found in the vicinity, though it might be paid. Reddit

Yes, Bolivarplaats is a central area and very walkable. You can easily explore the surrounding streets and connect to other parts of the city on foot. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Bolivarplaats is a public square and there are no tickets required to visit or walk around the area. Instagram

As a public space, Bolivarplaats is accessible 24/7. However, individual cafes and businesses around the square will have their own operating hours. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Palace of Justice itself, with its unique 'Butterfly Palace' roof, is the main photographic draw. Try capturing it during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting. Instagram+1

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces like Bolivarplaats. However, be mindful of any specific signage or rules if you plan to photograph inside the Palace of Justice. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Bolivarplaats is known for its lively terrace scene, especially during warmer months. You'll find several cafes and bars where you can enjoy drinks and snacks. Instagram+1

The cafes around Bolivarplaats typically offer drinks, coffee, pastries, and light snacks. For a wider variety of dining options, you can explore the nearby streets of Antwerp. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Bolivarplaats offers a fantastic opportunity for photographers, primarily due to the Palace of Justice. Its unique 'Butterfly Palace' design is a modern architectural marvel. Instagram Aim to capture it during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and striking images. Instagram+1 The contrast between the modern structure and the sky provides excellent photographic potential. Don't forget to explore different angles to showcase its distinctive roofline. Instagram

☕ Social Butterflies

If you enjoy soaking up the local atmosphere, Bolivarplaats is your spot. During pleasant weather, the terraces surrounding the Palace of Justice buzz with activity. Instagram It's the ideal place to grab a drink, relax, and watch the world go by. Instagram This area is particularly popular for after-work gatherings and weekend leisure, offering a taste of Antwerp's social scene. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Palace of Justice: An Architectural Marvel

The Palace of Justice at Bolivarplaats is a modern architectural masterpiece, designed by Richard Rogers. It's affectionately nicknamed 'The Butterfly Palace' due to its distinctive, wing-like roof structure. Instagram This striking design has made it a prominent landmark in Antwerp, drawing attention for its innovative form and scale. The building is also noted for its bright interior spaces, including what are described as some of the brightest stairs in Antwerp. Instagram

Many visitors are captivated by the unique silhouette of the building, especially when viewed against the sky. Photographers often seek out this location for its dramatic potential, with many recommending visits during sunrise or sunset to capture the building bathed in warm, golden light. Instagram+1 The sheer size and modern aesthetic offer a stark contrast to some of Antwerp's more historic architecture, providing a contemporary focal point in the city's urban landscape. Instagram

Bolivarplaats: A Hub for Socializing

Bolivarplaats transforms into a vibrant social hub, particularly when the weather permits. The terraces surrounding the Palace of Justice become a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. Instagram It's the perfect place to unwind, enjoy a refreshing drink, and engage in people-watching. Instagram The atmosphere is often described as lively and enjoyable, making it an ideal location to experience Antwerp's café culture.

These outdoor seating areas are especially popular for after-work drinks and weekend relaxation. Instagram Visitors often highlight the pleasant ambiance and the opportunity to soak in the city's atmosphere while enjoying a beverage. Instagram While the primary draw is the architecture, the social aspect of Bolivarplaats adds another layer to its appeal, offering a chance to connect with the local rhythm of the city. Instagram

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