After soaking up the charm of Amsterdam for two days, it’s time for a quick hop down to Antwerp, Belgium using my EuRail pass! Just a short train ride away (about 1 hour and 20 minutes if you snag a direct route), this little gem in the Flanders region is perfect for a one-day adventure. Antwerp, tucked into northern Belgium, is where Dutch is the language, and history practically oozes out of every cobblestone.
Why Antwerp? Because it’s been a powerhouse of trade, culture, and art since the Middle Ages! Once a mega-seaport and one of Europe’s wealthiest cities, it’s seen everything from a “Golden Age” of diamonds and Rubens to some seriously dramatic historical events (hello, Spanish Fury!). Today, it’s a delightful mix of medieval magic and modern flair. Plus, did someone say waffles?
The Plan: Medieval Marvels and Must-See Spots
I’ve got my GPSMyCity app ready and my walking shoes laced up. While I was intrigued by the “Discovering the Medieval Traces of Antwerp” tour, the Antwerp Introduction Walking Tour stole my heart. It combines the same medieval highlights with a sprinkle of modern must-sees. Here’s the lineup:- Grote Markt (Great Market Square): The beating heart of Antwerp, with postcard-worthy guildhalls and a lively atmosphere.
- Het Steen (Steen Castle): A medieval fortress right on the Scheldt River—talk about stepping into a fairy tale.
- St. Anna Tunnel: A quirky pedestrian tunnel that takes you under the river for some unique views.
- Plantin-Moretus Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s a love letter to the history of printing.
- Vlaeykensgang Historic Alley: A secret little alley that feels like a time machine to the 16th century.
- Cathedral of Our Lady: A Gothic masterpiece housing some of Rubens’ most famous works.
- Groenplaats (Green Square): A charming square with cafés perfect for people-watching.
- Rubenshuis (Rubens House): The former home of artist Peter Paul Rubens—get ready for some serious inspiration.
- Meir Shopping Street: Belgium’s most famous shopping street. Window-shopping is cardio, right?
- Antwerpen-Centraal (Antwerp Central Station): A train station so gorgeous, it could moonlight as a palace.
