A Whirlwind Day in Antwerp, Belgium: Diamonds, History, and Waffles!

Day in Antwerp
Photo by Pourya Gohari on Unsplash
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 aGolden Ageof 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 theDiscovering the Medieval Traces of Antwerptour, 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:
  1. Grote Markt (Great Market Square): The beating heart of Antwerp, with postcard-worthy guildhalls and a lively atmosphere.
  2. Het Steen (Steen Castle): A medieval fortress right on the Scheldt River—talk about stepping into a fairy tale.
  3. St. Anna Tunnel: A quirky pedestrian tunnel that takes you under the river for some unique views.
  4. Plantin-Moretus Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s a love letter to the history of printing.
  5. Vlaeykensgang Historic Alley: A secret little alley that feels like a time machine to the 16th century.
  6. Cathedral of Our Lady: A Gothic masterpiece housing some of Rubens’ most famous works.
  7. Groenplaats (Green Square): A charming square with cafés perfect for people-watching.
  8. Rubenshuis (Rubens House): The former home of artist Peter Paul Rubens—get ready for some serious inspiration.
  9. Meir Shopping Street: Belgium’s most famous shopping street. Window-shopping is cardio, right?
  10. Antwerpen-Centraal (Antwerp Central Station): A train station so gorgeous, it could moonlight as a palace.

Getting There: Amsterdam to Antwerp

Getting from Amsterdam to Antwerp is as easy as popping a waffle in a toaster. I’ll book a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal to Antwerpen-Centraal. If you’re unlucky with connections, it might take closer to two hours—but hey, even then, it’s a breeze.

What I’m Most Excited About

Walking those medieval streets, soaking in centuries-old architecture, and, of course, indulging in Antwerp’s famous food scene. Whether it’s waffles, Belgian fries, or something more savory, I’m ready to let my taste buds lead the way. Stay tuned for the highlights of this mini Belgian escapade—it’s going to be a day packed with history, charm, and maybe a little shopping! View our complete European backpacking trip itinerary.

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