One of the best parts of traveling in Europe is how easy it is to hop from one country to another. During our time in Amsterdam, we wanted to make the most of our trip and decided on a day trip to Antwerp, Belgium. Its close proximity (just a little over an hour by train) made it the perfect destination for a full day of exploring.
Getting There
We caught an early train from Amsterdam Centraal so we could maximize our time. The ride itself was quick and comfortable. Make sure you don’t accidentally sit in first class, or in a ‘quiet car’ like we did! The red seats are usually first class, blue seats are coach. Stepping into the Antwerp Central Station was an experience in itself. It is often considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, it felt like walking into a grand palace — the perfect welcome to the city.
Cat Café & Hot Chocolate
Our first stop was by accident, but something a little cozy and quirky: a cat café, simply called Cat Cafe Antwerp. Over steaming mugs of hot chocolate, we got to spend time with the resident cats — the perfect way to start our day in Antwerp.
Exploring the City
Antwerp is full of charm and history. We wandered the cobbled streets, discovering hidden gems and landmarks along the way. A few highlights included:
- Cathedral of Our Lady – This stunning Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline and is home to masterpieces by the painter Rubens. You can pay to go inside, but we just viewed it from the outside.
- Nello and Patrasche Statue – A touching tribute to the famous story that takes place in Antwerp.
- Vlaeykensgang – A hidden medieval alley tucked away behind a small doorway, transporting us back in time.
Tastes of Belgium
Of course, a trip to Belgium isn’t complete without indulging in the food and drink:
- Frites Atelier – We had the best Flemish stew with fries here, and it lived up to the hype. Rich, hearty, and absolutely delicious.
- Het Elfde Gebod Café – This whimsical café covered in statues of saints was the perfect spot to sample Belgian beer, including Trappist brews, and of course a waffle for dessert.
- Leonidas Chocolates – We couldn’t leave without grabbing some authentic Belgian chocolate to bring back with us.
Final Thoughts
Antwerp surprised us with how much it offered for a simple day trip. From cats and chocolate to stunning architecture and hidden alleys, it was a perfect blend of cozy and cultural. If you’re staying in Amsterdam and looking for an easy international adventure, Antwerp makes an unforgettable choice.
