1 day in Antwerp: best places to visit to make the most of your time

Antwerp as a day trip from Brussels

Well known as the “capital of the diamond market”, Antwerp is also a beautiful mix between the Art Nouveau and modern, the hipsters ‘cafés and restaurants, boutique designer shops or the cobbled streets surrounded by red brick houses, all these made it a perfect day trip from Brussels.

Since we only had 1 day to visit Antwerp, we focused on the main attractions, keeping some time also for relaxing and catching the vibe of the city by slowing down and trying some local cafés specialties.

The best of Antwerp in one day

I have put together a list of best things to do and to see in Antwerp in just 1 day, without being overwhelming and still remaining some time to enjoy the true vibe of the city.

Art Nouveau District

The Art Nouveau style can be found in many Belgian cities, however in Antwerp I found the most beautiful side of it, the Flemish Renaissance being represented in a unique way, each building keeping its own story with a particular design.

There are 3 main streets in Antwerp known for the Art Nouveau style – Transvaal, Waterloostraat and Cogels-Osylei, being a real hidden gem, perfect for wandering and discovering the Antwerp’s’ culture, but also a good stop for urban and architecture photographers.

The easiest way to get this area is from Berchem Train Station, located within walking distance of each of these streets.

Antwerp Central Railway Station

It is said that Antwerp Central Railway Station is among the most beautiful railway stations in the world and it has without doubt an impressive stone steel and glass architecture. If you arrive by train, it’s inevitable to miss it, so don’t miss your chance to stop and have a look around.

Grote Markt

From the Antwerp Central Station, we went through Meir area, the main shopping area in Antwerp to Grote Markt, the main square of the city surrounded by the impressive Belgian architecture, the City Hall and the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady listed by UNESCO among the most beautiful belfries of Belgium.

The Brabo Fountain, located just in the middle of Grote Markt, speaks itself the history of the city: according to the legend, there was a brave soldier, Brabo, who cut off the hand of the evil giant that oppressed the region and throw it away in the river. This throwing hand remains the symbol of the city: the name Antwerpen coming from “hand werpen” (throwing a hand).

Grote Markt is a beautiful and lively area, full of restaurants and terraces which are a good stop especially on a sunny day.

The Mas Museum

The modern architecture similar to a Lego structure made of glass and brick is more than a museum, offering an incredible panoramic view over the city from different perspectives. The Mas Museum is a 10-floor architecture, built so that each floor offers a unique perspective over the city. Even if you don’t have time to visit the exhibits inside, it is possible to visit it only for the views without any fee.

Topshop trench

Where to eat in Antwerp

For the lunch we choose a gourmet burger from Ellis Gourmet Burger located just across The Mass Museum. There are many Ellis Gourmet Burger in Belgium, being recognized for their tasty and gourmet burgers served in a cosy and relaxed interior.

Antwerp as a day trip from Brussels