My first visit to Antwerp

So we finally meet, Antwerp. And I can definitely call our first encounter successful!

Antwerp is Belgium’s second biggest city most famous for diamonds, let’s face it. The city feels metropolitan but also historical.

If you come here by train, you will quickly notice the most beautiful train station in Belgium. And from then on, the architecture doesn’t disappoint.

Whether it comes to modern, neoclassical, or neogothic buildings, Antwerp will delight you.

After the hustle and bustle of the train station, I was craving for some peace and quiet and I found it at the beguinageA beguinage, from the French term béguinage, is an architectural complex which was created to house beguines: lay religious women who lived in community without taking vows or retiring from the world..

Every time I visit these beguinages, I think how lucky those people are. They live in the most peaceful area of the city!

I’m always on the lookout for hidden alleys and I found quite a few in Antwerp. Their spring attire made them look even more beautiful!

That Pinterest-famous restaurant looks a bit different now. Nonetheless, it looked charming and I fell in love with that tablecloth arrangement!

If you’re visiting, drop by the Plantin-Moretus Museum. You’ll be transported to the printing world of the 16th century and let me tell you, it is mesmerizing.

Also, they have the most beautiful courtyard in the heart of the museum. I couldn’t stop imagining it during autumn!

To come back to the 21st century, I took a slow walk around other new parts of the city. The botanical garden is now my go-to place. Lush greenery and quiet corners, what more could I ask for?

Even though it takes me 2 hours to get back home, I stuck around and drifted from one street to another. I was genuinely enjoying the city of Antwerp!

All in all, it was a great first trip and I’ll definitely come back sometime soon!