Antwerp & Mechelen Day Trip: A Belgian Fairytale 🇧🇪✨

🚂 Itinerary Highlights 📍 From Leuven → Antwerp (1hr by train) Antwerp Central Station: Even closed jewelry shops on Sunday couldn’t dim its "Europe’s Most Beautiful Station" glow. 💎✨ Grote Markt: Baroque guildhouses + Brabo Fountain (perfect morning photo op!). Cathedral of Our Lady: Sunday tip: Opens afternoon only (worth the wait for Rubens’ masterpieces!). Het Steen Castle: Free riverside views from this medieval fortress—time travel guaranteed. 📍 Mechelen (2hr layover adventure) Dyle River Stroll: Quaint bridges with flower-adorned railings 🌸—postcard-perfect! Hidden Gem: The carillon-filled St. Rumbold’s Tower (if time allows). 📸 Photo Ops Antwerp: Golden hour at the castle platform. Mechelen: Bridge shots with floral railings + reflections. 💡 Pro Tips ✔ Sunday Plan: Churches/museums open late—brunch first! ✔ Train Pass: Belgian rail weekend tickets = 50% off. #BelgiumByTrain #HiddenEurope #WeekendWanderlust