If Antwerp has been on your city-break list, getting there by train is becoming even easier.
New international rail connections are strengthening Antwerp’s links with major European cities, making the Belgian city an increasingly attractive option for travellers who enjoy rail journeys, city breaks and multi-destination European adventures.
Direct ICE trains between Antwerp and Cologne
From September 2026, a direct ICE service is due to operate twice daily between Antwerp Central Station and Cologne.
This is particularly exciting for travellers looking to combine Belgium and Germany without flying.
Think a few days exploring Antwerp’s fashion, architecture, diamonds and food scene before continuing by train to Cologne for its magnificent cathedral, Rhine waterfront and traditional German hospitality.
It also opens up further rail connections across Germany and beyond.
Amsterdam, Antwerp and Paris by train
From December 2026, Antwerp will also benefit from a new international rail service connecting Amsterdam and Paris, with trains stopping in Antwerp along the way.
That creates some fantastic possibilities for a European rail itinerary.
You could travel:
Amsterdam → Antwerp → Paris
Three very different European cities connected by rail, without needing to visit an airport between them.
For travellers who prefer slower, more sustainable journeys, it’s exactly the kind of European itinerary we love to explore at Íjénjèm Travel.
London to Antwerp becomes easier too
There’s good news for travellers starting their journey in the UK.
From 14 December 2026, Eurostar is expected to provide a direct London-to-Antwerp connection, making it possible to travel from the heart of London to the centre of Antwerp without changing trains.
Arriving by rail is also an experience in itself.
Antwerpen-Centraal is frequently admired for its grand architecture, so your introduction to the city begins before you've even left the station.
Why Antwerp deserves a city break
Antwerp sometimes gets overlooked in favour of Brussels or Bruges, but it has a personality entirely of its own.
It's a city for travellers interested in fashion, art, architecture, diamonds and good food.
Explore the historic Grote Markt, discover the legacy of Flemish master Peter Paul Rubens, browse independent boutiques and designer stores, visit the city's museums or simply settle into a café and experience Antwerp at your own pace.
And because Belgium is so well connected by rail, Antwerp can easily become part of a longer trip rather than a standalone destination.
An Íjénjèm travel idea: make Antwerp part of your European rail adventure
With these expanding connections, there are plenty of possibilities.
London → Antwerp → Cologne
or
London → Antwerp → Amsterdam
or perhaps:
London → Amsterdam → Antwerp → Paris
Instead of flying between several cities, your train journey becomes part of the experience, watching the landscape change as you move from one destination to another.
That's one of the joys of exploring Europe by rail.
Ready to discover Antwerp?
Whether you're looking for a weekend city break, a rail journey from the UK or a longer multi-city European adventure, Antwerp's expanding international train connections make the city easier to incorporate into your plans.
Íjénjèm Travel can help create your European rail journey, combining transport, accommodation and carefully selected experiences into an itinerary designed around you.
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