Eurostar is Launching a New Direct Route to Antwerp
Poinews.com – Travel enthusiasts planning to explore Belgium beyond the capital have exciting news. Eurostar is launching a new direct service connecting London to Antwerp, set to begin operations this December. This groundbreaking route will eliminate the need for passengers to transfer in Brussels, offering a seamless journey between the UK capital and Belgium’s vibrant second city. The service will commence on 14 December, marking a significant milestone in cross-channel rail travel.
Streamlined Journey to the Diamond City
From 14 December onwards, Eurostar will operate four daily direct services departing from London St Pancras International station. These trains will arrive at Antwerpen-Centraal station, dramatically reducing travel time for passengers. Currently, travelers must disembark at Brussels-Midi/Zuid and transfer to an SNCB train to reach Antwerp, a journey that takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes in total. The new direct service will slash this travel time to just 2 hours and 41 minutes, making Antwerp far more accessible for weekend getaways and business trips alike.
While this direct connection represents a major advancement, Eurostar has confirmed there are no immediate plans to introduce direct return services. This decision stems from the absence of dedicated UK border and customs facilities at Antwerpen-Centraal station. Passengers traveling back to London will still need to make the connection through Brussels, though the outbound journey will remain refreshingly straightforward.
Discover Antwerp: Fashion and Diamonds
Often overshadowed by Brussels or the charming medieval town of Bruges, Antwerp has emerged as a cultural powerhouse with two distinct claims to fame: fashion and diamonds. The fashion industry in Antwerp owes much of its international reputation to the legendary Antwerp Six, a group of designers who captured global attention during the 1980s and 1990s. Visitors interested in learning more about these influential figures can visit the ModeMuseum Antwerpen, which showcases the history and evolution of Belgian fashion design.
For those eager to shop, Antwerp offers excellent opportunities to discover emerging talent. The Nationalestraa and Kammenstraat streets are lined with boutiques featuring collections from the city’s most promising designers. These areas provide an authentic shopping experience where visitors can find unique pieces that reflect Antwerp’s creative spirit.
Antwerp’s diamond district is the largest in the world, with approximately 50% of the globe’s rough diamonds passing through for polishing.
The diamond industry represents another pillar of Antwerp’s identity. The city’s diamond district handles roughly half of all rough diamonds traded worldwide, making it an essential hub for the global gemstone market. This makes Antwerp an ideal destination for anyone seeking to purchase or learn about precious stones. Visitors can explore the historic diamond quarter, where centuries of trading tradition continue to thrive alongside modern businesses.
Culinary Delights and Nighttime Charm
Belgium’s culinary reputation extends well beyond its famous chocolates, though these remain a must-try for every visitor. Local fries, known affectionately as “frîtes,” are considered among the finest in Europe. Frituur LO stands out as a particularly popular spot for authentic Belgian fries. Reaching this establishment requires passing through Sint-Anna’s Tunnel, which offers visitors a unique experience with its authentic wooden escalators—a charming reminder of the city’s industrial heritage.
Chocolate lovers will find Pierre Marcolini’s Antwerp branch to be a paradise of confectionery. This elegant store celebrates Belgian chocolate-making traditions while offering an extensive selection of chocolates, truffles, biscuits, macarons, ice cream, and other sweet treats. The shop provides an opportunity to sample premium Belgian chocolates while learning about the art of chocolate making.
For those seeking a different perspective on the city, Visit Antwerp recommends exploring after dark. The illuminated landmarks create a magical atmosphere that transforms the familiar cityscape. Centraal Station, Operaplein, and the vibrant Het Zuid district all take on a special character when lit up at night. This nighttime exploration offers not only beautiful views but also the advantage of fewer crowds, allowing visitors to appreciate Antwerp’s architecture and atmosphere in peace.
The new direct route represents more than just improved transportation—it opens up opportunities for travelers to discover a city that has long been waiting to be explored. With reduced journey times and enhanced accessibility, Antwerp is poised to welcome even more visitors from across the English Channel in the coming years.
