We caught the IC train north to Antwerp, just under an hour away. The city’s Central Station is often called the most beautiful train station in Europe—and for good reason. Built between 1895 and 1905, it combines iron, marble, and glass in spectacular harmony, earning the nickname “the railway cathedral.”

Our morning began with an interactive murder mystery tour through Antwerp’s old streets, a creative way to explore the city’s hidden corners and history. Between solving clues, we stopped for hot Belgian waffles, crisp on the outside and soft within, dusted with powdered sugar.

For lunch, we dined at ‘t Elfde Gebod (“The Eleventh Commandment”), a whimsical restaurant filled with antique religious statues. We ordered moules-frites (mussels and fries)—Belgium’s national dish. Though the saying goes “Mussels in Brussels,” we found them just as delicious here in Antwerp.

Returning to Brussels by late afternoon, we prepared for the evening’s main event: the Flower Carpet at Grand Place. Every two years, volunteers create an enormous tapestry made entirely of begonias, covering the cobblestone square in intricate floral patterns. The tradition began in 1971 as a showcase of Belgian horticultural artistry and has since become an international event.

After sunset, we joined the crowd in the square for the light and sound show at 21:30, watching as the illuminated Town Hall and flower carpet glowed in rhythmic color and music—a breathtaking fusion of art, history, and community spirit.