Zurenborg is Antwerp’s architectural surprise: a residential district east of the centre where a superb mix of neo-styles and Art Nouveau fills street after street. The showpiece is the Cogels-Osylei, lined with stately city palaces whose facades compete in turrets, balconies, ironwork, tilework and carved stone, and which one Dutch travel blog called the most beautiful street in Antwerp. Nearby, at the intersection of Waterloostraat and Generaal van Merlenstraat, four corner houses are named Autumn, Winter, Summer and Spring. Two lively squares, Dageraadplaats and Draakplaats, have cafes, restaurants and a local feel. It costs nothing to visit, it rewards slow walking, and it shows a side of Antwerp that most day-trippers never reach.
What it is
A neighbourhood walk rather than a ticketed sight. The attraction is the architecture itself, built in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries and distinguished by variety: each house has its own character, so the street rewards looking up and noticing detail. Street art along the stretch from Krugerstraat to Uitbreidingstraat adds a contemporary layer.
Practical details
Zurenborg lies close to Antwerp-Berchem station, so a short train or tram ride from the centre gets you there. Explore on foot, wear comfortable shoes and follow the walking brochure available through the city’s tourism service if you want background on the history and facades. Plan at least a few hours if you want to stroll the main streets and stop at a cafe on Dageraadplaats or Draakplaats, and a full day if you combine it with other sights nearby.
Guided tours of the Cogels-Osylei can be arranged through local city guides. These are private homes, so keep voices down and do not enter gardens.
Making the most of it
Go on a clear day, when the light brings out the ironwork and tiles, and take your time at the four seasons houses. Zurenborg is a good counterpoint to the Baroque of the old town, and it suits visitors with an interest in architecture and photography.
Pair it with the De Koninck brewery tour for a half-day away from the crowds, or with a bike ride to see how the district connects with the rest of the city. In bad weather the streets are still pleasant, but the cafes on the squares make a welcome pause.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided walk through a district of Art Nouveau and neo-style mansions, centred on the Cogels-Osylei.
Best time
A bright day when the light shows off the facades; weekday mornings are calm.
How long
Two to three hours, longer with a cafe stop.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, respect residents and look up for the details on each house.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Architecture lovers and photographers.
- Families
- Easy walking, though children may tire of facades quickly; the squares have playgrounds and cafes.
- Couples
- A romantic stroll with cafe stops.
- Pair with
- The De Koninck brewery, or a bike tour of the wider city.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours.
Good questions
Is Zurenborg free to visit?+
Yes, it is a public residential district that you can explore on foot at no cost.
What is the Cogels-Osylei?+
The district’s showpiece street, lined with stately city palaces in Art Nouveau and neo-styles.
What are the four seasons houses?+
Four corner houses named Autumn, Winter, Summer and Spring at the intersection of Waterloostraat and Generaal van Merlenstraat.
Where can I stop for a drink?+
The squares Dageraadplaats and Draakplaats have cafes and restaurants.
How do I get there?+
The district lies close to Antwerp-Berchem station, a short train or tram ride from the centre.
