The Cogels Osylei is the most beautiful street in Antwerp and perhaps in the entire country. Anyone visiting the city and who loves architecture should be required to take a walk through the Berchem district of Zurenborg.
Cogels-Osylei
Near the Antwerp-Berchem train station, you can gaze in awe at the beautiful and impressive (town)houses and real palaces from the Belle Époque period. If there were a Lonely Planet top 10 list of the world’s most beautiful streets, the Cogels Osylei would surely secure a spot in the top three. The street is also characterized by typical front gardens with their iron fences.
This prestigious cobblestone street owes its name to two prominent noble families, Cogels and Osy, who owned much of the land in present-day Zurenborg.
You can also find many gems in some of the side streets (such as Generaal van Merlenstraat, Transvaalstraat, and Waterloostraat).
More Zurenborg
Dageraadplaats
This spot is undoubtedly the most famous square and the beating heart of the Zurenborg neighborhood. Around the square, there are about twenty eateries, and on Thursday mornings, there is a small market.
Draakplaats
At the Draakplaats, there are several nice places to grab a beer or something to eat. The area is dominated by the bus depot and the railway line. It has been a hub for public transport in the city for decades. You can also spot the water towers, which used to supply water to steam locomotives.
Graffiti
Near the Draakplaats, you’ll find the bus depot of De Lijn. Here, you can take a walk and look for cool street art.
Eat & Drinks
Frits
The cozy and trendy coffee bar Frits is located near the Dageraadplaats and is the perfect stop for a drink. The charming wooden tables invite you to enjoy a cappuccino (€4), and they also offer a small selection of beers and wines, croissants, or sweets. Very friendly service.
Draakstraat 2, Zurenborg in Antwerpen
Onze hoteltip nabij de Cogels Osylei
If you want to stay in this beautiful part of Antwerp, you can do so at the Park Inn by Radisson, a two-minute walk from Antwerp-Berchem station. The hotel is close to the peaceful Cogels Osylei with its elegant villas and the street art in the nearby Nieuw Zurenborg area.
Practical Information
To visit Zurenborg, it’s best to take the train to Antwerp-Berchem station. From Antwerp Central, it’s about a half-hour walk to the district. The tram (line 11) is also an easy option.
💡TIP: Guided walks are available, including in the Cogels Osylei. For this, contact the city’s tourist office (located at the Grote Markt or in Central Station).
