Mechelen Holidays

Belgium’s best-kept secret? It might just be Mechelen. This pint-sized city punches well above its weight with fairy-tale architecture, riverside charm, and just the right dash of Belgian bonkers. Whether you're a culture vulture, a history buff, or simply in it for the waffles, Mechelen’s got you covered—and then some.

Highlights

• 🏰 A city that looks like a postcard – Picture medieval squares, cobbled alleys, and dreamy canal views.

• 🍺 Beer without the Brussels bustle – Craft breweries and cosy bars galore, minus the crowds.

• 🧸 Home to Belgium’s Toy Museum – Yes, seriously. And it’s way cooler than it sounds.

• 🔔 Climb the Rumbold’s Tower – For views that’ll knock your socks off (if the 500 steps don’t get there first).

Getting around

Getting from A to B in Mechelen? Easy peasy. The city centre is wonderfully walkable - you can cross it in 15 minutes flat (no joke). An absolute dream for a city break. If your feet get tired, hop on a bike or catch one of the frequent buses that loop around town. Coming from Brussels or Antwerp? You’re laughing—it’s just a 20-minute train ride from either, with regular services that run like clockwork. Ideal for day-trippers or those fancying a twin-city adventure.

Things to do for families in Mechelen

Mechelen is packed with family-friendly fun—no eye-rolls or “I’m bored”s here. Start at Planckendael Zoo, a lush animal park just outside town where giraffes, elephants and penguins roam (not all together, obviously). Then head to the Speelgoedmuseum—aka the Toy Museum—which is part nostalgia trip, part interactive playground. If you're after something a little more action-packed, the Technopolis science centre is like a mini Belgian version of the Science Museum, and yes, the kids can touch everything. Plus, the city has loads of green spaces and riverside paths, perfect for a chill picnic or a paddle in a pedalo.

Things to do for couples in Mechelen

Looking for a romantic weekend à la belge? Mechelen’s your mood-setting match. Start with a hand-in-hand stroll through the Kruidtuin botanical gardens, then hop on a canal boat ride for major fairy-tale vibes. Art lovers should check out the Museum Hof van Busleyden, where Renaissance flair meets slick, modern exhibits. When night falls, sip cocktails by candlelight in one of the city’s stylish bars or tuck into Belgian comfort food at a bistro tucked down a cobbled lane. It’s intimate, charming and just quirky enough to be memorable.

Things to do for groups in Mechelen

Whether it’s a cheeky mates’ weekend or a more sophisticated getaway, Mechelen delivers. Warm up with a group climb of St. Rumbold’s Tower—team bonding guaranteed when you’re catching your breath at the top. Next, hit up one of the city’s local breweries like Het Anker, known for its killer Gouden Carolus range (and free samples, if you play your cards right). For something unexpected, try an escape room in a real monastery or go totally Belgian with a guided beer and chocolate tour. Evening plans? Choose from laid-back wine bars to buzzing live music joints—your group itinerary just wrote itself.

Things to do for foodies in Mechelen

Bring your stretchy pants—Mechelen is a feast. This is a place where you can start your day with fresh waffles and artisan coffee, lunch on loaded croquettes or Flemish stews, and end with a multi-course dinner at a Michelin-guide bistro (yes, really). The Vismarkt area is your go-to for trendy food spots and riverside dining, while Ijmarkt hosts a fab farmers' market where local producers sell cheese, meats, and chutneys that’ll blow your picnic game out the water. Don’t leave without trying Mechelen’s local Gouden Carolus beer paired with a slab of dark chocolate—thank us later.