What to do in Mechelen?
Located in the heart of Belgium, Mechelen is a city that will surprise you time and again. Stroll the picturesque streets, visit fascinating museums and enjoy the unique charm that Mechelen exudes. For families, couples and solo travellers, there is plenty to do and sights to discover. From Van der Valk Hotel Brussels Airport, you can be in this city after just a 15-minute drive!
Fun activities in Mechelen
the historic city centre. The magnificent architecture of the Grote Markt and the city hall is a feast for the eyes. For a unique view over the city, climb the iconic Saint-Rombouts tower, an experience you won't soon forget.
Nature also comes into its own in Mechelen. Pay a visit to the Kruidtuin, the city's largest park, where you can stroll or relax on one of the many benches. For those keen to learn more about local culture and history, the Hof van Busleyden is an absolute must. This beautifully restored city palace offers a glimpse into Mechelen's rich past.
Want to end your day in a unique way? Then take a boat trip on the Dijle. From the water, you will experience the city from a completely different perspective.
Discover the best sights of Mechelen
Mechelen is rich in extraordinary sights that will make your visit unforgettable. An absolute eye-catcher is the majestic St Rombouts Cathedral, where not only the tower can be climbed, but also the interior with its magnificent stained-glass windows is worth seeing. Continue your exploration to the Palace of Margaret of Austria, a stately building that was once home to this influential monarch.
In addition, the city offers surprising cultural experiences, such as a visit to Brussels Street with its authentic craft shops or the Holocaust Museum Kazerne Dossin, which tells an impressive story of human rights and history. For those who love picturesque settings, a walk along the Dijle is definitely recommended. The Dijlepad walk takes you along the water and offers a unique perspective of the city.
Mechelen effortlessly combines its historical charm with modern attractions, offering something special for every visitor to discover.
Activities for the entire family
Mechelen is the perfect destination for families who want to explore together. A visit to Technopolis is one of the highlights for children. This interactive centre introduces them to science and technology through play, while parents enjoy the educational and surprising experiments.
The Toy Museum is also highly recommended. This museum takes you and your children on a nostalgic journey past toys from different eras. It is a place where young and old alike can marvel and reminisce.
Planckendael Zoo, located on the outskirts of Mechelen, offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. Here, children can let off steam in the playgrounds, admire animals up close and enjoy the spacious walking paths in beautiful natural surroundings.
After a fun-filled day, relax in one of the family-friendly restaurants, such as the brasserie at Planckendael or a cosy terrace in the centre of Mechelen.
Practical tips for a day trip to Mechelen
A trip to Mechelen becomes even more fun with good preparation. The city is easily accessible, both by car and public transport. Parking is easy in one of the city centre car parks, such as Q-Park Lamot or Parking Grote Markt. For those who prefer to travel by train, Mechelen station is within walking distance of the main attractions.
Keep in mind the seasons and plan your activities based on the weather. In spring and summer, the terraces on the Grote Markt and green spaces are ideal for enjoying the outdoors. In winter, the city brings a magical atmosphere with mood lighting and cosy Christmas markets.
In addition, it is convenient to make use of the Mechelen City Pass. This pass gives advantageous access to a large number of museums and attractions and often offers extra benefits, such as discounts on guided tours or boat trips.
Book an arrangement
Do you have questions about your stay or are you still looking for a comfortable place to stay? Discover Mechelen from our hotel with one of our packages. Our reception staff will be happy to tell you about all the sights of Mechelen and its surroundings!