Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Mechelen, Belgium. #Top Attractions

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You won’t believe what Mechelen, Belgium has to offer. Check out our curated list of the best things to do in Mechelen, Belgium, and the best places to visit in Mechelen, Belgium, below. We at Wondrous Drifter, a Web 3.0 travel startup, have big plans to shake things up in the travel business.

Beguinage

Beguinage Mechelen, Belgium
Beguinage, Mechelen, Belgium / Eric Huybrechts / Flickr

Wander about and get immersed in the city’s beautiful Beguines.

Founded during the Crusades, these little towns-within-towns housed women and children whose husbands and dads did not come home from the battle.

Instead of joining a convent, many women formed their communities. They were self-sufficient with their own bakeries, breweries, churches, and hospices.

The Small and Large Beguinages were made in the 13th century. Then the Small Beguinage was established sooner.

The huge beguinage was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its distinctive Flemish character and unusual architecture.

A late-night walk on these streets would be a fascinating sight to experience with its bright lights and with friendly locals to interact with.

Walk through the Beguinage lane, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Take a stop and relax at the public park at the Small Beguinage; it’s a beautiful place to sit and unwind.

This lovely neighborhood is a must-see while in Mechelen.

Visit us now, and experience incredible scenery from medieval times.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium

Botanical Garden

Botanical Garden Mechelen, Belgium
Botanical Garden Mechelen, Belgium / mrhs1974 / Flickr

Ready your camera for beautiful snaps of the scenery.

The Botanical Garden is the largest park in Mechelen’s historical center.

Louis Fuchs, a landscape architect who developed numerous city parks in Belgium, including the Parc du Waux Hall in Mons, designed the earliest iteration of the park in 1862.

This botanical park is a 15-20 minute walk from Mechelen’s main square, but it is well worth the trip. The garden is attractive and well-kept.

The Botanical Garden has undergone considerable alterations and restorations based on those initial ideas. 

Still, the school’s growth adjoining the garden, among other things, means that a lot has changed.

It’s a very lovely park with a lot of flowers. It may even be considered a rose garden with its various rose kinds.

Locals visit for a walk, a picnic, or play with their children.

Visiting this is a great place to unwind and contemplate in your free time.

Take a relaxing time here at the Botanical Garden of Mechelen.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium

Bruul

 Bruul Mechelen, Belgium
Bruul is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Visit the Bruul and see the stunning architectural design while exploring.

The Belgian city of Mechelen has a retail avenue called Bruul.

The avenue connects the Dyle to the Grote Markt and goes north to south.

The Bruul is the primary retail street in Mechelen. There are several individual shops as well as chain businesses such as H&M.

Mechelen isn’t known for its excellent shopping, although the Bruul does have some stunning architecture, independent of the retailers.

From department stores to shoe stores, phone repair shops to bakeries, the Cacao Project on Bruul has it all.

Visit some of the various shops the Bruul has to offer as you stroll down the street.

Be sure to see several ancient structures such as the Saint Barbara’s House and the Court of Auditors for Flemish.

Take a stroll through the various booths in this area. At the same time, as you’re admiring the architecture that’s been done to protect them, you may pick up some mementos.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium

Dylepath

Dylepath Mechelen, Belgium
Dylepath is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Do you want to go for a walk around Mechelen? The Dylepath is the most pleasing way to observe the city from a unique perspective!

The Dylepath, which runs from the Haverwerf to the city’s Botanical Garden, is a delightful, quiet walk along Mechelen’s ancient canals.

The route provides a unique perspective of Mechelen’s architecture: from the rear! This is a tremendous romantic environment for couples to enjoy and create unforgettable memories.  A must-visit for couples.

Take a relaxing walk along the river, which is ideal for getting into the city from the station and exploring the various streets and attractions.

You may see antique buildings and enjoy recently built ones as you go through the streets of the Dylepath from behind. Passers-by may be taken aback by the modern and trendy apartments. That is one way to appreciate Mechelen’s splendor on foot.

This is a must-go place to visit for architectural and historical enthusiasts.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium

Fort Breendonk

Fort Breendonk Mechelen, Belgium
Fort Breendonk is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

This is definitely worth touring for anybody interested in World War II history.

Fort Breendonk, which is now a museum and human rights memorial, was built between 1906 and 1913 as part of the second ring of the National Redoubt guarding Antwerp.

During WWII, the fort was used as a Nazi concentration camp.

It became notorious for the horrible living circumstances of the captives, and the torture and executions carried out there.

It is an informative location to spend a few hours. As someone interested in World War II history, you find it a tremendous eye-opener.

Nowadays, you may wonder about the fort’s gloomy passageways with an audio guide and hear about the brutality and punishment there.

The fort is immediately west of Mechelen and is easily accessible by public transportation.

Pay respects to the fallen who were abused and died fighting for a peaceful world.

Address: Brandstraat 57, 2830 Willebroek, Belgium

Grote Markt

Grote Markt Mechelen, Belgium
Grote Markt Mechelen, Belgium / Jorge Franganillo / Flickr

Filled with delicious cuisine and beautifully made structure, the Grote Markt is your most likely to visit.

It’s a must-see; honestly, you’ll cross this plaza at least 27 times throughout your visit.

Mechelen’s centerpiece point has been the famous Grote Markt or market square for generations.

A lovely collection of mid-century structures in excellent shape. 

To capture the entire scene, you must snap a panoramic photograph.

St. Rumbold’s Cathedral and Mechelen City Hall are located here, making it a must-see when visiting Mechelen.

People-watching in the afternoons and early mornings in Grote Markt is a beautiful experience.

Restaurants, bars, and brasseries may be found in the wonderfully adorned historic guildhalls and houses.

If you have time, take a stroll around the markets, where you’ll discover a wide range of local items, gadgets, and apparel with worldwide taste.

A trip here would definitely be worth it with stunning views and beautiful varieties of stalls to explore.

Address: 2000 Antwerpen, Belgium

Haverwerf

Haverwerf Mechelen, Belgium
Haverwerf Mechelen, Belgium / Rob Oo / Flickr

Prepare your camera for a trip back in time at the Haverwerf.

The Haverwerf was called for the events there in the past. “Haver” means oatmeal in Dutch, and it used to be a word for grain.

Historically, ships delivering grain had to stop at the Haverwerf for at least three days to sell their cargo.

No matter what the weather chooses to do, it is a fantastic place to get happy.

While St. Joseph, The Little Devil, and Little Paradise all stand out, Haverwerf’s surrounding neighborhood is filled with exquisite architecture.

Along the canal path, you may see these houses. Beautiful ancient homes that are well worth seeing. 

Visit these three lovely 1600s houses, each with a unique facade that stands boldly beside the others.

For a good shot, you’ll need to locate the ideal perspective.

As a person who loves beautiful sceneries, visiting Haverwerf is undoubtedly one of your favorite things to do in Mechelen

Address: 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

IJzerenleen

IJzerenleen Mechelen, Belgium
IJzerenleen, Mechelen, Belgium / Luc Coekaerts / Flickr

Just a few blocks from the Grote Markt, IJzerenleen is a mostly unnoticed part of Amsterdam.

The old iron (Ijzeren) railings that flank the middle part of the street inspired the name Ijzerenleen.

It has long boasted the most spectacular residences in Mechelen.

It was once the location of the fish market, as shown by four miniature bronze sculptures of fish and shellfish beside those iron rails.

IJzerenleen is now a bustling and pleasant street (or elongated square) with restaurants, cafés, and stores.

This art museum also marks the beginning of IJzerenleen, which contains several beautiful Baroque structures and colorful residences.

There are several intriguing architectural components. The stores are in good shape and appear popular with locals and tourists.

Enjoy a charming retail avenue that branches off the Grote Markt.

Experience a peaceful time strolling through the streets and appreciate the beauty of these once bombed buildings.

Address: 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

Kazerne Dossin 

Kazerne Dossin Mechelen, Belgium
Kazerne Dossin is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Visit Kazerne Dossin and see the history it has struggled.

Kazerne Dossin is a museum and memorial site that recalls when this army cantonment was taken by the Germans and utilized as a detention and deportation camp. 

It is located close to the building where Jews and other minorities were held before being deported to extermination camps.

It’s tough to realize that more than 25.000 people were taken here to Auschwitz-Birkenau some 75 years ago.

A link is presented between modern human rights concerns and a historical perspective on the situation in Belgium in the 1940s.

If you’re getting hungry, stop by near restaurants, cafes, and other stalls and try out their local dish, which will surely leave you craving more.

The tour begins on the bottom floor with a short film. 

It then moves upstairs and encompasses many stories with a wealth of material, also available in English.

Regardless of the horrible past, this is a museum worth seeing.

Address: Goswin de Stassartstraat 153, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

Mechelen Muurt walk

Mechelen Muurt walk Mechelen, Belgium
Mechelen Muurt walk is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Here we are, in a picturesque historic town, with cutting-edge street art you never expected to see.

Ten artists used pencils, paint, and spray cans to express their creativity on the city’s walls. 

Because of them, a small, unremarkable street has been converted into one you want to go along.

The plan was started in 2013 by local artist Gijs Vanhee.

He aspired to make a difference and illuminate the streets of Mechelen. Therefore, he commissioned three of each foreign artists, a local artist, and a national artist to complete it.

Armed with spray cans, paint, and pencils, the artists proceeded to the streets of Mechelen to deliver their artistic abilities to the town.

With this walk, you will pass the various murals. 

You will come across more fun, and unique places not included in the Mechelen Muurt project but are worth visiting.

Ten enormous paintings are hidden around Mechelen, and you may find them by chasing behind their footprints. The artist in you will emerge in spades due to this journey.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium 

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Margaret & Burgundian Sense-Sations

 Margaret & Burgundian Sense-Sations Mechelen, Belgium
Margaret & Burgundian Sense-Sations is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Take a look at the ‘In the Footprints of Margareta’ booklet from the Mechelen Tourist Office. Then prepare to stroll!

The Dukes of Burgundy ruled Mechelen in the 15th century. Some of the city’s best-known landmarks from that era may be found on this touristic stroll.

You may choose from three various-length circular walks based on your interests, time limits, and past visits.

Enjoy a guideless adventure on your own and explore the Mechelen with just a booklet to follow.

You’ll be given some wonderful Belgian treats as a reward for your lengthy trek!

Grab the Mechelen Sense-Sations coupon booklet while you’re there.

You may drink and dine while exploring the town for a modest fee.

In Mechelen, you’ll find everything from liquor-based cheddar to handcrafted chocolate.

What are you waiting for? Book a ticket now and come visit us. The city of Mechelen awaits you.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium

Museum Hof van Busleyden

Museum Hof van Busleyden Mechelen, Belgium
Museum Hof van Busleyden is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

A treasure that is still preserved now.

Mechelen, the old capital city, boasts even more historical structures than Brugge. The Hof van Busleyden is one of its gems. 

The museum has been restored, with a magnificent section beneath the surface for temporary exhibitions. Still, the permanent collection is well worth seeing.

Museum Hof van Busleyden will take you on an interactive journey through the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, demonstrating how the city is still affected by its beautiful history.

The museum is housed within the most spectacular Renaissance palace and has a range of themed chambers.

It examines this pivotal cultural and political time in Mechelen and the Netherlands, from loud and buzzing rooms to more secluded and calmer spaces.

The “Enclosed Gardens” exhibit on the top level is what may make this museum trip worthwhile.

You’ve come to the best spot in Mechelen, Belgium if you wish to study Mechelen’s history during the Burgundian era.

Address: Frederik de Merodestraat 65, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium 

Planckendael

Planckendael Mechelen, Belgium
Planckendael Mechelen, Belgium / Axel Naud / Flickr

Take a stroll around Planckendael’s spectacular enclosed wilderness.

The Zoo is located in a largely rural area, and the animals are grouped into “continents.” 

They are housed in large cages with a wide range of species.

Planckendael Zoo is a magnificent zoo that allows you to go to five continents in less than a day.

The intelligent organization of the Zoo’s circuits makes it difficult to miss any animals or attractions.

Five distinct pathways begin (and stop) at the Zoo’s entrance, making it relatively straightforward to locate each animal.

The Indian Elephants, who have recently welcomed a newborn into their troop, are unquestionably the show’s stars.

There are play spaces for children and various eateries providing food and beverages.

A definite place to visit with your loved ones, and the exhibitions are worth seeing.

Book in advance for an organized education trip and learn about the fantastic unique animals.

Address: Leuvensesteenweg 582, 2812 Mechelen, Belgium

Speelgoedmuseum

Speelgoedmuseum Mechelen, Belgium
Speelgoedmuseum is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Interact with the exhibitions and displays of the Speeldoedmusuem for an exciting experience.

The museum is located near the city’s Nekkerspoel railway station.

This fascinating and long-running toy museum is a must-see for anybody interested in the history of toys in the twentieth and nineteenth centuries. Still, Lego and other toys are also shown and discussed.

The Speelgoedmuseum is another museum that attempts to delight both adults and children.

Children may amuse themselves with 7,000 square meters of toys, games, and dolls.

At the same time, adults can learn about the history of toys and even locate artifacts from their past.

Take pleasure in the fact that toys have been collected since Egyptian times and continue to be studied now.

This is a fantastic place to revisit your childhood memories of fun days spent playing with toys.

Suppose you believe that children had fewer games and toys before the invention of Minecraft, Lego, or Matchbox. In that case, you will be astonished when you visit here.

Relive your childhood times here at the Speeldoedmusuem and imagine how time flies by so fast.

Address: Nekkerspoelstraat 21, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

Stadhuis

Stadhuis Mechelen, Belgium
Stadhuis, Mechelen, Belgium / Frans Berkelaar / Flickr

Marvel at the Sadhuis and take in the breathtaking sight.

The Stadhuis, like the St-Romboutskathedraal, is a solid stone masterpiece that appears like something out of a fantasy story.

This structure, built-in 1376, has traditionally held government offices.

This town hall embodies Bruges’ splendor over the years. You can imagine how prosperous this city was during the Middle Ages.

If you examine it attentively, you will discover that it is actually three structures that have been skillfully combined into one.

The Stadhuis is located in the Grote-Markt, just across from the St-Romboutskathedraal.

A free audio commentary on their website provides detailed information about this magnificent gothic hall’s frescoes and artistic features. 

There’s much to discover while listening to over 20 audio recordings. 

Take a look at the gorgeous and charming architectural structure for a bit.

Whether you go inside or outside, it’s worth stopping by.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium

St Rumbold’s Tower

St Rumbold’s Tower Mechelen, Belgium
St Rumbold’s Tower is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Climb St Rumbold’s Tower to the Skywalk and take in the stunning scenery.

In the sky above Mechelen, St. Rumbold’s Tower stands proudly as the city’s icon and is an excellent compass for finding your way.

It is most famous for its unfinished, flat-topped tower, which initially housed the enormous clock globally, even more significant than Big Ben’s!

The most excellent way to experience the tower is to climb the 538 steps of this 97-meter-tall monster.

It’s one of Mechelen’s greatest attractions, with 360-degree vistas of the city and a glimpse into the workings of a medieval bell tower.

There are fantastic views of Brussels’ Atomium and Antwerp Cathedral at the top of this tower when you’ve successfully climbed Everest.

But don’t make hasty moves! As you make your way up, you’ll be able to get up and personal with the bells, carillon, and clockwork mechanisms.

The trip to the top will be worth the effort once you view the astonishing view of the whole area of Mechelen.

Address: Onder-Den-Toren 12, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

Technopolis

Technopolis Mechelen, Belgium
Technopolis, Mechelen, Belgium / Technopolis Plc / Flickr

A museum that makes you have fun and learn at the same time.

The Technopolis is an educational and entertaining science museum with many permanent and temporary exhibits.

The hands-on activities on offer here will keep both parents and children amused.

The 282 bus runs every half an hour from Mechelen Station to the museum if you’re coming from the city center.

Even if you don’t have children, it’s worth a trip. 

There’s a lot to see and do here. Because the displays can be touched and manipulated, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with children and adults.

Exhibitions feature a wide range of scientific and technological topics, making them suitable for all ages and interests. 

Many displays are so fascinating that they fascinate youngsters and adults alike, even if you aren’t interested in science.

Have a fun time here at the Technopolis Museum.

Address: Technologielaan 1, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

Vismarkt

Vismarkt Mechelen, Belgium
Vismarkt is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Thirsty? Head on to Vismarkt, find a spot that interests you, and have a refreshing drink.

Vismarkt, a fashionable alternative to the famed Grote Markt, attracts younger audiences.

Trade-in fish used to occur in the Vismarkt, or “Fish Market.” This market area along the lake still has a few fish stores, but they are primarily places to get a drink or a quick lunch.

Vismarkt, with its casual pubs, adorable cafés, chic lounge bars, and contemporary restaurants, will be your go-to destination for unwinding with a cool drink.

Its location on the Dijle river makes it an ideal place for a pleasant boat trip across the city.

It’s worth a look, grabbing a coffee at a neighborhood stand, eating a fresh croissant, or supporting local farmers by purchasing some fruits.

With a fantastic view of the river just in the city center, this is undoubtedly a place you’d want to bring your romantic companion for dinner.

Don’t miss out on a fantastic time and experience, so book now.

Address: 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

Winter Garden of the Ursuline Nuns

Winter Garden of the Ursuline Nuns Mechelen, Belgium
Winter Garden of the Ursuline Nuns is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

A fantastic place to revisit with a rich and fascinating history.

The School of the Ursuline Nuns, located twenty minutes outside of town, was created by a local clergyman towards the end of the nineteenth century. He wanted young girls to enjoy free education as well.

The Ursuline Nuns’ Winter Garden invites visitors to experience the sights and scents of spring all year.

The stained-glass ceiling will draw your attention as it casts various beautiful light patterns over the landscape.

Filled with beautiful architecture that has been meticulously kept. 

The vast landscape with numerous massive structures still preserved all of the beautiful architectural elements from the past.

Every Sunday from March to November, the complex has a two-hour English group tour, which I strongly suggest.

The guided tours are led by community volunteers who share their experiences and family stories about this remarkable historical structure.

The art nouveau architecture, mainly seen in the Winter Garden, is the primary draw for visitors.

List this on your bucket list for the fantastic garden scenery.

Address: Mechelen, Belgium

Vrijbroekpark

Vrijbroekpark Mechelen, Belgium
Vrijbroekpark is one of the best places to go in Mechelen, Belgium

Enjoy a stress-free and relaxing time at Vrijbroekpark.

Vrijbroekpark Mechelen is a beautiful park located near Mechelen’s main square. It is well kept and appears straight out of a fairy tale. 

The beautiful flowers blooming here are a lovely sight, but this park is most known for its roses. 

The rose garden is breathtaking, and the aroma floating toward you as you walk through it will enchant you. Furthermore, this park provides excellent fishing chances.

In addition, there are a few restaurants nearby where you may relax. You may stroll, run, ride, or sit on the benches.

This is a lovely park, and during your visit, there usually is a rose festival and a Victorian festival, with many people dressed in fine Victorian garb.

The freshly opened eco-top garden is the start of something new and exciting.

It is essential to spend some time here, express your thoughts, and contemplate the beauty of the lands.

Visit the park for a quiet and peaceful time and get away from the city’s hustle.

Still undecided on visiting Mechelen, Belgium? Visit reasons to visit Mechelen, Belgium, at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: Ridder Dessainlaan 65, 2800 Mechelen, Belgium

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