Things to Do in Mechelen

Mechelen, a charming Belgian city located between Brussels and Antwerp, offers an authentic medieval experience without the tourist crowds of its more famous neighbors. This historic city served as the capital of the Netherlands under Margaret of Austria in the early 16th century, leaving behind a remarkable architectural legacy including the UNESCO-listed Belfry and the stunning St. Rumbold's Cathedral with its soaring tower that dominates the skyline. Today, Mechelen seamlessly blends its rich history with modern Belgian culture, featuring excellent museums, traditional breweries, and a vibrant local food scene. The compact city center is perfect for walking, with cobblestone streets leading to hidden courtyards, antique shops, and cozy cafés. Visitors can explore centuries of Flemish art, climb one of Belgium's most impressive bell towers, and experience authentic Belgian hospitality in a city that feels genuinely lived-in rather than preserved solely for tourism.

Mechelen's dining scene celebrates traditional Flemish cuisine alongside modern Belgian gastronomy, with numerous restaurants housed in historic buildings around the Grote Markt and surrounding streets. Local specialties include Mechelse koekoek (a heritage chicken breed), asparagus from nearby farms, and traditional Flemish stews paired with local Het Anker beers. The city offers everything from cozy brown cafés serving hearty pub fare to upscale restaurants featuring contemporary Belgian cuisine. Don't miss trying local chocolate shops and traditional bakeries for authentic Belgian pastries. Many restaurants offer excellent value lunch menus, and it's worth booking ahead for dinner, especially on weekends.

The best time to visit Mechelen is from late spring through early autumn (May to September) when the weather is mild and all attractions are fully operational. Summer months offer the longest opening hours for the cathedral tower and warmest weather for exploring on foot, though this is also the busiest period. Spring and early autumn provide pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds and beautiful light for photography. Winter visits have their charm with Christmas markets in December, though some attractions have reduced hours and weather can be unpredictable. The city's indoor attractions like museums and churches make it a viable year-round destination.