Things to Do in Mechelen

Mechelen sits quietly between Brussels and Antwerp, and for whatever reason, most travelers rush right past it on the train. That's actually their loss, because this compact city offers one of Belgium's most authentic urban experiences without the crowds that swamp its famous neighbors. The medieval center feels genuinely lived-in rather than preserved for tourists, with locals going about their daily business around a stunning cathedral that dominates the skyline. You'll find yourself wandering cobblestone streets where centuries-old buildings house modern cafes, and the Dijle River winds through the city creating unexpected pockets of greenery. Mechelen tends to reveal itself slowly - the kind of place where you might duck into a church to escape the rain and end up spending an hour marveling at carved altarpieces.

Mechelen's restaurant scene tends to focus on quality over quantity, with several excellent establishments serving modern takes on Flemish classics alongside traditional brown cafes that have been pouring beer for generations. The area around Grote Markt offers the most variety, from upscale dining rooms to casual bistros, while locals often head to the quieter streets near the river for hidden gems that tourists rarely find. Belgian beer culture thrives here - you'll discover local brews and traditional drinking establishments where conversations flow as freely as the Trappist ales, and the cafe terraces become genuinely lively on warm evenings.

Late spring through early fall offers the most pleasant weather for wandering the historic streets and climbing the cathedral tower, with May through September being particularly good for outdoor dining and river walks. Winter has its charms - the Christmas market creates a cozy atmosphere in the Grote Markt, and you'll have major attractions largely to yourself. That said, Belgian weather tends to be unpredictable regardless of season, so pack layers and waterproof gear no matter when you visit.