Trip and Attractions in Mechelen in Northern Belgium
General
Mechelen is a typical ancient Flemish city located halfway between Brussels and Antwerp (a short drive from both) and features several attractions worth visiting.
Mechelen serves as Belgium's religious center and is home to the seat of the Archbishop. It is also known as the "City of Bells" thanks to its numerous bell towers, some of which host bell concerts, especially on weekends.
Guided Tours in Mechelen from Viator:
St. Rumbold’s Tower
The tower, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and soaring to a height of 97 meters, is considered the symbol of the city. According to the original design it was supposed to reach a height of 160 meters, but construction was halted halfway through due to budget constraints. It is part of St. Rumbold's Cathedral, which was built over the course of 300 years starting in the 13th century. The tower contains two belfries, each housing 49 bells. Visitors can climb 513 steps up to the 67th floor to overlook the city. The spectacular view justifies the climbing effort. While climbing, you can see up close the massive bells that remain active to this day. During the summer months, a bell concert is held on site (every Monday evening).
Address: In&Uit Mechelen, Hallestraat 2-4-6, 2800 Mechelen
"Technopolis" Science Museum
A large, interactive science and technology museum featuring over 260 exhibits, all of which can be touched and operated. Here you can land a plane with your own hands, ride a bicycle on a metal cable 5 meters high, discover how much water is in the human body, lie on a bed of nails, create giant soap bubbles, and print a newspaper. It is recommended to dedicate at least three hours to the place.
Address: Technologielaan, B-2800 Mechelen
ZOO Planckendael
In its early days (beginning operations in 1929 in an ancient castle structure), the zoo served as a rearing ground for young animals and a "hospital" for animals from Antwerp Zoo. Since then, the site has grown and expanded, and today it is an expansive, well-maintained zoo with a wide variety of animals from around the world. At the center of the park is a lake with an impressive collection of waterfowl, some of which are rare. Most animals in the park live in open enclosures rather than cages. Among the attractions in the park: an "African Village", "Chimpanzee Island", an entire area dedicated to exotic Australian wildlife, and rope bridges among the treetops. Another enjoyable experience is self-navigated rafting. The park also includes a petting farm and playgrounds.
Address: Leuvensesteenweg 582, 2812 Muizen - Mechelen
Speelgoedmuseum Toy Museum
Spanning an area of 7,000 square meters, this museum presents one of the largest toy exhibitions in the world. The museum features toys from all over the globe, ranging from antique toys to modern-day playthings. Children can discover what their grandparents played with when they were young. The advantage of the museum is that many exhibits can be touched and some can even be played with. The museum features an exhibition of dolls, toy soldiers, a large collection of model trains that still run at full speed, and an entire wing devoted to board and logic games. The museum holds both permanent and rotating exhibits. It features a modern wing with a play area for toddlers (under age 6) and a play area for children over age 6.
Address: Nekkerspoelstraat 21, 2800 Mechelen
"De Nekker" Sports and Recreation Park
A spacious park rich in greenery and water, offering lakes with swimming beaches, water slides, boating, fishing, a ropes course, and play facilities including an indoor playground, mini-golf, skating, and numerous sports courts.
Address: Nekkerspoel-Borcht 19, B-2800, Mechelen
"Het Anker" Brewery - Brouwerij Het Anker
A family-owned brewery managed for 5 generations since the 17th century by the same family. The brewery is located on a spacious farm where a hotel and a successful restaurant were built in 2010. Over the years, a whiskey distillery was also established alongside the brewery. Guided tours including tastings are conducted on site.
Address: Guido Gezellelaan 49, 2800 Mechelen
Recommended Accommodations in Mechelen:
Van der Valk Hotel Mechelen
A 4-star hotel located in the northern part of the city.
The hotel features a bar, restaurant, and breakfast options.
All rooms are air-conditioned. Free internet. Parking available for an extra charge.
Novotel Mechelen Centrum
A 4-star hotel in the city center adjacent to the river. The hotel includes a bar, restaurant, fitness center, and hammam, offering spacious, modern, air-conditioned rooms. Free internet. The hotel itself does not have dedicated parking.
B&B The Patio Houses
A centrally located bed and breakfast approximately 500 meters from the city center. Spacious rooms with balcony, living area, and kitchenette. Complimentary bicycles for guest use. On site fitness and spa center with hammam, jacuzzi, and sauna. Beautiful, lush courtyard garden. Free internet and parking.
♦ For families, it is highly recommended to stay at the
Center Parcs De Vossemeren holiday village in northern Belgium and take a day trip to Antwerp and the surrounding area. Additional information about the brand is available in the article:
"Center Parcs" Holiday Village Chain.