Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Mechelen, Belgium

Without exaggeration, one could describe Mechelen as Belgium’s most overlooked city. It boasts one of the country’s most magnificent cathedrals, numerous stunning churches, and serves as the seat of the nation’s archbishop. With riverside strolls, art galleries, delectable cuisine, and beautiful Baroque architecture, it encapsulates the essence of a classic European destination.

While it may not possess the same charm as Bruges and does not have the atmospheric qualities of Brussels, it is considerably less crowded and offers more affordable options. For those who have explored the previously mentioned cities and are open to experiencing another Belgian locale, Mechelen should be your next stop.

Let us investigate the top activities to engage in while visiting Mechelen:

1. Admire the St-Romboutskathedraal

The title of this cathedral is certainly extensive; however, do not allow that to discourage you.

Situated prominently in the Grote Market and visible from all corners of the city, the St-Romboutskathedraal towers just under 100 meters in height.

Ascending the tower requires climbing 500 steps, which can take over half an hour, even for those in good physical condition.

The panoramic views from the summit are undoubtedly rewarding; nevertheless, it is advisable to visit on a dry day since there is no protection from the weather at the top.

2. Explore Begijnhof

While Begijnhof may not be as magnificent as it once was, it continues to be an aesthetically pleasing area of the city.

The Baroque architecture, historical breweries, and charming streets foster a delightful ambiance.

The highlight of this area is Begijnhofkerk, a remarkable example of Baroque architecture and the most impressive building present.

3. Take cover in Fort Breendonk

This formidable military fortress was constructed in 1906 as a defensive work for the city of Antwerp, located in Willebroek.

During World War II, the fort became a Nazi concentration camp.

Today, visitors can traverse the dimly lit corridors of the fort equipped with an informative audio guide, learning about the atrocities that transpired within its walls.

The fort is positioned just west of Mechelen and is accessible via public transportation.

4. Marvel at the Stadhuis

Equally as remarkable as the St-Romboutskathedraal, the Stadhuis is a solid stone masterpiece that resembles a castle plucked from a fantasy narrative.

Upon closer inspection of its unique yet captivating design, one may notice that it is actually composed of three distinct buildings ingeniously combined—namely a belfry, council hall, and the former cloth hall.

The Stadhuis is conveniently located across from the St-Romboutskathedraal at the Grote-Markt.

5. Learn at the Technopolis

The Technopolis is a scientific museum that expertly combines entertainment with education through a diverse array of temporary and permanent exhibits.

Both adults and children will find enjoyment in the interactive experiences available here.

For individuals traveling from the center of Mechelen, the 282 bus departs from Mechelen Station to the museum every thirty minutes.

6. Play at the Speelgoedmuseum

Another museum designed to cater to both adults and children is the Speelgoedmuseum.

Children can immerse themselves in a vast collection of toys, games, and dolls spanning 7,000 square meters, while adults can explore the historical evolution of toys, potentially igniting memories of their childhood.

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

7. Visit Lady Hanswijk

The Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Hanswijk (Basilica of Our Lady of Hanswijk in English) is as breathtaking on the inside as it is on the exterior.

The highlight of the exterior is its dome, while inside, the confessionals carved in the 17th Century capture attention.

This church attracts numerous visitors on pilgrimage to view the Madonna statuette, believed to be over 1,000 years old.

8. See a world-famous tapestry workshop

Located in the Tongerlo Refuge, the Royal Manufacturers de Wit is recognized as a world-renowned tapestry restoration and weaving workshop.

The Refuge earned its name due to its historical function as a lodging for traveling clergymen who visited the Archbishop in Mechelen.

The facility and the workshop within provide an opportunity worth experiencing.

9. Discover the fate of 25,500 Jews

During World War II, the Dossin Barracks functioned as a deportation center by the Nazis, leading to the forced transfer of more than 25,000 Jews and around 300 Roma from the city and surrounding areas to Auschwitz.

It is estimated that roughly 1,000 of those individuals survived.

At the barracks, which have been meticulously preserved, visitors can learn about this harrowing history and pay their respects.

10. Go to court

Mechelen’s courthouse has a storied past, originally serving as a royal palace in the early 16th Century and home to Margaret of Austria.

This historical site has undergone numerous modifications throughout its long history; nonetheless, its gardens remain untouched and serene.

The building is noted for being the heart of the Renaissance movement in the Low Countries, as it was the first structure in the region constructed in Renaissance architectural style.

11. See some of Mechelen’s finest artwork

Located within a charming castle, the Schepenhuis serves as a gallery that showcases some of the finest artworks produced by local talent from Mechelen and its vicinity.

This art gallery also serves as the starting point of IJzerenleen, an area adorned with stunning Baroque buildings and residences.

It is prudent to conduct research prior to visiting the Schepenhuis, as, at the time of writing, the gallery’s status is under reevaluation, potentially altering the building’s intended use.

12. Get quirky at the Het Zotte Kunstkabinet

The Het Zotte Kunstkabinet is an intriguing museum, focused entirely on eclectic paintings from the 16th Century.

The museum derives its name from the nature of these paintings, which are characterized by their satirical and moral themes.

Understanding or appreciating the true meanings behind these artworks is not necessary; the eccentric ambiance and peculiar occurrences within the museum can be enjoyed by all visitors.

The museum welcomes guests on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

13. Take a walk on the wild side at Planckendael

Planckendael is an impressive zoo that enables visitors to explore five continents in less than a day.

The thoughtfully designed layout of the zoo ensures that every animal and attraction can be easily accessed.

Five distinct routes begin and conclude at the zoo’s entrance, facilitating a seamless exploration experience.

Highlighted attractions include the Indian elephants, who have recently welcomed a newborn to their group.

14. Stroll down Dijlepad

Dijlepad (or Dyle Path in English) is a delightful waterside walkway that provides a picturesque setting for leisurely walks along and occasionally above the city’s waterway.

This path, aside from offering a pleasant experience, presents an opportunity to view Mechelen from a unique perspective, allowing its architecture to be appreciated in new ways.

15. Visit the nun’s Winter Garden

The Winter Garden of the Ursuline Nuns provides visitors with an experience of the beauty and fragrance of Spring throughout the entire year.

The stained-glass roof captures the observer’s attention, casting radiant patterns across the garden.

Entry to the garden is priced at ten euros, and daily tours are conducted for those interested in learning more about this captivating venue.