Ever thought about a day trip to Mechelen? This often-underestimated yet utterly charming Flemish city is a true hidden gem, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. If you’re planning a visit and want to make the most of your time, you’ve come to the right place!
Located between Brussels and Antwerp, it can be part of a perfect Flemish itinerary.
In my latest YouTube video, I’m taking you on a tour of Mechelen’s most iconic spots, perfectly suited for a single-day exploration. Here’s a sneak peek at what you absolutely shouldn’t miss, all showcased in detail in the video. Click on the pictures to see the beautiful walking tour.
St. Rumbold’s Cathedral (Sint-Romboutskathedraal)
The undisputed symbol of Mechelen and the first essential stop on your itinerary. Its imposing tower, almost 97 meters high, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond. In the video, You can climb its 538 steps to reach the top – a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience!
The Grote Markt (Grand Market Square)
At the foot of the Cathedral lies the vibrant Grote Markt, the beating heart of Mechelen. Here, you’ll admire magnificent historic buildings, such as the Palace of the Great Council (Schepenhuis) and the Former Military Headquarters (De Beyaert). It’s the perfect spot for a coffee or a refreshing Belgian beer while soaking in the lively city atmosphere.
Mechelen City Hall (Stadhuis)
Also located on the Grote Markt, the City Hall is a fascinating architectural complex, blending various eras and styles. Its Gothic facade is particularly striking. Even if it’s not always open for internal tours, its external beauty is definitely worth a stop.
The Dijle River and Dyle Path
Mechelen is traversed by the Dijle River, and one of the most pleasant ways to explore it is by walking along the Dyle Path. This floating walkway allows you to admire the city from a unique perspective, passing under historic bridges and alongside charming canal-side houses. In the video, I take you on a relaxing stroll along this enchanting route.
The Grand Beguinage (Groot Begijnhof)
Step into a serene oasis of tranquility at the Grand Beguinage, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic complex of charming houses, courtyards, and a church once housed devout laywomen who lived a semi-monastic life. Wander through its cobblestone streets and soak in the peaceful atmosphere – it’s like stepping back in time. The video captures the quiet charm of this unique historical site.
These are just a few of the highlights that make Mechelen a perfect destination for a day trip. In my video, you’ll find all these main places and you can have an idea on how the life is on a Sunday afternoon:
Where to eat:
Best Street Food: When you’re in Belgium, fries aren’t just a side dish; they’re an institution! SebFriet frituur is the ultimate destination for them. Forget the chain shops and get ready to savor perfectly made frites, golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. It has also gluten-free options.
Best Belgian food: If you’re looking for an elegant and memorable dinner, book a table at De Fortuyne. the experience here is centered around the chef’s surprise tasting menu, featuring creative and meticulously crafted dishes.
Favorite by locals: For a casual, crowd-pleasing meal loved by residents, head to Poule & Poulette. The concept is simple yet effective: free-range roast chicken cooked low and slow, served in various ways, often accompanied by fresh salads or, naturally, Belgian (not French lol) fries. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a Belgian classic like the Vol au Vent (chicken and mushroom stew in puff pastry) in a lively, welcoming atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Where to sleep
Budget accomodation : If your goal is to maximize your exploration while minimizing costs, the 3 Paardekens – City Centre Hotel is the ideal choice. This hotel is perfectly located in the heart of the city and offers clean, functional rooms for approximately €80 – €100 per night. It’s the perfect no-frills base for travelers who plan to spend most of their time out enjoying Mechelen.
Mid-range accomodation: For travelers seeking superior comfort and additional amenities without an excessive price tag, the Hotel Vé is a fantastic 4-star option. Housed in a former public swimming pool, this stylish hotel offers modern design and excellent relaxation facilities, including an indoor pool and sauna. With prices typically ranging from €115 – €160 per night, it’s the right choice for a comfortable and rejuvenating stay.
Luxury accomodation: For an exclusive and unforgettable stay, the Martin’s Patershof is Mechelen’s most unique luxury experience. The hotel is situated inside a beautifully restored deconsecrated church. Rooms and suites showcase original Gothic architectural elements, such as soaring arches and stunning stained-glass windows, combined with contemporary design. While starting prices are competitive, securing a premium suite or booking during peak season means rates typically range from €160+ per night, ensuring a truly special and magical stay.
Best activities in and around Mechelen:
- Want to have a private walking tour of Mechelen? Find out here.
- Particularly recommended to visit the beautiful city of Leuven with the oldest university of the Benelux: you can visit by yourself or book a private walking tour.
- Want to visit Leuven and Mechelen together by train in the same day? Here you find the option.
- Do not forget to visit the Belgian beautiful capital Brussels.
Don’t miss the chance to discover this pearl of Flanders! Watch the video, get inspired, and start planning your Mechelen adventure!
