Location: Mechelen
Top Things to do in Mechelen
Top Restaurants in Mechelen
Countries
What to do and see in Mechelen, Flanders: The Best Things to do Good for Couples
The picturesque town of Mechelen, a hidden Flemish gem, sits between Brussels and Antwerp. Students of the world-renowned Carillon bell-ringing school provide an atmospheric soundtrack for sipping coffee at a sidewalk café in one of the town's charming squares. Many pedestrian areas make this a delightful town to promenade about, admiring hundreds of listed buildings and monuments, many dating back to 16th century. Highlights include Gothic and Baroque churches and the famed St Rumbold's Tower.
Restaurants in Mechelen
1. St. Rumbold's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 822 reviews
Reviewed By Trekker2020 - Washington DC, United States
The cathedral can be seen from miles! It is truly an amazing tall building dominating Mechelen’s skyline. At one end of the main square, the church rises above the splendid architecture of both private and public buildings, including the city hall and others. The interior is equally impressive with a number of chapels decorated with wonderful paintings and sculptures. Mechelen is not as visited as other Belgian cities, but it is truly one of the most beautiful towns in Europe but without the hordes of travelers and visitors. When we visited St. Rumbold, there was a haunting exhibition of the stations of the cross juxtaposed with pictures of WWI. Truly moving. When in Mechelen, I highly recommend a visit to the cathedral and if you have time, go up the tower and enjoy the views.
2. ZOO Planckendael
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,084 reviews
3. Brouwerij Het Anker
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 328 reviews
With roots going back to 1471, Het Anker is one of Belgium’s oldest breweries, a harmonious blend of old and new in an authentic, historic building. At the same time, visitors can discover the maturing stocks of Gouden Carolus Single Malt, Belgium’s only brewery whiskey. You can visit the brewery as a group or on one of the guided tours: a) Groups of minimum 10 and maximum 25 people upon reservation. b) Guided tours, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 11am; up to 4 persons you do not need to book in advance. Price: €7,20 per person, which includes the guided tour and a tasting of2 Gouden Carolus beers.
Reviewed By tourist_rambler
We did both the brewery and distillery tours, about 3 hours together, and both guides were fun and knowledgeable. Fascinating insight into the processes and history of beer and whiskey made here, and to taste some of them was nice! Prices in the gift shop and restaurant are reasonable too, so we stopped for a beer and bought some to take home. Had a great time visiting this!
4. Grote Markt
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 314 reviews
Reviewed By 374jimmyp - Mechelen, Belgium
When you enter the Central Place(Grote Markt) in Mechelen, you seem to be walking into history. In the shadow of the old St-Rombouts Tower(Cathedral), you will notice immediately the ancient buildings that breathe nostalgy. You can enjoy the nice restaurants or visit the cit hall with a guided Tour. Of course, this tour is not limited to the Centre only. Climbing the Cathedral's stairs and enjoying the whole City of Mechelen is a ream pleasure. Mechelen is ranked top 10 worldwide in the "Best Future Cities".
5. De Gouden Vis
6. Dijlepad
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 388 reviews
Reviewed By 935katjad - Leiden, The Netherlands
Absolutely must do in Mechelen: walking by the water, looking at the buildings from another angle, passing through some low bridges :)))
7. Boottocht op de binnendijle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 20 reviews
