in Mechelen

BMechelen, located in the heart of Belgium, is a city that will surprise you time and again. Stroll through the picturesque streets, visit fascinating museums, and enjoy the unique charm that Mechelen exudes. For families, couples, and solo travelers, there are plenty ofactivitiesthings to do and sights to discover. From Van der Valk Hotel Brussels Airport, you can be in this city after only a 15-minute drive!

The most fun activities in Mechelen

In Mechelen, you never have to be bored for a moment. Start your day with a relaxing walk through the historic city center. The beautiful architecture of the Grand Market and the town hall is a feast for the eyes. For a unique view over the city, climb the iconic Saint Rumbold's Tower, an experience you won't soon forget.

Nature is also prominently featured in Mechelen. Pay a visit to the Botanical garden, the largest park in the city, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or relax on one of the many benches. For those who would like to learn more about the local culture and history, it is the Court of Busleyden a must-see. This beautifully restored city palace offers a glimpse into the rich past of Mechelen.

Do you want to end your day in a unique way? Then take a boat trip on the Dijle. From the water, you experience the city from a completely different perspective.Churches and cafes

Discover the best attractions of Mechelen

Mechelen is rich in special sights that will make your visit unforgettable. An absolute eye-catcher is the majestic St. Rumbold's Cathedral, where not only can the tower be climbed, but the interior with its magnificent stained glass windows is also worth the effort. Continue your exploration to the Palace of Margaret of Austria, a stately building that was once the home of this influential sovereign.

In addition, the city offers surprising cultural experiences, such as a visit to the Brusselsestraat with her authentic craft shops or the Holocaust Museum Kazerne Dossin, that tells an impressive story about human rights and history. For those who love picturesque environments, a walk along the Dijle is definitely recommended. The Dijlepad walk takes you along the water and offers a unique perspective on the city.

Mechelen effortlessly combines its historical charm with modern attractions, offering every visitor something special to discover.

Activities for the whole family

Mechelen is the perfect destination for families who want to explore together. A visit to Technopolis is one of the highlights for children. This interactive center introduces them to science and technology in a playful way, while parents enjoy the educational and surprising experiments.

Also the Toy museum is a real must-see. This museum takes you and your children on a nostalgic journey through toys from different times. It is a place where young and old can marvel and reminisce.

Planckendael Zoo, located on the edge of Mechelen, offers a perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. Here, children can play to their heart's content in the playgrounds, admire animals up close, and enjoy the spacious walking paths in a beautiful natural setting.

After a day full of fun, you can relax in one of the family-friendly restaurants, such as the brasserie in Planckendael or a cozy terrace in the center of Mechelen.

Practical tips for a day in Mechelen

A trip to Mechelen becomes even more enjoyable with good preparation. The city is easily accessible, both by car and public transport. Parking is easy in one of the parking garages in the center, such as Q-Park Lamot or from Parking Grand Market. For those who prefer to travel by train, Mechelen station is within walking distance of the main attractions.

Take the seasons into account and plan your activities based on the weather. In spring and summer, the terraces on the Grote Markt and the green spots are ideal for enjoying the outdoors. In winter, the city brings a magical atmosphere with atmospheric lighting and cozy Christmas markets.

In addition, it is useful to make use of the Mechelen City Pass. This pass provides advantageous access to a large number of museums and attractions and often offers additional benefits, such as discounts on tours or boat trips.

Book a package

Do you have questions about your stay or are you still looking for a comfortable overnight spot? Discover Mechelen from our hotel with one of our packages. Our reception staff would be happy to tell you about all the attractions of Mechelen and the surrounding area!