Things To Do
in Machelen
Machelen is a small town located in Flemish Brabant, Belgium. It is situated close to Brussels, making it a convenient location for those working in the capital city. The town is known for its picturesque rural surroundings, with fields and meadows, as well as charming historic buildings.
Machelen has a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere, making it a pleasant place to live or visit.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the nearby Park Jozef Maes. Enjoy the tranquility and the beauty of nature as the sun rises.
Visit the local market to indulge in some fresh produce and homemade treats. Interact with local vendors to learn about regional specialties.
Relax at a café with outdoor seating to enjoy the pleasant evening breeze. Try some Belgian waffles while watching the sunset.
Visit the historical sites of Machelen, including the beautiful church of St. Martin. Take in the remarkable architecture and rich history.
Head to the nearby National Scheepvaartmuseum for an engaging exploration of Belgium's maritime history. The exhibits are interactive and suitable for all ages.
Dine at a local restaurant featuring Belgian cuisine. Sample mussels or Belgian beer for an authentic experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good transport links to Brussels and Antwerp, making it convenient for commuters.
- A peaceful residential area with a community-oriented atmosphere.
- Access to parks and green spaces for outdoor activities.
- Various local markets and shops providing fresh produce and goods.
- Proximity to major international airport (Brussels Airport).
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may have fewer amenities and services.
- Potential language barrier for non-French or Dutch speakers.
- Higher cost of living compared to some nearby towns.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
Best Activities in Machelen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful park with walking paths, picnic spots, and natural scenery along the Dijle river, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Explore the scenic cycling routes through Flanders Fields, offering stunning landscapes and an opportunity to discover historical sites.
Machelen offers various playgrounds and sports complexes for children and adults, including facilities for football, tennis, and basketball.
Enjoy hiking in nearby nature reserves such as the Dwarf Mountain, where you can experience the native flora and fauna.
Visit local outdoor markets for fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Machelen.
Tours
Uncover the best of Machelen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Machelen
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of the surrounding area and industrial architecture.
A serene forested area with great natural photo opportunities and views.
Iconic modern architecture providing unique photo opportunities and panoramic views of the city.
Food in Machelen
Machelen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef stew slow-cooked in Belgian beer and served with fries.
Must-Try!
Steamed mussels cooked with aromatic herbs and served with crispy Belgian fries.
A creamy fish or chicken stew flavored with herbs and vegetables, a Belgian specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Machelen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a variety of fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, and delightful street food stalls offering snacks like Belgian waffles and frites.
Indulge in a diverse range of street food from gourmet food trucks offering international cuisines and local favorites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Use 'Bonjour' (French) or 'Hallo' (Dutch) depending on the language preference of the region you are in. Always use formal titles until invited to use first names.
When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows), and remember to use the utensils provided. It's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and saying 'Bon appétit' or 'Smakelijk eten' before the meal is appreciated.
Being on time is very important in Belgian culture. Whether for social gatherings or business meetings, arriving late can be seen as disrespectful. If you are running late, it's courteous to inform the host or the person you are meeting.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Machelen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Machelen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Machelen, Belgium, tipping is generally not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small percentage, typically around 5-10%, especially in restaurants. In cafes and bars, it is common to leave small change or round up the amount paid.
Payments in Machelen can be made using various methods including cash (Euros), credit cards, and debit cards. Many establishments accept contactless payments, and mobile payment apps are becoming increasingly popular. It's advised to check if smaller businesses, such as local markets or cafés, have a minimum limit for card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Machelen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Machelen, Belgium. The city blooms with beautiful flowers and the weather is mild, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is another popular time to visit Machelen. The weather is warm, and there are many outdoor events and festivals to enjoy. Visitors can also take advantage of the long daylight hours for exploring the city.
Autumn (September to November) brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures to Machelen. It's a great time for nature walks and exploring the nearby forests and parks.
Winter (December to February) may be cold in Machelen, but it's a festive time with Christmas markets and holiday events. Visitors can also enjoy cozy indoor activities and warm Belgian cuisine.
Machelen at Night
Hiking in Machelen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A tranquil forest area with several trails, ideal for walking and enjoying nature.
A beautiful garden featuring a range of plant species and walking paths, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Large green space with walking trails, ponds, and expansive gardens, suitable for hiking and outdoor activities.
A scenic region with multiple hiking trails through nature reserves, providing a great outdoor experience.
A large forest located south of Brussels, offering extensive paths for hiking and immersing oneself in nature.
Beautiful trails set in the Walloon Brabant region, offering various levels of difficulty and stunning landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Machelen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Machelen by plane.
The main international airport serving Brussels and Machelen, located approximately 5 km from Machelen.
An international airport located about 50 km south of Machelen, catering mainly to low-cost airlines.
A smaller international airport located approximately 45 km north of Machelen, primarily serving regional flights.
Located around 90 km southeast of Machelen, this airport primarily handles cargo flights but also offers some passenger services.
Located about 120 km northwest of Machelen, it mainly serves charter and low-cost flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Citizens of Belgium, making up the largest demographic group in Machelen.
A significant population contributing to the cultural diversity of Machelen.
Another notable demographic, with families and individuals from Morocco residing in the area.
Citizens from other European Union countries who have settled in Machelen.
Includes individuals from various Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the town.
Includes smaller groups and expatriates from various countries around the world.
The Soul of Machelen
Discover the essence of Machelen through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Machelen, with many local clubs and a strong community involvement. It is played in various leagues and attracts a lot of spectators.
Cycling is a favored pastime in Machelen, with numerous cycling paths and clubs promoting both recreational and competitive cycling among residents.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Machelen, with local teams participating in regional competitions and youth programs supporting the development of young players.
Athletics, including running and track events, is popular in Machelen, with community events and local athletic clubs encouraging participation among residents of all ages.
Tennis is also enjoyed in Machelen, with several courts available for public use and local clubs offering training and competitions for players of varying skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Machelen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes offer delicious plant-based dishes such as vegetarian stoofvlees, vegan waffles, and vegetable waterzooi.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free versions of local favorites like moules-frites and enjoy gluten-free waffles at select eateries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Machelen with these cultural adventures.
