Mechelen

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Mechelen's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Mechelen
morning
:

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Mechelen, admiring its historical architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the stunning St. Rumbold's Cathedral and climb the tower for breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy a traditional Belgian lunch at one of the local bistros.

evening
:

Relax at a cozy restaurant and savor some Belgian specialties. Take a walk along the river to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Art and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Kazerne complex for an insight into contemporary art exhibitions. Spend some time at the Mechelen City Museum to learn about the city's rich history.

afternoon
:

Join a guided tour of the Mechelen Toy Museum, showcasing a vast collection of toys. Enjoy lunch at a nearby cafe with an eclectic menu.

evening
:

Attend a local theater performance or a cultural event happening in town. Finish the night by trying some local beers at a trendy bar.

day 3
Nature Walks
morning
:

Start with a breakfast picnic at the city’s main park, Vrijbroekpark. Explore the park’s beautiful gardens and walking paths.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby nature reserve, Mechels Broek, for a scenic hike. Pack a light lunch or find a place to enjoy some local pastries.

evening
:

Return to your favorite spot in the park to unwind. Consider packing a light dinner to savor while enjoying nature's tranquility.

day 4
Culinary Delights
morning
:

Kick off the day with a culinary walking tour that introduces you to Mechelen's local delicacies. Sample some fresh pastries and artisanal cheeses.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Belgian dishes. Enjoy the meal you’ve created during the class for lunch.

evening
:

Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant to experience fine Belgian cuisine. End your night with a delightful dessert at a renowned chocolatier.

day 5
Photography Day
morning
:

Grab breakfast at a local café known for its picturesque ambiance. Begin your photo expedition by capturing iconic spots like St. Rumbold's Cathedral.

afternoon
:

Visit the Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for photography enthusiasts. Continue to the beautiful parks and gardens for more picturesque scenes.

evening
:

Spend your evening editing your photos at a cozy coffee shop. Share your Mechelen adventure on social media to inspire others.

day 6
Bike Adventure
morning
:

Rent a bike and start your day with breakfast at a popular bike-friendly café. Cycle along the scenic routes that outline Mechelen.

afternoon
:

Take a bike tour to nearby villages, exploring local landmarks. Stop for lunch in a quaint town you discover along the route.

evening
:

Return to Mechelen and relax in a local pub with live music. Enjoy a refreshing drink while reminiscing about your biking adventure.

day 7
Historical Journey
morning
:

Visit Mechelen's historical sites starting with the stunning Town Hall. Have a guided tour that explains the significance of various landmarks.

afternoon
:

Stop by the historical archives for deeper insights into the city’s past. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant that features historical cuisine.

evening
:

Attend a local workshop focusing on Mechelen's history or restoration projects. Share stories over dinner at a restaurant with a historical theme.

day 8
Festival Fun
morning
:

Start by enjoying breakfast at a festival-themed market if one is happening during your visit. Immerse yourself in local culture right from the start.

afternoon
:

Participate in workshops or activities that reflect the festival’s theme. Grab some lunch from food stalls offering a variety of options.

evening
:

Enjoy the evening festivities, including music, performances, and more local cuisine. Make sure to capture the lively atmosphere with some photos.

day 9
Hidden Gems
morning
:

Explore lesser-known spots in Mechelen, starting with quaint streets and local boutiques. Have a breakfast stroll to find unique shops and cafés.

afternoon
:

Visit local artisans and craft shops to see traditional craftsmanship. Enjoy lunch at a hidden gem eatery recommended by locals.

evening
:

Spend your evening chatting with locals at a community gathering or neighborhood bar. Learn about their favorite hidden gems in Mechelen.

day 10
River Day
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast overlooking the river. Enjoy a morning paddle or kayak session to embrace the city's riverside beauty.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a riverside restaurant, sampling fresh fish dishes. Continue your adventure with an afternoon boat tour of the waterways.

evening
:

Return to shore for dinner at a barge-style restaurant on the river. End the night enjoying the serene river views and night lights.

Discover Mechelen

Read more in our Mechelen 2024 Travel Guide.

Mechelen Travel Guide