The Ultimate Guide to Mechelen, Belgium (Like a Local)

When tourists come to Belgium, they often stop at the usual spots: Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Brussels. But there’s one majestic, old-world city tourists often overlook, just 20 minutes from Brussels: Mechelen, Belgium. Dotted with renaissance palaces, culinary hotspots and charming cobblestone roads, Mechelen, Belgium might be one of the most underrated European city break spots – firmly off the tourist trail. Here’s my complete guide to Mechelen, Belgium. 

This post was made independently following a Visit Mechelen Tourism Board following a press trip.

How to Get to Mechelen

Mechelen lies just 20 minutes by train from both Brussels and Antwerp. It’s an easy train ride from these city centers, or nearby towns, like Leuven. Once you reach the train station, you can walk 15 minutes into town. 

Alternatively, you can take a short bus ride into town from either the train station or other cities around Belgium, including Brussels and Antwerp. The De Lijn operates the regional and city buses to Mechelen. 

If you’re feeling active, it’s an easy bike ride from various points around Belgian or The Netherlands, as well. 

Things to Do in Mechelen, Belgium

No weekend is complete in Mechelen, Belgium without exploring its deep, rich history. There’s more than enough to do for a full weekend – let alone a day trip. Here are my favorite things to do in Mechelen, Belgium.

1. Climb St. Rumbold’s Tower (Sint-Romboutstoren)

Boasting more than 500 steps, St. Rumbold’s Tower is one activity you simply cannot miss in Mechelen. Every couple floors, there’s a break to explore the many aspects of the bell tower. At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views over Mechelen – and on a clear day, you can see Brussels and Antwerp from this UNESCO-listed belfry, too. 

2. Visit the Museum Hof van Busleyden

Step inside this stunning Renaissance palace, now home to the Museum Hof van Busleyden. This beautifully curated museum helps visitors discover Mechelen’s Golden Age through art, history, and interactive exhibits with a special emphasis on Burgundian Mechelen. 

3. Stroll through the Groot Begijnhof

Mechelen has some of the most charming streets and tiny alleys, filled with wonderful artisanal stores and cobblestone roads. Wander this peaceful, historic quarter – once home to beguines, filled with cobbled lanes and charming 17th-century houses.

4. Take the Dyle Path (Dijlepad)

Belgium is known for its charming canals – and Mechelen is no exception. The Dyle Path is a floating boardwalk along the River Dyle. The pathway offers special scenic views of Mechelen and its beautiful architecture. Several spots even offer the option to rent kayaks or standup paddleboards. 

5. Cruise Along the Canals

On a similar note, small cruises on the Inner Dyle offer a relaxing way to see Mechelen from a new angle – especially for those with mobility issues. As you go, you’ll learn about historic landmarks on the river. 

Where to Stay in Mechelen, Belgium

Hotel Elisabeth occupies a beautifully restored former St. Elisabeth hospital dating back to the interwar period, which closed its doors in December 2003 after decades of serving Mechelen’s community. This three-star hotel offers a delicious breakfast, breathtaking pool and cozy rooms. The hotel is an easy walking distance to town, but located just far enough that it’s still quiet and tranquil. Some rooms overlook the beautiful St. Rumbold’s Tower, too. 

The Best Restaurants in Mechelen, Belgium

Mechelen secretly has some of the best restaurants in Belgium. The city is home to a thriving food scene, from authentic Neopolitan pizza to home-cooked Belgian food to tasty Thai food. These are some of the best restaurants in Mechelen to test out during your visit. 

1. Ember

The warm and contemporary Ember, run by Chef Zino, is putting Mechelen back on the culinary map. The cuisine here centers around the use of wood and fire when cooking using local and seasonal ingredients. Ember’s fine dining experience is truly one of the best restaurants in Mechelen. 

2. Marcello 

Looking for the best Neapolitan pizza spot outside of Naples? Marcello might not look like your traditional pizza spot, but don’t let their modern decor put you off. This lively spot offers the best hand-tossed Naples-style pizza outside of Italy. Try the simple margherita or pancetta pizza – both are strictly delicious. 

3. TangThai

Thai food in Belgium might not sound like your first choice, but trust me: it’s worth a stop. This spot was recommended to me by an old friend, who had visited years ago. Housed in a spacious, recently renovated venue on Steenweg near the Grote Markt, the restaurant boasts generous portions of classic curries, stir‑fries, and Pad Thai, plus friendly service and an excellent selection of wines and spirits.

4. Merad

If you’re visiting Mechelen, there’s no doubt you will spot the often-crowded and lively Merad Restaurant. Merad is a popular Turkish eatery on Vismarkt in Mechelen, set in a beautifully renovated historic building overlooking the Dijle. The eatery offers generously sized, halal‑certified dishes in a modern, welcoming atmosphere. 

5. De Vleeshalle

Located in a former 19th-century meat market, De Vleeshalle is now a vibrant indoor food hall with more than 14 different international food vendors spread across a beautifully preserved historic setting. From homemade pho to artisan burgers (and they are so good!) to ice cream, there’s so much to love here for every taste bud. 

6. Niki’s Bakery

There’s no better bakery in Mechelen than Niki’s Bakery, a humble spot serving up some of the most delicious baked goods and pastries I’ve had in months. From American-style cookies to zesty lemon bars to rich red velvet cake, Niki’s Bakery is simply divine. You can’t skip it – and trust me, it’s all delicious, I’ve tested it all! 

7. De Zotte Morgen

You know it’s a great bakery when you walk by at 1 am and see the bakers getting started with their day. De Zotte Morgen is a cozy, organic bakery in the heart of Mechelen, known for its sourdough bread, buttery croissants (so good!), and spiced speculoos—all made with locally sourced Belgian grains. You’ll love pretty much anything you try here. 

The Best Brewery in Mechelen, Belgium

If you’re visiting Mechelen, you absolutely must stop at Het Anker.

Het Anker Brewery, nestled in Mechelen’s UNESCO-listed Groot Begijnhof, traces its roots back to 1471 when beguines brewed beer for their community—a legacy preserved through five generations of the Van Breedam‑Leclef family.

Today, it’s famed for its Gouden Carolus range—rich, award‑winning ales (and even whisky distilled on-site)—produced in an atmospheric brew‑room with historic copper kettles from just after WWII. 

Samantha Tatro

Samantha Tatro is a Czech-American third culture kid who grew up living and traveling abroad. Many years later, after living in California and working as a journalist, she decided to take the leap and move abroad again…this time to Prague, Czech Republic. Samantha started Undiscovered Path Home to help couples and solo female travelers find the courage to visit countries – and locations – off the beaten path. Her work has appeared in Bon Appetit, NBC News, The Adecco Group, and more.