Mechelen is a fantastic destination for anyone looking for an enriching and memorable experience. With its impressive museums, such as the impactful Kazerne Dossin Holocaust Museum and the Museum Hof van Busleyden, visitors can explore the city's long and at times difficult history as well as its impressive cultural heritage. For something different, check out the Technopolis science museum which is perfect for families with kids. Foodies will be spoilt for choice in Mechelen with its array of delicious Belgian restaurants serving local specialties like Mechelen chicken roasted with butter and herbs and their famous Mechelen beer. There are also plenty of cafes and bars where visitors can relax over a coffee or beer. During summer, Maanrock Festival brings together local and international artists, while throughout the year there are performances at venues including Stadsschouwburg Theatre. When it comes to outdoor activities, Mechelen has plenty of parks and gardens like Vrijbroekpark with its large lake, walking trails, and playground, as well as Tivoli Park which is ideal for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The canal near the city offers more outdoor pursuits such as boating or kayaking. With so much to explore both indoors and outdoors, Mechelen offers something for everyone – an experience that’s sure to be unforgettable!
Mechelen is packed with beautiful architecture, vibrant cultural scenes and an illustrious past. One of the best ways to discover the city is through a Mechelen free walking tour. The Essential City Tour Mechelen is the perfect introductory tour, taking visitors to all the main highlights as well as some sights more off the beaten track. Visitors will get an overview of Mechelen's history and culture on a journey through the old town, where they can admire stunning buildings, and streets and even hear carillon bells ringing throughout the day. Another popular tour is the Mechelen Beer Walk, which takes visitors to some of the best bars and breweries in town where they can sample some of Mechelen's finest beers. For those interested in religious sites, there is also the Mechelen Saints and Sinners Walk which visits churches and cathedrals learning about famous brewers and monks from Mechelen's past while visiting important religious sites. All in all, a Mechelen free walking tour provides a unique opportunity for people to experience Mechelen's rich history, culture, food and religion up close. With so much on offer from these tours it’s easy to understand why Mechelen is such a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike!
Mechelen Walking Tours Highlights
Mechelen is full of wonders, and there's no better way to explore them than by joining a free walking tour in Mechelen. Accompanied by a friendly local guide you'll see its rich history come alive as you take a stroll through its lovely old town and admire its stunning architecture, buzzing culture, and noteworthy landmarks. Most tours will start around the Grote Markt the city´s lively main square where you can admire the Town Hall and guild houses that surround it. Nearby there is the stunning St. Rumbold's Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. Be sure to take in its incredible stained-glass windows and Belfry Tower which offers commanding views of the city and is a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. To delve deeper into the local history with a visit to the Palace of Margaret of Austria which was built for one of Europe’s most powerful women in the 16th century. Last but not least is an exploration of the Large Beguinage complex, a tranquil oasis in the city and fellow UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, it was home to a community of women who lived self-sufficiently within it. This is just a sample of what you'll discover if you join us on a free tour in Mechelen!
