Mechelen

Flanders

The northern part of Belgium is known as Flanders. All Flemish towns are brimming with quaint medieval squares, tree-lined canals, gorgeous architectural facades, world class museums, trendy fashion and designer boutiques, and friendly outdoor cafés perfect for sipping on one of the many hundreds of different local beers. And – not to forget – the best chocolate in the world...Travelling to Flanders is an unforgettable experience!

Mechelen is a small and picturesque city that is big on charm and history, but is probably best known for its carillion school. Here students from all over the world come to learn to play church bells.

One of the most pleasant experiences to have in Mechelen is to sit outside on the terrace of a cafes sipping a local beer while listening to the delightful bell music coming from the sky.

It is a city thriving with quaint shops, car-free areas and amazingly pleasant little squares. The grace of centuries-old palaces and majestic churches appeals to everyone.

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Not to Miss

Saint Rumbold's Cathedral

Building work on this imposing Mechelen monument began in 1452. Times and circumstances changed and as a result the tower was never completed. But this did not prevent the 97-metre tower becoming the symbol of Mechelen.

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Carillon

In the belfry tower of the Saint Rumbold's Cathedral is the original carillon's set of 49 bells: each has its own name and they are all still in working order. Thirty-nine steps above this carillon, there is a second set of 49 bells on which concerts are played during the summer months.

Former Palace of Margaret of Austria

The residential palace of Margaret of Austria, who ruled from 1507 to 1530, was the "Hof van Savoye" or Court of Savoy, the first renaissance building in the Low Countries. The renaissance spread from here.

Royal Manufacturer of Tapestries De Wit

To this day the city of Mechelen identifies itself with the craft of tapestry weaving. The prestigious Royal Manufacturer of Tapestries De Wit, founded in 1889, produces, restores and sells magnificent tapestries from all over the world. The most famous museums count on the expertise of this atelier. De Wit is located in a historic 15th century building, the Refuge of Tongerlo Abbey in Mechelen.

Toy Museum

The Toy Museum boasts one of the largest collections of toys in Europe. You'll find toys from all over the world, from early toys to modern. There's much more to a museum visit than just looking: you can play traditional games and relive historical events as if you had been there in person.

Het Anker

Do not only learn about but also get a good taste of the locally brewed Gouden Carolus at one of the oldest operating breweries in Belgium. And if you had a few too many, you can even spend the night.

Cuckoo

Try the local delicacy, the Mechelen cuckoo, served with fresh vegetables, Mechelen beer sauce and roasted potatoes.