Things to do in Mechelen

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Lemurs resting on green grass.
A historic cityscape with a prominent church and dense urban architecture.
An ornate church interior with high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and religious artwork.
A historic cathedral with intricate architecture and a tall spire.
A historic town with a prominent church tower, various buildings, and outdoor seating areas.

Things to do

Tootbus Brussels Discovery

Tootbus Brussels Discovery Hop-on Hop-off bus tour

￥5,162
per adult
84% of travellers recommend
Tootbus Brussels Discovery Hop-on Hop-off bus tour
Antwerp: Full Day Bike Rental

Antwerp: Full Day Bike Rental

￥3,129
per adult
Antwerp: Full Day Bike Rental
Atomium: Skip-the-Line Tickets & Self-Guided Tour

Atomium: Entrance Tickets & Self-Guided Audio Tour

￥5,512
per adult
Atomium: Entrance Tickets & Self-Guided Audio Tour
Antwerp ZOO Entry Ticket

Antwerp ZOO Entry Ticket

￥6,533
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Antwerp ZOO Entry Ticket
Antwerp: Jewish Neighbourhood Guided Walking Tour

Antwerp: Jewish Neighbourhood Guided Walking Tour

￥3,589
per adult
Antwerp: Jewish Neighbourhood Guided Walking Tour
Picture 4 for Activity Antwerp: City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour

Antwerp: City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour

￥3,662
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Antwerp: City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour
Discover Antwerp with Local Guide

Discover Antwerp with Local Guide

￥2,760
per adult
Discover Antwerp with Local Guide
Antwerp: Charm and Originality of the Belgian City with In-App Audio Tour

Antwerp: Charm and Originality of the Belgian City with In-App Audio Tour

￥1,288
per traveler
Antwerp: Charm and Originality of the Belgian City with In-App Audio Tour
LEGO® Discovery Centre Brussels Admission Ticket

LEGO® Discovery Centre Brussels Admission Ticket

￥4,297
per adult
LEGO® Discovery Centre Brussels Admission Ticket
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What to do in Mechelen

Stay near popular Mechelen attractions

A group of pelicans on a tree branch over water with dense foliage in the background.
Photo by Thierry Royls
Open Photo by Thierry Royls

Planckendael Zoo

8.0/10 (15 reviews)
Why not visit the native and exotic animals who live at Planckendael Zoo during your trip to Muizen? Discover the area's live music and cathedral.
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Where to stay in Mechelen

Find the best Mechelen areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.

Otterbeek

Otterbeek is well-liked for its parks. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Mechelen area, you might plan a trip to Achter de Kazerne Stadium or Het Anker Brewery.

Popular day trips from Mechelen

A historic European city square with a prominent cathedral, cafes, and pedestrians.

Antwerp

A rugged, eroded landscape with layered rock formations and a winding road.

Kapelle-op-den-Bos

A long, dimly lit corridor with metal bars on one side and a concrete floor, leading to a light at the end.

Willebroek

A rugged, eroded landscape with layered rock formations and a winding road.

Ramsdonk

Frequently asked questions

Is Mechelen worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor activities, there are loads of great things to do in Mechelen. Don't forget to experience the area's mix of cool sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Mechelen?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Planckendael Zoo and Lamot Conference and Heritage Centre. Then, explore other areas of Mechelen for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Mechelen?
The top tourist attraction in Mechelen is Planckendael Zoo, so don't forget to include it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Mechelen?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out many city sights, like Planckendael Zoo, Grand Beguinage of Mechelen and Lamot Conference and Heritage Centre. The average stay in Mechelen is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your vacation, Brussels isn't far away.
Is Mechelen a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city center, Mechelen is a great place to discover on foot. Wander between Planckendael Zoo and Grand Beguinage of Mechelen. Then take a stroll around Muizen, located 3 kilometers from downtown, and Otterbeek, which is about 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Mechelen with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Mechelen with kids.
What to do in Mechelen for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Mechelen for adults including De Molenberg Distillery and De Mijlpaal.
Are there free things to do in Mechelen?
In Mechelen, Grand Beguinage of Mechelen is a top spot for anyone looking to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's an easy way to explore the best free things to do in Mechelen.