Interactive maps of hiking and biking routes around Mechelen
1. You can zoom in/out using your mouse wheel, as well as move the map of Mechelen with your mouse.2. This interactive map presents two modes: 'Biking Routes' and 'Hiking Routes'. Use the '+' button on the map to switch between them.
Railway and landscape maps of Mechelen area
This Mechelen map has two modes: 'Railway Network' and 'Landscape & Rural Map'. Use the '+' button on the map to navigate.City tours, excursions and tickets in Mechelen and surroundings
Nature and parks of Belgium
The Zwin Nature Reserve is located near the border with the Netherlands. It is spread over an area of 1.5 square kilometers. The reserve is located on the site where shallow sea bay used to be. Today it is a whole range of marshes and salt marshes. Founded in 1952, Zwin was simply a paradise for birds. The marshland is chosen by about 100 species of birds for nesting. Tourists not only from Belgium but also from many European countries come to see the birds in their natural habitat. The best time to visit Zwin is in spring when the nesting period is around the corner. Only 30% of the reserve’s territory is open to visitors. Walking in Zwin is possible only along special paths, so as not to disturb the unique eco-environment. … OpenPhotogallery of Mechelen sights
Our guide to Mechelen
Attractions and active leisure
In 1956, the estate was transferred to the Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp, and soon it was decided to establish a branch of one of the country's largest zoos on its grounds. Now it is one of the largest and most beautiful in Belgium presenting animals from all over the globe. Here you can see Australian capybaras and rare Chilean flamingos, penguins and exotic tropical animals. Like many years ago, the nature … Open
Cuisine and top restaurants
Many historic farms that have been preserved in the vicinity of Mechelen are currently among the leaders in vegetable production in Belgium. On these farms, they grow many rare types of Cichorium, wonderful asparagus, and dozens of cabbages. Every year, the city hosts one of the largest vegetable auctions in Belgium, which gathers representatives from different countries. Travelers will have the opportunity to … Open
Traditions and mentality of Mechelen
Mechelen residents are proud of their amazing history. Over hundreds of years, the city has gotten a lot of interesting symbols and traditions. One of the most interesting symbols is carillon - an old musical instrument, which has been undeservedly forgotten in the world culture over the past hundred years. The instrument consists of a set of bells that are very reminiscent of church ones. The ability to play it … Open
Travel guide to Mechelen
There are several unique monuments of world importance in the city. The Great Beguinage at Mechelen was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is a large-scale architectural complex. Its construction began in the 13th century. Now the central part of the complex is occupied by the Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene. It is surrounded by ancient residential buildings. Today, a significant part of the old houses is … Open
Mechelen for children - what to visit
In Mechelen, there are a few magnificent parks which are also worth visiting with children. A real work of landscape art is the Provinciaal Groendomein Vrijbroekpark. It is most fascinating to visit this park in spring or summer. There are a lot of flowers in the park, arches twisted by plants, many spacious green lawns and oases with exotic plants. Among this entire natural splendor, comfortable recreation areas … Open
Shopping, streets and outlets
Windels is of interest to those who are not indifferent to elite alcoholic drinks, as well as fans of premium tobacco. In this store, you can always get a bottle of wonderful Gosset champagne for about 60 euros and choose some elite varieties of rum and cognac for your mini-bar. It sells cigars and all kinds of smoking accessories. The store's price level is quite high. A short distance from the bustling … Open