July 8, 2025, 4:09 pm | Read time: 6 minutes
Bruges is one of the most popular city destinations in Europe, especially in Belgium, and is often crowded as a result. For those yearning for medieval charm, cobblestone streets, and gabled houses but wanting to avoid souvenir shops and tour groups, Mechelen offers a wonderful alternative.
Bruges, with its historic canals, old town with UNESCO World Heritage status, and picturesque facades, is for many travelers the epitome of a romantic city trip. However, not everyone is thrilled with the perfectly restored tourist setting. Many complain about high prices, crowded streets, and the feeling of strolling through an open-air museum rather than a vibrant city. If Bruges feels too crowded or touristy for you, we have a tip: The Flemish city of Mechelen is an alternative, located between Brussels and Antwerp, offering everything Bruges promises: history, canals, and Belgian charm.
Overview
Where Are Bruges and Mechelen in Belgium?
Bruges is located in western Belgium, about 15 kilometers from the North Sea, near the French border, and has nearly 120,000 residents. The city is part of the Flanders region and belongs to the province of West Flanders. Due to its proximity to the coast, its well-preserved old town, and its UNESCO designation, Bruges has become one of the country’s top tourist destinations—especially for day-trippers from France, the United Kingdom, and cruise ships from Zeebrugge.
Mechelen, with its approximately 90,000 residents, is located further inland, about halfway between Brussels and Antwerp, in the province of Antwerp. The city is centrally located in Belgium and is excellently connected due to its position in the economic and political heart of the country—both by train and by car. Unlike Bruges, which is heavily influenced by tourism, life in Mechelen takes place more off the beaten tourist paths.
Bruges and Mechelen are about 120 kilometers apart. If you want to experience the beauty of Flemish cities but have no desire for crowded old town alleys, expensive accommodations, and tour groups in every street, you should avoid Bruges—at least during the high season. Mechelen offers a similarly historic setting with gabled houses, canals, and impressive architecture, but without the mass tourism. Instead of tourist crowds and souvenir shops, in Mechelen, you experience a normal city with real life, a quieter pace, and noticeably lower prices—all with just as much charm.
Sights in Mechelen
Sint Romboutskathedraal
The nearly 98-meter-high Gothic cathedral with its distinctive, unfinished tower dominates the skyline of Mechelen. Those who climb the 538 steps are rewarded with a panoramic view of the entire region–on clear days, even as far as Antwerp and Brussels. The bell tower is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and is one of the most significant in Belgium.
Vismarkt & Haverwerf
At the old fish market (Vismarkt), cafes, bars, and restaurants now line up directly along the Dyle—a popular meeting place, especially in the evenings. Opposite are three striking townhouses from the 16th and 17th centuries with elaborate facades (Haverwerf).
Speelgoedmuseum & Technopolis
Mechelen has a relatively large number of museums worth visiting. The Toy Museum (Speelgoedmuseum) features one of the largest collections in Europe, including dolls, tin toys, and board games from around the world. Technopolis is a hands-on science center aimed particularly at families but also interesting for individual visitors.
Vleeshalle
In the former meat market hall, there is now a modern indoor food court with rotating stalls and young culinary concepts. The atmosphere is open and casual, attracting mainly a local crowd. On weekends or evenings, it quickly fills up but rarely becomes hectic.
Brewery Het Anker
The family-run brewery has been producing beer since the 15th century and is now best known for its “Gouden Carolus.” There are tours with tastings and a guesthouse directly on the premises. The facility is quietly located in a historic part of the city and is also architecturally interesting.
Large Beguinage
The Beguinage consists of narrow alleys, small gardens, and a quiet, almost village-like atmosphere in the middle of the city. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and recalls the religious and social life of single women in the Middle Ages. Today, it is a quiet residential area, freely accessible but not heavily touristy.
Winter Garden of the Ursuline Institute
The Winter Garden is located a bit outside in the district of Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver, part of a former girls’ school complex, and was designed in the Art Nouveau style around 1900. Particularly striking are the colorful glass ceilings with floral motifs. The site is only accessible through guided tours, but it is very worth seeing due to its intricate details.
Mechelen Town Hall
The town hall on the Grote Markt consists of several historical construction phases, including a late Gothic wing with a belfry. The tower is part of the Flemish UNESCO city tower system. The building still serves as an administrative seat today, and tours are available upon request.
Also read: This City Is as Beautiful as Copenhagen–Only Cheaper!
Travel to Mechelen
Mechelen is centrally located in Belgium, right between Brussels and Antwerp, and is excellently connected. From Brussels Airport-Zaventem, you can reach the city in about 20 minutes by train. Trains also run regularly from Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, or Leuven, usually every 15 to 30 minutes. Those traveling by car can reach Mechelen via the E19 highway.
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