A Family-Friendly Guide to Mechelen, Belgium
Located in the heart of Flanders, Mechelen is a charming Belgian city that offers a host of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for families travelling with young children. With its rich history, picturesque architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Mechelen has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top family-friendly things to do in this delightful city, ensuring you make unforgettable memories with your little ones.
🏰 Visit the Historic Sites
Mechelen is steeped in history, and visiting its various historical sites is a must for any family visiting the city. Some of the top attractions include:
- St. Rumbold’s Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral that offers breathtaking views of the city from its skywalk. Children will be fascinated by the 514-step climb to the top!
- Palace of Margaret of Austria: A beautiful Renaissance palace that once served as the residence of Margaret of Austria, the city’s ruler in the 16th century. The palace is now a courthouse, but its stunning architecture and gardens are still worth exploring.
- Beguinage: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic complex of houses was once home to a religious community of women known as beguines. The picturesque cobblestone streets and peaceful gardens make for a lovely family stroll.
🌳 Explore the City’s Green Spaces
Mechelen offers several beautiful parks and green spaces that are perfect for families to enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely walk, or let the kids run and play. Some of the top parks in the city include:
- Vrijbroek Park: A sprawling park featuring walking paths, playgrounds, a rose garden, and even a mini-golf course. Pack a picnic and spend a leisurely afternoon in this lovely green oasis.
- Tivoli Park: A smaller park with a playground, a petting zoo, and several beautiful ponds. It’s an ideal spot for families with young children to spend a few hours enjoying the outdoors.
- Kruidtuin: Also known as the Botanic Garden, this peaceful park features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as sculptures and a playground for kids. It’s a great spot for a quiet stroll or a family photo session.
🎡 Enjoy Family-Friendly Attractions
When it comes to family-friendly attractions, Mechelen does not disappoint. Here are some of the top picks for a day of fun with the kids:
- Technopolis: A hands-on science and technology museum that will keep children of all ages entertained for hours. With interactive exhibits and experiments, Technopolis is both fun and educational.
- Planckendael Zoo: Home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, this popular zoo is a must-visit for families. With its spacious enclosures, playgrounds, and educational programs, Planckendael offers a full day of fun and learning.
- Toy Museum: A delightful museum dedicated to the history of toys and games, featuring a vast collection of dolls, board games, and more. Young children will especially enjoy the hands-on play areas.
🍽️ Family-Friendly Dining Options
When it’s time to refuel, Mechelen offers a variety of family-friendly dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Some top picks include:
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Il Cardinale | Italian | Kid-friendly menu, high chairs, and a casual atmosphere |
| Sava | Tapas | Varied menu with options for sharing, outdoor seating |
| De Cirque | Belgian | Classic Belgian dishes, kids’ menu, and a play area |
🏨 Family-Friendly Accommodation
Finally, when it comes to finding a place to rest your head after a long day of exploring, Mechelen has a range of family-friendly accommodation options. Consider these top-rated hotels and vacation rentals that cater to families:
- Novotel Mechelen Centrum: Centrally located and offering family rooms, this hotel is a popular choice for families visiting Mechelen.
- Hotel Mercure Vé: A stylish hotel located near the city center, featuring spacious rooms and a heated indoor pool.
- Porta Superia B&B: A charming bed and breakfast offering family rooms and a delicious daily breakfast.
With its rich history, beautiful green spaces, and family-friendly attractions, Mechelen is a fantastic destination for families travelling with young children. We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect family trip to this enchanting Belgian city!