Mechelen

Mechelen is a fascinating, lively, exuberant and child-friendly city, with a rich past. You can see that from its substantial world heritage, protected by UNESCO, and from museums such as the Dossin Barracks. You may also enjoy some wonderful shopping or a nice café with a superb Golden Carolus beer. Or try taking a boat to Planckendael zoo!

If you're travelling with the whole family, then Mechelen's the place for you! The city provides a lot of fun for little ones, like some giant play areas that let you romp around, climb, hang and rest in its historic centre. In a snap you can be in the Toy Museum with one of the most comprehensive toy collections in Europe, or in Technopolis, the activity centre for science and technology.

Top 5 things to do:

• Climb up the 538 steps of the St. Rumbolds Tower which offers breathtaking views of the city from its new sky walk. In each tower room you will discover something new about the more than 500 years of Mechelen history.
• Discover the art of tapestry at De Wit Royal Manufacturers.
• Eat, sleep and drink at the Anker, famous for its Golden Carolus Beer, awarded the gold medal at the 2012 World Beer Awards as one of the 7 best beers in the world.
• Hang out at Vismarkt (fish market), a quaint square with lots of cosy restaurants and bars.
• Try the local delicacy, the Mechelen cuckoo, served with fresh vegetables, Mechelen beer sauce and roasted potatoes.

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