Mechelen, Belgium
Museums
Great! If you're interested in visiting museums, Mechelen has several options to choose from:
1. The Museum Hof van Busleyden offers a journey through the cultural history of Mechelen and the Burgundian Netherlands with a collection of art, crafts, and historical objects.
2. The Toy Museum showcases toys from various periods, including antique dolls, board games, and other historic playthings.
3. The Kazerne Dossin Memorial, Museum and Documentation Centre is located in a building that was formerly used as a transit camp during World War II. It tells the story of the Holocaust in Belgium and features personal stories of survivors and victims.
If you'd like to explore more museums in the area, there are also several nearby in Antwerp, such as the Rubens House Museum, the Plantin-Moretus Museum, and the MAS (Museum Aan de Stroom) which focuses on the city's maritime history.
Food
Here are some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Mechelen, according to locals:
1. Stoofvlees: A hearty beef stew made with beer that is often served with fries.
2. Waterzooi: A creamy soup or stew typically made with chicken or fish, vegetables, cream, and sometimes egg yolks.
3. Mechelse koekoek: A type of free-range chicken bred in Mechelen that is known for its tender meat. It's often served roasted or braised.
4. Gouden Carolus beer: A local beer brewed in Mechelen with a rich, malty flavor and a high ABV (alcohol by volume).
5. Speculaas: A spiced biscuit that is traditionally eaten during the winter holiday season, but can be found year-round in bakeries and cafes throughout the city.
6. Belgian waffles: Mechelen, like many cities in Belgium, is known for its delicious waffles. These sweet treats can be topped with whipped cream, fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or other toppings.
7. Fries: Belgium is famous for its fries, which are often served in cones with a variety of dipping sauces. In Mechelen, you'll find plenty of places to try these crispy, golden potato delights.
Activities
Sure, here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Mechelen:
1. Visit the Grote Markt: The central square of Mechelen is a bustling hub with lots of cafes and restaurants. It's a great place to people-watch and soak up the local atmosphere.
2. Take a boat tour: A scenic boat tour along the Dijle River offers a unique perspective on the city's architecture and history. There are several companies that offer guided boat tours.
3. Explore the green spaces: Mechelen has several parks and gardens where locals go to relax and enjoy nature. Some popular ones include the Vrijbroekpark and the Kruidtuin botanical garden.
4. Go cycling: Belgium is famous for its cycling culture, and Mechelen is no exception. You can rent a bike and explore the city and surrounding countryside on two wheels.
5. Sample local delicacies: Mechelen is known for its gastronomy, so make sure to try some of the local specialties like Mechelse koekoek (chicken), Gouden Carolus beer, and speculaas (spiced cookies).
I hope you have a great time exploring Mechelen!
