Less than half an hour from bustling Brussels by train, Mechelen is ready to welcome you. This town is home to the iconic St. Rumbolds Cathedral, the burgundian city palace Museum Hof van Busleyden and even a mysterious hotel ruin slowly reclaimed by nature. Leuven, also just a stone’s throw from Brussels, blends centuries-old heritage with the vibrant energy of a university city.
Both cities are less than half an hour away from Brussels by train and make great trips!
Both cities are only 15 minutes away from Brussels by train and make great trips!
Mechelen: full of stories
Mechelen is a charming city that is big on history, thriving with cosy streets, quaint churches and imposing heritage buildings. The grace of centuries-old palaces and majestic churches appeals to everyone. There are no less than 336 listed buildings and monuments, including eight gothic and baroque churches from the 14th-17th century.
Mechelen is a city for all ages. Families with young children can enjoy an active day at the Toy Museum or the Tivoli Children’s farm or go on a treasure hunt while exploring the mysterious hotel ruins at Vrijbroekpark. Young-at-heart beer aficionados can visit Het Anker, one of the oldest breweries, known for its Gouden Carolus range. Students from all over the world come to learn to play church bells at Mechelen’s carillon school. Sitting outside on the terrace of a cafe sipping a local beer while listening to the bell music coming from the sky is nothing short of delightful. It is also home to one of the last remaining places in the world that restores and repairs antique tapestries, at Royal Manufacturers De Wit.
Climb the St. Rumbold’s Tower, visit the Museum Hof van Busleyden and the brewery Het Anker. Walk along the Dyle or take a boat trip on the inner Dyle to see a different side of Mechelen. Stroll around in the large beguinage and visit the winter garden of the Ursuline nuns.
Leuven: a vibrant university city full of heritage
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A vibrant student population and a rich history combine in the city of Leuven, home to one of Europe’s oldest universities (KU Leuven), founded in 1425. The university, one of the most important in Europe, has its roots in the centre of Leuven, and its historic college buildings dominate many of the squares and streets. A few lucky students even have the distinct privilege of living in the 13th century stone beguinage, a UNESCO world heritage site worthy of a visit. 28,000 students and professors lend a distinctly youthful atmosphere to the city.
You can’t mention Leuven without mentioning the iconic Stella Artois brewery. Did you know Belgian beer culture was recognized as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2016? Leuven plays a key role in this tradition. Explore – among many others – the small home brewery Domus, taste seasonal specials at De Coureur or discover beer-and-food pairings at HOP Gastrobar. Leuven is a great place for the curious traveller with time to explore. It is an intimate city; any spot can be easily reached on foot or by bicycle.
Visit the Town Hall of Leuven, The Last Supper by Dieric Bouts in Saint Peter’s Church and the University Library with its carillon tower and impressive reading room. Go to the Oude Markt for a beer tasting session followed by a visit to the Great Beguinage and if you have some time left, visit the 12th-century heritage site Park Abbey.
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