Things To Do
in Machelen
Machelen is a small Belgian municipality in Flemish Brabant located just east of Brussels. It blends quiet residential streets with business parks and convenient access to the capital and Brussels Airport. The town serves as a practical base for exploring nearby Mechelen, Vilvoorde, and the broader Brussels region.
Expect efficient transport links, green spaces, and a welcoming Flemish ambiance shaped by the airport’s influence.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly baked pastries and a robust cup of Belgian coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic center of Machelen, admiring the charming architecture and quaint streets. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Church of Saint Peter, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Brussels Airport Museum to delve into the history of aviation in Belgium and its impact on travel. After exploring the exhibits, enjoy a light lunch at a nearby bistro, sampling local delicacies like stoofvlees. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the local shops, picking up unique souvenirs and handcrafted items.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant where you can savor classics like moules-frites or carbonnade flamande. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the serene canal, watching the reflections of the setting sun on the water. Conclude your evening at a local pub, enjoying a rich Trappist beer while mingling with friendly locals.
Catch an early train from Machelen to Brussels, where you can start your exploration at the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the ornate guildhalls and the stunning Town Hall while enjoying a warm chocolate croissant from a nearby bakery. Take a moment to soak in the vibrant atmosphere before heading to your next stop.
In the afternoon, visit the Royal Palace of Brussels, where you can explore the stunning gardens and learn about the Belgian monarchy. Afterward, head to the Magritte Museum to admire the surreal works of Belgian artist René Magritte. Treat yourself to lunch at a café in the Sablon district, known for its antique shops and chocolate boutiques.
As evening approaches, stroll through the vibrant streets of Brussels towards the Atomium, a striking building and museum. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant nearby, sampling Belgian waffles for dessert after a hearty meal. End your day with a visit to a local bar in the city center, where you can enjoy live music and a lively ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport (daily pass) | $6-9 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Brussels and Mechelen
- Efficient transport links to major airports
- Quiet residential areas with easy nature access
- Strong local and regional cuisine and beer culture
- Small town feel may lack big-city nightlife
- Limited independent dining options within Machelen itself
- Can be busy around airport with traffic and security zones
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik ben vegetariër" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Machelen
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic medieval square and cathedral offering dramatic towers and colorful façades.
Quaint street corners and historic architecture ideal for atmospheric shots.
Railings and planes in the distance provide dynamic aviation photography near Machelen.
Waterways, boats, and industrial bridges create evocative compositions.
Food in Machelen
Machelen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef stew braised in Belgian beer, typically served with fries or mashed potatoes.
Must-Try!
Steamed mussels in a flavorful broth, usually shared with a portion of crispy fries.
Delicate pastry shells filled with creamy chicken or seafood ragout, a classic Belgian staple.
Crisp or soft waffles served with toppings such as sugar, chocolate, or fruit at cafés and market stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and ready-to-eat bites.
Traditional Belgian fries with a variety of sauces, a staple street snack near town centers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch is the local language; using a polite greeting and u/je forms when appropriate is appreciated.
Be on time for appointments and reservations; Belgian culture values reliability.
Quiet conversations in public spaces; avoid loud or boisterous behavior in family settings.
Safety
Tipping in Machelen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving a modest tip (5-10%) for good service is common in cafés and restaurants.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; ATMs readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder to warm days with occasional showers; perfect for outdoor markets, canal walks, and nature reserves.
Colorful foliage and harvest markets; cooler evenings, ideal for strolling town centers.
Cold, with possible frost; indoor attractions and festive markets in nearby Mechelen and Brussels.
Blooming landscapes, longer daylight; great for cycling and garden visits.
Machelen at Night
Hiking in Machelen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A wetland reserve near Mechelen with boardwalks and varied birdlife.
Scenic waterway walking routes suitable for easy hikes near Vilvoorde.
Airports
How to reach Machelen by plane.
Located in Zaventem, just a few kilometers from Machelen; major international hub with train and road connections to the region.
Also within reach by road; alternative European gateway with shuttle connections to Brussels.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local Flemish families and professionals, with a growing number of commuters to Brussels and Mechelen.
Some international residents due to the proximity to Brussels Airport and corporate parks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport across clubs and local schools; easy to watch or participate in community leagues.
Flat to rolling terrain makes cycling a common activity and training option.
Public courts and clubs in the region offer beginner to advanced play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Machelen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable dishes, cheese plates, and salads; ask for meat-free versions of local classics and enjoy Belgian salads with fresh produce or cheese-based dishes.