Mechelen is a city that surprises many visitors with its blend of historic charm, lively streets, and a surprising number of unique experiences. Unlike larger Belgian cities like Brussels or Antwerp, Mechelen offers a more relaxed pace with authentic local flavor. We particularly enjoy its wildlife parks like Planckendael Zoo, where the chance to see exotic animals in a historic setting makes for a memorable outing, and its chocolate tours, which give a sweet glimpse into the city’s secret recipes and craftsmanship. These experiences stand out because they combine fun, local insights, and a touch of adventure—perfect for travelers looking to get beneath the surface.
Whether you’re interested in wildlife, hands-on activities, or tasting local specialties, Mechelen has something to offer. Our list features a mix of guided walks, self-guided scavenger hunts, food tours, and interactive escape rooms—all designed to help you explore the city in a meaningful and enjoyable way.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include wildlife adventures like the Planckendael ZOO Entry Ticket, which is perfect for families or animal lovers, and delicious chocolate experiences such as the Small-Group Chocolate Tour that reveal the city’s best-kept sweet secrets. For those who prefer a more independent approach, self-guided scavenger hunts like the e-Scavenger Hunt are a fun way to explore at your own pace. If you’re craving active fun, the escape rooms provide a mix of puzzle-solving and city discovery. All options are designed to suit different interests, budgets, and time constraints.
1. Mechelen: Planckendael ZOO Entry Ticket
At number 1, the Planckendael ZOO offers an immersive wildlife experience just outside the city. The ticket for Planckendael ZOO grants access to a sprawling park where you can see animals from all continents, and walk through various ecosystems from tropical forests to savannas. The zoo is set across a historic castle estate, adding a touch of old-world charm to your visit. It’s perfect for families, nature lovers, or anyone who appreciates seeing animals like giraffes, lions, and pandas in well-maintained habitats.
Visitors praise the easy layout and family-friendly facilities, though some miss the small animals like goats or sheep that children can touch. With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 30 reviews, many note that it’s a “very chouette parc”—a very nice park—with the only downside being the absence of some smaller, tactile animals. The ticket costs around $41 per person, providing a full day of discovery.
Bottom Line: If you want a day filled with wildlife and nature amid beautiful grounds, Planckendael is a solid choice for all ages.
2. Small-Group Chocolate Tour in Mechelen
Number 2 on our list is the Small-Group Chocolate Tour, which lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours and costs roughly $78.72. This tour is an excellent way to uncover Mechelen’s sweet secrets, visiting local chocolatiers and enjoying tastings of pralines, hot chocolate, and handmade chocolates. The guide shares stories about the city and its confectionery traditions while you sample some of the finest treats.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimacy—small groups mean more personalized attention and a chance to get detailed insights into Belgian chocolate craftsmanship. The guide takes you from the lively Grote Markt to lesser-known streets, uncovering hidden gems only locals frequent. Reviewers love the mix of sightseeing and tasting, with many describing it as “very enjoyable and educational.” The tour is ideal for sweet tooths and those interested in authentic local products.
The price reflects the exclusivity and quality of the experience, making it a worthwhile indulgence. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed but flavorful introduction to Mechelen’s culinary scene.
Bottom Line: A must-do for chocolate lovers or anyone wanting to enjoy a tasty, insider look into Mechelen’s confectionery culture.
3. e-Scavenger Hunt Mechelen: Explore the city at your own pace
At number 3, the e-Scavenger Hunt offers a flexible way to explore Mechelen independently. Using an online app, you and your group of up to six solve puzzles and answer questions as you wander through the city. For about $36.76, you’ll see top landmarks, hidden corners, and learn interesting facts without a rigid schedule. The game lasts roughly three hours, making it suitable for a relaxed afternoon or a fun morning adventure.
The reviews praise its ease of use and engaging format. One reviewer said, “Leuke manier om op eigen gelegenheid en eigen tempo de stad te verkennen,” meaning it’s a fun way to explore at your own pace. Kids and families especially enjoy the family-friendly tasks and the chance to discover lesser-known parts of Mechelen. The app guides you seamlessly from market squares to scenic alleyways, providing a personalized sightseeing experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer self-guided adventures or want to combine sightseeing with a fun, interactive game.
4. Discover the secrets of Mechelen while playing! Escape room
Number 4 is the Escape Room in Mechelen, which typically lasts about 2 hours and costs around $20. This interactive experience challenges your team to solve puzzles, uncover secrets, and complete missions as you walk through the city. It’s a unique way to combine physical activity with mental challenges, guided by a mobile app that directs your route.
This experience is perfect for groups of friends or families who enjoy puzzles and teamwork. The setting transforms the city into an interactive game board, making mundane streets into a backdrop for mystery and adventure. While the reviews are modest (4.0/5 from 6 reviews), many appreciate the fun and original approach to city exploration.
Bottom Line: A playful and engaging way to see Mechelen, especially if you enjoy problem-solving and team challenges.
5. Discover Mechelen while playing! Escape game – The alchemist
At number 5, the Escape Game – The Alchemist is a 2-hour activity costing around $23. Like the other escape experiences, it guides players through puzzles and missions, this time with a theme centered around alchemy and secret formulas. The mobile app takes you on a journey through the city’s streets, encouraging close observation and quick thinking.
Designed for small groups, this experience is suited for those who love storytelling blended with city exploration. It’s a more narrative-driven puzzle, offering both challenge and entertainment. The five reviews for this experience note that it’s a fun twist on standard city tours, though some might find the puzzles more suitable for older children or adults.
Bottom Line: A creative way to combine city sightseeing with puzzle-solving for a small group of friends or family.
6. Discover Mechelen while escaping the zombies! Escape room
Number 6 offers a zombie-themed twist on escape games, with a 2-hour adventure at about $23. This experience turns Mechelen into a zombie outbreak zone, where your team must complete missions to escape the menace. Guided by an app, you’ll navigate the streets, searching for clues and solving riddles under zombie threat.
It’s a lively, fast-paced activity best suited for groups of friends or older kids who enjoy thrillers and suspense. Though reviews are limited (3 reviews, 4.0/5), users appreciate the innovative concept. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for something energetic and slightly adrenaline-pumping.
Bottom Line: For fans of zombies, action, and puzzles, this experience adds a thrilling edge to your visit.
7. Mechelen Food Tour
The Mechelen Food Tour is a sensory journey through the city’s culinary scene, costing around $92.55 for about two hours and 15 minutes. Led by a guide, you’ll visit local, independent shops and eateries, sampling everything from cheese and charcuterie to street food and desserts like ice cream and chocolates.
This tour is perfect for foodies wanting to support small businesses while tasting authentic flavors. The guide shares stories about the city’s food traditions and highlights hidden culinary spots. Reviewers mention that the tour offers a “good overview of Mechelen’s food scene” and provides plenty of photo opportunities. It’s ideal for those who love to combine sightseeing with tasting.
Bottom Line: For a deliciously local experience that supports small businesses, this food tour is hard to beat.
$92.55 per person
8. Belgium: Mechelen guided tour guide
Number 8 features a guided walk through Mechelen’s historic core, lasting about 2 hours at $26 per person. Led by a professional guide, you’ll explore the old town’s landmarks, including the town hall and St. Rumbold’s Cathedral. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the city’s past and its architectural highlights, making this tour accessible for first-time visitors.
The reviews highlight a “very informative, well-paced tour” that appeals to those who want a structured, educational experience. It’s suitable for travelers interested in history and architecture but who prefer a relaxed, guided approach over self-guided exploration.
Bottom Line: A solid, informative introduction to Mechelen’s main sights with a friendly guide.
$26 per person
9. Mechelen: Guided Walking Tour
Finally, the Guided Walking Tour is praised with a perfect rating of 5 out of 5. Lasting between 2 to 3 hours, it delves into Mechelen’s history, architecture, and culture, focusing on the Burgundian court, the main square, and St. Rumbold’s Cathedral. The guide helps you understand the stories behind the city’s charming streets and hidden alleys.
This tour is best for those who want an in-depth, personal experience and appreciate expert storytelling. It’s a flexible option for different schedules, and the high rating suggests it’s well worth booking ahead.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a rundown with a personal touch, this guided walk is ideal.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. Wildlife lovers might prefer the Planckendael ZOO, while foodies will enjoy the Mechelen Food Tour. If you’re traveling with kids or a group that loves puzzles, the escape rooms offer interactive fun, while independent explorers may prefer the self-guided scavenger hunt.
Budget-conscious travelers should weigh the costs against what’s included—such as the multiple tastings during the food tour or the personalized attention in the small-group chocolate experience. For those pressed for time, shorter activities like the escape rooms or self-guided adventures can pack a lot of fun into a few hours.
Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid missing out on popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Mechelen’s range of tours means there’s something for every type of traveler—whether you want to get close to exotic animals, indulge in Belgian chocolates, solve puzzles, or simply learn about the city’s past. For families, the wildlife parks or escape games are excellent choices. Food lovers should not miss the food tour, which offers a tasty taste of local flavors. History buffs will appreciate the in-depth guided walking tours, providing rich stories and beautiful sights.
Whatever your interests, booking your preferred tour in advance will ensure a smooth and memorable visit. Explore Mechelen with confidence, and enjoy every moment of your adventure in this charming Belgian city.