7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Mechelen

As a digital nomad living in Mechelen, you have the unique opportunity to explore a variety of destinations on your weekends. From the bustling city life to serene nature escapes, there's something for every type of traveler. While popular spots offer the comfort of familiarity, the lesser-known gems promise an adventure off the beaten path. Here are seven weekend getaways that provide a perfect mix of both, ensuring your time in Belgium is as enriching as it is exciting.

Bruges

Bruges, often referred to as the Venice of the North, is a picturesque medieval city that's just a short train ride away from Mechelen. With its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and serene canals, Bruges is a must-visit for anyone looking to step back in time. Spend your weekend exploring the Markt square, climbing the Belfry for panoramic views, or taking a boat tour along the canals. Don't forget to try some of the famous Belgian chocolates and waffles!

How to Get There: The best way to get to Bruges from Mechelen is by train, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, including a transfer in Brussels.

Travel Tip: Visit the Groeningemuseum to see a collection of Flemish and Belgian paintings, including works by Jan van Eyck and other Flemish Primitives.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Dukes' Palace, a former ducal residence with luxurious amenities, or the charming B&B Huis 't Schaep for a more intimate experience.

Where to Eat: For a memorable meal, dine at De Stove, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional Flemish cuisine and intimate setting.

Ghent

Ghent is a vibrant university city that combines a rich history with a lively contemporary culture. Explore the Gravensteen castle, visit the St. Bavo's Cathedral to see the famous Ghent Altarpiece, or enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the Vrijdagmarkt square. Ghent's blend of architectural beauty and modern energy makes it an ideal getaway for those looking to enjoy the best of both worlds.

How to Get There: Ghent is easily accessible from Mechelen by train, with a journey time of around 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Check out the local street art scene by taking a guided graffiti tour through the city's colorful alleyways.

Where to Stay: The 1898 The Post offers a unique stay in a historic post office building, while the Ghent Marriott Hotel provides modern comforts along the river.

Where to Eat: Pakhuis is a beautifully restored warehouse turned restaurant, serving a mix of French and Belgian dishes with a contemporary twist.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a port city known for its diamond district, fashion, and impressive architecture. Spend your weekend visiting the Cathedral of Our Lady, exploring the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, or shopping on the Meir, Antwerp's main shopping street. The city's vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene are also not to be missed.

How to Get There: Antwerp is a quick train ride from Mechelen, taking about 20 to 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the world of printing and publishing in the 16th century.

Where to Stay: Hotel Julien offers a chic stay with a rooftop terrace, while the Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt is conveniently located near major attractions.

Where to Eat: The Jane, set in a former chapel, is an award-winning restaurant offering an exceptional dining experience with its innovative cuisine.

Leuven

Leuven, a university town with a youthful spirit, is home to the oldest Catholic university in the world. The city's highlights include the ornate Town Hall, the M-Museum Leuven for contemporary art, and the lively Oude Markt, filled with bars and cafes. Leuven is also known for its beer culture, with several breweries offering tours and tastings.

How to Get There: Reach Leuven from Mechelen by train in about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the University Library and climb its bell tower for a stunning view of the city and its surroundings.

Where to Stay: Martin's Klooster is a stylish hotel set in a former monastery, while the Begijnhof Hotel offers a tranquil retreat near the Grand Beguinage.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at Domus, a brewery and restaurant known for its house-made beers and hearty Belgian dishes.

Lier

Lier is a hidden gem located just a stone's throw from Mechelen. This charming town is less frequented by tourists, making it a peaceful retreat. Visit the Zimmer Tower with its astronomical clock, stroll along the picturesque banks of the Nete River, and explore the beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lier's quaint atmosphere is perfect for a relaxing weekend.

How to Get There: Lier is a short train ride from Mechelen, taking about 15 to 20 minutes.

Travel Tip: Try Lierse vlaaikes, a local pastry with a spiced filling, at one of the town's traditional bakeries.

Where to Stay: The Zimmer Hotel offers modern accommodations close to the town's main attractions, while the B&B Soetemin provides a cozy bed and breakfast experience.

Where to Eat: Het Looks is a popular restaurant serving delicious Belgian cuisine with a focus on seasonal and local ingredients.

Doel

Doel is an unusual destination that offers a stark contrast to the typical Belgian town. This nearly abandoned village is known for its street art and the Doel Nuclear Power Station. The eerie atmosphere and the art-covered walls provide a unique backdrop for photographers and urban explorers. While not your conventional getaway, Doel offers a thought-provoking experience that reflects on themes of urbanization and nature.

How to Get There: Getting to Doel from Mechelen requires a combination of train and bus travel, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Bring your camera to capture the striking contrast between the desolate buildings and the vibrant street art.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited in Doel, so consider staying in nearby Antwerp, where options like the Hotel Banks offer a comfortable stay.

Where to Eat: For dining, head back to Antwerp and visit Bourla, a grand café-restaurant housed in a historic building with a diverse menu.

Villers-la-Ville Abbey

For a serene escape into history and nature, the ruins of Villers-la-Ville Abbey are an exceptional choice. Located in the Walloon Brabant region, this former Cistercian abbey dates back to the 12th century and offers a peaceful setting for exploration and reflection. The surrounding gardens and woodlands are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

How to Get There: The journey to Villers-la-Ville Abbey from Mechelen involves a train to Brussels and a transfer to a regional train, taking around 1.5 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Check the abbey's calendar for special events, including open-air concerts and theater performances set against the dramatic backdrop of the ruins.

Where to Stay: Stay at the nearby Château de Limelette, a hotel and spa set in a 19th-century castle, for a touch of luxury.

Where to Eat: Visit La Table de l'Abbaye for a gastronomic experience featuring local and seasonal ingredients, located just a short walk from the abbey.

Whether you're seeking the excitement of city life or the tranquility of nature, these weekend getaways from Mechelen offer a delightful variety of experiences for digital nomads looking to enrich their stay in Belgium.