Mechelen, Belgium: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Mechelen, Belgium? If you're planning to go to Mechelen, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Mechelen, Belgium

Based on the climate and weather in Mechelen, Belgium, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Mechelen, Belgium

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mechelen, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Mechelen, Belgium by month

January

January in Mechelen is pretty cool. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Mechelen can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

In March, Mechelen is pretty cool. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mechelen, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to get the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Mechelen is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Mechelen is cool. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mechelen, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

In June, Mechelen is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Mechelen, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to find the correct kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Mechelen is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August here is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you visit Mechelen during September, you may find that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you get the right type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you vacation in Mechelen during October, you might notice that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Mechelen is pretty cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Mechelen can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Belgium has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Mechelen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to find the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you intend to see the must-see St. Rumbold's Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you see the Toy Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Mechelen, Belgium

Mechelen is a beautiful city in the Flanders region of Belgium that is often overlooked by tourists. However, this city has a rich history and is filled with a variety of attractions to explore. Here are the top tourist attractions in Mechelen.

1. St. Rumbold's Cathedral

St. Rumbold's Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in Mechelen. It is a magnificent Gothic structure that took over 300 years to complete. The tower of the cathedral is over 97 meters tall, providing a stunning view of the city. Inside the cathedral, you can admire beautiful stained-glass windows, impressive sculptures, and other religious art.

2. Grote Markt

Grote Markt is a lively square in the heart of Mechelen. It is surrounded by historic buildings, restaurants, and shops. There are also several events hosted in the square throughout the year, such as markets, concerts, and festivals.

3. Belfort

Belfort is a bell tower that is situated on Grote Markt. It was built in the 14th century and is one of the most iconic structures in Mechelen. You can climb the tower to get a breathtaking view of the city.

4. Het Anker Brewery

Belgium is known for its beer, and Mechelen has one of the best breweries in the country. Het Anker Brewery has been producing beer since the 15th century and is known for its Gouden Carolus beer. You can take a tour of the brewery, learn about the brewing process, and taste their delicious beer.

5. Hof van Busleyden

Hof van Busleyden is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Mechelen. The building itself is a magnificent Renaissance palace that was built in the 16th century. The museum has a vast collection of art, artifacts, and historical documents that tell the story of the city.

6. Kruidtuin

Kruidtuin is a beautiful botanical garden that is perfect for a leisurely walk. The garden has over 2,500 species of plants, a pond filled with fish, and a lovely greenhouse. It is an excellent place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

7. Toy Museum Mechelen

Toy Museum Mechelen is a fun and delightful attraction for both adults and children. The museum has a vast collection of over 50,000 toys from different eras, including dolls, board games, and interactive toys. You can also attend workshops and events that are organized by the museum.

Mechelen has something for everyone, from stunning architecture to fascinating museums, and delicious beer. It is a perfect destination for history buffs, art lovers, and foodies alike. These top tourist attractions are just a few of the many reasons why you should visit Mechelen.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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