Where better than Mechelen to enter shopping heaven? Its bustling historic centre combines all that is good about Flanders: hand-made chocolates, excellent local cuisine, luxurious shops and boutiques, festivals and events, gezellig cafés on medieval squares, elegant architecture and... of course... beer. The shopping streets are all within walking distance of the Main Square – even in high heels! - and there are no end of stylish cafes and bistros where you can graze in-between bouts of retail therapy.

Whether you prefer pinstripes or racing stripes, Bikkembergs or Armani, Mechelen has something for everyone. On Bruul and its side streets, you’ll find all the big high street stores to cater for all budgets. You’ll also discover smaller boutiques and delicatessens along picturesque - often pedestrianised – lanes. Every shop window bristles with little objects of desire.
Most shops are open from Monday to Saturday from 9.30 am until 6.00pm, some opening a little earlier or later.

Parking is quick and simple in one of the many indoor or underground car parks, either in the city centre or on the edge of town. The city centre is also easily reachable by public transport: frequent buses from the outskirts and the train station will take you right into the middle of the action.

If you are a fan of a more personal shopping experience, try the weekly market on Saturday mornings (from 8.00am until 1.00 pm): the perfect way to meet the farmers, grocers, fishmongers, butchers, bakers and candlestick-makers who have plied their wares here more or less since St. Rombout first shopped here with his magic purse.

See you on your next shopping expedition to Mechelen!