Belgium: Excursion to Mechelen and Leuven by train

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $78 per person and lasts 9 hours.
• Convenient Transport: Includes round trip train tickets from Brussels Central Station, with the train to Mechelen taking just 25 minutes.
• Guided Exploration: Led by professional guides who explain the history, art, and architecture of each city.
• Visit Historic Cities: Focuses on Mechelen’s iconic monuments and Leuven’s renowned university and city hall.
• Flexible Lunch Break: Offers 45 minutes free for lunch in Mechelen, allowing time to explore local eateries.
• Bilingual Guides: Tours are conducted in Spanish and English, with live commentary to enhance the experience.

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Exploring the Old Town of Mechelen

The tour begins at Brussels Central Station, where you hop on a train to Mechelen for a quick 25-minute ride. Once in Mechelen, the historic center becomes the focus, starting at the Grote Markt. This lively square hosts the monumental Town Hall, which features a sculpture of Charles of Habsburg, a notable ruler born in Ghent in 1500.

As you stroll through Mechelen’s streets, you’ll find the cathedral of St. Rudolph with its 98-meter-high bell tower. An intriguing fact about the tower is that it remains unfinished, and your guide will share the reasons behind this. The old town’s architecture and landmarks vividly showcase Flanders’ artistic and cultural history.

Discovering the Palace of Margaret of Austria

The Palace of Margaret of Austria is another highlight in Mechelen. This palace belonged to a woman known for her cultured reputation and her role as a favorite aunt of Charles V. The exterior of this building reflects its historical importance, and guides provide insights into her influence during the time.

Walking along the Mechelen Canal of Dyle adds to the scenery, highlighting the city’s historic waterways that played a key role in trade. Nearby, the Van Busleyden Palace stands out as a legendary site, with the guide sharing stories about its significance in Flemish history.

Visiting Het Anker Brewery and Cultural Landmarks

Close to the historic sites, the Het Anker brewery offers a glimpse of Mechelen’s brewing tradition. Though only the exterior is seen during the tour, this brewery remains a prominent local beer brand. It’s an excellent photo stop, emphasizing the city’s rich beer culture.

After a thorough exploration, you are given 45 minutes for lunch. This free time allows you to sample local cuisine, whether at a nearby cafe or restaurant. The guide usually offers suggestions for authentic Belgian dishes or favorite local spots.

Transition to Leuven by Train

Post-lunch, the group boards a train to Leuven, a journey that typically takes about 20-30 minutes. Leuven’s historic center is known for its majestic architecture, with the University of Leuven standing out as one of Europe’s oldest universities.

The facade of Leuven’s City Hall is another must-see, featuring characters and symbols that are instantly recognizable. The guide points out these details, weaving stories about the city’s academic and civic history.

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Exploring Leuven’s University and Civic Buildings

Once in Leuven, the tour focuses on the university campus and the surrounding historic buildings. The University of Leuven is acknowledged as a significant institution with centuries of tradition, visible in its impressive architecture.

The facade of Leuven’s City Hall is a highlight, with intricate sculptures that represent various characters. Your guide helps identify these figures, illuminating their relevance in Leuven’s civic life.

Return Journey to Brussels

After exploring Leuven, the group boards the train back to Brussels, completing the 9-hour adventure. The overall experience emphasizes Flanders’ cultural heritage, combining guided walking tours with convenient train travel.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The tour includes guided visits throughout and round-trip train tickets, making logistics straightforward. The live guides, available in Spanish and English, help bring the cities’ history to life with engaging commentary.

Cancellation is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind to your booking. The tour is designed for those interested in history, art, and architecture, and is suitable for travelers comfortable with walking.

Concluding the Mechelen and Leuven Experience

This full-day journey offers a well-balanced mix of cultural sights, historical insights, and free time. The convenience of train travel paired with expert guides makes it an efficient way to explore two distinct Flemish cities in one day.

While the tour emphasizes historic landmarks and local stories, it’s best suited for those eager to learn about Flanders’ heritage without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. The $78 price point covers all transportation and guided commentary, providing good value for a comprehensive day of sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes guided visits throughout and round-trip train tickets from Brussels Central Station to Mechelen and Leuven.

How long is the train ride to Mechelen?
The train ride from Brussels Central to Mechelen takes approximately 25 minutes.

Can I have lunch during the tour?
Yes, there is a 45-minute free period in Mechelen for lunch, giving you time to explore local dining options.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is led live in Spanish and English, making it accessible for a broad range of travelers.

Is this tour suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking through city centers, it may require some mobility, but no specific accessibility information is provided.

How do I cancel the tour if needed?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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