Hof van Busleyden
Is an eclectic museum with items of local interest. paintings, sculpture, tapestries, the town mascot, and the chains from the old jail - there's a little of everything. explanations are in dutch only. temporarily closed. (http://www.tento.be/musea...)
Technopolis
Hands on science museum for kids of all ages.
Begijnhofkerk
The Begijnhofkerk, another of the churches, is known for the two statues above the door, one of Saint Catherine and one of God the Father.
Sint-Janskerk
Is one of the 8 historic churches in mechelen, with a notable reubens painting/triptych "adoration of the magi". the painting of the crucifixion by wauters is also very impressive. open 1:30-5:30 pm except mondays and during services.
Vrijbroek Park
vrijbroekpark
The Market Square
grote markt has the cathedral cutting across one end and the town hall at the opposite end, with restaurants and cafes lining the sides between the two.
Palace of Margaret of Austria
The Palace of Margaret of Austria is an unassuming set of buildings on Keizerstraat that was effectively the seat of government during Mechelen's time as capital of the Netherlands. Today it houses government offices, but the interior courtyard is worth a brief visit to admire the tranquil and well-organized gardens.
shopping streets
The main shopping streets are Bruul and IJzerenleen, both radiating out from the Market Square.
St. Rumbold's Cathedral
sint-romboutskathedraal is the largest of the 8 churches in mechelen, with a high tower though not as high as originally planned - construction stopped early due to lack of money. notable works of art include the carved wood pulpit from 1723, painted triptychs dating to the late 15th and early 16th centuries, and an image of "our lady of miracles" which has been in the cathedral since the early 16th century.
The Museum of Toys
speelgoedmuseum
16th Century Houses
Cross the river in front of the vismarkt and turn right. the three surviving timber houses have elaborate carvings on the front elevations. the houses are privately owned.
Refuge of the Abbey of Tongerlo
Historically the refuge for the abbey in times of attack, it is now the home of de wit (http://www.dewit.be), royal manufacturers of tapestry. there are guided visits on saturday mornings at 1030.
Clocks and watches museum
horlogeriemuseum privately run museum where the owners, both watchmakers, give you a very interesting personal tour. do come an hour before closing time to be able to have the full tour and explanations. address: lange schipstraat 13 more info: (http://www.horlogeriemuse...)