How and where to park your car in Mechelen.

Book now

So much to see and so little time! Spend the night in Mechelen or take a guided tour.

Introduction

Are you planning a trip to Mechelen and wondering how and where to park your car? Finding a parking spot in a city can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of knowledge, it can be a breeze. This guide will discuss the various options for parking in Mechelen, including on-street parking, off-street parking, and special arrangements for specific needs. By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of where and how to park your car in Mechelen, making your trip stress-free and enjoyable.

In Mechelen, there are several options for parking your car, including on-street parking and off-street parking. On-street parking is regulated and restricted in certain areas and requires payment through a zone system. Off-street parking is available in the form of parking garages and lots, with varying locations and prices. With a little research, finding a parking spot that suits your needs and budget in Mechelen is possible.

Short of time to read the whole article? Go directly to your favorite topic via the table of contents.

On-street parking

Regulations and restrictions:

When it comes to on-street parking in Mechelen, it is important to be aware of the regulations and restrictions that are in place. The city operates a zone system, with different areas designated for different types of parking.

For the correct and up-to-date information, you can visit the official page for on-street parking in Mechelen.

It’s important to pay attention to the signs and parking meters in each zone, as they will indicate the specific regulations and restrictions that apply in that area. Additionally, there are certain streets and areas where parking is prohibited altogether, such as in front of schools during school hours and in front of emergency vehicle access. Violating these regulations can result in fines, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules before parking your car. It’s also important to note that parking regulations and restrictions may be different during certain events or holidays.

At the parking meter you can get a ticket with which you can park for FREE for 15 minutes. The use of the free ticket is only allowed once in the same parking lot. The system of the free 15 minutes is allowed a maximum of 5 times a day per license plate.

Payment options

When it comes to paying for on-street parking in Mechelen, there are several options available. The most common method is to use the parking meters located on the street, which accept credit/debit cards. These meters typically display the time limit for parking in that particular spot, as well as the cost per hour. Another option for paying for on-street parking is through a mobile app, such as 4411 and others (mentioned on the parking meter). This allows you to pay for parking and extend your parking time remotely, eliminating the need to return to the meter to add more time.

It’s important to check the options available in the specific parking zone you will be parked in. Having multiple payment options can make the parking experience more convenient and stress-free.

Zone system

The entire historic city center is located in the red parking zone. (Max 15 minutes)

Off-street parking

Off-street parking in Mechelen can be found in the form of parking garages and parking lots. These facilities offer a more secure and sheltered option for parking your car, and can often be more convenient than on-street parking.

One option for off-street parking is parking garages, which are located throughout the city. These garages typically offer hourly and daily rates. Some garages also offer reserved parking spaces, which can be booked in advance. It’s important to note that the prices for parking in a garage can vary depending on the location and the time of day, so it’s a good idea to compare prices and check for discounts or promotions.

Off-street parking can be more expensive than on-street parking but offer more protection and security to your car and can be more convenient. It’s important to check the location and prices of the parking garages and lots, and compare them with the on-street parking options to find the best option for your needs and budget.

Check out the official page for parking garages in Mechelen.

Prices

The prices for parking in Mechelen can vary depending on the type of parking, location, and time of day. On-street parking typically ranges from € 0,70 (30 min.) to €2,50 per hour.

The prices for off-street parking in garages and lots can also vary, with hourly rates typically ranging from € 0 to €2,4 and daily rates ranging from €16. Monthly and long-term parking rates are also available, which can be more cost-effective for those who plan to park in the city for an extended period.

Some garages and lots offer discounts or promotions, such as early bird or night rates, so it’s worth checking for these options when looking for parking. Keep in mind that it’s always better to pay for parking rather than risk a fine for parking illegally.

Park and rides

One great option for those looking for parking in Mechelen is the “park and ride” system. Park-and-ride facilities are located on the outskirts of the city and provide a convenient and cost-effective option for those who are planning to take public transportation into the city center. The idea behind park and ride is to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution by encouraging the use of public transportation.

The Park and Ride facilities in Mechelen offer secure and affordable parking and most of them are free ( weekend and evenings). Once parked, you can take a Shuttle to the city center, avoiding the hassle of finding parking in the city center.

Check out the official webpage for Park and rides in Mechelen for the correct and up-to-date information.

The park-and-ride facilities are strategically located near the major highways and major public transportation routes making it easy to access the city center. It’s a great option for those who are planning to spend the day in the city and want to avoid the stress and expense of finding parking in the city center.

Where can you park for free in Mechelen?

Free 24/7
On the Douaneplein you can park for free all week, around the clock. The car park has 150 spaces and is located one kilometer from the Grote Markt.

Free on weekends and public holidays
Parking Zandpoortvest on the vests (R12) is free on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays and 11 July. There are 622 parking spaces and the car park is open 24/24.

Free on Saturdays and Sunday shopping
Are you taking the free Shopping Shuttle? Then you can park for free at Parking Nekkerhal and Parking Retail Partners. This is possible every Saturday between 9 am and 7 pm. On Shopping Sundays you can park there between 1 pm and 6 pm. From there, enjoy a comfortable ride in the shuttle bus and be in the city center in no time.

Free on Sunday shopping
Parking Keerdok is free on Shopping Sundays between 9 am and 9 pm. You enter via the N16 and park at one of the 516 places. Via the pedestrian bridge you can easily step towards the city center. Nearby is the jetty of the Shopping Shuttle, the free shuttle boat that sails to the Haverwerf, right in the city center. On Shopping Sundays it is from 1 pm to 6 pm.

Free Mechelen 15 min.
Do you want to do an errand quickly? Then you can use the ‘free Mechelen 15 min.’. This can be done up to 5 times in a day, every fifteen minutes in a different place.

How do you pay for parking in Mechelen?

In Mechelen, there are several options for paying for parking, including:

Parking meters: These are located on the street and accept credit/debit cards. The parking meter will indicate the cost per hour and the time limit for parking in that spot.
Mobile app: You can pay for parking using a mobile app such as 4411. This allows you to pay for parking and extend your parking time remotely, eliminating the need to return to the meter to add more time. Other apps are mentioned on the parking meters.
Paying with sms.
Cash in parking garages.

It’s important to note that different parking zones may have different payment options available, so it’s best to check the signs or contact the local authorities for more information. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to have coins or a credit card on hand as a backup, in case the preferred payment method is not accepted.

Special parking arrangements

Disabled parking

In Mechelen, special arrangements are made for those with disabilities to make parking more accessible. There are designated parking spots for disabled drivers and passengers throughout the city, which are typically located near buildings and other amenities. These spots are marked with the international symbol of accessibility and are usually wider than regular parking spots, making it easier for wheelchair users to get in and out of the car.

To use these spots, drivers must have a valid disabled parking permit, which can be obtained from the local authorities. These permits are usually issued to individuals with a permanent or temporary mobility impairment and allow them to park in designated disabled parking spots in Mechelen and other cities in Belgium.

It’s important to note that parking in a disabled spot without a valid permit is illegal and can result in fines.

Disabled parking spots in Mechelen provide a convenient and accessible option for those with mobility impairments, and the city makes an effort to ensure that these spots are well-marked and located in convenient locations.

Electric vehicle charging stations

As the use of electric vehicles (EVs) becomes more popular, finding a charging station in Mechelen has become an important aspect when it comes to parking. The city offers several EV charging stations throughout the city, which can be found in parking garages, public parking lots, and on the street. These charging stations are usually operated by different companies and networks, so it’s important to check the availability and the cost of the charging service before using it.

The city of Mechelen is making an effort to increase the number of EV charging stations to support the growing number of electric vehicles on the road, and it’s an important aspect to consider when it comes to parking in Mechelen.

Conclusion

Summary of key points

In conclusion, parking in Mechelen can be a bit challenging, but with a little bit of knowledge, it can be a breeze. The city offers a variety of options for parking, including on-street parking, off-street parking, and special arrangements for specific needs such as disabled parking and electric vehicle charging stations.

On-street parking is regulated and restricted in certain areas and requires payment, usually through a zone system. It’s important to pay attention to the signs and parking meters in each zone and be aware of the regulations and restrictions that apply in that area. Off-street parking is available in the form of parking garages and lots, with varying locations, prices, and reservation options.

Parking prices can vary depending on the type of parking, location, and time of day, so it’s important to check and compare prices before making a decision. Additionally, some garages and lots offer discounts or promotions, such as early bird or night rates.
Special arrangements are made for those with disabilities to make parking more accessible, with designated parking spots for disabled drivers and passengers throughout the city. EV owners should also keep in mind the availability and cost of EV charging stations when parking in Mechelen.

In summary, the key points to consider when parking in Mechelen are: the regulations and restrictions of the parking zone, the payment options, the location and prices of the parking garages and lots, the special arrangements for disabled parking, and the availability and cost of EV charging stations. With this knowledge, you will be able to find the best parking option that suits your needs and budget, making your trip to Mechelen stress-free and enjoyable.

Additional resources for finding parking in Mechelen.

In addition to the information provided in this guide, there are several other resources available for finding parking in Mechelen. One useful resource is the website of the city of Mechelen, which provides up-to-date information on parking regulations, restrictions, and locations of parking garages and lots. The website also provides information on disabled parking, electric vehicle charging stations, and the real-time availability of parking spots in certain areas.

Another useful resource is online parking guides such as Google Maps, which provide detailed information on parking options, prices, and real-time availability in various locations throughout the city. These apps can be used to find the nearest parking spot and also to compare prices and check for discounts or promotions.

more detailed info?

Parking in Mechelen

People also read:

Is time too short to see everything in Mechelen? book your hotel stay here and discover more about Mechelen.

Booking.com

book a tour

This article may contain affiliate links. This means that we receive a small commission when you book something via these links. Of course, this does not cost you anything extra. Did our tips help you? We would love it if you book your trip via the links in the article above. Thank you so much.

FAQ

The construction of St. Rumbold’s Cathedral in Mechelen, Belgium, started in the early 13th century and continued for several centuries. As such, the cathedral was built by different architects and builders over time.

The original Romanesque church was built in the 12th century, but it was replaced by a Gothic church in the 13th century. The famous Flemish architect, Keldermans family, played a significant role in the construction of the cathedral during the 15th and 16th centuries. Specifically, the father-and-son team, Rombout II and Antoon I Keldermans, oversaw the construction of the tower of the cathedral, which is now known as the Sint-Romboutstoren.

Other architects who worked on the cathedral over the centuries include Herman and Dominic de Waghemakere, Jan Keldermans III, and Rombout Keldermans IV. Despite the multiple architects and builders involved in the construction of the cathedral, it has a cohesive and impressive Gothic architectural style that reflects the history and culture of Mechelen.

The Sint-Romboutstoren in Mechelen has 538 stairs leading up to the top of the tower. The stairs wind up through the interior of the tower and provide visitors with an immersive experience as they ascend the heights of this historic structure. While the climb can be quite strenuous, the effort is worth it for the stunning views of the city and the surrounding area from the top.

Maneblussers is a term used to refer to the people of Mechelen in Belgium. The word “Maneblussers” translates to “moon extinguishers” in English. The term has its roots in a legend that dates back to 1687, where it is said that a drunk man saw the moon shining through the tower of St. Rumbold’s Cathedral in Mechelen and mistook it for a fire. He sounded the alarm, and the people of the city rushed to the tower with buckets of water, ready to extinguish the “fire.” When they arrived, they realized that it was, in fact, just the moon shining through the mist. This legend has become an important part of the city’s folklore and identity, and the people of Mechelen have embraced the term “Maneblussers” as a proud nickname.

Mechelen is a historic city in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and unique traditions. Here are some of the things Mechelen is known for:

Rich history: Mechelen has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city played an important role in the political and religious affairs of the region, and its historic landmarks and buildings are a testament to this.
Gothic architecture: Mechelen is known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including St. Rumbold’s Cathedral and the Sint-Romboutstoren. These landmarks are prime examples of the region’s rich cultural heritage and have become iconic symbols of the city.
Unique traditions: Mechelen is known for its unique traditions, such as the annual Ommegang procession, which takes place in July and features a parade of historical figures and characters in colorful costumes.
Art and culture: Mechelen is home to several museums, including the Museum Hof van Busleyden and the Museum Schepenhuis, which showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Beer: Mechelen is also known for its traditional Belgian beers, including Gouden Carolus, which is brewed in the city.

Overall, Mechelen is a charming and historic city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and unique traditions that make it a must-visit destination in Belgium.

Compared to some other European cities, Mechelen is relatively affordable. However, the cost of living and travel expenses can vary depending on your budget, lifestyle, and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Accommodation: Accommodation prices in Mechelen can vary depending on the location, quality, and amenities. You can find affordable accommodation options such as hostels and budget hotels, as well as more expensive options such as luxury hotels and apartments.
Food and drinks: The cost of food and drinks in Mechelen can vary depending on where you eat and drink. There are many restaurants and cafes in the city, offering a variety of cuisines at different price points.
Transportation: Mechelen is a relatively small city, and many of the main attractions can be easily reached on foot or by bike. However, if you need to take public transportation, the cost of a single ticket is relatively affordable.
Attractions: Many of the museums and historic sites in Mechelen are free to enter, while others may have an admission fee. The cost of attractions and activities can vary depending on your interests and preferences.

Overall, Mechelen is considered to be an affordable destination, especially compared to other major European cities. However, the cost of living and travel expenses can still add up depending on your budget and preferences.

The official language of Mechelen is Dutch. Dutch is spoken by the majority of the population, and it is the language used in schools, government, and business. However, due to its location in the Flemish region of Belgium, many people in Mechelen also speak Flemish, which is a dialect of Dutch. Additionally, many people in Mechelen also speak French and English, especially in the tourism industry and among younger generations who have learned English as a second language.