Mechelen combines modern small-town atmosphere with a rich heritage that dates back to its position as a major political and trading centre in the Middle Ages. It claims more than 300 listed monuments and eight historic churches, large and small, Gothic and Baroque.

Landmark buildings include the Palace of Margaret of Austria, said to be the oldest Renaissance building north of the Alps, and the distinctive flat-topped St Rumbold’s Tower, reaching 97-metres above the cathedral.

The city's long history as religious centre is marked by grand pilgrims' hostels and two béguinages, formerly communities for single women. The ancient town halls and merchants' buildings exhibit characteristic Flemish architecture, with stepped gables and spires.

Later industries such as tapestry weaving and furniture-making have left their mark on the city, while current and former breweries contribute distinctive 19th Century industrial atmosphere.

The River Dijle cuts through the city, with bridges, quays and waterside restaurants providing intimate locations. The Vaart canal offers locks and other features dating back to the 18th Century, as well as modern locations for commercial, pleasure and sports boats. In near-by Nekkerspoel, artificial lakes host water sports and other leisure activities.

The surrounding countryside is noted for vegetable and flower growing, as well as providing village and rural scenes. The neighbouring municipality of Muizen is home to the extensive Planckendael wildlife park, while the Ursulinenklooster at Sint-Katelijne-Waver has a striking art nouveau glass house.

As well as Mechelen and Muizen, the Mechelen Film Office also covers the municipalities of Hombeek, Leest, Heffen and Walem.