The 8 best summer bars in and around Mechelen

1. Mechelen Beach – beach bar for young and old    

A sunny beach bar surrounded by palm trees with a spot of music and lots of activities for young and old.  Be sure to put Mechelen Beach to the test this summer! Burn off excess energy on the sports beach before sinking into a deckchair with a refreshing drink, while the kids have the time of their lives on the beach playground! 

Feel the soft sand between your toes and imagine the sea kissing your feet!

When?: 18 July through 11 August, every day from 13.00 hrs.
Where?: Transit M/ Douaneplein
More information: mechelenbeach.be

2. T’île Malines – creative urban oasis and pop-up bar

T’île Malines, Mechelen’s pleasantest island, is a hot spot for locals in July. This summer bar lies in the middle of a small stretch of nature on the River Dyle close to the city. Enjoy a drink and a snack sitting on the grass by the water or head for the covered terrace. The programme includes parties, film evenings, concerts and Sunday brunches.

When?: 5 - 28 July, Fridays and Saturdays from 17.00 hrs, Sundays from 11.00 hrs.
Where?: Rode Kruisplein 12
More information: www.facebook.com/tilemalines/

3. Van Der Valk riverside summer bar  

It’s summertime so time for Mechelen’s Van Der Valk Hotel to open its hip summer bar overlooking the Dyle. And where better to chill and while away the summer over moreish drinks and snacks with family and friends!  

From 14 June: Thursday and Friday from 16.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs, Saturday from 15.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs and Sunday from 11.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs
Vanaf 1 juli:
Every weekday from 16.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs, Saturday from 15.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs and Sunday from 11.00 hrs to 22.00 hrs
Where?: Rode kruisplein 1-4
More information: www.hotel-mechelen.be/culinair/zomerbar

4. Het Anker summer bar - Gouden Carolus and good company

Quench your thirst with, for example, a refreshing Gouden Carolus accompanied by a light bite in the brewery garden before paying a visit to the brewery.

When: 17 May - September, Every weekday from 13.00 to 22.00 hrs. Please note: The summer bar is closed when it rains.
Where: Het Anker Brewery (Guido Gezellelaan 49).
More information: www.hetanker.be

5. Zuiderbad – where every day is a holiday!

Enjoy the relaxed vibe of the Zuiderbad on Hofstade beach in Zemst, just outside Mechelen. Open throughout the summer, this beach bar and restaurant serves imaginative drinks and light bites. On a Thursday evening you’ll find a burger bar and on a Friday a beach barbecue.    

When?: Opening times depend on the season and how busy it is.  
Where?: Sport Vlaanderen Hofstade, Trianondreef 19, 1981 Hofstade
More information: www.zuiderbad.be

6. Karrelees craft brewery – For beer lovers and others

A stone’s throw from Mechelen, in a rural setting among the fields of Hombeeks Plateau in Leest, you will find the Karrelees craft brewery, where Walter brews his own beers. There is something for everyone to enjoy while sitting on the inviting terrace in his garden. 

When: You will find the opening times here
Where: Grote Heide 18 bis, 2811 Leest
More information: www.karrelees.be

7. Summer fun at Bardok  – nice with kids

Swim, play or simply sit back and relax at this new coffee bar slash café next to the Geerdegemvaart swimming pool, which is run by a handful of locals. In addition to the swimming pool and large children’s play area, fun events are organized throughout the summer.   

When: June - end September, closed on Monday
Where: Leliestraat 32
More information: www.bardok.be

8. Beachbar 't Zomerdok

The ultimate hangout for all ages at the Put van Hombeek! Kickstart your morning with fresh coffee and mouth-watering pastries. As the sun dips, dive into the summer vibes with cool tunes and a refreshing aperitif. And don't forget your furry pals—they get free dog biscuits after a romp in the dog park!

When: June e end September, every day from 11.00 hrs till 23.30 hrs
Where: Eglegemweg 8, Hombeek
Meer info: www.instagram.com/beachbar_zomerdok/

If you are looking for more inspiration for activities in Mechelen during the summer, you are sure to find it in the summer brochure.

Download the brochure