Palace of Margaret of Austria Mechelen
A historic palace in Mechelen, once a prestigious finishing school for nobility and a brief capital of the Low Countries. Features a lovely, free-acce...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful garden
Palace of Margaret of Austria Mechelen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful garden
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic palace in Mechelen, once a prestigious finishing school for nobility and a brief capital of the Low Countries. Features a lovely, free-access garden.
"A gem! Surprising historical significance with a beautiful, free garden."
🤫 Look for 'The Court'
Access the garden via 'The Court' for a free and tranquil experience. It's a bit hidden!
💰 Free Admission
Enjoy the garden and exterior views without any cost. A true hidden gem!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Margaret's Garden
Rear of the palace
A serene and beautiful garden offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into the palace's former grandeur. Free to access.
Palace Exterior Architecture
Main facade
Admire the late Renaissance architecture, a testament to its historical importance as a noble residence and educational center.
Proximity to St. John's Church
Adjacent to the palace
Explore the nearby historic church, which sometimes offers unique behind-the-scenes access, complementing your palace visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Palace
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Look for 'The Court'
Access the garden via 'The Court' for a free and tranquil experience. It's a bit hidden!
💰 Free Admission
Enjoy the garden and exterior views without any cost. A true hidden gem!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the beautiful St. John's Church for a richer historical experience.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The palace's late Renaissance facade is a photogenic highlight, even if interiors are restricted.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Look for 'The Court'
Access the garden via 'The Court' for a free and tranquil experience. It's a bit hidden!
💰 Free Admission
Enjoy the garden and exterior views without any cost. A true hidden gem!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the beautiful St. John's Church for a richer historical experience.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The palace's late Renaissance facade is a photogenic highlight, even if interiors are restricted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe the Palace of Margaret of Austria as a quiet, often overlooked gem with a beautiful, accessible garden. While interior access is limited, its historical significance as a former capital and prestigious finishing school, notably for Anne Boleyn, is highly appreciated. It's considered a worthwhile, free stop for those exploring Mechelen.
"Quiet place. You must go in the back and enter via The Court. You have access to a small beautiful garden. No payment needed."
Orlin Ekk
"Nice, but you cannot visit it"
Olivier
"This is a gem! I noticed this house by accident. There is no sign or signpost on it - it seems like it is just one of the houses in Mechelen. But it caught my attention because I saw a clearly expressed late Renaissance in it, and therefore it should have been somewhere in the middle of the 16th century. To my surprise, it turned out to be the palace of Margaret of Austria - one of the three Margarets of Austria who lived during this period. But this Margaret was very wise and can boast a good biography, except for a misunderstanding with Dürer. And Mechelen was the capital of the Low Countries for a short time at that time. And it is very surprising that such a gem has only 3 reviews!"
Yaroslav Bilychenko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The palace is located in the heart of Mechelen. It's easily accessible on foot from the city center. Public transport options include buses that stop nearby, and the Mechelen train station is a walkable distance away.
Parking in Mechelen's city center can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages like 'Grote Markt' or 'Zwart Zusterklooster' and walk to the palace.
Yes, the walk from Mechelen train station to the Palace of Margaret of Austria is approximately 15-20 minutes through the charming city streets.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required for the main palace exterior and the garden. The garden is often accessible for free via 'The Court'.
Specific interior visiting hours are limited as the building is often used for other purposes. The garden's accessibility can vary, but it's typically open during daylight hours.
The garden is usually free to enter, providing a pleasant and accessible experience for visitors.
Full interior tours are not consistently available as the building often serves utilitarian purposes. Access is primarily to the exterior and the garden.
📸 📸 Photography
The late Renaissance facade offers a striking backdrop. The garden provides a more serene and picturesque setting for photography.
Generally, photography of the exterior and garden is permitted. Be mindful of any private areas if accessing through 'The Court'.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Margaret of Austria was a powerful regent and influential figure in the Low Countries. Her palace was a center of power and a prestigious educational institution, famously hosting Anne Boleyn. 
Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII of England, spent time here as a young woman receiving her education.
Yes, Mechelen briefly served as the capital of the Low Countries during the time Margaret of Austria resided there, highlighting its historical importance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing the visit around the story of Anne Boleyn, which might capture a child's imagination. The proximity to other city attractions also makes it an easy addition to a family itinerary without requiring a long commitment.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the charming streets of Mechelen and enjoying local, affordable eateries. It's a great way to experience a significant historical site without spending a euro.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Educational Legacy
+1This aspect of the palace's history underscores its significance beyond just a royal residence. It was a hub of intellectual and cultural development, attracting families who sought the best education for their daughters. The emphasis on a well-rounded education made it a sought-after institution for the elite across Europe.
While the interior rooms are not typically open for public viewing, understanding its past as a premier educational institution adds a profound layer to any visit. It's a place where history was not just made, but also taught and nurtured.
Navigating Access and Gardens
Access to the garden is typically gained through a separate entrance known as 'The Court'. Travelers recommend looking for subtle signage to find this entry point, as it's not always prominently advertised. The good news is that this access is usually free of charge, making it an accessible highlight for all visitors.
While the exterior architecture is impressive, the garden provides a more intimate and peaceful experience. It's a perfect spot to relax, reflect on the history, and enjoy a moment of quiet amidst the bustling city.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit