Tivoli park was once the grounds of a castle barely two kilometres from the historic centre of Mechelen. These days you can enjoy a quiet stroll here across the large expanses of grass, past ancient trees, a highly-scented rose garden, a herb garden and other delightful nooks. Now pure white again, in 1990 the famous Belgian artist Jan Fabre wrapped the castle in sheets of paper covered with ballpoint lines for which 150,000 blue pens were required! Since 1991 the mansion has housed a catering establishment specializing in parties, seminars and the like. Drinks, snacks and lunches are served to the general public in the adjoining orangery. Small children will love meeting a whole variety of farm animals on the children's farm. Other attractions include the large bee colony and the educational nature trail where signs draw your attention to aspects of the park's history, fauna and flora.

Eglegem Lake, a large expanse of water, also popularly known as 'de put' or 'the pit', came into being when the E19 motorway was constructed. It is now a wonderful nature reserve where you can sail, windsurf and fish. Walking and cycling enthusiasts will be in their element too! The walk round the lake is about 3 kilometres.

Blackpool Zoo holds some 1500 animals, ranging from elephants to tigers and lions, to humble pygmy goats and even tarantulas. Here, visitors get the chance to come in close contact with animals. Various animal talks and displays are put on throughout the year.

Canal Grande is the largest canal in town, almost 4 km long and 90-metre-wide in some parts, with an average depth of 5 metres. Public transport is available in the form of gondolas, water taxis, and the popular vaporetti — water buses. Along the canal, which is crossed by three stunning bridges, you'll discover plenty of famous buildings.