
Haverwerf
Admire the colorful, historic houses of Haverwerf along the Dijle river in Mechelen, a picturesque waterfront perfect for photos.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Haverwerf
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Admire the colorful, historic houses of Haverwerf along the Dijle river in Mechelen, a picturesque waterfront perfect for photos.
"The most amazing photo spot in Mechelen, featuring iconic houses and a charming bridge."

📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Haverwerf is a top photo spot in Mechelen, especially the 'Little Devils' and 'Little Paradise' houses.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the waterfront and surrounding streets comfortably. Essential for enjoying the city's charm.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Iconic Houses
Haverwerf waterfront
Admire the distinct 15th-17th century houses: 'Het Paradijske' (green), 'Duiveltjes' (wooden), and 'St. Joseph' (red).

Quaint Bridge Views
Over the Dijle river
Cross the small bridge for picturesque views of the Haverwerf houses and the charming waterfront.

Street Photography Opportunities
Along the Haverwerf
The unique architecture and waterfront setting make it a dream for photographers seeking charming Belgian scenes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Photos
Embrace the Walkability
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Haverwerf is a top photo spot in Mechelen, especially the 'Little Devils' and 'Little Paradise' houses.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the waterfront and surrounding streets comfortably. Essential for enjoying the city's charm.
🏠 House Names Explained
The green house is 'Het Paradijske' (little paradise), wooden is 'Duiveltjes' (little devils), red is 'St. Joseph'.
🏃♀️ Running Crew Meetup
The 2800 Running Crew meets here on Sundays for a party pace run.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
Haverwerf is a top photo spot in Mechelen, especially the 'Little Devils' and 'Little Paradise' houses.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the waterfront and surrounding streets comfortably. Essential for enjoying the city's charm.
🏠 House Names Explained
The green house is 'Het Paradijske' (little paradise), wooden is 'Duiveltjes' (little devils), red is 'St. Joseph'.
🏃♀️ Running Crew Meetup
The 2800 Running Crew meets here on Sundays for a party pace run.
🛍️ Local Design Showroom
Belgian Wood Design has a showroom at Haverwerf 1, open Fridays and Saturdays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Haverwerf for its picturesque beauty and unique architecture, highlighting the iconic row of historic houses as a major draw. The waterfront setting and photogenic qualities are frequently mentioned as positives. Some find the area can be a bit quiet or lacking in immediate amenities, but its charm as a scenic spot is undeniable.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Haverwerf is centrally located in Mechelen, easily accessible by foot from the city center. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes from Mechelen Station. Taxis are also available.
While direct parking at Haverwerf is limited, several public parking garages are available within a short walking distance, such as Grote Markt or Kathedraal.
Yes, Mechelen has a good public transport network. Buses stop frequently in the city center, and Haverwerf is a short walk from many of these stops.
Absolutely! Haverwerf's picturesque setting makes it a fantastic starting point. From here, you can easily walk to other major attractions like the St. Rombout Tower and the Grote Markt.
The best way is to stroll along the waterfront, admire the unique houses, and cross the small bridge for different perspectives. It's a very walkable area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Haverwerf is a public waterfront area and does not require tickets for general access. You can freely walk around and admire the houses.
The houses themselves are private residences or businesses and are not open to the public for general tours. Entry is typically only for specific businesses located within them.
Haverwerf is accessible at all times as it's an outdoor public space. However, businesses located there, like the Belgian Wood Design showroom, have specific opening hours.
Yes, you can get a great feel for Haverwerf with a short visit of 30-60 minutes to admire the architecture and take photos.
Many city walking tours of Mechelen include a stop at Haverwerf to discuss its history and architecture. Check with local tour operators.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the houses. Late afternoons can provide a beautiful golden hour glow.
The unique, colorful facades of the 15th-17th century houses, combined with the waterfront setting and charming bridge, create a picturesque scene.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near waterways. It's best to check local regulations with the Mechelen authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full facades and waterfront. A standard zoom lens is versatile for details. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions.
Yes, the bridge offers a classic viewpoint for photographing the row of houses. Be mindful of other pedestrians.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Primarily, you can admire the historic houses, walk along the Dijle river, take photos, and enjoy the charming atmosphere. Some businesses are located here.
The waterfront promenade is generally flat and paved, making it accessible. However, some older buildings may have limited accessibility.
While Haverwerf itself might not have many direct dining options, numerous cafes and restaurants are located just a short walk away in the city center.
Haverwerf is known for its distinctive 15th and 17th-century houses, showcasing different architectural styles and historical periods of Mechelen.
It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season. Weekday mornings are generally the least crowded.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds directly at Haverwerf, the area is close to Mechelen's city center, where you can find parks and other family-friendly attractions. Pack some snacks and enjoy a picturesque break by the river. The story behind the houses' names ('Little Devils', 'Little Paradise') can also make for an engaging tale for kids.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles from the promenade and the bridge. The reflections in the Dijle river can add a beautiful dimension to your photos. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the full facades and the surrounding scenery. The area is particularly photogenic during the golden hour before sunset.
🏃♀️ Runners and Active Travelers
Even if you're not joining a group run, the area is ideal for a scenic morning or evening stroll. The picturesque views provide a lovely backdrop as you get your steps in. It's a great way to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Houses of Haverwerf
These houses are not just visually appealing; they represent different eras of construction and design in Mechelen. The 'Duiveltjes' house, with its wooden facade, offers a glimpse into older building techniques, while the others showcase the styles prevalent in their respective centuries. Their presence along the Dijle river creates a charming and historic ambiance, drawing visitors to admire their beauty and imagine the lives lived within them centuries ago.
While the houses are primarily for viewing from the outside, some of them house businesses. For instance, Belgian Wood Design has a showroom at Haverwerf 1, offering visitors a chance to see local craftsmanship. This blend of historical architecture and contemporary use adds another layer to the Haverwerf experience.
Exploring Haverwerf: A Photographer's Paradise
Beyond the main houses, the waterfront promenade itself offers numerous photographic opportunities. Capture reflections in the water, the interplay of light and shadow on the facades, and the general charming atmosphere of this historic Belgian locale. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire scene or a standard zoom to focus on architectural details.
While the area is beautiful year-round, winter can add a magical touch with potential frost or a dusting of snow, creating a more serene and atmospheric scene. Remember to be respectful of residents and businesses when taking photos, and always check local regulations if considering drone photography.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit