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Haverwerf

4.6
·491k reviews·Mechelen, Belgium

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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vanaf de overzijde van het water

Haverwerf

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The most amazing photo spot in Mechelen, featuring iconic houses and a charming bridge."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Iconic Houses

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

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

Street Photography Opportunities

Along the Haverwerf

The unique architecture and waterfront setting make it a dream for photographers seeking charming Belgian scenes.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Photos

Capture the iconic Haverwerf houses in their best light. Early mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light, perfect for photography. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid weekend surges.

Embrace the Walkability

Haverwerf is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be strolling along the river and through charming streets. Many attractions are within easy walking distance.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#straatfotografie in #mechelen met Charlotte
@hillestories
22.8K likes • 260K views

📸 Perfect Photo Spot

Haverwerf is a top photo spot in Mechelen, especially the 'Little Devils' and 'Little Paradise' houses. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the waterfront and surrounding streets comfortably. Essential for enjoying the city's charm. TikTok

Niks te doen daar #mechelen #bruul #2800 #saaiestad
@s3g.07
6.7K likes • 118.8K views
Famosas por su distinguido estilo y belleza, las tres casas del Haverwerf de Malinas datan de los siglos XV y XVII. Sabías que cada una tiene un nombre? 💚La verde se llama "Het Paradijske", que significa el pequeño paraíso. La casa de madera se llama "Duiveltjes", que significa "diablillos". ❤️The La roja se llama "San José". ¿Cuál es tu favorita? 📸: @naziraslife en IG@Visit Mechelen #turismof...
turismoflandesybruselas
252 likes • 4.4K views

🏠 House Names Explained

The green house is 'Het Paradijske' (little paradise), wooden is 'Duiveltjes' (little devils), red is 'St. Joseph'. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Running Crew Meetup

The 2800 Running Crew meets here on Sundays for a party pace run. Instagram

📸 Most amazing photo spot in Mechelen. Read more 👇 the Little Devils, and Little Paradise house 🏠 👿 🏞️ Haverwerf is, however, most famous for the three beautiful houses close to the small bridge that connects the river’s two banks, and which stand out from the other buildings. Standing in a row, these distinctive houses are (from left to right), St Joseph (Sint-Jozef), the Little Devils (De Dui...
indianboytrip_
83 likes • 7.8K views

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. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Explore the waterfront and surrounding streets comfortably. Essential for enjoying the city's charm. TikTok

🏠 House Names Explained

The green house is 'Het Paradijske' (little paradise), wooden is 'Duiveltjes' (little devils), red is 'St. Joseph'. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Running Crew Meetup

The 2800 Running Crew meets here on Sundays for a party pace run. Instagram

🛍️ Local Design Showroom

Belgian Wood Design has a showroom at Haverwerf 1, open Fridays and Saturdays. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

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

Iconic historic houses
Picturesque waterfront
Photogenic scenery

What People Dislike

Can be quiet
Limited amenities

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. TikTok

While direct parking at Haverwerf is limited, several public parking garages are available within a short walking distance, such as Grote Markt or Kathedraal. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Yes, you can get a great feel for Haverwerf with a short visit of 30-60 minutes to admire the architecture and take photos. TikTok

Many city walking tours of Mechelen include a stop at Haverwerf to discuss its history and architecture. Check with local tour operators. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the houses. Late afternoons can provide a beautiful golden hour glow. TikTokInstagram

The unique, colorful facades of the 15th-17th century houses, combined with the waterfront setting and charming bridge, create a picturesque scene. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Yes, the bridge offers a classic viewpoint for photographing the row of houses. Be mindful of other pedestrians. Instagram

🎫 🚶 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. Instagram+1

The waterfront promenade is generally flat and paved, making it accessible. However, some older buildings may have limited accessibility. TikTok

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. Instagram

Haverwerf is known for its distinctive 15th and 17th-century houses, showcasing different architectural styles and historical periods of Mechelen. Instagram

It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season. Weekday mornings are generally the least crowded. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Haverwerf offers a visually engaging experience for families. The colorful and unique houses are sure to capture children's attention, sparking their imagination. The flat, walkable waterfront is safe for little ones to explore, and the small bridge provides a fun point of interest. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll and some memorable family photos. TikTok

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Haverwerf is a must-visit for photographers. The distinctive 15th and 17th-century houses offer a vibrant and historically rich subject. The waterfront location and the charming bridge provide excellent framing opportunities. Aim for weekday mornings to avoid crowds and capture the best light for your shots. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

🏃‍♀️ Runners and Active Travelers

For those who enjoy an active start to their day, Haverwerf serves as a meeting point for the 2800 Running Crew. They host runs every Sunday morning, starting and finishing at Haverwerf 1. Instagram The waterfront promenade offers a pleasant, relatively flat surface for a jog or a brisk walk as part of your exploration of Mechelen. TikTok

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. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Houses of Haverwerf

Haverwerf is most famous for its striking row of three historic houses, each with a unique name and character. These buildings, dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries, are a testament to Mechelen's rich architectural past. The green house, known as 'Het Paradijske' (the little paradise), stands beside the wooden house, 'Duiveltjes' (the little devils). Completing the trio is the red house, 'St. Joseph'. Their distinct styles and vibrant colors make them a photographer's delight and a key visual element of the waterfront. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

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. Instagram This blend of historical architecture and contemporary use adds another layer to the Haverwerf experience.

Exploring Haverwerf: A Photographer's Paradise

For photographers, Haverwerf is a dream location. The iconic row of houses provides a colorful and architecturally diverse backdrop. The small bridge crossing the Dijle river offers a classic vantage point, allowing you to frame the houses perfectly. Early morning light is particularly sought after for its soft, flattering illumination and the absence of crowds, making it easier to compose shots without obstruction. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram Remember to be respectful of residents and businesses when taking photos, and always check local regulations if considering drone photography. TikTok

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