Maldegem(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Melle, the top choice for authentic Flemish charm is Hotel De Bonte Koe, a historic country-style hotel located near St. Nicholas Church. Its traditional red-brick façade, wooden beams, and cozy interiors reflect classic Flemish architecture. Another excellent option is B&B Huis Stokroos, a family-run guesthouse offering warm hospitality and homemade breakfasts featuring local dairy and freshly baked bread. Both are ideal for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in East Flanders.

The city center of Melle is the most recommended area for accommodations. It’s close to the Town Hall, Market Square, and numerous cafés, boutiques, and restaurants. Guests can easily walk to St. Nicholas Church and the seasonal Flemish Craft Market. The area offers a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere, with easy access to nearby destinations like Bruges (20 minutes by car) and Ghent, making it perfect for explorers who want a central base.

Don’t miss the annual Flemish Folk Festival held every summer in Melle, featuring traditional costumes, folk music performances, and artisan workshops. Locals still speak Flemish dialect in daily life—listen closely at local pubs or markets. Visit the Melle Historical Museum to learn about the town’s evolution from an agricultural village into a cultural hub of East Flanders, complete with period furniture and archival photos.

Head to De Grote Keuken, a century-old café renowned for its authentic Flemish breakfast. Enjoy freshly baked French baguettes, house-made jams, and locally sourced dairy products. The rustic interior features exposed wood beams and warm lighting, creating a nostalgic ambiance. Their limited-edition chocolate-filled pancakes are a local favorite and perfect for starting your day right.

Kinderpark Malle is a must-visit for families, featuring large play structures, sand pits, mini-trains, and nature trails ideal for children of all ages. Nearby, Flemish Farm Experience Park allows kids to feed goats, milk cows, and participate in hands-on cheese-making workshops. These interactive activities combine fun with education, making them a hit with parents and children alike.

Melle’s nightlife centers around its charming local pubs. De Vier Winden, tucked away in a quiet alley, serves over 40 varieties of regional Flemish beer, including low-alcohol ales and fruit-infused brews. Every Friday features live folk music, encouraging guests to join in impromptu singing—a true reflection of the town’s warm and welcoming spirit.

Yes, Melle Train Station connects directly to Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp, with frequent trains running throughout the day—journeys take as little as 20 minutes. The local bus network also links key towns in East Flanders. For drivers, the A10 highway passes just west of the town, providing quick access to Brussels or Ostend in about one hour.

Must-buy souvenirs include handmade chocolates from Chocolaterie de Malle, especially their dark chocolate almond bars and rose-honey flavor. Also look for handwoven wool scarves and traditional ceramic tableware available at local markets and craft shops. These items showcase Melle’s craftsmanship and make meaningful gifts or keepsakes.

Melle’s architecture blends Gothic and Baroque elements, most evident in St. Nicholas Church with its pointed spire and stained-glass windows. Most residential buildings feature red brick walls, steep gabled roofs, and ornamental wood carvings—hallmarks of traditional Flemish-Dutch style. Walking through the old streets feels like stepping into a 17th-century painting.

Every July, the Melle Summer Music Festival takes over the Town Square, hosting live performances by local and international bands across jazz, folk, and electronic genres. There are also outdoor movie screenings and starlit markets by the river, where locals bring picnic blankets to enjoy cool evenings under the stars—creating a magical, community-driven atmosphere.