See another side to Belgium this summer

If you are considering a summer holiday touring Belgium this year then some of the must-see cities on the itinerary would be Antwerp, Brussels and Bruges.

However, the town of Mechelen, which is around 15 miles north of Brussels, also makes for a great day-trip.

A traditional and historic Flemish town with beautiful churches, an authentic Belgian brewery and palaces, Mechelen is ideal for getting away from it all.

The town's landmark is St Rombold's tower, intended to be the highest tower in all the low countries at 160 metres high.

However, in the 16th century money for the ambitious landmark ran out, leaving the tower half built.

Visitors can climb the 514 steps to reach to see the brilliant views from 100-metre tall tower, from which landmarks in Brussels and Antwerp can be seen on a clear day.

Along with St Rombold's Cathedral, there are lots of other impressive buildings to see, from streets lined with beautiful houses and monuments such as a sculpture of the town's mascot, Opsinjoorke, being tossed in a blanket by the town hall.

Other impressive sights are the Palace of Margaret of Austria, the Archbishop's Palace, the beguinage (a courtyard surrounded by small homes) and the former house of the town council.

Like many European cities, Mechelen also has a number of churches featuring work by master craftsman and artists.

Some of the intricate art and wood engravings to be seen in the town's churches include work by Rubens, Anthony Van Dyck and Lucas Faydherbe.

Holidaymakers can also sample local Belgian beers in the Het Anker Brewery, which makes the Gouden Carolus beer, and try the local speciality of Mechelen Cuckoo - a type of chicken unique to the area.

For places to eat, holidaymakers should head along the banks of the river Dijle, which has cafés and restaurants to choose from.

The town's shops attract tourists and locals from neighbouring villagers, with the most popular streets to head for Bruul and IJzerenleen.

Flights to Brussels from London Heathrow, departing in July, are available for £68 return with BMI.

Eurostar also has return train travel to Brussels, with free onward travel, from £59, departing in July.