Belgium
Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST): This airport sits closest to Ostend city center, located just 5 km (3 miles) away. It mainly serves charter flights and some low-cost carriers, like TUI fly Belgium, typically to leisure destinations. It does not are a major international hub for long-haul flights.
Direct flight options from major global hubs: To BRU: Brussels Airport presents direct flights from major global hubs in North America (e.g., New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Montreal, Toronto). It also holds direct connections to cities in Asia (e.g., Dubai, Doha, Beijing, Tokyo) and Africa (e.g., Kinshasa, Casablanca). To OST/CRL: These airports have very few, if any, direct long-haul flights. Travelers arriving from outside Europe will typically necessitate a connection at a larger European hub before flying into OST or CRL.
Brussels Airport (BRU) serves as Belgium's main international gateway, granting diverse flight options.
Ostend-Bruges Airport (OST) mainly handles charter and low-cost flights, closer to the city.
Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) serves budget carriers, though transfers to Ostend take longer.
BRU features extensive facilities including a wide selection of shops, restaurants, lounges, car rental services, and duty-free shopping.
OST presents smaller, more basic facilities, including a cafe, car rental desks, and limited retail options, fitting its regional scale.
CRL holds basic facilities mainly catering to low-cost travelers, with essential services like food outlets and car rental.
Belgium's central location in Europe and its excellent infrastructure establish land travel as a convenient method to reach Ostend. Border crossing information: Belgium is a member of the Schengen Area, meaning no routine passport checks typically occur at its internal land borders with France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. One can cross these borders freely.
Self-driving considerations: Requirements: Possession of a valid driver's license from your home country suffices if it originates from an EU/EEA country or is easily readable. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) holds recommendation or necessity. Vehicle: Drive on the right side of the road. Insurance: Third-party liability insurance holds mandatory status for all vehicles.
For car rental needs, DiscoverCars.com stands as a platform to compare options and find suitable deals from various companies. Ensure all necessary documents are in order before renting.
Connecting to other Belgian cities via train from Ostend is efficient and comfortable. The Coastal Tram also offers scenic routes to nearby coastal towns, making day trips straightforward.
While Ostend is a coastal city, passenger sea travel choices hold limitation compared to its historical past.
For cruise passengers arriving from outside the Schengen Area, standard immigration procedures, including passport checks, pertain upon disembarkation. Be ready to present your travel documents.
Ostend's port welcomes smaller cruise ships, granting direct city access.
The historic ferry route from the UK to Ostend is no longer operational.
The port location near the city center simplifies movement to attractions.
Consider timing and airport/station facilities for your departure from Ostend. Exit fees or taxes: No specific exit fees or taxes typically pertain to departing travelers from Belgium. Airport taxes usually form part of the airfare price.
Airport/station facilities for departing travelers: BRU: Features a full range of facilities for departing travelers, including numerous shops, restaurants, lounges, and duty-free shopping areas.
Confirm your flight or train's departure time and gate/platform before heading to the airport or station.
Have your passport, boarding pass, and any necessary visas or health documents easily accessible.
Ensure all valuables are securely packed or carried on your person, especially through security checkpoints.
Plan ample time for travel to the airport or station, accounting for potential delays. Confirm all details for a smooth journey home.
