Belgium
Spring (March-May): Temperatures gradually rise, from around 5°C (41°F) in March to 15°C (59°F) in May. April and May bring blooming flowers and longer daylight hours, making these months pleasant for outdoor activities. Rain showers frequently occur.
Summer (June-August): These months are the warmest, with average temperatures ranging between 15°C (59°F) and 22°C (72°F). August often records the highest temperatures. Sea breezes deter excessive heat, creating comfortable conditions. Expect occasional rain showers even in summer, so including a light waterproof layer is a good plan. This period proves suitable for beach activities and water sports.
Beach and Water Sports: Plan your visit for July and August. These months grant the warmest sea temperatures and the most active beach scene.
Cycling and Walking: May, June, and September give the most pleasant conditions for exploring the city and its surroundings by foot or bicycle. Temperatures are comfortable, and the natural scenery holds appeal. Museums and Indoor Attractions: These are enjoyable year-round. However, they become especially appealing during the low season (November-March) when outdoor activities present less comfort due to colder, wetter weather.
Warmest weather, lively atmosphere
Warmest weather, perfect for beach activities, all attractions and services operate at full capacity, and the city maintains a lively atmosphere.
Crowds gather, especially on the beach and at popular sites. Accommodation and activity prices reach their highest point. Popular restaurants fill quickly.
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Temperatures are pleasant, especially in May and September. Fewer crowds than during peak summer months. Accommodation prices are more moderate. Conditions serve well for sightseeing, cycling, and walking tours. The atmosphere maintains activity but relaxation.
Weather can be less predictable, with a higher chance of rain. Some beach-related services, like specific beach clubs or water sport rentals, might operate on reduced hours or close earlier in the season.
Lowest prices, quiet atmosphere
Accommodation prices hold their lowest point. Very few tourists, granting a quiet, local experience. This season suits exploration of indoor attractions like museums, art galleries, and the Kursaal. One might experience the charm of a winter coastal atmosphere without summer crowds.
Cold and often wet weather. Many coastal attractions and seasonal businesses close for winter. Daylight hours are limited, necessitating earlier planning for outdoor activities. Strong winds can render walks along the promenade quite bracing.
If you wish to attend specific events, confirm their dates. Ostend at Anchor, a large maritime festival, usually takes place in May or June. The Crystal Ship street art festival also typically occurs in spring.
Rain always is a possibility, regardless of the season, so carrying a light waterproof layer serves as a good plan. Strong winds frequently occur along the Belgian coast throughout the year, which can impact comfort during outdoor activities.
July & August
May, June, September
November-March
May or June
Spring
Needs are determined by your nationality and the length and purpose of your stay.
Schengen Visa (Short Stay - Type C): Citizens of many non-EU/EEA countries necessitate a Schengen visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Apply for this visa at the embassy or consulate of the main destination country within the Schengen Area. If you plan to visit multiple Schengen countries but Belgium is your first point of entry, or the country where you will spend the most time, apply through the Belgian embassy. The application process typically involves submitting an application form, supporting documents, and attending an interview. IVisa and VisaHQ can assist with applications.
Ensure your documents meet the stated requirements for smooth entry into Belgium.
For flight compensation, AirHelp can assist passengers in receiving up to €600 for delayed or canceled flights. For insurance tailored for digital nomads, SafetyWing is an option. For adventurous travelers, World Nomads provides relevant coverage.
Plan your budget for an Ostend trip to match your travel style. Belgium uses the Euro (€), its official currency.
Currency: The official currency is the Euro (€).
Exchange: ATMs, labeled "Geldautomaat" or "Bancontact," are widely available throughout Ostend and grant favorable exchange rates. Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) hold wide acceptance in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any card freezing due to unusual international activity. Having a small amount of cash proves beneficial for smaller purchases, market stalls, or places that prefer cash payments.
Daily costs (€90-€180): Stay in a comfortable mid-range hotel or a rented apartment, costing €70-€120 per night. Savor a mix of casual restaurants, brasseries, and some supermarket meals. Budget €40-€70 per day for food. Use public transport for most journeys, with occasional taxis or ride-shares. Day trips by train cost €10-€20. Plan for several paid attractions, possibly including a guided tour or a specific experience, budgeting €10-€20.
Comfortable stays and varied dining.
Higher costs than budget travel.
Daily costs (€250+): Choose high-end hotels or boutique accommodations, starting from €150 and going upwards. Indulge in fine dining and upscale restaurants. Budget €100 or more per day for gourmet experiences. Use taxis, private transfers, or rent a car. Consider first-class train tickets. Budget €30 or more. Engage in private tours, exclusive experiences, shopping for designer goods, and spa treatments. Budget €50 or more. For high-end travel, a Secure travel wallet, such as a Bellroy travel wallet, secures your documents and funds.
Premium experiences and services.
Significantly higher budget.
Hostel dorm: €25-€40. Budget hotel/guesthouse: €60-€90. Mid-range hotel/apartment: €90-€150. Luxury hotel: €150+. Fries (small portion): €3.50-€5.00. Waffle: €3.00-€6.00. Sandwich/Bakery item: €4.00-€7.00. Casual restaurant main course: €15-€25. Mid-range restaurant 2-course meal: €30-€50. Fine dining meal: €70+. Coffee: €3.00-€4.50. Local beer: €4.00-€7.00.
Variety of price points for all budgets.
Prices fluctuate by season and establishment.
| Category | Item | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | Single bus/tram ticket | €2.50-€3.00 |
| Transportation | Day pass (De Lijn) | €7.50 |
| Attractions | Mercator | €10-€12 |
Focus on your health and safety when traveling to Ostend. Belgium is a safe country with high public health and security standards. Awareness and preparation elevate your trip.
No specific vaccinations are needed for entry. Confirm your routine vaccinations are current, including MMR, DTaP, and polio. Your doctor may advise on Hepatitis A and B depending on travel plans. Rabies vaccination generally pertains only to close animal contact in rural areas.
As with any populated area, colds and flu spread. Practice good hand hygiene, use Hand sanitizer, and avoid close contact with sick individuals. The likelihood of food and waterborne illnesses is very low; tap water carries no consumption hazard.
Even on cloudy days, UV radiation holds strength. Apply Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+, wear Sunglasses, and a Wide-brimmed hat, especially when on the beach or promenade. A broad-spectrum La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen grants reliable protection.
Minor Injuries: Be ready for minor issues like blisters or small cuts. Pack a Basic first aid kit with Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. For a compact and comprehensive solution, a Surviveware Small First Aid Kit serves well.
Access to healthcare: Belgium maintains a high standard of medical care. Pharmacies, identifiable by a green cross sign ("apotheek" in Dutch), are widespread and grant advice for minor ailments, along with over-the-counter medications.
Drinking water safety: Tap water in Ostend, and across Belgium, carries no consumption hazard unless a specific sign indicates otherwise. Carry a Reusable water bottle and refill it from the tap to lessen plastic waste. Food hygiene standards hold high marks, overseen by strict regulations.
Emergency Services: 112 (European emergency number for all emergencies). 100: Direct line for Ambulance and Fire Department. 101: Direct line for Police. Hospitals: AZ Sint-Jan Brugge (campus Ostend) stands as the main hospital, providing comprehensive medical services. Obtain comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. Providers like Allianz Travel Insurance present policies covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other travel incidents.
Ostend generally is a safe city with low crime rates. It presents no major safety issues beyond those typical of any urban area.
Pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas, like the train station, busy public transport, or around major attractions, especially during peak summer or large events. Practice vigilance and keep valuables secure.
The city center, promenade, and popular tourist areas generally hold safety for day and night exploration. No specific "restricted" neighborhoods generally exist for tourists in Ostend. As with any city, exercise caution in poorly lit or deserted areas late at night.
Natural Disaster Risks: The likelihood of coastal flooding remains very low due to extensive storm surge barriers and well-maintained dikes. Strong winds are frequent, especially in autumn and winter. They may impact comfort during outdoor activities and, rarely, might cause minor disruptions to ferry services or outdoor events. Always check local weather forecasts.
Emergency Contact Information: General Emergency: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance). Police (non-emergency): 101. Lost/Stolen Credit Card: Immediately contact your bank's international emergency number. Keep this number stored separately from your wallet.
Report the loss to local police immediately. Secure a police report. Then, contact your country's embassy or consulate in Brussels for assistance with obtaining an emergency travel document or replacement passport.
Inform a trusted contact back home of your itinerary. Bring a small card with your emergency contacts, accommodation details, and any important medical information.
Pack a First aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes.
