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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Belgium

Bruges Brugge

Often called the "Venice of the North," Bruges is an UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkably preserved medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and world-class chocolate. Many travelers to Belgium visit this city.

A direct train from Ostend connects to Bruges. The journey is short, lasting only 15-20 minutes. Trains run very frequently throughout the day.

Suggested Activities

  • Take a canal cruise for an unique perspective.
  • Climb the Belfry for panoramic city views.
  • Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
  • Indulge in chocolate tasting at one of its many chocolatiers.

Nearby Destinations

Explore additional destinations just a short journey from Ostend.

Ghent

Ghent features a more authentic, less tourist-centric experience than Bruges, while still providing immense historical and cultural appeal. A direct train from Ostend takes about 30-40 minutes.

Ghent Highlights

  • Visit Gravensteen Castle, a moated medieval fortress.
  • See the Ghent Altarpiece in St. Bavo's Cathedral.
  • Climb the Belfry for city views.

Nieuwpoort

Nieuwpoort is another popular coastal town located south of Ostend. It is known for its large, modern marina, wide beach, and a pleasant promenade.

Nieuwpoort Activities

  • Walk along the expansive marina, one of Europe's largest.
  • Enjoy the wide beach.
  • Explore the town center and its shops.

Coastal Charms & Cultural Visits

De Haan Belle Époque

  • Walk through the charming streets to admire unique Belle Époque villas.
  • Enjoy a leisurely time on the expansive beach.
  • Coastal Tram from Ostend: 20-30 minute journey.
  • Plan for a half-day to a full-day visit.

Ypres Ieper History

  • Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum for an immersive war experience.
  • Attend the moving Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate (nightly at 8 PM).
  • Train from Ostend, about 1.5 - 2 hours (transfer in Kortrijk or Ghent).
  • Plan a full day; many stay for the evening ceremony.

Multi-Day Extension Suggestions

  • Bruges & Ghent Combo:Overnight stays
  • Brussels:Grand Place, Atomium, museums
  • Antwerp:Fashion, diamonds, impressive cathedral
  • Netherlands:Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague are next stops
  • France:Paris via Thalys
  • UK:London via Eurostar from Brussels
  • Ardennes region:Hiking and nature
  • Coastal Tram line:Explore every town

Transportation Tip

Belgium's train network makes multi-day extensions simple. Purchase tickets via the SNCB app or website.

Natural Escapes

Explore the natural beauty of the Belgian coast and surrounding areas, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Dunes & Raversyde

This area features extensive dune landscapes and the Atlantikwall Raversyde site. It features tranquil walking paths.

Het Zwin Nature Park

A unique tidal marsh nature reserve near the Dutch border. It is internationally recognized for its birdlife and rare plant species.

De Haan Coastal Charm

A charming and picturesque coastal town. Known for its well-preserved Belle Époque architecture and serene atmosphere.

Raversyde Nature Details

Take the Coastal Tram to the Raversyde stop. This area excels for walking year-round. In spring, wildflowers bloom, adding color to the landscape.

Highlights

  • Explore tranquil walking paths.
  • See wildflowers in spring.
  • Birdwatching is a popular activity.

Het Zwin Park Visit

Take the Coastal Tram to the northern end of the line in Knokke-Heist, then a local bus or taxi to the park entrance. Total journey about 1 hour 15 minutes.

Explore

  • Explore the park's trails.
  • Visit the park's visitor center.
  • Plan a half-day to explore the park.

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Spring Wildflowers:blooms along dunes
Migratory Birds:Diverse species in reserves
Autumn Colors:Coastal vegetation changes hue
Winter Coastal Drama:Stormy seas and crisp air
Sunrise Views:Early mornings over the North Sea
Sunset Views:Spectacular evenings from promenade

Eco-Friendly Travel

  • Stick to marked paths in nature reserves.
  • Do not disturb wildlife.
  • Avoid littering, especially on beaches.
  • Choose public transport, walking, or cycling to lower your carbon footprint.
  • Tap water is safe to drink, which lessens buying plastic bottled water.

Cultural Excursions

Explore Belgium's rich history and culture with these enriching excursions.

Ypres Ieper WWI History

A city forever synonymous with World War I history. It is a powerful memorial to the immense losses suffered on the Western Front.

Ypres Highlights

  • Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum for an immersive experience.
  • Attend the moving Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate.
  • Explore Tyne Cot Cemetery, a large Commonwealth war cemetery.

Veurne Historical Town

A beautiful, small historical town in West Flanders. It features a stunning market square (Grote Markt) surrounded by impressive Renaissance architecture.

Veurne Visit

  • Explore the charming Grote Markt.
  • Admire the impressive Renaissance architecture.
  • Plan a half-day to explore the town center.

Brussels Capital City

As the capital of Belgium and the European Union, Brussels has a vast array of attractions.

Brussels Must-Sees

  • Visit the Grand Place.
  • See the iconic Atomium.
  • Explore numerous world-class museums.

Antwerp Fashion & Diamonds

Belgium's second-largest city, known as a fashion capital, a diamond district, and home to an impressive cathedral.

Antwerp Exploration

  • Discover the fashion capital.
  • Explore the renowned diamond district.
  • Visit the impressive cathedral.

Longer Stays & Logistics

Extend your Belgian adventure by combining your Ostend trip with longer stays in other destinations or exploring neighboring countries.

Bruges & Ghent

Spend one night in either city for a full experience of their evening ambiance.

The Netherlands

Easy train connections from Belgium make Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague logical next stops.

France & UK

Direct high-speed train services (Thalys to Paris, Eurostar to London) allow combination trips.

Efficient Rail Travel

Belgium's efficient and interconnected train network makes multi-day extensions and regional travel very straightforward.

Multi-Day Extensions

Expand your trip to Belgium and neighboring countries for a broader European adventure.

Tailored Trip Combinations

1

Bruges & Ghent

Spend a night in either Bruges or Ghent to explore these cities at a relaxed pace.

2

Brussels Capital

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels offers Grand Place, Atomium, and museums.

3

Antwerp Fashion

Belgium's second-largest city, known for fashion, a diamond district, and an impressive cathedral.

Netherlands Extension

  • Amsterdam: Canals and museums.
  • Rotterdam: Modern architecture and arts scene.
  • The Hague: Government seat and cultural attractions.
  • Easy train connections from Belgium.
  • Logical next stops for a multi-country trip.
  • Explore cities and diverse landscapes.

France & UK Journeys

  • Paris: Direct high-speed train services (Thalys) from Brussels.
  • London: The Eurostar high-speed train connects Brussels to London.
  • Multi-country trips are feasible and straightforward.
  • Leverage Belgium's central geographic location.
  • Quick access to major European capitals.
  • Streamlined international rail travel.

Long-Term Stays

Holiday Apartment

Consider renting a holiday apartment for stays longer than a week. It provides a comfortable base.

Kitchen Facilities

Access to kitchen facilities for self-catering, which helps with budgeting.

Greater Flexibility

More flexibility for exploring Ostend and taking day trips around Flanders.

Seamless Travel

Belgium's efficient and interconnected train network makes combining destinations effortless.