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Day Trips from Ostend

Day Trips from Ostend

Ostend Belgium Travel Guide

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.