Ostend Belgium Travel Guide
Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST): This airport sits closest in proximity to Ostend city center, located just 5 km (3 miles) away. It principally provides for charter flights and some low-budget airlines, like TUI fly Belgium, typically to leisure destinations. It does not are a major international hub for long-haul flights.
Flights without layovers from major global hubs: To BRU: Brussels Airport has direct flights from major global hubs in North America (e.g., New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, Montreal, Toronto). It additionally holds direct connections to cities in The continent of 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. Tourists who are 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, nearer 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, rental car agencies, and duty-free shopping.
OST has 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 necessary services like food outlets and car rental.
Belgium's central location across Europe and its excellent infrastructure establish land travel as a convenient method to reach Ostend. What you need to be aware of to cross the border: Belgium is a schengen area member State, meaning no routine passport inspection 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 weigh your 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 additionally provides scenic ways to nearby coastal towns, making day trips straightforward.
While Ostend is a coastal city, passenger ocean travel choices hold limitation compared to its historical past.
For cruise passengers arriving from outside the Schengen Area, standard immigration procedures, including checks of your passport, 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 not a long way from the city center simplifies movement to attractions.
Consider timing and airport/station facilities for your departure from Ostend. Exit fees or taxes: There are no exit fees 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 complete selection 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 bus 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 bus station, accounting for potential delays. Confirm all details for a seamless trip home.
