Ostend Belgium Travel Guide
Morning (Arrival & Seafront): Arrive in Ostend, check into your hotel. Immediately head to the promenade for a refreshing wander down the beach. Visit the Mercator ship, moored in the city center harbor.
Lunch (Local Flavors): Savor the catch of the day at one of the restaurants along the Visserskaai (Fish Quay). Taste the "Garnaalkroketten" (grey shrimp croquettes).
Detailed plans for a fulfilling 2-3 day weekend getaway or a comprehensive week-long stay.
Arrive, settle into your accommodation. Visit the Mercator ship. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant. Take a leisurely stroll along the illuminated beach.
Dedicate your morning to art at Mu.ZEE and the James Ensor House. In the afternoon, get on the free ferry to Oosteroever (Eastern Bank) to explore Fort Napoleon and the Amandine ship.
Take a train for a full day trip to Bruges. Explore its medieval charm and canals. You might consider an overnight stay if you wish to discover its quieter evenings.
Relax on Ostend beach. Rent a bicycle and cycle along the across the country from the charming town of De Haan. Alternatively, visit the Atlantikwall Raversyde for more historic insight and nature. Depart in the afternoon.
Combine all elements of the weekend itinerary with longer, more relaxed stays in Ostend. Allocate more time for specific museums and activities.
Dedicate the afternoon to street art hunting. Enjoy a full day of cycling along the Coastal Tram route.
A full day trip to Bruges. A half-day trip to De Haan or Nieuwpoort for a different coastal vibe.
This day allows for relaxation, last-minute souvenir shopping, or revisiting a favorite spot. Depart from Ostend.
For longer stays, dive into Ostend and further, or tailor your trip to specific interests.
Combine all elements of the one-week itinerary with longer, more relaxed stays in Ostend (e.g., more beach time, thoroughly exploring all museums and hidden gems).
Concentrate on Ostend's Mercator, Fort Napoleon, Atlantikwall Raversyde, and St. Peter and St. Paul'the Church of for an in-depth look at local history.
Set aside time for the Visserskaai seafood market, dine at numerous seafood restaurants, start a "frituur" crawl for fries, and indulge in waffle tasting.
Engage in cycling along the Coastal Route, enjoy long beach walks, try water sports (during summer), and experience beach karting.
Spend ample time on the beach. Explore Fort Napoleon (tunnels are fun for young ones) and the Mercator ship. Visit Earth Explorer, an interactive science center.
Focus on Mu.ZEE, the James Ensor House, and hunt for "The Crystal Ship" street art murals. Take in the architecture of Kursaal Oostende and De Grote Post.
These itineraries suggest ways to manage costs for different budget levels and schedule around Ostend's seasonal offerings.
Stay in youth hostels such as Jeugdherberg De Ploate or budget-friendly guesthouses. Rely on supermarket food for most meals. Enjoy affordable "Frituur" fries and waffles from street vendors.
Choose 3-star-rated hotels or comfortable apartments that offer good value. Enjoy a mix of relaxed dining spots, local brasseries, and some self-catering meals.
Treat yourself to high-end meals and exclusive seafood restaurants. Arrange custom tours, exclusive experiences, spa treatments, and indulge in high-high-end shopping.
This is the high season, great for beach activities, sunbathing, and swimming. The city features a lively atmosphere featuring outdoor terraces and events.
Experience a quieter, more contemplative Ostend. Enjoy cozy cafes and restaurants. Focus on indoor attractions like museums and the Kursaal.
Time your visit for unique celebrations for an unique experience. Oostende voor Anker (May/June), The Crystal Ship (spring), and Theater aan Zee (July/August).
During the quiet period (November-March), prices for accommodation and flights are lower. Enjoy less crowded strolls on the coast and more authentic local interaction.
