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Ostend

Belgium, Europe

Ostend, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Belgian Coast', is a vibrant seaside city famous for its stunning beaches, lively boardwalk, and rich maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the beautiful Albert I Promenade, indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries, or relax on the golden sands. The city also offers cultural gems like the Mu.ZEE contemporary art museum and the historic Fort Napoleon. With a thriving events calendar, including the annual Ostend Film Festival, Ostend combines relaxation with entertainment and cultural exploration.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Oostende

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

13 Best Things to Do in Ostend

1. Stroll along Ostend Beach

Relax on sandy shores and enjoy coastal views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

2. Visit the Mu.ZEE

Explore modern art and local exhibitions in this museum.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Tour the Royal Galleries

Marvel at stunning architecture and historical significance.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

4. Explore Fort Napoleon

Discover a historic fortress with panoramic views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

5. Sample local seafood at a restaurant

Taste fresh seafood dishes at local eateries.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

6. Visit the Ostend Fish Market

Experience the vibrant local fish market atmosphere.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Attend the Ostend Festival of Flanders

Join in the celebration of music and culture.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

4 hrs

8. Relax at Leopold Park

Enjoy nature and peaceful surroundings in the park.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Visit the Ostend Museum

Learn about the city's rich maritime history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

10. Take a bike ride along the coast

Cycle through scenic coastal pathways and enjoy views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

11. Enjoy a sunset at the Pier

Witness breathtaking sunsets over the North Sea.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

12. Attend the Ostend Carnival

Join the vibrant festivities of this colorful parade.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

13. Explore the Mercator

Visit the historic sailing ship turned museum.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

8 (#21 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Dutch

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Moules-Frite

Mussels served with fries. (National dish)

Belgian Waffles

V

Sweet, fluffy waffles, often topped.

Stoofvlees

Beef stew, slow-cooked in beer.

Speculoos

V

Spiced shortcrust biscuit, often caramelized.

Waterzooi

Creamy chicken or fish stew with vegetables.

Phrases to learn

English

Dutch

Hello

Hallo

(Hah-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nee

(Yah / Nay)

Thank you

Dank je

(Dank yuh)

Excuse me

Pardon

(Par-don)

How much?

Hoeveel?

(Hoo-vel)