Unforgettable Things to Do in Ostend: 8 Essential Tips!

What to Do in Ostend?

→ For accommodation, consider Rosa Hotel or Hotel du Parc

Here’s What You Should Do in Ostend on the Belgian Coast

During the summer, the Belgian coast is bustling with tourists, but in winter, you’ll hardly see anyone aside from the locals. Fortunately, Ostend offers plenty to explore in every season. Take a stroll through the center, settle in at one of the cafes, and discover some delightful shops.

1. Visit the Museum in Ostend

If you’re wondering about the things to do in Ostend related to history and culture, the museums are a must-see. In this Belgian coastal town, you can find many different museums, especially if you appreciate modern art. The James Ensor House is an interactive museum dedicated to the life of the Ostend painter Ensor, known for his vibrant and impressive paintings. The shop where his parents sold souvenirs remains intact and is worth a visit. You can also see how he used to live and where he worked.

Additionally, Mu.ZEE is a fantastic place to visit, showcasing a permanent collection of artworks from Belgium dating from 1880 to the present and frequently changing exhibitions, making it one of the top things to do in Ostend. Fort Napoleon can also be reached conveniently by boat or tram, offering a great location where you can see the remnants of the fort that Napoleon commissioned. It’s a lovely spot to grab a snack and drink as well.

Just outside the center, along the coastline, lies Atlantikwall Raversyde. This site preserves a significant portion of the German defense line, featuring more than sixty bunkers, observation posts, underground passages, and artillery installations from World War II. There’s also a permanent photo exhibition to see.

2. Street Art Walk in Ostend

If you’re looking for things to do in Ostend that bring the city’s art to the streets, head out for a street art walk. Ostend doesn’t just showcase art in museums; you’ll also find plenty of murals outside on the streets. You can take a street art walk through the city to enjoy the vibrant street art and the beautiful city itself. Join The Crystal Ship Tour to explore all the great street art spots.

3. Promenade with Royal Galleries

One of the best things to do in Ostend is to take a leisurely walk along the wide and long promenade. As you stroll, you’ll come across various beautiful sights along the way. For instance, the Casino/Kursaal is situated on this promenade, where concerts are frequently held and the casino operates. The Japanese Garden, the Royal Galleries for peaceful walks, and the impressive Thermae Palace hotel with its charming brasserie Albert, known for delicious meals, are also found here.

Numerous artworks line the promenade, many of which were left after the Beaufort art festival that occurs annually in Ostend, featuring works by artists from all over the world along the Belgian coastline.

4. Eating and Drinking in Ostend

A trip to Ostend isn’t complete without exploring its food scene. When it comes to things to do in Ostend, eating and drinking are key highlights. At Brasserie Albert, located in Thermae Palace, the atmosphere is somewhat upscale, but there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Ostend. Be sure to try the shrimp croquettes, for which Ostend is famous. Other lively spots include Cultuurcafé De Grote Post, Cafe du Parc, Desirée, Brasserie Oport, and Number Six. Restaurant No Nonsense and Café Bolletje also reflect the local flavor.

5. Admire the Marina and the Mercator

Another of the top things to do in Ostend is to visit the marina and the impressive Mercator. Close to the Ostend station lies the beautiful marina and the Mercator, a sailing vessel that has been a museum ship since 1964. Onboard, you can discover all about its history. The Mercator undertook 41 voyages and is a popular attraction. You can visit any day of the week.

6. Take the Coast Tram to Other Belgian Seaside Towns

Want to take a trip from Ostend to other coastal towns? The coastal tram runs from De Panne, near the border with France, to Knokke-Heist, by the Dutch border. This tram stops at every coastal town in between, including Ostend. You could spend an afternoon in the chic town of De Haan or visit Blankenberge. Knokke-Heist is also a lovely place to explore, especially during the summer.

7. Walk in the Surroundings of Ostend

Along with delightful beach walks or a street art tour around the city, there are numerous beautiful hiking trails around Ostend, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Things to do in Ostend also include exploring the Coastal Walking Route, which stretches along the entire Belgian coast, as well as the Ostend Creek Hiking Route. The latter is approximately fifteen kilometers long and takes you from Ostend to the creek area southeast of the city.

8. Want to Visit More Belgian Cities?

Planning to visit more lovely Belgian cities after your weekend in Ostend? You can easily travel to Bruges from Ostend by train or car. It’s just a fifteen-minute train ride to the city center of Bruges.

Ghent is also easily accessible from Ostend. If traveling by car, you could head towards Ypres to visit the In Flanders Fields Museum, an impressive museum about World War I.

Where to Stay in Ostend?

When planning a weekend getaway to Ostend, finding a comfortable hotel is essential. Book a stay at Rosa Hotel, conveniently located close to the beach and casino. The hotel boasts stylish decor and cozy rooms. Every morning, a hearty breakfast will energize you for the day ahead.

Similarly, Hotel du Parc is another excellent option for accommodation, centrally located and just steps from the beach. From here, you can quickly reach the shopping streets of Ostend and enjoy a lovely beach walk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• What is the best time to visit Ostend?

The best time to visit Ostend is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the beach life is vibrant, though each season offers its charm.

• Are there family-friendly activities in Ostend?

Yes, Ostend offers various family-friendly activities, including beach outings, museums like the Mercator, and the coastal tram.

• Is it easy to get around Ostend?

Yes, Ostend is easy to navigate on foot, and public transport links like trams and buses make it accessible to nearby areas.

• What local dishes should I try in Ostend?

Must-try dishes include shrimp croquettes, local fish dishes, and Belgian fries from various eateries.

• Can I walk to the beach from the city center?

Absolutely! The beach is easily accessible from the city center and is just a short stroll away.