Ostenda - Discovering Belgium

Travelling to Ostenda

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ostenda, a pretty good destination in Belgium (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ostenda and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ostenda, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Belgium, here's everything to know about Ostenda for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ostenda

Ostend is a coastal city in the province of West Flanders in Belgium. It is known for its long sandy beach, lively promenade, and historic harbor. The city has a rich cultural and artistic offering, including several museums, theaters, and galleries. Ostend is also home to many seafood restaurants and bars, making it a popular destination for culinary tourism. Additionally, the city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Ostend at Anchor maritime festival, the Theater by the Sea festival, and the Wellington horse racing festival.

What to visit in Ostenda

Certainly! 1. Ostend Beach - This is one of the best places to visit in Ostend, featuring miles of sandy beaches, clear water, and stunning ocean views. Visitors can enjoy a variety of watersports here, such as kite surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking. 2. Mu.ZEE - This is Ostend's Museum of Modern Art, with an impressive collection of Belgian and international art from the 1830s to the present day. The museum also houses works from Ostend's own artists, making it a great place to learn about the city's art scene.
3. Fort Napoleon - Fort Napoleon is a historical fortress that was built by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1811. Visitors can take a tour of the fortress and learn about its history, as well as enjoy stunning views of the city and the sea.
4. Atlantic Wall Open-air Museum - This open-air museum is located along the coast and displays a series of bunkers and fortifications that were built by the Germans during World War II. Visitors can explore the trenches and bunkers and learn about the history behind them.
5. Leopold Park - This is a beautiful park located in the heart of the city, featuring a few iconic statues with fountains, a playground, a pond, and plenty of green spaces. It's a great place to relax and have a picnic in the sun.
6. The Mercator ship - This is the former ship of the Belgian Navy which is now a floating museum. Visitors can walk around the ship's decks, explore the cabins, and get an idea of what life was like on a ship back in the days.
7. Kursaal Oostende - This iconic building is one of the landmarks of Ostend, and it's known for hosting concerts, shows, and other cultural events throughout the year. It was originally built in 1953 for the town's casino, but today it functions as a multipurpose venue.
8. Maria Hendrikapark - A large park with beautiful nature trails, playgrounds, and sculptures. It's the perfect place for a peaceful stroll, a picnic, or some outdoor activities. I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Ostend!

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ostenda.

When to go on holiday to Ostenda

The best time to visit Ostend in Belgium is during the summer months from June to August when the temperatures are warm, and the sun is shining. However, be aware that it is also the peak tourist season, and the beaches and attractions can get crowded. If you prefer fewer crowds, you may want to consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) or autumn (September and October), when the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. However, keep in mind that the weather may be cooler in these months, and some attractions may have shorter opening hours.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ostenda

There are several ways to get to Ostend, Belgium: 1. By plane - The nearest airport is Ostend-Bruges International Airport which is located only 5 km from Ostend city center. Direct flights to Ostend-Bruges Airport are available from many destinations in Europe.
2. By train - There are frequent train services to Ostend from Brussels, Antwerp, Gent, Bruges and other Belgian cities. The journey time from Brussels to Ostend is around 1.5 hours.
3. By bus - There are several bus services that operate to Ostend from several Belgian cities.
4. By car - If you are driving, you can take the E40 highway that connects Brussels and Ostend. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive from Brussels to Ostend.
I hope this information helps you to plan your trip to Ostend.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ostenda, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ostenda

Here are some typical foods from Ostenda, Belgium with a short description of each: 1. Oostendse garnaalkroketten (Ostend shrimp croquettes) - These croquettes are made by mixing chopped North Sea grey shrimp with a thick roux and then rolling them in breadcrumbs before deep frying. They're a popular appetizer throughout Belgium but are particularly associated with Ostend.
2. Tomate-crevette (Tomato shrimp) - This classic Belgian dish consists of a ripe tomato that's stuffed with tiny North Sea grey shrimp, mayonnaise, and hard-boiled egg yolks. It's typically served cold as an appetizer.
3. Paling in 't Groen (Eel in green sauce) - This dish is made of braised eel served in a savory green sauce made with parsley, sorrel, and chervil, along with onions and white wine. It's typically served with boiled potatoes.
4. Konijn met pruimen (Rabbit with prunes) - A traditional Flemish dish, this consists of tender pieces of rabbit meat that have been stewed with sweet, plump prunes and a flavorful beer-based sauce. It's often served with French fries or bread.
5. Stoofvlees (Beef stew) - This hearty beef stew is made with cubed beef, onions, beer, and spices, then cooked until it's so tender it falls apart. It's often served with crispy fries or boiled potatoes.
6. Waterzooi - A creamy, hearty soup-stew hybrid, Waterzooi is often made with chicken or fish that's been simmered in a broth with carrots, leeks, onions, and herbs before being mixed with cream and egg yolks.
7. Luikse wafels (Belgian waffles) - A must-try when in Belgium, these fluffy waffles are often served warm with powdered sugar, whipped cream, and fruit like strawberries or bananas.
8. Chocolade (Chocolate) - Belgium is famous for its high-quality chocolate, and Ostend has plenty of chocolate shops where you can try truffles, pralines, and many other chocolate treats.
You can find general info about typical foods in Belgium here.

Is Ostenda an expensive destination for tourists?

Ostend is a popular seaside resort town in Belgium and can be considered slightly more expensive compared to other Belgian towns. However, the cost of living and traveling in Ostend depends on your preferences and budget. The prices for attractions, accommodation, and food may vary based on seasons, locations, and activities. To save money while traveling to Ostend, it is always recommended to plan ahead, book accommodation in advance, eat like a local, and avoid tourist traps. Overall, Ostend can be affordable for travelers with a moderate budget.

Where to find accomodation in Ostenda

There are several areas in Ostend, Belgium where visitors can find accommodation. Some of the best areas to stay in Ostend include the city center, which is close to the beach and attractions such as the Kursaal concert hall and the Ostend Museum of Modern Art. Other popular areas for accommodation in Ostend include the Flemish coast, which is perfect for beach lovers, and the Mariakerke district, offering a more residential feel and easy access to the city's amenities. Additionally, the Ostend-Bruges International Airport has hotels nearby that cater to travelers who need a place to stay before or after their flights.
You can check hotel prices at Ostenda here:
Booking.com

Is Ostenda a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ostend is generally considered a safe place for tourists. As with any destination, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings. However, Ostend is a popular touristic destination with relatively low crime rates. The city authorities also take great measures to ensure the safety of visitors, with police officers patrolling the main streets and public spaces to maintain security and prevent incidents.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Belgium here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ostenda.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ostenda the most?

Ostend, Belgium is a great destination for a variety of travelers. The city offers a mix of culture, history, and recreation that can be enjoyed by anyone. Couples may enjoy the romantic seaside setting and the city's intimate cafes and restaurants. They can explore the art and history museums, take long walks along the beach, and indulge in the city's spa and wellness facilities. Young people looking for fun will find a lively nightlife scene, plenty of water sports and outdoor activities, and exciting events like music festivals and outdoor performances. Families can visit the city's amusement parks, historic sites, and family-friendly beaches. There are also several walking and cycling paths suitable for children, as well as cultural activities like visiting the aquarium, exploring the art galleries, and museum visits. In summary, Ostend is a destination suitable for all types of travelers, and each group will find something to enjoy in the city.

How to get around Ostenda

Ostend, Belgium offers various modes of transportation for moving around the city. These include buses, trams, taxis, bicycles, and walking. The city is relatively small, so walking and cycling are ideal for getting around. The buses and trams operate regularly and cover most areas of the city. Taxis are available, but they tend to be more expensive.

What to see around Ostenda

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Ostende: 1. Bruges: This charming medieval city is only a short train ride away from Ostende and is known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings and Belgian chocolate.
2. Ghent: Another medieval city that's just a short train ride from Ostende, Ghent has beautiful architecture, interesting museums, and some of the best food in Belgium.
3. Antwerp: This city is known for its fashion, art, and diamond trade. Visitors can explore the trendy neighborhoods, visit the famous Antwerp Zoo, or admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady.
4. Knokke-Heist: A popular seaside resort town, this place is perfect for a relaxing day at the beach, browsing galleries or shopping.
5. Brussels: The Belgian capital is about an hour away from Ostende by train. Visitors can explore the Grand Place, sample local beers and chocolate, or marvel at Art Nouveau architecture.
I hope this helps you plan your trip!
For every travel information about Belgium you can click here.

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