Visit Ostend
The City By The Sea
Go Explore
Ostend
Ostend is a cosmopolitan city by the sea, with a rich, historical past. When you arrive, enjoy a friendly, relaxed & welcoming atmosphere in a bustling coastal resort.
Museums
Atlantic Wall Open-Air Museum
A military museum which preserves fortifications of the Atlantic Wall dating to the First and Second World Wars. The section of fortifications owned by the museum – over 60 bunkers and two miles of trenches – is among the best preserved sections of the defensive line in Europe.
Mercator (ship)
Originally built as a training ship for the Belgian merchant fleet, the ship was used mainly before World War II, for scientific observations, or as ambassador for Belgium on world fairs and in sailing events. The ship is now a floating museum, just in front of the city hall.
Museumschip Amandine
The last Ostend trawler to have fished around Iceland (1970s) is brought to life with waxwork figures, fish-freezing room. videos and sound effects.
Mu.ZEE
Visit this museum to discover Belgian art from 1830 onwards. The museum was founded in 2008 by the merging of the former Provinciaal Museum voor Moderne Kunst and the Museum voor Schone Kunsten Oostende, both located in Ostend.
History
Fort Napoleon
A polygonal fort built in the Napoleonic era, in preparation for a British assault from the sea – which never materialised – during the War of the Fifth Coalition. The fort was used as for troop accommodation until the end of the French occupation in 1814 when it was abandoned. During World War I, the fort was used as accommodation for Germans, and decorated with murals by German soldier Heinrich Otto Pieper.
Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
The main church of Ostend, is a Roman Catholic Neo-Gothic church. Its stained glass windows were destroyed during the two World Wars and were replaced by windows by Michiel Martens. The church is 70 meters long and 30 meters wide. Its spires are 72 meters high.
Stunning Strolls
Leopold Park
Leopold Park was laid out in 1860 on the old town fortifications. The park contains a beautiful bandstand , a world-famous floral clock, mini golf, a pon and hosts Christmas vendors in winter. Enjoy a relaxing walk here or stop to have a refreshment in the café.
Albert I Promenade
The city is best known for its gorgeous beach and the Albert I Promenade that overlooks the shoreline. The promenade was named after King Albert I and is not only a treat for those who like to walk, it also offers views of the Royal Monuments along the way.
Plage d’Ostende
With over five miles of wide sandy white beaches stretching on either side of the picturesque harbour, a sunny day can be spent here relaxing and taking in the picturesque view.
Discover More Belgian Destinations
There is a lot more to Belgium than just one city. Learn more about other destinations.
