Ostend

Ostend, also known as the “Queen of Belgian Seaside Resorts”, is a charming coastal city on the North Sea. With its fascinating mix of beaches, historical sites, and cultural attractions, it draws tourists from around the world. Ostend offers the perfect destination for anyone looking to combine a beach holiday with cultural experiences.

The city’s location right on the North Sea coast makes it ideal for a relaxing day at the beach. Ostend’s expansive sandy beach stretches over several kilometers and provides plenty of space for sunbathers, beach walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. Here, visitors can swim, sunbathe, or visit one of the many beach bars and restaurants. The promenade, lined with numerous cafés and shops, is particularly popular. On sunny days, it’s a lively scene – the perfect setting to spend a relaxed afternoon and enjoy the view of the sea.

But Ostend has much more to offer than just the beach. The city boasts a rich history and many sights that allow visitors to dive into the past. One of the most famous is Fort Napoleon, a historic fortress from the Napoleonic era. Today, the fort is a museum and event venue where you can learn more about the region’s history. Another popular attraction is the Mercator, a historic sailing ship that once served as a training vessel. The ship is docked in Ostend’s harbour and is open to the public, offering visitors a chance to explore and step into the maritime world of the early 20th century.

For art lovers, Mu.ZEE is a must-visit. This museum of modern art displays works by Belgian artists and provides fascinating insights into the development of art in the 19th and 20th centuries. Mu.ZEE focuses especially on the art scene in Flanders and is known for its impressive collections that feature both regional and international artists.

Ostend is also famous for its culinary delights. As a coastal city, it naturally offers a wealth of fresh seafood. A visit to Ostend wouldn’t be complete without trying moules-frites (mussels with fries) or the legendary shrimp croquettes. The many restaurants along the promenade and in the city center offer a wide range of Belgian and international dishes, often featuring regional ingredients and maritime flavors.

A special highlight in Ostend is the annual sand sculpture festival, which attracts artists from all over the world. Here, impressive works of art made from sand depict stories and scenes from fairy tales, films, and famous artworks. The festival usually takes place in summer and is a popular attraction for families and art lovers alike.

For those who wish to spend more time in Ostend, the surrounding nature is also worth exploring. The dune areas and nature reserves around Ostend are ideal for hiking and cycling. With well-marked trails and stunning views of the coast and hinterland, they are a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Overall, Ostend offers a variety of experiences and attractions to suit every taste. Whether it’s a relaxing beach holiday, cultural exploration, or culinary delights – Ostend has a unique blend to offer its visitors and invites you to an unforgettable stay.