Ostend
Ostend, the crown jewel of seaside resorts. There is always something to do both in the summer and in the winter. Ostend is the perfect starting point for visiting museums, to go for beach walks, for shopping in fun shops and to discover culinary masterpieces. There is something for everyone at the City by the Sea.
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Discover the greatest activities in Ostend
Wellness in Ostend
At Hotel Andromeda, hotel guests have exclusive access to the completely renovated swimming pool and wellness complex. Everything here complies with the latest standards and insights into heavenly enjoyment, relaxation, tranquillity, well-being and body care...
weekend at the seaside with the kids
More than anywhere else, child-friendliness is the focus of a stay at the coast. A hotel stay with children by the sea breaks the stress and routine of everyday life inland. Would you like to browse through the many child-friendly options at the Belgian coast?...
Kursaal Oostende
Kursaal Ostend is a mythical place. As early as the nineteenth century, people came here to relax. The present building dates from just after the Second World War. But don't worry, from 2003 to 2005 the building underwent a thorough renovation.
Mercator
A must-see in Ostend: the three-mast museum ship Mercator. Arctic traveller Adrien de Gerlache designed this three-master which was built in Scotland. The Mercator had only two commanders and made 54 voyages. In 1956 it repatriated the remains of Father Damien from Molokai.
The beach and seafront promenade
Genieten van de mooie zonsondergang, zonnebaden bij mooi weer of fietsen met een go-cart op de zeedijk. Het strand en de zee weet iedereen te bekoren.
Domein Raversijde – Atlantic Wall
A section of the old defence line that was built by the Germans to defend the coastline from invasion lies well preserved in the dunes of Raversijde. Visit these fortifications dating from the First and Second World Wars.
Mu.ZEE – Art museum
Mu.ZEE is the museum of Belgian art. Walk through one art movement to another and learn about Belgian artists and their works from 1830 to the present day.
The new Western pier
This breakwater was built to extend access to the port and to protect Ostend’s city centre. The breakwater has to withstand waves as high as 4.8 metres. It also allows access to the public as a promenade at the end of which you can enjoy a fabulous panoramic viewof the sea and Ostend.
Church of St Peter and St Paul
This neo-gothic church in the centre of Ostend replaced the Church of St Peter that was destroyed by fire in 1896 leaving only the nearby brick tower (known as the Peperbusse – Pepper mill)...
Fort Napoleon
In the dunes to the north of Ostend lies an impressive fort with a turbulent past. The infamous French general Napoleon ordered its construction to defend against attacks from the west but the fort has taken on many roles since.
Crystal Ship
The Crystal Ship is a contemporary art festival that specializes in public space producing over 25 installations, sculptures and murals per year. The Crystal Ship also represents a selected group of visual artists worldwide and responds to their needs in the ever-changing domain of art and culture.
http://www.thecrystalship.org
City museum
The Ostend city museum is housed in the former Royal Palace – an ideal, stately setting for the extensive collection of local historic finds that take you back in time through the history of the coastal city.
Marvin Gaye Midnight Love Tour
Marvin Gaye arrived by boat in Ostend on a cold winter morning in 1981. Thanks to Visit Ostend, you can experience the history of Marvin Gaye during this interactive “Midnight Love Tour”.
Shoppen
Combine a visit to the sea with a shopping afternoon. Work your way through the shopping streets in the city, or visit the shopping center. Most stores also open their doors on Sundays, so you can shop to your heart's desire.