Things to do in Ostend

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Ostend showing heritage architecture and heritage elements
Ostend featuring signage
Ostend featuring heritage architecture
Ostend
Ostend

Ostend Attractions

Do you appreciate shopping or fine food? Or perhaps you prefer to make your way around a new city like a bona fide local. When spending time in Ostend, it doesn't really matter what your preferences are — this buzzing metropolis has all the experiences and attractions you could ever hope for.

Explore the sights of Ostend with some unique tours & day trips, or try out our list of {11 fun activities in Ostend fun activities in Ostend}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning an unforgettable vacation.

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What to do in Ostend

Free Things to Do in Ostend

Vacationing in Ostend on a budget? The following can be experienced for nada.

Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum - Check if there are any special displays or tours on at this interesting museum.

Maria Hendrika Park - Make this one of your first stops for a dash of fun during your time away.

Fort Napoleon - Come to grips with some of the unique history of the region through this attraction.

Wapenplein Square - Mingle with some local people and seek out the hidden character and vibrancy of this special place.

Ostend Pier - Set aside some time to take a look at this place of local significance.

Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul - Whatever your religious leanings, this site will inspire a sense of reverence in you.

Leopold Park - Prepare a picnic and enjoy a relaxing stroll around the interesting plants.

Things to Do in Ostend with Kids

There's fun for the whole family no matter where you go in Ostend. Here are a few family friendly experiences to enjoy together that are sure to make your escape unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ostend? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Ostend

Sunset from da beach

Ostend Beach

4.5/5(17 reviews)

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Ostend Beach during your travels in Ostend? Make time to visit the shops and monuments while you're in the area.

Ostend Beach
In the park you can rent bikes for free.

Maria Hendrika Park

Explore the great outdoors at Maria Hendrika Park, a lovely green space in Ostend. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Maria Hendrika Park

North Sea Aquarium

Make time to visit the sea animals who live in North Sea Aquarium during your travels in Ostend. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

North Sea Aquarium

Casino Kursaal

5/5(2 reviews)

Why not try your luck with a visit to Casino Kursaal during your visit to Ostend? While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Casino Kursaal

Mariakerke Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Mariakerke Beach during your trip to Ostend? While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Mariakerke Beach

Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum

You can spend an afternoon studying the exhibits at Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum during your trip to Raversijde. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum

Wellington Racetrack

You can take time to visit Wellington Racetrack during your travels to Ostend. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Wellington Racetrack

Mercator Floating Museum

You can browse the exhibits at Mercator Floating Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Ostend. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Mercator Floating Museum

Fort Napoleon

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Learn about the local history of Ostend when you spend time at Fort Napoleon. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

Fort Napoleon

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Ostend

Ostend

Ostend City Centre

4/5(5 area reviews)

Travelers come to Ostend City Centre for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Ostend Beach and Casino Kursaal while you're in town.

Ostend City Centre
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Vogelzang

While Vogelzang isn't home to many top sights, Wellington Racetrack and Mercator Floating Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Vogelzang
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Vuurtorenwijk

While there might not be top attractions in Vuurtorenwijk, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Fort Napoleon and Turkeyenhof.

Vuurtorenwijk
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Westerkwartier

When in Westerkwartier, you can plan a visit to Wellington Racetrack and Mariakerke Beach, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Westerkwartier
Yacht harbor with the central railway station in the background.

Konterdam

While Konterdam isn't home to many top sights, Maria Hendrika Park and Mercator Floating Museum are some notable places to visit nearby.

Konterdam
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Nieuwe Koerswijk

Nieuwe Koerswijk might not have many top sights, but Mariakerke Beach and Wellington Racetrack are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Nieuwe Koerswijk
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Ostend

De Haan

De Haan

Photo by Michelle D

Bredene

Westende which includes heritage architecture

Middelkerke

Klemskerke

Klemskerke

Frequently asked questions

Is Ostend worth visiting?
Known for its coastal beaches and history, discovering awesome things to do in Ostend is easy. Don't forget to add Middelkerke Beach to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Ostend?
Middelkerke Beach and North Sea Aquarium are two excellent places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Ostend while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ostend?
You can't go home without checking out Middelkerke Beach, ranked the top tourist attraction in Ostend.
Is three days enough to stay in Ostend?
Three days in Ostend is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travelers stay for two days on average. North Sea Aquarium, Mariakerke Beach and Klein Strand are highly rated sights. Want to experience more? Stick around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Bruges.
Is Ostend a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to do and see in Ostend. Several top attractions, such as North Sea Aquarium and Mariakerke Beach, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Ostend's best neighborhoods, Ostend City Centre is 0.2 miles away from downtown, while Bredene is 3 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Ostend with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Ostend with kids.

What to do in Ostend for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or adventure seeker, there are loads of things to do in Ostend for adults including The Potiniere and Ten Putte Abbey.
Are there free things to do in Ostend?
From checking out parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Ostend. If you're stuck for ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Mariakerke Beach is a must for anyone looking to save on their traveling adventures.