Visit Fort Napoleon
East Ostend 2 hrs
Step back in time at this impressive Napoleonic fort, now a museum.
Where to stay
Hotels in Ostend
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At a glance
Climate
Temperate
Languages
Dutch and French
Local currency
EUR
(EUR)
Local time
(GMT+2)
Ideal trip length
2–5 days
Cost level
3 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
City Center/Promenade
Tap water
Generally described as safe to drink
Tipping
Optional, service included
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
80 · Very good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Belgian Waffles
Mussels with Fries
Grey Shrimp Croquettes
Flemish Stew
When to visit Ostend
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: July
Busiest: Jul-Aug
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Jan30
Cold, often wet
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Feb35
Chilly, improving slightly
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Mar45
Cool, breezy
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Apr60
Milder, spring blooms
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May75
Pleasant, good for walks
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Jun85
Warm, start of summer
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Jul90
Hottest, peak beach
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Aug88
Warm, busy
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Sept70
Mild, fewer crowds
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Oct55
Cool, autumn colors
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Nov40
Cold, rainy
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Dec45
Chilly, festive markets
Things to do in Ostend
7 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 7 of 7 places ·
Best in the morning
1 place
Best in the afternoon
2 places
Explore the Mu.ZEE
City Center 2.5 hrs
Discover Belgian art from 1830 to the present day in a modern setting.
Enjoy fresh seafood at the Visserskaai
Harbor 1.5 hrs
Savor local seafood dishes, especially grey shrimp, at the bustling fish market quay.
Best in the evening
1 place
Experience Casino Kursaal Ostend
Promenade 3 hrs
Try your luck at the grand casino, also hosting concerts and events.
Any time of day
3 places
Visit the Mercator Ship
City Center 1.5 hrs
Explore the historic three-masted training ship, now a museum.
Walk along the Promenade and Beach
Coastline 2 hrs
Enjoy the wide sandy beach and lively promenade with sea views.
Discover The Crystal Ship Street Art
Various 3 hrs
Wander through the city to admire large-scale murals and urban art installations.
Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Ostend
Straight-line distance from the centre of Ostend.
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