Things to do in Ostend

Activities, attractions and tours

A large red-brick building with a symmetrical facade, multiple windows, and a central entrance.
A metal plaque with the inscription "ZEEMANSHUIS GODTSCHALK" mounted on a brick wall.
A large building with a red-tiled roof, white walls, and a central arched window. There is a flagpole with a flag, and a sculpture in the foreground.
A water tower with a brick base and a cylindrical top, surrounded by street lamps and power lines.
A coastal cityscape with a sandy beach, a large body of water, and a row of high-rise buildings.

Things to do

Admire the windmills of the North Sea up close

Unforgettable sea trip to the wind farms in the North Sea

€89
per adult
Unforgettable sea trip to the wind farms in the North Sea
Private Bruges 3.5-Hour Guided Bike Tour: Discover Hidden Gems

Private Bruges 3.5-Hour Guided Bike Tour: Discover Hidden Gems

€285
per adult
Private Bruges 3.5-Hour Guided Bike Tour: Discover Hidden Gems
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What to do in Ostend

Stay near popular Ostend attractions

Ostend Beach

8.6/10 (759 reviews)
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Ostend Beach during your travels in Ostend? Make time to visit the shops and monuments while you're in the area.
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Where to stay in Ostend

Find the best Ostend areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ostend
Learn more about Ostend
A coastal cityscape with high-rise buildings, a beach, and a crane.

Ostend City Centre

Travellers 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.

An aerial view of a coastal city with a prominent beach, a marina, and a large body of water.

Vogelzang

While there might not be top attractions in Vogelzang, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Wellington Hippodrome and Mercator Floating Museum.

Westerkwartier

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

Vuurtorenwijk

While Vuurtorenwijk may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Fort Napoleon and Turkeyenhof.

A coastal cityscape with a beach, waves, and overcast skies.
Photo by Éric Lecoustre
Open Photo by Éric Lecoustre

Konterdam

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

A marina with numerous boats docked, a large building with a distinctive dome, and calm water reflecting the boats.

Stene

Frequently asked questions

Is Ostend worth visiting?
Providing a blend of coastal beaches and history, there are many things to do in Ostend. While you're here, visit Middelkerke Beach, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Ostend?
After you've visited popular attractions like Middelkerke Beach and North Sea Aquarium, spend the rest of your day discovering Ostend's shopping and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ostend?
You can't leave without exploring Middelkerke Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Ostend.
Is three days enough to stay in Ostend?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city sights, such as North Sea Aquarium, Mariakerke Beach and Klein Strand. The average stay in Ostend is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your adventure, Bruges isn't far away.
Is Ostend a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Ostend, like North Sea Aquarium and Mariakerke Beach, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometres from the city centre of Ostend is Ostend City Centre and Bredene is 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Ostend with kids?
If you're searching for sights and tours for all ages, have a look at these great ideas for what to do in Ostend with kids.

What to do in Ostend for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in Ostend for adults including The Potiniere and Villa Aqua.
Are there free things to do in Ostend?
In Ostend, Mariakerke Beach is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to tour the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Ostend.

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