Ostend Attractions

Top Things to Do in Ostend, Belgium

Things to Do in Ostend


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Top Attractions in Ostend

These rankings are informed by traveller reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • Luc W
    Juarez, Mexico69 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The visit to this location was a absolutely impressive experience, having always been interested in history, and in particular that of both WW's. To get to the entrance one walks down a lane among bushes and hedges. Once inside there is the museum one is advised to visit before taking on the tour throughout the domain itself. This museum holds, among others, a specimen of the infamous Enigma machine. The subsequent visit to the domain itself is an immersive experience, as one is led through bunkers, tunnels, corridors, gun emplacements, personnel quarters, as well as the commander's villa. In several bunkers life size mannequins reproduce the former occupants. There are also several guns of varying sizes to be observed along the way. Although the part which is open to the public is only about half of the whole complex, the visit is still long enough to give an idea of what life on the Atlantikwall must probably have been like. I found it to be truly informative.
    Written 6 March 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • June A
    Surrey, UK2,679 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The Kusttram spans pretty much the entire North Belgian coast from the French border all the way to the Dutch and is a low cost and convenient way to visit the different villages in the area.
    Written 13 June 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Marc Derveeuw
    Ostend, Belgium423 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A majestic sailing ship with a rich history, stands proudly in the heart of Ostend, serving as a symbol of Belgium's maritime heritage. With a past as a training vessel for the Belgian merchant fleet and now a floating museum, the Mercator seamlessly intertwines nostalgia with practicality, offering visitors a unique and educational experience.

    Originally commissioned as a training ship, the Mercator played a vital role in preparing generations of Belgian seafarers officers for a life at sea. Its significance extends beyond the training grounds, having been utilized for scientific observations and representing Belgium on the global stage in various world fairs and sailing events, especially before the outbreak of World War II.

    The decision to transform the Mercator into a floating museum in 1964 was a commendable one, preserving the vessel's historical importance for future generations. Moored in front of the City Hall in Ostend, the ship invites visitors to step aboard and embark on a journey through time. The carefully curated exhibits and displays provide insight into the maritime traditions, the life of sailors, and Belgium's role in seafaring history.

    The decision to grant Mercator National Heritage status in 1996 underscores its cultural significance, emphasizing the importance of preserving this maritime gem. The ship's elegant silhouette against the Ostend skyline serves as a reminder of a bygone era, allowing visitors to connect with the seafaring past of Belgium.

    The recent extensive overhaul in 2016 was a bold step to ensure the Mercator's longevity. Temporarily removed from its usual mooring, the ship underwent necessary repairs and refurbishments in Ostend harbor, reinforcing its structural integrity. The meticulous attention to detail during this restoration process has ensured that the Mercator not only retains its historical charm but also meets contemporary safety standards.

    The decision to offer live-aboard experiences aboard the Mercator adds an exciting dimension to its already compelling story. Nostalgia comes alive as visitors have the opportunity to spend a night on this historic vessel, immersing themselves in the unique ambiance of a bygone maritime era.

    In conclusion, the Mercator in Ostend is a living testament to Belgium's maritime history. As a museum ship, training vessel, and national treasure, the Mercator invites both maritime enthusiasts and curious visitors to explore its decks, unraveling the tales of the sea and celebrating a rich maritime legacy.
    Written 27 November 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • PHILIPPE P
    Shah Alam, Malaysia148 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Ostende has 3 main beaches , beside the ones at the outskirts , white sands , life guards are omni present
    Written 13 September 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Brucestewart
    Livingston, UK9,764 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We were staying for two nights at the nearby Hotel Wellness Royal Astrid on a coach trip to Belgium and the Netherlands and during our stay we had a couple of free hours to explore Ostend. This included a walk along a good length of the Albert I Promenade. It being November there weren't many people about and there was a bracing wind coming off the sea but we enjoyed our walk.
    Written 4 October 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • The Lucky Traveller 🧳
    Antwerp, Belgium75 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Kept in a great condition Ensor's house give you the vibe of a different age.
    Even if knowing that the painting are reproductions they still beautifull to see them on their original location. The "papier-mache"mask's are superb. Very friendly personel to advice & guide you around the place.
    Written 13 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Andrea B
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The most beautiful stained glass - almost a cubist vibe in parts - specially the vibrant upper story of color-blocked saints. Camera can't do it justice!
    Written 29 August 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • katlynne62
    Rotterdam, The Netherlands30 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We went to see Brit Floyd and I was quite impressed with the cleanliness and how well organized this venue was. The seats were very comfortable and placed with a good view of the stage. My only negative opinion is that of the casino. Improvement is required here in the games that they offer. The only table games was Roulette. The are missing Black Jack (or 21) and poker. There was very little variety in the slot machines. This is unfortunate because it is in a very good location and the staff were friendly yet professional.
    Written 9 November 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • bas t
    Brussels, Belgium1,997 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    nice park to stroll around not very large but very pretty and some interesting water statues worth the visit
    Written 30 August 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • JanetBrussels
    Brussels, Belgium359 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Definitely for lovers of Modern Art!

    I feel my mark is generous, and that is because I did enjoy the special Ensor exhibition.

    However, I found the other exhibits difficult, but then a lot of very modern art leaves me cold. One exhibition was simply over-written, I couldn't follow it and get an idea of what it was really all about.
    Written 28 June 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Bubbles73uk
    Weedon Bec, UK854 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I'm not all that interested in fishing, but my visit to the Amandine ended up being one of my favourite attractions in Ostend.

    Located right near the port, Amandine sailed her last journey in 1995 & is now an enjoyable little museum showing you what life would be like on a fishing vessel in extreme conditions.

    Fishing in the cold, stormy waters of the south coast of Iceland for months at a time was both physically & emotionally exhausting. The heroic fishermen of Ostend worked long hours, & lived & worked togeter 24/7 in tight quarters. So why did they do it? The catches consiting mainly of Cod, Haddock, Pollack, Red Mullet, Red Sea Bream, Flounder & Scottish Plaice were HUGE - much bigger than what was found in the North Sea.

    My visit to the Amandine made me realise that I had never really thought about what life would be like on a fishing vessel, let alone one in extreme conditions. I love museums that make you think about things you hadn't previously considered & this one did, so was a worthwhile experience.
    Written 20 March 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Michael B
    Nottingham, UK15 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great walk out into the sea whatever the weather. Avoiding waves as they crash against the rocks. Nice to watch the ships as they pass and the surfers trying to get onto their boards. It’s free too.
    Written 8 September 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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