Ostend

When planning a trip to Ostend, you are choosing a journey to the "Queen of Belgian Beaches," located on the North Sea coast in the province of West Flanders. This popular resort city in Belgium attracts tourists not only with its wide sandy beaches and seaside promenade but also with its rich history. You can reach it comfortably by plane, train, or car.

The fastest way to reach the coast is to catch a flight to Ostend-Bruges International Airport (OST), which handles both passenger and cargo traffic. The air gateway is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, making arrival here exceptionally convenient for starting your holiday.

The airport is well connected to the city's infrastructure, so the transfer to your hotel or the beach will take very little time. During the summer season, the number of charter flights here traditionally increases, ensuring a steady flow of tourists wishing to relax by the sea.

Rail transport in this region is excellently developed, and many tourists arrive at the coast via major transport hubs, such as Bruges Railway Station, which is on the same line as Ostend. Trains in Belgium are known for their comfort and punctuality, making the ride a pleasant part of your journey.

From Brussels or other major cities in the country, you can reach the coast via direct services that run with enviable frequency. Traveling by train allows you to enjoy the picturesque flat landscapes of Flanders and avoid traffic jams on the roads during the high season.

Intercity bus services are an economical option for those planning to get to Ostend from neighbouring European countries or remote corners of Belgium. Major carriers, such as FlixBus, often include the coast in their routes, especially during the summer period, offering comfortable trips with Wi-Fi and air conditioning.

Although the travel time by bus may be longer than by train, this is compensated by lower ticket prices and the opportunity to see the country from the window. Buses usually arrive at transport hubs in the city centre, from where it is convenient to begin your exploration of the resort.

Travelling by car ensures maximum freedom of movement, and you can reach the resort via the E40 motorway, which connects the coast with Brussels and Ghent. The travel time from the capital is usually about one and a half hours; however, during the high summer season, it is worth considering potential heavy traffic when approaching the sea.

If you do not plan to rent a car, you can use taxi services or a private transfer, the cost of which will depend on the distance and the class of the vehicle. Having a car will allow you not only to reach your hotel in comfort but also to freely explore the surroundings of West Flanders at your own pace.

To ensure your holiday on the Belgian coast is as comfortable and carefree as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations considering local specifics.

1. Clothing and Weather. The climate on the North Sea is changeable, and even in summer, it can be breezy. Be sure to bring a windproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and layered clothing to easily adapt to weather changes.
2. Coastal Tram. The region's main transport highlight is the Kusttram (Coastal Tram). It is the longest tram line in the world, connecting all the coastal resorts; use it for budget-friendly and scenic trips along the sea.
3. Finances. The country's currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants to ticket machines, but having some cash for small souvenir shops or tips is useful.
4. Language. The official language of the region is Dutch (Flemish dialect). Locals generally speak excellent English, and many understand French and German, so communication issues are unlikely to arise.
5. Shop Opening Hours. Please note that most shops close quite early (around 18:00), and on Sundays, many do not open at all, with the exception of tourist zones during the high season.
6. Beach Safety. Swim only in zones monitored by lifeguards and pay close attention to safety flags. The North Sea has strong currents that can be dangerous even for experienced swimmers.
7. Gastronomic Tip. Do not miss the chance to try local grey shrimps and, of course, mussels with fries—this is the city's culinary calling card. (Note: When ordering mussels, you may request them to be prepared without white wine to suit Halal dietary preferences).

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on enjoying the sea air and the unique atmosphere of Flanders.