Oostende, Ostend

Ostend (Dutch: Oostende) is a coastal city in West Flanders province, known for its royal history as a favored resort for King Leopold I and Belgium’s aristocracy in the 19th century. The city boasts around seven kilometers of sandy beaches and a promenade lined with cafes and seafood restaurants. Key attractions include the Atlantic Wall Museum, showcasing World War II coastal defenses, the lively Beach of Ostend, and the Zeilschip Mercator, a floating museum. The neo-Gothic St. Peter and St. Paul Church is also notable, as is the seaside art museum, Mu.ZEE. For shopping, visitors can explore the Verstegen Art Galerie, the Vistrap fish market, and the Stadsbrouwerij 't Koelschip brewery. Ostend’s nightlife includes the charming Valentino bar, the hipster-kid spot Mommy’s Bastards, and the quirky pub ’t Kroegske.