Ostend

Ostend is a coastal city in West Flanders, Belgium, stretching along the North Sea and combining wide sandy beaches, a harbor promenade, and historic quarters. The central promenade runs parallel to the shore and connects shops, restaurants, and public buildings facing the open water.

The city originated in the 13th century as a fishing village and later developed into an important harbor for trade and defense along the Flemish coast. During the 19th century it grew into a popular seaside destination for European royalty and wealthy travelers.

Artist James Ensor spent nearly his entire life in this city and his former home now displays personal belongings and studio spaces. Visitors can walk through the rooms where he created his paintings featuring masks and skeletons.

The train station sits near the center and offers regular connections inland, while buses link the different city quarters. Most attractions are reachable on foot or by bicycle, and many hotels rent bikes to guests.

In the early 20th century the city had a hippodrome where horse races took place regularly and attracted aristocratic visitors. Today the grounds have been converted into a residential area, but old postcards show the former racetrack and spectators in festive attire.

Location: Arrondissement of Ostend

Inception: 1265

Capital city: Ostend

Operator: Stad Oostende

Part of: Emergency zone West Flanders 1, police zone Ostend

Shares border with: Middelkerke, Gistel, Oudenburg, Bredene

Address: Ostend, Belgium

Phone: +3259805500

Email: stadsbestuur@oostende.be

Website: http://oostende.be

GPS coordinates: 51.22583,2.91944

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:10