Port Guide | Belgium | Worth a Wander
Oostende
Samantha Cruz | Editor
Published on 2025-12-06
Welcome to Oostende, a refreshingly unpretentious Belgian gem that proves there's more to life on shore than moules-frites and postcard-perfect medieval squares (though you'll find plenty of both nearby). As your floating condo gently docks, resist the urge to sprint immediately toward the dazzling stretch of golden beach-you'll have time for sand between your toes later (you're here for at least two days, after all). Originally a sleepy fishing village turned favored holiday spot of King Leopold II-who thankfully had better taste in seaside architecture than human rights policy-Oostende today blends laid-back elegance with artsy seaside irreverence. Kick things off by exploring the eccentric Ensor House, former residence of painter James Ensor, who reshaped modern art from his mother's attic while simultaneously annoying half of Europe's critics. Afterward, sample some sublimely fresh shrimp croquettes at a breezy promenade cafe before renting a paddleboard or kayak, just to remind yourself that your shipboard balance skills come in handy on smaller vessels too.
Belgium has 8 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Oostende is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and seafood cuisine. It's a great place for water activities and exploring cultural landmarks.
Where do cruise ships dock in Oostende?
Port Name Oostende
Country Belgium
Region Western Europe
Ship Terminal Oostende Cruise Terminal
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The cruise terminal is located approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the city center, accessible by foot or via local buses.
What's the weather like in Oostende?
Best Season to Visit Summer (June to August)
Climate Temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters.
Weather Notes Summer can occasionally bring rainy days; occasional strong winds from the North Sea.
Temperature Range 60F to 75F (15C to 24C)
High Temp 77F
Low Temp 34F
Average Temp 54F
What do I need to know about Oostende?
Language Dutch
Currency Euro (€)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 69,000
Timezone Central European Time (CET)
How do I get around Oostende?
Local buses, taxis, bicycles available for rent
What are The Best Things to do in Oostende?
Discover what you should do while you're in Oostende.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Sand Sculpture Festival Oostende
Zeeheldenplein, 8400 Oostende
A unique annual festival featuring impressive sand sculptures made by talented artists.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Belgian Beer Tasting Tour
Various locations, 8400 Oostende
Sample a variety of unique local and regional beers guided by a beer expert.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Belgian Chocolate Workshop
Kapellestraat 38, 8400 Oostende
Hands-on Belgian chocolate making workshops unique to the region.
Distance from Terminal: 0.4 miles
Oostende Fish Market
Visserskaai, 8400 Oostende
Visit this traditional fish market hosted daily, featuring freshest catches from the North Sea.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Beach Library Oostende
Albert I-promenade, 8400 Oostende
Borrow a book and read at the unique beach library setup exclusive to Oostende.
Distance from Terminal: 0.5 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Mu.ZEE Museum
Romestraat 11, 8400 Oostende
Visit this museum showcasing unique Belgian art, emphasizing Western European expressionists.
Distance from Terminal: 0.7 miles
Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum
Nieuwpoortsesteenweg 636, 8400 Oostende
Explore the preserved WWII fortifications along the Belgian coastline.
Distance from Terminal: 4.9 miles
Mercator Sailing Ship
Mercatordok, 8400 Oostende
Board this historic training sailing ship, a centerpiece of maritime history.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
Fort Napoleon Exploration
Vuurtorenweg 13, 8400 Oostende
Explore this historical fort originally built by Napoleon Bonaparte.
Distance from Terminal: 1.6 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Fishing at Oostende Pier
Albert I-promenade, 8400 Oostende
Participate in recreational fishing off the iconic Oostende Pier.
Distance from Terminal: 0.6 miles
Horseback Riding in the Dunes
Koninklijke Baan, 8400 Oostende
Enjoy horseback riding tours through Oostende's coastal sand dunes.
Distance from Terminal: 5.6 miles
North Sea Shrimp Catching Tour
Visserskaai, 8400 Oostende
Embark on a guided tour and catch North Sea shrimp using traditional methods.
Distance from Terminal: 0.2 miles
North Sea Surfing Lessons
Koning Boudewijnpromenade, 8400 Oostende
Learn to surf with trained instructors on the waves of the North Sea.
Distance from Terminal: 2.8 miles
Overnight Trips
Day Trip to Bruges
N/A
Experience medieval splendor in historic Bruges, just a short trip away.
Distance from Terminal: 15.5 miles
A Little Extra
Wind Energy Experience Center
Esplanadestraat 1, 8400 Oostende
Learn about wind energy at this innovative interactive renewable energy center.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Spa Day at Thermae Palace
Koningin Astridlaan 7, 8400 Oostende
Relax in sophisticated European spa traditions housed in an art deco landmark.
Distance from Terminal: 1.1 miles
Oostende Casino Visit
Kursaal-Westhelling 12, 8400 Oostende
Experience the grandeur of a Western European casino with slots, poker, and roulette.
Distance from Terminal: 0.3 miles
Belgium Regional Tip
Gluten-Free Use the phrase 'sans gluten' when ordering, and inquire about dishes as traditional dishes often involve flour-based sauces or beer derivatives.