Hostels in OOSTENDE, BELGIUM

Oostende City – Escape to the Blissful Sandy Shores

Travel to Oostende a small fishing village evolved into a resort town, Oostende city embraces its visitors with the ebullience of the surroundings.

History:
Oostende, which is nick-named as “The Queen of the Belgian Sea-side resorts” owing to its connection with the Belgian Royal family was constantly prone to sea attacks in historic days. With the closure of Antwerp harbour in 1722, the significance of Oostende grew and over the period rose to being one of the major transportation hubs of Belgium.

Popular places:
From bustling beaches to historical monuments, Oostende offers itself to diverse visitors to Belgium. The numerous magnificent monuments including the exquisite gallery at the Sea Promenade built during King Leopold II regime are illustrious examples of the Royal Oostende.

The splendid architecture of the twin towers of Saint Peter and Saint Paul’s church, which are very close to the main railway station, also draws huge visitors. One of the biggest draws all through the year is the “Three Master Mercator Ship”, a floating museum, which was built in 1931 and used by the Belgian Navy till 1960.

Visitors can also get an impression of the two world wars at the “Atlantikwall” and “Vindicative” with numerous tunnels and bunkers. The “Fort Napoleon”, the only fully intact Napoleonic fortress lasting in Europe, offers a view of marvelous architecture. 

Very close to the Fish market, the North Sea Aquarium boasts of a collection of rare fish and North Sea shells. The scenic beaches remain the biggest tourist spots of Oostende.  One can choose from the Oosterstrand, the Klein strand, the Mariakerke beach, Raversijde beach or Groot-of-Westerstrand. A refreshing walk on the Pier of Ostend completely mesmerizes visitors.  

Getting around:
Oostende is known as a Ferry Port. Though, getting into the city and moving around is facilitated by many ferries, usual modes like car, trains are also available besides public transportation of trams.

Places of Entertainment:
The yearlong Fish market sells fresh North Sea fish and the ubiquitous fish stalls offer various delicacies. Visitors can also grab the classic Belgian fish dishes viz., Sole à l'Ostendaise', 'Tomate Crevette' or 'Paling in 't groen' a guide for anyone is this, if you like fish you will love Oostende.

The night life in Oostende bustles with huge crowds at Casino-Kursaal and in the several pubs, clubs and cinema complexes.   

Visitors can go for souvenir shopping and will be over whelmed at the collection in the Kapellestraat and at the central square Wapenplein. The many water sport events hosted all through the year offer an active holiday to visitors.

Accommodation Options:
Oostende provides varied accommodation options for students, backpackers and independent travellers. From budget hotels to luxury hotels, from youth hostels, bed and breakfast, guesthouse and motels to holiday resorts, one can book a stay in Oostende at the most affordable rates.

Currency:
Like many other European cities, currency of the Oostende city is Euro, which is readily available at any of the foreign exchange counters.

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