Sightseeing in Oostende - what to see. Complete travel guide

It’s a major port city and a famous resort. The city’s name can be translated as “Eastern Region” as originally it was located in the eastern part of Testerep Island. Later sea level lowered and the island merged with mainland, but its name kept the memory of its foundation.

During the warm season the resort attracts visitors by its spacious beaches; the swimming season is open from June until the end of September. For the rest of the year excursions to remarkable places remain main attractions for tourists. The Spanish House built in 1741 is one of the oldest buildings of Oostende. Once the house was used as a laundry; later the building was converted into a toy store. In the middle of the 20th century all old buildings were demolished, but the Spanish House miraculously survived. For many years the house was abandoned, until the building was bought by the city’s authorities. In 2001 the house was restored, and today it is considered the most beautiful historical place and the city's symbol.

St. Peter and Paul Church built in 1905 is the most important religious place of interest of Oostende. The height of the towers estimates 72 meters. On the territory of the church is buried the first queen of Belgium, Louise Marie of Orleans. Not far away from the church is located St. Peter’s Tower, the main decoration of which is the ancient clocks created by masters in the 15th century. It is also worth visiting the Church of Capuchins. This is a beautiful architectural structure of the beginning of the 17th century. The biggest open-air museum of the country is also located here. This is Raversijde Museum Complex. Here you will find a small fishing village, a complex of military fortifications and towers, as well as a beautiful manor, which once has belonged to Prince Charles. Art-lovers should visit the house-museum of artist James Ensor as this museum exhibits a large collection of his paintings. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

A great place for walking is Leopold Square, the main decoration of which is a monument to Leopold I, the first King of Belgium. The monument is decorated in a marine style on one side, which is a vivid reminder of the king's hobby - fishing. The other side of the monument symbolizes the monarch's solemn accession to the throne.

A kind of symbol of the resort city is the Thermae Palace. Many eminent persons chose this chic thermal complex as a vacation spot. The thermal complex located in a luxury park is presently open to the public. In the warmer months, its guests can find a public swimming pool and an incredibly beautiful Japanese garden in the immediate vicinity of the palace. Not long ago an art gallery was opened here in the park, so you can always diversify your health-improving vacation with an interesting excursion. Near the Thermae Palace is a popular beach.

Ostend has a great Historical Museum, which introduces visitors to the most important events in the history of the city. This museum stores valuable historical documents, collections of ancient weapons and household items, as well as unique works of art and handicrafts. The museum holds special excursions for children, during which they are allowed to hold some of the exhibits in their hands.

An unforgettable event would be a visit to the Museum of Marine History that is based in the old Amandine fishing vessel. The atmosphere the past is fully recreated on the ship. Today, on board are valuable ship equipment, ancient sea charts, as well as other incredible marine artifacts.

One of the most picturesque and unusual city districts is the so-called Fishermen's Quarter also known as Visserskaai. Its central attraction is a large aquarium that contains a rich collection of sea creations. In the same quarter, you can visit some fine fish restaurants and gastronomic shops as well as many local souvenir shops offering interesting marine gifts.