Bruges market square and belfry

Day Trips from Blankenberge

Bruges in 15 minutes, the full Belgian coast by tram, and nature reserves beyond.

One of the great advantages of a vacation in Blankenberge is the location. You are on the coast, but also within easy reach of medieval cities, nature reserves, and neighbouring seaside towns. Use Blankenberge as your base and explore West Flanders by train, tram, or car.

Bruges market square
15 MIN BY TRAIN

Bruges

The crown jewel of West Flanders and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Bruges is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval towns, with canals, cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture, and world-class chocolate and beer.

Must-see: Markt square and Belfry tower, canal boat tour, Basilica of the Holy Blood, Groeningemuseum, Beguinage, windmills along the city walls.

Getting there: Direct train from Blankenberge station, approximately 15 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day.

Links: visitbruges.be

10 MIN BY TRAIN

Ostend (Oostende)

Belgium's largest coastal city, with a different character from Blankenberge — more urban, with a royal history, art museums, and a large marina. Queen Marie-José spent summers here, and the city has a proud fishing and artistic heritage.

Must-see: James Ensor museum, Mu.ZEE art museum, royal galleries, fish market, harbour promenade, sandy beach.

Getting there: Train (10 min) or coastal tram (20 min east).

Links: visitoostende.be

30 MIN BY TRAM

Knokke-Heist

The most upscale resort on the Belgian coast. Knokke is known for designer boutiques, art galleries, the Zwin nature reserve, and a beautiful wide beach. The Heist area is quieter and more family-oriented.

Must-see: Het Zwin nature park (bird sanctuary at the Dutch border), Knokke beach and shopping, Duinbergen villas, Sincfala museum.

Getting there: Coastal tram eastbound, approximately 30 minutes.

Links: visitknokkeheist.be · zwin.be

15 MIN BY TRAM

De Haan

A charming coastal town famous for its Belle Époque villas and art nouveau architecture. Albert Einstein lived here in Villa Savoyarde in 1933. De Haan has a more refined, village-like atmosphere compared to Blankenberge.

Must-see: Concession area villas, De Haan beach (wider and less crowded), Vosseslag beach, woods and dunes.

Getting there: Coastal tram westbound, approximately 15 minutes.

Links: dehaan.be

WALKING DISTANCE

Uitkerkse Polder

Just inland from Blankenberge, this nature reserve is one of the best birdwatching sites in Belgium. Flat polder landscapes, grazing cattle, and hundreds of bird species make it a peaceful contrast to the busy seafront.

Getting there: Cycle or drive a few kilometres inland. Visitor centre with trails and observation hides.

Links: visit-blankenberge.be

1 HOUR BY TRAIN

Ghent (Gent)

A vibrant university city with stunning medieval architecture, canals, and a lively food scene. Less touristy than Bruges but equally beautiful. Worth a full day if you have time.

Must-see: Gravensteen castle, Graslei and Korenlei waterfront, St. Bavo's Cathedral (with the Ghent Altarpiece), Patershol food quarter.

Getting there: Train via Bruges, approximately 1 hour total.

Links: visit.gent.be

Coastal tram in Blankenberge
COASTAL TRAM

The Full Belgian Coast

Why not ride the entire coastal tram line in one day? From De Panne near the French border to Knokke-Heist at the Dutch border — stop wherever catches your eye. Each town has its own character:

  • De Panne — widest beach, dunes, Plopsaland theme park nearby
  • Nieuwpoort — historic fishing port, Yser tower memorial
  • Middelkerke — family resort, Wellington racetrack
  • Bredene — only Belgian beach without a sea dike
  • Wenduine — quiet, natural dunes

Links: delijn.be — Coastal tram

Perfect Base for Exploring

Stay at our apartment and day-trip across West Flanders. Train station and coastal tram within reach.

View Our Apartment