Hugging the North Sea, West-Flanders lies wedged between France and the Netherlands in the far west of Belgium. As the country’s only province with a coastline, it is a favourite tourist destination in the summer months and is home to the ever-charming city of Bruges.
Things to do in West Flanders
Enchanting architecture, blissful beach resorts and poignant war memorials - West-Flanders is one of Belgium’s most memorable destinations.
Sightsee in Bruges. Serving as the capital of West-Flanders, Bruges centres around a medieval old town with cobblestone streets and labyrinthine canals. Gaze up at the ornately carved ceiling of the 14th-century City Hall and marvel at the artistic masterpieces on display in the Sint-Janshospitaal. Bruges’ historic Market Square is flanked by colourful guildhalls and the 83-metre-high Tolkeinesque Belfort, which offers panoramic views across the city.
Relax on the Belgian coast. Extending for 65 kilometres along the North Sea, the Belgian coastline is dotted with seaside resorts where you can while away the summer months. Experience the famous Sand Sculpture Festival of Ostend and ride the coastal tram to De Hann, which is clustered with Anglo-Norman-style cottages. Water sports enthusiasts can head to Nieuwpoort, while Blankenberge is renowned for its nightlife.
Tour the World War I battlefields of Ypres. Known as the Salient, the area around Ypres was fought over throughout the Great War, with the 1917 Battle of Passchendaele one of its most devastating. You can pay your respects to those who lost their lives at the Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery and visit the Menin Gate, through which soldiers passed on their way to the battlefields. Stay to hear the Last Post sound at 8pm each evening.
Getting around West Flanders
Oostende-Brugge International Airport is the main aviation gateway to West-Flanders and has flights to destinations across Europe. The much larger Brussels National Airport is 1.5 hours away. Trains connect to major towns and cities throughout the province while a tram travels along the coastline. Buses are also available for getting around West-Flanders Province.