Ostend is a lively seaside city in Belgium that offers more than just sandy beaches and fresh seafood. Its walkable city center makes it ideal for exploring on foot, and the two tours on our list showcase very different sides of Ostend’s personality. We particularly love the Ostend: Ensor Private Walking Tour with local certified guide, because it provides a deep dive into the life of famed painter James Ensor, revealing how his artworks were inspired by Ostend’s streets and harbor. This tour is perfect for art lovers interested in understanding how a city shapes its artists—and vice versa.
Whether you’re interested in art and history or street art and modern culture, Ostend has a walking tour for you. The list below covers two distinct experiences, each offering a way to see the city through different lenses: one immerses you in the world of Ensor, while the other showcases Ostend’s vibrant street-art scene.
1. Ostend: Ensor Private Walking Tour with local certified guide
At number one, we recommend the Ostend: Ensor Private Walking Tour with local certified guide, which lasts about 2 hours. This tour is a fantastic way to see Ostend through the eyes of the artist James Ensor. Your guide, a certified local, will take you to places that inspired Ensor’s most famous works and share insights about his artistic journey and personal story.
The walk covers Ostend’s transformation from a humble fishing town to a bustling seaside resort, highlighting landmarks that Ensor knew well. You’ll see the old city streets, the harbor, and spots where Ensor found inspiration for his colorful, sometimes bizarre paintings. What sets this tour apart is the focus on Ensor’s life and creative process, making it a uniquely personal experience. The guide’s stories and anecdotes bring the city’s past alive, helping visitors connect with the artist’s world.
This tour’s value lies in its intimate format and personalized approach, especially since it’s a private tour. It’s well-suited for art enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone curious about how Ostend influenced one of Belgium’s most famous painters. Some reviews mention that the guide’s knowledge makes the art and city come alive, and most find the 2-hour duration perfect for a leisurely exploration.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in art, local history, and a tailored experience, this tour offers a deep and personal connection to Ostend’s cultural fabric.
2. Ostend : Private citycenter street-art walk with local guide
Coming in at number two is the Ostend: Private citycenter street-art walk with local guide. This 2-hour tour focuses on Ostend’s modern side, particularly its colorful murals and street art created by renowned international artists. Your local guide will take you through the city’s historic center, pointing out architectural highlights as well as the vibrant murals that adorn many walls.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to see how contemporary artists have transformed Ostend’s gray cityscape into an open-air gallery. You’ll hear the stories behind each artwork, learning about the artists and the social or political messages they convey. This tour is ideal if you’re interested in urban art or want a different perspective on Ostend’s cultural scene.
The tour’s focus on street art makes it particularly appealing for younger travelers, urban art fans, or those wanting a more dynamic walking experience. Although reviews don’t specify ratings, the tour’s emphasis on murals and architecture suggests it’s a lively, colorful way to explore the city’s evolving identity.
Bottom Line: For a more modern, edgy view of Ostend that mixes history with contemporary creativity, this street-art walk offers a fresh take on the city’s visual landscape.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and what kind of experience you’re after. If you love art history and want a deeply personal story connected to one of Belgium’s most famous painters, the Ensor tour is your best bet. It’s private, tailored, and full of engaging stories.
On the other hand, if urban culture and street art excite you, the street-art walk offers a lively, colorful way to see Ostend’s modern face. This tour is perfect for those wanting a more kinetic, visually stimulating exploration.
When planning, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. Both tours last about 2 hours, so they fit easily into most itineraries. Book early, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Ostend offers a range of walking experiences that cater to different tastes. Art lovers will find the Ensor tour fascinating, while fans of street art will enjoy the murals and contemporary vibe of the second option. Both provide authentic insights into the city’s character and are a great way to see Ostend without rushing.
If you love art, history, and storytelling, the Ensor tour is a standout choice. For a more modern, colorful perspective, the street-art walk will surprise and delight you. Whichever you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.