Discover Blankenberge

Blankenberge combines a coastal atmosphere with Belle Époque history, the open polder landscape and a variety of experiences for different kinds of days out. Here, you can explore historic buildings and museums, walk through pastureland, observe animals or plan activities on the water. When looking for a holiday apartment in Blankenberge, it is therefore worth deciding first what kind of holiday rhythm you want: should the trip primarily combine culture, nature, family experiences or water sports?

Following in the footsteps of the Belle Époque

The Belle Epoque Centrum presents the Belle Époque from 1870 to 1914, its heyday. This era also shapes the city’s historical identity: at that time, Blankenberge developed into an important seaside resort with major construction projects for the emerging tourism industry. The 3.9-kilometre Erfgoedwandelroute Blankenberge offers a focused way to experience this heritage. It starts at the Belle Epoque Centrum and passes well-preserved holiday homes built for wealthy citizens.

Other notable stops include the Oud Stadhuis and the Paravang. The Oud Stadhuis was built in 1680 in the Flemish Renaissance style, is considered the oldest surviving civic building in Blankenberge and is currently used as an exhibition hall. The Paravang dates from the Belle Époque and combines neo-Gothic forms with exotic influences. In Breydelstraat, the low fishermen’s houses at numbers 10 and 27 are also protected monuments commemorating the older local architectural tradition.

Museums, the pier and maritime history

The Maritiem Scutemuseum is dedicated to Blankenberge’s fishing industry in past centuries. Exhibits include objects, drawings, photographs and DVDs, as well as information about the reconstruction of the legendary Blankenbergse schuit. The Belgium Pier offers a different perspective on maritime history. The 350-metre-long structure extends out into the sea, is part of Belgium’s national heritage and offers views of the coast and out over the sea.

The Huisje van Majutte also combines history and hospitality: this typical fishermen’s house from the late 18th century is now a restaurant café. Shrimp croquettes based on an old family recipe were served there. Anyone interested in the development of the town and its fishing tradition will therefore find, alongside museums, a vivid historic building to visit.

Polders, woodland and walking paths

The Uitkerkse Polder is an open, centuries-old pastureland between Blankenberge and De Haan and is suitable for walking. Thousands of brent geese spend the winter there every year. For children, the Kievitspad offers an activity trail with ten stations and special tasks. Guided visits to the Uitkerkse Polder are also available, including for groups.

If you prefer a longer historical walk, the municipal route “Blankenberge: het verhaal” covers around 10 kilometres through Blankenberge and Uitkerke and takes approximately 3 hours. Shorter and longer walks are possible in Zeebos, a 41-hectare provincial woodland area between Blankenberge and Zeebrugge. Zeebos also includes a play forest, recreational meadows and an adventurous playground. The different route lengths make it easier to plan the day according to your interests and stamina, without having to experience culture and nature in the same way.

Family experiences and days by the water

SEA LIFE Blankenberge has more than 50 aquariums with over 2,500 animals. The centre also includes a seal hospital where rescued seals are cared for and subsequently released back into the sea. For a more active day by the water, Beachclub Blankenberge offers surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, bodyboarding, skimboarding, beach kiting, kayaking and rafting.

Beach access points can also play a role in planning: wheelchair users can reach the beach via paved access paths next to the Charlierhelling and at the Van Praethelling. If you are also looking for a classic leisure activity, Leopoldpark has an 18-hole miniature golf course and three outdoor tennis courts for singles and doubles matches.

The right holiday apartment for your travel plans

A holiday apartment in Blankenberge is a practical base if you want to vary your days: historic walks, polder nature, museum visits and water activities can be combined into your own unique holiday itinerary. This leaves room for shared discoveries, peaceful walks and activities independent of the weather, without reducing Blankenberge to just one type of holiday.

Discover more destinations

If you would also like to compare other places in the surrounding area, you can find more destinations here: Roeselare, Damme, Ruiselede, Harelbeke, Zuienkerke, Avelgem, Oostende and Deerlijk.

To the higher-level travel overview: West Flanders.