Vistrap fish market

The Vistrap is Ostend’s open-air fish market, on the jetty by the Montgomerydok on the Visserskaai, opposite the Nieuwstraat. A market has stood here since the port was developed in the 19th century; the current covered market, with eight stands, was completed in 2016.

What makes it special is who sells here: only the owners of small coastal fishing boats, selling their own catch from trips of less than a day. Expect fresh North Sea fish, whole, gutted or filleted, and cooked grey shrimp, peeled or unpeeled. Choice depends on the season and on whether the boats could go out: after a storm at sea there may be little or nothing on sale. Come early in the morning for the best selection.

Hot food and drinks are not sold at the Vistrap itself. For a snack, walk along the quay to the fish stalls on the Visserskaai, which sell shellfish, smoked and dried fish and cups of hot sea snails (wulloks).