Fort Napoleon

Fort Napoleon is a pentagonal brick fortress in the dunes on the east bank of the harbour. Napoleon ordered it in 1811 to defend Ostend against a British landing, and it was later used by German troops in both world wars. After decades sealed up and neglected, it was restored by the Flemish heritage agency and reopened in 2000.

Today it is one of the most rewarding visits in Ostend. A story trail with recorded voices takes you through the vaulted rooms, courtyard and ramparts, there is a separate tour pitched at children, and the brasserie inside the walls is a pleasant place for lunch. Allow about an hour, longer if you eat there. From 24 October 2026 to 11 April 2027 the fort also hosts an interactive Ketnet Junior exhibition for children aged 3 to 6, booked in time slots.

Getting there is part of the fun: take the free harbour ferry from the Visserskaai to the east bank, then walk about fifteen minutes past the Lange Nelle lighthouse. There is free parking if you drive. Combine it with a walk through the Oosteroever dunes to the beach.