
Day trip from Ostend to Bruges by train
Why visit Bruges for the day?
Bruges is known for its canals, cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval centre. Gothic buildings, Flemish art and a slower pace give the city a calm, historic character.
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Dunkirk to Ostend among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £10 For those with little time, consider booking a coach, which has an average total journey time of 3h 10m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £10, while a coach costs an average of £10.
Distance: 43 km
Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|
£10 Average Price Cheapest | £9 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare the available ways to get from Dunkirk to Ostend, with the key details around price, speed, convenience, and direct service.
Tickets start at around £10 compared to roughly £9 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about -£1. The journey takes 2h 40m versus 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
The most popular day trips by train from Ostend are Bruges, Ghent, Brussels, Ypres and Antwerp. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Ostend on Omio.

Bruges is known for its canals, cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval centre. Gothic buildings, Flemish art and a slower pace give the city a calm, historic character.

Ghent is known for its canals, medieval centre and lively student atmosphere. Historic quays, Gravensteen and Saint Bavo's Cathedral give the city a cultured yet relaxed character.

Brussels mixes stately squares and Art Nouveau buildings with a relaxed café culture and multilingual character. Known as Belgium’s capital and a hub of European politics, it is also closely associated with waffles, chocolate and comic art.

Ypres is best known for its First World War history, with the Menin Gate and nearby battlefields shaping the city’s identity. Rebuilt after the war, its Cloth Hall and market square give the centre a historic yet reflective atmosphere.

Antwerp is known for diamonds, fashion and the baroque legacy of Rubens. Its compact centre pairs grand guild houses and lively squares with a creative, modern waterfront.
Travel to Ostend easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Dunkirk to Ostend.

However, we recommend checking specific travel dates for your route between Dunkirk and Ostend as scheduled services by coach can vary by season or day of the week.
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