Its coastline stretches from De Panne to Knokke, has broad sandy beaches, dune reserves, and lively promenades with seaside cafes. Inland, the landscape changes into peaceful farmlan, and cities that once stood at the heart of European commerce.
Bruges is the province’s crown jewel, a city where canals weave through streets lined with medieval houses. Chocolate shops, lace stores and local breweries preserve centuries-old crafts. A short drive away, the town of Ypres has a very different story. Its museums, memorials and rebuilt medieval center honor the soldiers who fought in World War I.
Damme’s green polder landscapes are ideal for bike rides. The countryside around Poperinge is home to hop fields and traditional breweries. And the Zwin Nature Park near Knokke-Heist is a haven for migrating birds and scenic trails.
West Flanders gives you coastal relaxation, powerful stories and beautifully preserved architecture. It’s a province where every trip can easily combine sea views, cultural highlights and rural landscapes.
West Flanders highlights
- Bruges Explore one of Europe’s most enchanting historic cities. See medieval squares, climb the Belfry, glide along canals and admire the art in the Groeninge Museum. Bruges becomes even more magical at dusk when the cobbled streets light up.
- Ypres Discover the moving history of the First World War. Visit the Flanders Fields Museum, walk the ramparts and attend the daily Last Post ceremony under the Menin Gate. A powerful tribute held every evening since 1928.
- Belgian Coast The entire coastline is easy to explore by tram. Enjoy sandy beaches, seaside promenades, and lively towns such as Ostend, Nieuwpoort, and De Panne. Ideal for a relaxed coastal road trip.
- Diksmuide & the Yser Tower Experience the IJzertoren. It's an impressive peace memorial. Also explore the surrounding wartime trench sites. The panoramic views from the top show how the landscape still holds traces of history.
- Poperinge & the Hops Region West Flanders is Belgium’s beer heartland. Visit hop fields, learn about brewing traditions at the Hop Museum. Visit cozy cafés around the region. Poperinge’s local brews are among Belgium’s best.
- De Haan A charming Belle Époque seaside town known for its elegant villas and quieter beachfront. Perfect for travelers who want the coast without the crowds.
The local Four
History of West Flanders
By the 12th and 13th centuries Bruges had become one of Europe’s busiest ports, attracting merchants from Italy, England and the Hanseatic world. Its canals, warehouses and guildhalls were built during this golden age of international commerce and textile production.
The prosperity continued until the 15th century, when shifting trade routes and a silting harbor forced Bruges to give way to Antwerp. Yet the region remained wealthy thanks to skilled weavers, cloth makers and farmers.
West Flanders is also deeply marked by the First World War. Between 1914 and 1918 the Ypres Salient became one of the most tragic battlefields in Europe. Towns were destroyed, landscapes were reshaped by shell craters. Entire generations of soldiers passed through the area. Today places like Tyne Cot Cemetery, Hill 60 and the Menin Gate stand as quiet reminders of the past.
After the war the region rebuilt itself. Restoring medieval squares, rebuilding churches stone by stone and modernizing coastal towns. Fishing ports expanded, seaside resorts developed and Bruges re-emerged as one of Europe’s most beautiful historic cities. You can move from ancient trading streets to quiet WWI memorials and wide sandy beaches in a single afternoon.