Things To Do
in Middelkerke

Middelkerke is a charming coastal town located in Belgium, known for its sandy beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. With a vibrant promenade lined with cafes and shops, it attracts both locals and tourists throughout the year. The town is also home to various cultural events and festivals that celebrate its rich history.

Its proximity to other coastal towns makes it an ideal base for exploring the Belgian coast.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Middelkerke
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, followed by breakfast at a local café, enjoying pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Middelkerke Museum to learn about the town's history and culture, then explore the nearby coastal dunes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring the Surroundings
morning
:

Take a bicycle ride to nearby Westende, visiting quaint shops and enjoying a local breakfast.

afternoon
:

Head to the beach for some sun and relaxation, or try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding.

evening
:

Visit a local bar for some drinks and live music, experiencing Middelkerke's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Cup of coffee$3-5
🍺Pint of beer$4-8
🍦Ice cream cone$2-4
🚌Bus ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful sandy beaches
  • Family-friendly atmosphere
  • Rich cultural events and festivals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Can be crowded during peak summer season
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Ik spreek een beetje Nederlands" - I speak a little Dutch

Places to Visit in Middelkerke

Visit one of these nice places.

Middelkerke Beach

A picturesque stretch of sandy beach perfect for sunset photography.

The Promenade

A lively boardwalk with stunning views of the sea, ideal for capturing the townsfolk and activities.

Middelkerke Museum

An intriguing building with exhibits that make for interesting architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Middelkerke

Middelkerke offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the best of Belgian cuisine with a coastal twist.

Middelkerke Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moules-frites

A classic Belgian dish of mussels served with crispy fries, often enjoyed with a glass of white wine.

Must-Try!

Carbonnade Flamande

A hearty beef stew made with beer, onions, and spices, perfect for a filling meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Middelkerke Market

A vibrant weekly market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and homemade treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Middelkerke experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), making it pleasant for beach activities. Winters can be chilly, averaging 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F), with occasional snowfall. Rain is common throughout the year, so carrying an umbrella is advisable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Hallo' and maintain a polite demeanor during conversations.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal, and it's customary to finish your plate.

Dress Code

Dress smart-casual when dining out or attending events; beachwear is only appropriate at the beach.

Safety Guide

Safety

Middelkerke is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. In case of emergencies, the local police and healthcare services are easily reachable.

Tipping in Middelkerke

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's useful to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a beautiful time to visit, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect warm weather and bustling beaches, great for sunbathing and water sports.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque landscape, ideal for walks.

Winter

Colder weather with fewer tourists; however, the festive atmosphere and holiday events are charming.

Nightlife Guide

Middelkerke at Night

Middelkerke boasts a lively nightlife scene with various bars and clubs offering music, dancing, and entertainment. Many venues are located along the promenade, providing a vibrant atmosphere. Live music events and themed nights are common, catering to diverse tastes. The nightlife is family-friendly, with options for all ages, ensuring a fun evening out.

Hiking in Middelkerke

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Koksijde Dunes

A scenic trail through the dunes near Koksijde, offering beautiful views of the coastline and unique flora.

Westhoek Nature Reserve

A stunning area for hiking, featuring diverse landscapes, wildlife, and well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Middelkerke by plane.

Ostend-Bruges International Airport

Located about 15 km from Middelkerke, this airport offers connections to various European destinations and is the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Middelkerke is highly walkable, with a flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks. The promenade extends along the beach, making it easy to stroll between shops, cafes, and attractions. Most amenities are within walking distance, providing a pleasant experience for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town has a mix of long-term residents and seasonal inhabitants, contributing to its vibrant community.

Tourists

Middelkerke attracts visitors from all over Belgium and Europe, especially during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A widely popular sport in Belgium, with local clubs and amateur leagues active throughout the region.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with numerous bike paths along the coast and through the countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Middelkerke is generally light, with most visitors using bicycles or walking to get around. Public transportation, including buses, is readily available, connecting the town with neighboring areas. Parking can be a challenge during peak tourist season, so using public transport or walking is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Middelkerke.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; it's advisable to inform the staff of any dietary needs.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some restaurants provide gluten-free meals, but checking in advance is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Middelkerke is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals available for residents and tourists. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide