From the northern Knokke to the southern De Panne, the beauty and diversity of the Flemish coast await you.
Traveling along the dazzling Belgian coastline, De Lijn's Flemish Coastal Tram presents itself as a unique way to discover the diverse charms of Flanders. The cultural heritage offers an unforgettable travel experience for avid nature lovers, history buffs and gourmets alike.
Whether you are a resident looking for a relaxing day out or a tourist wanting to discover the unique charms of the Flemish coast, the Coastal Tram offers an adventurous and authentic experience that you will not soon forget.
The longest tram line in the world is the Belgian Coast Tram, also known as the Coastal Tram, which runs along the entire Belgian coast from De Panne near the French border to Knokke-Heist near the Dutch border. The tram line, which opened in 1885, has a total length of approximately 68 kilometers and serves 68 stations. It is a popular tourist attraction and offers a beautiful view of the North Sea and the various towns and villages along the Belgian coast.
Although the coastal cities are certainly worth a visit, it is the journey itself that makes the Coastal Tram a unique experience. The tram offers you uninterrupted views of the Flemish coast, allowing you to experience the changing landscapes and seasons in all their glory.
Start your tour in Knokke, the most northeastern point of the route. Knokke, a luxurious seaside resort, offers numerous fine dining options, trendy boutiques and art galleries. Also take the time to visit the beautiful Zwin and Het Zoute nature reserves.
As the tram winds along the shoreline, experience the tranquil beauty of the landscape. Enjoy the stretches of sand, the seagulls soaring above the waves, and the soothing rhythm of the rolling waves. Stop at De Haan, a picturesque seaside town known for its Belle Epoque architecture. Stroll through the charming streets and taste the local Belgian cuisine in one of the cozy restaurants.
The Belgian coast is famous for its seafood, and no trip is complete without sampling the fresh prawns, mussels and oysters, often served with a glass of Belgian beer or a traditional jenever.
The next stop is Ostend, often referred to as the 'Queen of Seaside Towns'. Here you can visit the Royal Galleries and the Fort Napoleon, a journey into the past that underlines the rich history of the city. Don't forget to visit the bustling Visserskaai, where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
The cultural offer continues in Ostend, where you can visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an impressive collection of works by Flemish and Belgian artists. Or delve into the city's maritime past with a visit to the Amandine, Ostend's last Icelandic vessel, which is now a museum.
For music lovers, there is the Kursaal Oostende, a concert hall and event center that hosts numerous concerts, musicals and theater plays. And for film buffs, the annual Ostend Film Festival offers a selection of films from around the world, including many Belgian premieres.
In Nieuwpoort, for example, you can stop to visit the impressive King Albert I monument, a tribute to the Belgian king who led the country through the First World War. The nearby Westfront Nieuwpoort visitor center provides a fascinating insight into the history of the 'Battle of the Yser' and the destruction and later reconstruction of the city.
The tram line ends in De Panne, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the Hoge Blekker Duinpark and the Westhoek nature reserve. The terminus of the Coastal Tram is also the starting point of another discovery tour in Adinkerke, namely Plopsaland. A popular theme park that will entertain both children and adults with its range of rides, from thrilling rollercoasters to live shows featuring some of Studio 100's most popular characters.
So grab your ticket, get on board and let the Flemish Coastal Tram take you on a journey full of wonders. From the northern Knokke to the southern De Panne, the beauty and diversity of the Flemish coast await you.
Tickets are available from various outlets and vending machines along the coast. You can also buy a day or multi-day pass if you plan to travel for several days. For more information, visit the official website from The Line.