Car Rentals in Ostend, BEL

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Ostend

Renting a car in Ostend offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy a more relaxed travel experience. This mode of transport is particularly beneficial for families and those looking for outdoor and beach-related activities. You can visit key attractions like Ostend Beach, perfect for a day of sun and sand, and Fort Napoleon, which provides a glimpse into the region's rich history. Additionally, the Atlantic Wall Open Air Museum offers insight into military history, all conveniently located within Ostend. Beyond the city, a rental car allows you to discover popular nearby destinations, including the Belgian Coast, just 3 km away, featuring more beautiful beaches, and the charming cities of Bredene, 4 km away, and De Haan, 10 km away. This convenience makes it easy to plan day trips without the constraints of public transport schedules, ensuring you can enjoy everything Ostend and its surroundings have to offer.

Where to stay around Ostend

• Ostend: A vibrant coastal city, Ostend is renowned for its beautiful beaches including Ostend Beach, Mariakerke Beach, and Middelkerke Beach, all suitable for a delightful beach holiday. With a variety of outdoor activities and family-friendly venues, it's an excellent base for exploring the Belgian coast. The city also has an array of restaurants serving local dishes, making it a fantastic option for food enthusiasts.
• Belgian Coast: Located 3 km from Ostend, the Belgian Coast offers a stunning beach experience perfect for families and outdoor lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and an aquatic centre while taking in the local beach atmosphere. With dining options featuring regional cheese and beer, it's an ideal location for those looking to relax by the seaside while being close to attractions like Ostend Beach and Mariakerke Beach.
• Blankenberge: Situated 18 km from Ostend, Blankenberge is a charming city known for its family-friendly beach experiences. Key attractions include the Belgium Pier and Knokke-Heist Beach, perfect for enjoying the sun and sea. The local market adds a unique flavour to your visit, alongside a variety of seafood dining options. Blankenberge is an excellent choice for those seeking a lively beach atmosphere.
• De Haan: Just 10 km away from Ostend, De Haan is a peaceful retreat ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It features beautiful beaches and hiking trails, with attractions like Ostend Beach and Mariakerke Beach nearby. The city offers a selection of restaurants, ensuring you can enjoy delightful meals after a day of exploration. De Haan is especially inviting during the warmer months for beach activities.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Ostend

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters available on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire providers exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.