Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Knokke, Belgium

Knokke is a town within the municipality of Knokke-Heist. Although relatively small, it accounts for 16,000 of the municipality’s 30,000 residents. While it may not be the most popular destination in Belgium, it certainly attracts the middle class within the country and is a favored location for those with holiday homes, owing to its numerous beaches and lively nightlife. In exploring the surroundings of Knokke, one can observe many impressive mansions scattered across the neighboring towns.

Regarding tourism, Knokke’s primary attractions include its beach and nightlife. However, visitors will also find several noteworthy museums and art galleries. For those with a taste for unique shopping experiences, there are various upscale boutiques to explore. Dining options are abundant in the Knokke-Heist area, featuring a wide spectrum of culinary establishments.

If you intend to visit Knokke and Knokke-Heist during your trip to Belgium, it is advisable to allocate a couple of days. This time frame will facilitate a day dedicated to enjoying the beach and another for exploring a couple of museums. Don’t overlook the casino; you can either enjoy some entertainment or try your luck at the gaming tables. For visitors staying longer, consider scheduling a guided tour of the casino to discover its hidden treasures and embark on a boat trip to observe local seals.

1. Visit the For Freedom Museum

This captivating museum located in the Knokke-Heist area provides an insightful and realistic portrayal of life during the Second World War.

Often featured in battlefield tours of the area, many visitors deem it a highlight of their itinerary.

The diverse dioramas, exhibits, and artifacts illustrate life in the region from 1940 to 1945. The museum is open daily during the summer season and on weekends in November and December.

Admission costs 8 Euros for adults.

2. See Knokke’s Nature Reserve

The Zwin Nature Park amusingly billing itself as the international bird airport accurately reflects the astounding variety of migratory birds that traverse this region during their journeys globally.

The park features a newly constructed visitor center that elaborates on the birds and their migratory patterns through diverse and engaging displays.

Additionally, observatory decks and a walking trail enable visitors to observe the birds up close.

3. Be a High-Roller in the Grand Casino

Knokke’s Grand Casino offers a more opulent experience on the inside compared to its exterior.

From the outside, the structure appears to be a simple concrete design, enhanced by neon lights.

However, within lies an atmosphere reminiscent of Las Vegas, complete with slot machines, live tables, and occasional live entertainment featuring magicians and musicians on select days.

Entry is permitted for individuals over 21 years old. To view the highlights of the casino, such as its 72-meter-wide mural and impressive glass chandelier, which are not accessible to the general public, inquire at the tourist office about available tours.

4. Learn About the Ways of the Past in Knokke-Heist

The Sincfala Museum presents a comprehensive history of the fisherman’s life in Knokke-Heist, revealing their numerous challenges.

The museum spans over 2000 years of regional history, offering an in-depth and fascinating perspective on life in the area.

Admission to the museum costs 3.50 Euros, and it remains open every day of the year except for Christmas and New Year.

5. Hire a Bike from Zoute Cycles

Zoute Cycles serves as an excellent starting point for a cycling adventure in the Knokke area.

Instead of navigating into the town center, dealing with parking costs, and beginning your journey from there, simply head to Zoute Cycles, where you can park for free and rent your bike.

Zoute also serves as a great base for those wishing to explore either the countryside or the coastline.

6. Take a Boat Trip

There is no better way to enjoy the seaside than by embarking on a boat trip. Numerous companies offer tours departing from Knokke, providing an excellent outing, particularly during the summer months.

The most enjoyable tours allow participants to observe local seals.

Typically, these excursions start with a swift journey out to sea, reaching speeds of approximately 65 km/h, before slowing to enable seals to surface and approach the boat.

7. Visit the Five Beaches

The Knokke-Heist region features five distinct beaches, all easily accessible from the town of Knokke.

Each beach possesses unique attributes, ensuring that visitors will likely discover one that resonates with their preferences.

Take a leisurely stroll from Knokke to Heist to experience the diversity among the beaches, some being more sports-oriented, while others are stylish or family-friendly.

If walking seems too tiresome, consider joining one of the numerous horseback tours along the beach for a unique experience.

8. Visit the Art Nocturne Knokke Gallery

Art Nocturne Knokke is gaining recognition across Europe, and justifiably so.

The collection here is diverse and compelling, encompassing a range of themes and styles, including contemporary art and design.

Access to the gallery is priced at 15 Euros for adults, while entry is complimentary for those under 18. The gallery is located on Maxim Willemspad.

9. Chill at Surfer’s Paradise

The Surfer’s Paradise bar boasts an excellent beachside location and is among the top venues for refreshments and light meals in Knokke.

While gourmet food is not the focus, patrons can expect good music, picturesque beach views, comfortable seating, and informal dining options.

If you find yourself on the beach in search of a refreshing drink and a snack, Surfer’s Paradise is an ideal choice. Moreover, they also offer surfing lessons for those wishing to enhance their skills.

10. Listen to Some Sweet Jazz Music

The Septime Jazz Bar in Knokke is rapidly becoming known for its elegant and engaging nightlife.

The venue serves a limited menu of food, good beer, and cocktails, while being the stage for live jazz performances every Saturday night.

The setting is simply decorated and somewhat intimate, yet the atmosphere on Saturday nights is lively, with high-quality jazz music and patrons dancing.

11. Ride in the Sea Lounge

The Sea Lounge offers a boat experience distinct from the seal-watching tours also available in Knokke.

This luxury catamaran can be rented for private use or for special occasions such as bachelor parties and photo sessions.

If you seek a more luxurious boat trip compared to typical seal-watching excursions, this is the finest option available.

12. Visit the Crea Bloemen Flower Shop

Even if purchasing flowers or ceramics isn’t on your agenda, a visit to this shop is worthwhile.

Crea Bloemen, established in Knokke for over two decades, specializes in creating exquisite home decor and floral arrangements.

The shop is as visually appealing as any art gallery and merits exploration during your time in Knokke. You can find Crea Bloemen on Lippenslaan.

13. Take a Green Tour of the Coast

For visitors who prefer not to contribute to pollution by driving along the coast but may lack the endurance for cycling, Park and Drive Electric offers an ideal solution.

Renting an electric vehicle similar to a golf caddy allows for convenient touring of both the coast and the town.

These vehicles provide the advantage of open sides for excellent visibility, and their operation cost is solely the rental fee. Furthermore, for those renting for extended periods, a new battery is provided daily to ensure continuous mobility.

14. Get Active at the Chalet Suisse

The leading leisure center in Knokke, Chalet Suisse, features a wide array of sports all in one location.

Activities available include tennis, miniature golf, bowling, and archery, complemented by a restaurant capable of hosting 50 diners.

The restaurant offers simple fare such as grilled meats and mussels, which satisfy hunger after an active session of tennis.

15. See a Flying Hare

Strolling through the dunes near the Zwin in Knokke may present an opportunity to witness the sculpture of a flying hare.

This immense hare, captured in mid-leap, is crafted entirely from bronze by British artist Barry Flannigan.

The sculpture, titled “Hospitality,” symbolizes fertility, power, and freedom.