Dunkirk Travel Guide

Explore the charming city of Dunkirk, Hauts-de-France, France with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to see, do, eat, and where to stay, plus practical tips and advice.


Dunkirk Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Tour Guide for Dunkirk, France

Located in the Hauts-de-France region of France, Dunkirk is a charming coastal city that has picturesque beaches, a rich culture, and plenty of things to see and do. From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views, Dunkirk offers a great experience for travelers.

In this comprehensive travel guide for Dunkirk, we will take a look at everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to this beautiful city. From where to go and what to do to where to stay and what to eat, we’ve got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Dunkirk

Dunkirk is packed with interesting things to do and see. Here are some of the must-see places in Dunkirk:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dunkirk War Museum: Learn about Dunkirk’s role in the evacuation of over 300,000 allied soldiers during World War II.
  • Dunkirk Maritime Museum: Discover Dunkirk’s long history as a maritime town at this fascinating museum.
  • Musée Portuaire: This museum takes visitors back in time to Dunkirk’s heyday as a major port.

Natural Attractions of Dunkirk: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Malo-les-Bains Beach: Enjoy a day at the beach at Dunkirk’s most popular seaside resort.
  • Dunes Marchand: Explore this stunning nature reserve and marvel at the beautiful dunes and wildlife.
  • Plage de Zuydcoote: This sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dunkirk

Dunkirk is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • La Dune Marchand Trail: A beautiful trail that offers stunning views of the dunes and coastline.
  • The Canal de Bourbourg Trail: Follow this scenic canal through the countryside from Dunkirk to Calais.
  • The Route de la Mer Trail: A 33-km trail that takes you along the coast from Dunkirk to Bray-Dunes in Belgium.

Best Things to Do in Dunkirk: Activities and Tours

Dunkirk has plenty of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best things to do in Dunkirk:

  • Boat Tour: Take a boat tour of the harbor and see Dunkirk from a different angle.
  • Fish Market Visit and Cooking Lesson: Join a local fisherman at the market to choose and prepare a fish dish.
  • Beer Tasting: Discover Dunkirk’s beer scene and sample some delicious local brews.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dunkirk

If you’re planning to spend a week in Dunkirk, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Dunkirk War Museum and go on a boat tour of the harbor
Day 2 Explore Dunkirk Maritime Museum and enjoy a day at Malo-les-Bains Beach
Day 3 Take a trip to the Musée Portuaire and go for a hike on La Dune Marchand Trail
Day 4 Visit Dunes Marchand and Plage de Zuydcoote
Day 5 Take a cooking lesson at the fish market and go on a beer tasting tour
Day 6 Take the Route de la Mer Trail to Bray-Dunes in Belgium
Day 7 Relax at one of the local cafes and soak up the atmosphere of Dunkirk

Food and Drink Scene of Dunkirk

Dunkirk has a rich culinary heritage, with delicious seafood, meat, and produce available. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Dunkirk:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Moules-frites: A traditional Belgian dish of steamed mussels served with fries.
  • Ch’ti Carbonnade: A hearty beef stew made with beer and onions.
  • Welsh: A cheese toast dish typically served with a side of fries.

Local Beverages

  • Bières de Dunkerque: The local craft beer scene in Dunkirk is strong and there are several craft breweries to try.
  • Cidre Brut: A delicious local cider made from apples grown in the surrounding orchards.

Where to Stay in Dunkirk: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dunkirk has plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Here are some of the best places to stay in Dunkirk:

  • Hotel Les Gens de Mer: A charming hotel located in the heart of Dunkirk’s port area.
  • Hotel Borel: A boutique hotel located in a restored Art Deco building near the beach.
  • La Petite Maison: A cozy bed and breakfast located in the historic center of Dunkirk.

What to Buy in Dunkirk: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Dunkirk has plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best things to buy in Dunkirk:

  • Biscuits de Dunkerque: Delicious buttery biscuits that are a specialty of the region.
  • Lace: Calais and the surrounding area is famous for its traditional lace.
  • Beer: Bring home a few bottles of local craft beer from one of Dunkirk’s many breweries.

Local Culture and Customs of Dunkirk

Dunkirk has a rich cultural heritage, with colorful festivals, traditions, and customs. One of the most famous events in Dunkirk is the Carnival of Dunkirk, which takes place from January to March and is a celebration of the city’s maritime heritage and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Dunkirk

The best time to visit Dunkirk is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are at their best. The Carnival of Dunkirk is also a must-see event and takes place during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dunkirk

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Dunkirk:

Do:

  • Do try the local beer and cuisine.
  • Do take a boat tour of the harbor.
  • Do visit the local museums and historical sites.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat, especially during the summer months.
  • Don’t litter on the beaches.
  • Don’t forget to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dunkirk

Dunkirk is generally a safe city, with a low crime rate. As with any city, however, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to safeguard your belongings.

Health in Dunkirk

Dunkirk has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics. It is recommended that travelers have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Dunkirk: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dunkirk

The closest airports to Dunkirk are Lille Airport (80 km) and Brussels Airport (165 km). Both airports have regular flights to major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Dunkirk

Dunkirk has several bus stations that connect the city to other destinations in France and Europe. Eurolines is a popular bus operator in Dunkirk.

Other Options

Dunkirk is also well connected by train, with regular services running to major French and European cities. The Eurostar runs from London to Lille, with connecting services to Dunkirk.

How to Get Around in Dunkirk

Dunkirk is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. The city also has an efficient public transport system that includes buses and trams.

Where to Go Next from Dunkirk: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore beyond Dunkirk, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Lille: Explore the charming city of Lille, which is only an hour away by train.
  • Bruges: Visit the beautiful medieval city of Bruges, which is about an hour and a half away by car.
  • Nature Reserves: Head out to one of the many nature reserves nearby, such as the Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d’Opale.

Conclusion

Dunkirk is a charming coastal city that offers visitors a rich cultural experience, beautiful beaches, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax on the beach, Dunkirk has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip and get the most out of your visit to Dunkirk.

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