Things To Do
in Dunkerque
Dunkerque, located on the northern coast of France, is a historic port city with a rich maritime heritage. It is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant waterfront promenade, where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and picturesque views of the English Channel. The city has a unique blend of French, Flemish, and British influences, evident in its architecture, culture, and cuisine.
Dunkerque also hosts several annual events, including the famous Dunkirk Carnival, attracting visitors from around the world.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk along Dunkerque Beach, enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Grab a coffee from a nearby café as you watch the waves crash.
Visit the local aquarium to learn about marine life in the North Sea. Afterward, stroll through the beachside promenade and have lunch at a seafood restaurant.
Enjoy a scenic sunset view from the beach. Dine at a local bistro offering traditional French cuisine.
Head to the Dunkirk Museum to understand the history of this remarkable town. Spend time exploring the exhibitions that focus on World War II.
Visit the iconic Dunkirk Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
Enjoy a guided night tour highlighting Dunkerque's historical significance. Finish your evening at a cozy pub for a local craft beer.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and significant maritime heritage, especially related to World War II.
- Beautiful coastal scenery and sandy beaches, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
- Close proximity to Belgium and other parts of northern France for easy travel.
- Vibrant cultural scene with festivals, museums, and local cuisine.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations, offering a more laid-back atmosphere.
- The weather can be variable, with rainy and windy conditions being common.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Some areas may have economic challenges, impacting job opportunities.
- Public transport options might be limited in comparison to larger urban centers.
- Language barrier for non-French speakers, though many locals are accommodating.
Best Activities in Dunkerque
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the sandy beaches and explore the coastline while collecting seashells and other treasures.
Take advantage of the windswept beaches for an exhilarating kite surfing experience.
Discover the city and its surroundings by renting a bike and exploring the various bike trails.
Enjoy a tranquil bird watching experience at the local nature reserves and wetland areas.
Places to Visit in Dunkerque
Visit one of these nice places.
These sand dunes offer panoramic views of the coast and sea, providing excellent photo opportunities.
This lighthouse provides stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
The port area offers picturesque views of the harbor, ships, and industrial structures, making it a unique photography location.
Food in Dunkerque
Dunkerque Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Flemish beef stew slow-cooked in beer, often served with frites (French fries). Recommended to try at Au Vieux Spijtigen Duivel, a traditional restaurant in the heart of Dunkerque.
Must-Try!
A creamy seafood or chicken stew infused with flavors of leeks and carrots. Best savored at Le Corsaire, a renowned seafood restaurant along the waterfront.
A local take on cheese on toast, often elevated with beer and served with a side of salad. Enjoy this dish at La Terrasse, a cozy brasserie offering a delectable Welsh Rarebit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal goods. Indulge in delectable street food like moules frites (mussels and fries), and gaufres (waffles) from various stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Dunkerque, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and a polite 'Bonjour' (Good morning) or 'Bonsoir' (Good evening) depending on the time of day.
French people, including those in Dunkerque, generally value their personal space. It's important to maintain an appropriate distance and avoid standing too close when engaging in conversation.
When dining in Dunkerque, it's important to observe proper table manners and etiquettes such as keeping your hands on the table, not on your lap, and waiting for the host to start eating before you begin.
Safety
Tipping in Dunkerque
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Dunkerque, France. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or café, you may leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation, usually around 5-10% of the total bill.
Cash is widely accepted in Dunkerque, especially for small purchases and in local shops. Credit and debit cards are also commonly used, particularly in larger establishments. Contactless payments are increasingly popular. It's important to have some cash on hand, particularly in smaller, local establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Dunkerque, as the weather starts to warm up and the city comes to life with blooming flowers and outdoor activities. Expect mild temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Dunkerque, with long days, warm weather, and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. Expect crowded beaches and lively atmosphere.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and the changing colors of the leaves, making it a picturesque time to visit Dunkerque. Expect fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter in Dunkerque is cold and damp, with shorter days and occasional snowfall. Expect quieter streets and a chance to experience the city's festive holiday celebrations.
Dunkerque at Night
Hiking in Dunkerque
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historic site surrounded by scenic trails, offering beautiful views of the coastline and a variety of terrains for hiking enthusiasts.
A natural reserve featuring a network of trails through coastal dunes and heathland, perfect for hiking and observing local wildlife.
A regional natural park with extensive hiking paths, diverse landscapes including cliffs, marshes, and forests, ideal for a day of exploration.
A collection of marked walking routes that connect various points of interest around Dunkerque and its surrounding areas, suitable for all hiking levels.
While primarily a beach, there are nearby scenic walking paths along the shoreline that are great for a relaxing hike with ocean views.
Aiports
How to reach Dunkerque by plane.
Located approximately 80 km southeast of Dunkerque, Lille Airport serves both domestic and international flights.
About 130 km northeast of Dunkerque, Brussels Airport is the largest airport in Belgium, offering a wide range of international flights.
Approximately 250 km south of Dunkerque, CDG is the largest airport in France and a major international hub.
Located around 300 km south of Dunkerque, this airport is a significant hub for international flights to various destinations.
About 300 km northwest of Dunkerque, Schiphol is one of the busiest international airports in Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group in Dunkerque, representing the majority of the population.
Significant immigrant community, particularly from Algeria and Morocco.
Includes communities from various countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.
A smaller demographic group consisting of expatriates from other European countries.
Includes smaller groups of immigrants from various Asian countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Dunkerque, with many local clubs and a strong community following.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Dunkerque, with various teams participating in regional leagues and attracting youth participation.
Handball is a well-loved sport in Dunkerque, with local clubs competing at different levels and a vibrant fan base.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Dunkerque, with clubs that promote the sport at both amateur and youth levels.
Volleyball is also popular, with local teams participating in various leagues and promoting the sport through schools and community programs.
Due to its coastal location, sailing is a prominent sport in Dunkerque, with many enthusiasts and events taking place on the water.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dunkerque.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Dunkerque cuisine leans heavily on meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes now offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Notable places to explore include La ParenthĂšse and Ydille, which cater to plant-based diets with inventive and flavorful dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating options at Le Chat qui tousse, where a thoughtful selection of gluten-free pastries and meals are available.