General Information
Dunkerque, located in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, is a historic port city with rich maritime heritage. Known internationally for the Dunkirk evacuation of World War II, the city also boasts beautiful beaches, lively cultural events, and stunning architecture. Visitors can enjoy its mix of history, culture, and coastal charm, making it a perfect destination for history buffs, beach lovers, and those wanting to explore a lesser-known side of France. With its rich Belgian influence, Dunkerque offers a unique blend of French and Flemish traditions.
Location
Dunkerque is located on the northern coast of France, near the Belgian border and along the North Sea. The city is approximately 40 km from Lille and 80 km from Brussels, offering easy access to both France and Belgium. Dunkerque’s coastal location provides a scenic backdrop, with wide sandy beaches and scenic seaside views, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Dunkerque Airport (DNR) is a small regional airport, offering limited flights. For more international connections, travelers often fly into Lille Lesquin Airport (LIL) or Brussels Airport (BRU), which are both within a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Dunkerque.
- By Train:
- Dunkerque is well connected to other major cities in France and Belgium via the SNCF train system. Dunkerque Train Station offers regular services from Lille (30 minutes) and Brussels (1.5 hours).
- By Bus:
- Long-distance bus services, including FlixBus and Eurolines, provide affordable connections to Paris, Brussels, and other major cities in Europe.
- By Car:
- Dunkerque is easily accessible via the A16 highway from Paris or Brussels, making it a great option for road trips or those traveling by car.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): The temperatures are mild (10°C – 18°C), with fewer tourists and a calm atmosphere. Ideal for exploring the city’s museums and history.
- Summer (June – August): Warm weather (18°C – 25°C) and vibrant beach activities. Dunkerque is at its liveliest during the summer, especially during the Dunkirk Carnival and the beach season.
- Autumn (September – November): Cooler temperatures (10°C – 16°C), perfect for exploring the coastline and visiting museums.
- Winter (December – February): Cold temperatures (0°C – 6°C), but the festive atmosphere and smaller crowds make winter a peaceful time to visit.
Key Festivals:
- Dunkirk Carnival (February to March): One of the largest and most famous carnivals in France, known for its costumed parades, drumming, and vibrant celebrations.
- Dunkerque International Film Festival (September): A major cultural event showcasing international films and attracting filmmakers and audiences from around the world.
- Dunkirk Christmas Market (December): A cozy Christmas market with festive decorations, local foods, and crafts.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Hotel Borel: A charming 3-star hotel offering comfortable rooms with a sea view, perfect for a relaxing stay near the beach.
- Ibis Styles Dunkerque Centre: A stylish hotel offering modern amenities and easy access to the city’s attractions.
- Mid-range:
- Holiday Inn Dunkerque: A comfortable and well-located hotel with spacious rooms and access to both the city and the beach.
- The Kyriad Dunkerque Centre: A central location with affordable pricing and modern, comfortable rooms.
- Budget:
- B&B Hôtel Dunkerque Centre: A budget-friendly hotel offering modern, basic accommodations near Dunkerque’s main attractions.
- Première Classe Dunkerque Est – Armbouts Cappel: An affordable choice offering simple, practical rooms for budget-conscious travelers.
- Unique:
- La Maison du Lac: A lovely guesthouse by the lake, offering a peaceful stay with a homey ambiance and excellent views.
- Le Logis du Devers: A unique B&B in a traditional house with a modern touch, providing personalized service in a beautiful setting.
Top Attractions
- Dunkirk Beach: Dunkerque’s long, sandy beaches are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. During summer, enjoy beach sports, swimming, or just a peaceful walk along the shore.
- Dunkirk 1940 Museum (Musée Dunkerque 1940): A moving museum dedicated to the Dunkirk evacuation during World War II, with exhibits on the Battle of Dunkirk and the iconic rescue operation.
- Le Beffroi de Dunkerque: A UNESCO-listed Belfry tower, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding coastline.
- Fort des Dunes: A historic fortress that played a role in the defense of Dunkerque, with exhibits and guided tours available.
- Saint-Eloi Church: A beautiful Gothic church with stunning architecture and intricate stained-glass windows, located in the heart of Dunkerque.
- La Citadelle de Dunkerque: A historic citadel with impressive military architecture and nearby gardens perfect for a stroll.
- Port Museum (Musée Portuaire): A fascinating museum exploring the maritime heritage of Dunkerque, with exhibits on the city’s history as a port.
- Dunkirk Carnival Museum: An engaging museum celebrating Dunkerque’s famous carnival and its cultural significance in the city.
- L’Hotel de Ville de Dunkerque: Dunkerque’s grand town hall, featuring beautiful architecture and stunning historical details.
- Le Parc Zoologique de Dunkerque: A family-friendly zoo where you can see animals from all over the world in naturalistic habitats.
Getting Around
- Walking: Dunkerque’s city center is compact, making it ideal for exploration on foot.
- Public Transport: Dunkerque’s bus network is well-organized, with regular services to key areas of the city and surrounding regions.
- Biking: Dunkerque is a bike-friendly city with plenty of cycling paths and Vélo bike rentals available for tourists.
- Taxis & Ride-sharing: Taxis and services like Uber are available throughout the city.
Local Cuisine
- Moules-Frites: Dunkerque’s proximity to the coast means mussels served with crispy fries are a must-try.
- Carbonade Flamande: A slow-cooked beef stew made with beer and onions, a traditional Flemish dish.
- Waffles: Dunkerque offers delicious, authentic Belgian waffles served with sugar, cream, or chocolate.
- Speculoos: A spiced biscuit that’s particularly popular in the Dunkerque region, perfect as a snack or souvenir.
- Local Beer: Dunkerque is known for its local beers, including Pelforth and Ch’ti, which reflect the area’s Belgian influence.
Best Restaurants & Cafés:
- La Table de Marie: A lovely restaurant offering classic French dishes with a modern twist, located near the harbor.
- Le St-Amour: Known for its seafood and traditional French cuisine, this restaurant offers great views of the harbor.
- Le Café de la Plage: A relaxed beachside café where you can enjoy light bites, coffee, and a view of the sea.
Shopping
- Dunkerque Centre: The city’s pedestrian-friendly center is home to a variety of boutiques, local shops, and international brands.
- Dunkerque Market: Held regularly, this vibrant market is perfect for picking up fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.
- Galeries Lafayette Dunkerque: A high-end department store offering fashion, cosmetics, and other luxury goods.
Nightlife
- Le Majestic: A lively bar offering cocktails and live music, perfect for a fun night out in Dunkerque.
- L’Auberge de Jeunesse: A cozy youth hostel that doubles as a bar, offering casual drinks and a social vibe.
- Le Bunker: A pub offering an eclectic mix of music and craft beers, ideal for night owls.
- La Péniche: A floating nightclub on the river, where you can dance the night away with a unique waterfront view.
