Weekend in Dunkirk

A free outdoor memorial and commemorative area dedicated to Operation Dynamo, with panels and a gun battery.

Tip: Pair with the War Museum—it’s just across the road. No queues.

Long sandy beach with promenade, popular for walking, swimming, and kids' play areas.

Tip: Arrive before 11am in summer for a decent spot on the free beach; the east end is quieter.

Lively working port with free viewing points along the quays; ferries and container ships, plus street art nearby.

Tip: Walk from the Belfry down to Quai des Hollandais for the best vantage; late afternoon is quieter for photos.

Bronze statue of the 17th-century corsair Jean Bart in the central square. The pedestal is scarred by shrapnel from WWII. Square has benches and a fountain.

Tip: Stand at the north side of the statue for the best photo with the belfry behind it. The square is busiest during the Saturday market.

Woodland park around a 17th-century fort. Paths through old ramparts, a small lake with ducks, and decent views over the harbour from the top of the earthworks.

Tip: Great spot for a cheap lunch—there are benches and shade. The fort interior is usually locked except for occasional heritage days, so don't plan on going inside.

A long, sandy beach backed by dunes and pine forest, west of the main port. Good for walking, birdwatching, and kite flying. No facilities on site.

Tip: Park at the Cale de Malo free lot and walk west for the emptiest stretches. Bring water and a windbreak—it gusts.

Wide, sandy beach with a long promenade. Popular for walks, kite-flying, and paddleboarding. Less crowded than central beaches, with lifeguards in summer.

Tip: Walk north from the centre along the seafront for 20 minutes—the sand is cleaner and quieter. Bring a picnic; the beachfront cafés overcharge.

UNESCO-listed 58m tower with panoramic views over the city and port; climb the 180 steps.

Tip: Adults €5; combined ticket with Museum of Fine Arts saves €2.50. Low cost for the view.

UNESCO-listed 58-metre tower from the 15th century, rebuilt after war damage. Climb the 228 steps for a view of the port and coastline. Small exhibition inside.

Tip: Go on a clear morning for the best light over the sea; the climb is steep but there's a bench halfway. Entry is €4 for adults, free for under-26s with a EU student card.

66-metre Gothic belfry with a carillon playing tunes every hour. Climb the 256 steps for a panoramic view of the city, harbour, and coast.

Tip: Buy a combined ticket with the Musée Portuaire for a slight discount. Go on a clear day; the view is wasted in fog. The stairs are narrow—leave bags at the bottom.