Créé par Romane, le 7 mai 2026
Votre guide Ryo
© Shutterstock
Are you traveling in the north and looking for a city where you can spend a pleasant stay, where history and culture go hand in hand? Say no more! You know you can trust Ryo, your faithful travel companion. We have closely examined all the cities in northern France and have come to the following conclusion: Dunkerque is an excellent choice. Admittedly we are far from the chic streets of Los Angeles, and the zenith sun of tropical islands, but this city with a rich past possesses just as much charm as those places. Let yourself be carried away by curiosity and discover in somewhat detail the six main reasons why you must visit Dunkerque at all costs.
What to do in Dunkerque?
1. Visit the sites of the Battle of Dunkerque and Operation Dynamo
Boat From The Second World War On A Wooden Quay
Category: €€/Cultural
Description: If there are history enthusiasts among our readers, you must know precisely what we're talking about when reading the title. The Battle of Dunkerque broke out during the events of World War II. The evacuation of the city, more commonly called "Operation Dynamo" took place between May 26, 1940 and the early hours of June 3. In more depth, discover the behind-the-scenes of the battle as well as the chapters that are not written in the books... It is always important to keep a trace of past events, as a memory to honor the memory of the victims. The visit lasting about 2 hours, discover how Dunkerque, a martyr city following the bombings, became a symbol of hope in the eyes of the entire world.
2. The Belfry of Saint-Eloi
Category: €/Cultural
Description: It takes less than an hour to visit the belfry of Saint-Eloi. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a panoramic, 360° view. Many visitors actually like to end their stay with this activity, so captivating is it. Don't they say the best for last? From its 58 meters high, the belfry of Saint-Eloi is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can admire everything that Dunkerque has to offer, even more if we count its surroundings: the beach as far as the eye can see, the lively city, and the port with its boats. You will also have access to the carillon and the panoramic terrace with 65 steps (bring a bottle of water ^^). Once at the top, immerse yourself in the history of this unique, historic, and emblematic monument, which is somewhat perceived by the inhabitants as part of the DNA of the city of Dunkerque.
3. The Maritime and Port Museum of Dunkerque
Category: €Cultural
Description: Every city has its original museum and for the city of Dunkerque, the place in question would undoubtedly be that of the maritime and port museum. On the program, you will pass through several rooms all as important and interesting as each other: it's a total of 1600 m² of exhibitions on the program, through 4 centuries of history and journeys. Yes, you will go back in time to reach the very beginning of Dunkerque's history. You will be intrigued by the some 500 works that stand proudly on the walls and tables of the museum: models, videos, paintings... But know dear friends that you must not omit to pass in front of the three boats as well as the lighthouse which both constitute a highlight of your visit to learn more about Dunkerque. You will need to count at least 2h 30 to 3h to see the works in their entirety, so as not to miss a bit.
4. The Beach of Malo-les-Bains
Category: €/Sports/Gastronomic
Description: Above, we talked about the beach in Dunkerque. From time to time, it's good to take a break from your visit to the city and set aside all the culture and heritage aspect, to take a dip in calm water that opens its arms to us. The beach of Saint-Malo-les-Bains is a real marvel (provided you go there in summer for better temperatures) for those who want to walk along the beach while listening to their best music playlist; or those who want to engage in a sports activity like a tennis match or windsurfing. Many tourists even claim that this place deserves the title "best beach in the North". After your swim, you can go to one of the small restaurants around, to taste a local specialty.
5. The Aquarium of Dunkerque
Category: €€/Cultural
Description: Let's stay on the theme of water, how about it? Located only 500 meters from the beach, the aquarium of Dunkerque will make you discover the marine world in depth. You will get acquainted with several freshwater aquatic species as well as others that come from all the oceans of the globe. You will learn more about the history of these mammals and will quickly understand that the ocean is very certainly the place in the world (after space) where we still have many secrets to uncover. Here is an enriching activity, which pleases children a lot and delights adults, among corals, turtles, seahorses, different kinds of algae and other crustaceans of all kinds... Without forgetting that the vegetation of the tanks is among the prettiest, so don't hesitate to immortalize all this with a camera click!
6. The Church of Saint-Eloi
Category: €€/Cultural
Description: To finish our ranking of the six flagship activities to do in Dunkerque, why not visit the mythical church of Saint-Eloi? It is easily recognizable thanks to its superb majestic facade that leaves visitors speechless. It's typically the kind of place that invites you to meditation and serenity. You will have the impression of staying in a haven of peace, that only the sound of your footsteps comes to break. Isn't that poetic? This monument, as precious as it is, houses the tomb of Jean Bart, a corsair from Dunkerque, known for his exploits served to France, with numerous chapels and an organ. This beautiful Gothic-style church restored since the events of World War II is an unmissable edifice to see.