Port of Dunkirk

The port of Dunkirk, the third port of France

The third port of France, the port of Dunkirk is essential in the discovery of the city. Shaped by centuries of maritime activity, it remains the economic and identity heart of the city. The Dunkirk audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this great northern port, inseparable from the history and the present of the city.

A great port of Northern Europe

The port of Dunkirk is among the main ports of Northern Europe, with an annual traffic of several tens of millions of tonnes. Able to accommodate very large ships, including the biggest container ships, it has established itself as a major platform. Yet, at its beginnings in the Middle Ages, it was only a modest fishing port, which has never stopped developing over the centuries.

What to see

You discover the port from its quays and its docks, between ships, cranes and maritime activity. Tours allow, in places, to approach the port world and understand how it works. It is an essential stop to grasp the soul of Dunkirk, a city deeply linked to the sea and maritime trade, yesterday as today.

Practical information

The port of Dunkirk stretches along the coast of the city, reachable on foot for its parts near the centre, and by public transport. The quays and docks are seen from the public space; guided tours of the port, with a fee, are offered and allow you to approach the activity areas. It is best to enquire in advance about conditions and hours.

How important is the port of Dunkirk?

It is the third port of France and one of the main ones in Northern Europe, able to accommodate the largest ships, with a traffic of several tens of millions of tonnes per year.

Can you visit the port of Dunkirk?

The quays and docks are seen from the public space, and paid guided tours allow you to approach the port world; conditions and hours are to be checked in advance.