Dunkirk

A bold seaside town shaped by the sea and its people

Dunkirk is not a town you visit quietly. Open to the North Sea, exposed to wind and light, it has a strong, straightforward character shaped by maritime life and a deep sense of community. Here, the sea is everywhere — in the wide beaches, the working port, and the rhythm of everyday life.

Often associated with major moments of history, Dunkirk is also a lively, generous town that knows how to celebrate, gather and welcome. For visitors from the UK, it offers a coastal escape with substance — combining memory, openness and a very distinctive atmosphere.

Getting there

5 good reasons to discover Dunkirk

1. A vast beach and open horizons

Dunkirk’s beach stretches wide and uninterrupted, inviting long walks, sea air and a feeling of freedom. It’s a place where space and light take centre stage, whatever the season.

2. A key place in shared history

The story of Operation Dynamo is inseparable from Dunkirk. Museums and memorials offer thoughtful, accessible ways to understand this pivotal moment, rooted in a town that looks forward while remembering.

3. A major port in constant motion

One of France’s largest ports, Dunkirk is alive with activity. Watching ships come and go adds a raw, fascinating dimension to the seaside experience.

4. A town that knows how to celebrate

Dunkirk Carnival is one of the most famous in Europe — vibrant, joyful and deeply local. Even outside carnival season, the town’s festive spirit is easy to sense.

5. A strong sense of togetherness

More than monuments, what stays with you in Dunkirk is its people. Warm, direct and welcoming, they give the town its unique energy and authenticity.