Dannes(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, staying in the Old Town (Vieux Dunkerque) is ideal. This historic district offers charming cobblestone streets, seaside views, and easy access to Dunkerque Lighthouse and the Port de Dunkerque.

Recommended hotels include Hôtel Le Clos Sainte-Catherine, a boutique property with elegant French decor and a cozy café, perfect for cultural immersion. For budget-friendly comfort, ibis Budget Dunkerque Centre provides modern rooms just a 5-minute walk from the train station.

Nature lovers should consider staying near La Mer du Nord coastline—many guesthouses here offer panoramic sea views and direct access to coastal trails and fishing villages like Grande-Synthe.

Tourists visiting Dunkerque should not miss the Fête des Remparts, held annually in summer, which reenacts medieval defense rituals along the city’s ancient ramparts. Locals wear traditional costumes, and the event features artisan markets, live folk music, and historical storytelling.

Another highlight is the Dunkerque International Film Festival, attracting independent filmmakers and cinephiles from across Europe. Held at the Cinéma Le Forum, it showcases avant-garde and documentary films with post-screening discussions.

For food lovers, the Marché aux Fleurs et Produits du Terroir every Saturday offers fresh regional specialties: from Boulettes de Dunkerque (local meatballs) to Lait de Boulanger (artisanal dairy), all served in vibrant stalls by local producers.

For families, Hotel Le Grand Large stands out with its indoor heated pool, dedicated children’s playroom, and weekly themed workshops such as cooking classes and marine biology talks. Located just 300 meters from Parc de la Mer, it’s perfect for beachside relaxation.

Another excellent option is Chambres d'Hôtes La Ferme de la Tourelle, a renovated 19th-century farmhouse offering private gardens, kitchenettes, and baby-friendly rooms with cribs and safety gates. The property also provides family packages including discounted tickets to Zoo de Dunkerque and Centre de Découverte Scientifique.

Both hotels offer free shuttle services to major attractions and prioritize child safety, making them top picks for multi-generational travel.

Must-try dishes in Dunkerque include Boulettes de Dunkerque—small meatballs made from beef and breadcrumbs, served in creamy or tomato sauce, often found in traditional bistros.

Another highlight is Morue de la Mer du Nord (North Sea cod), freshly caught and delicately steamed with lemon and herbs, showcasing the region’s maritime heritage. You’ll find it at Marché de la Mer, the bustling waterfront market.

Don’t miss Cidre de Dunkerque, a locally brewed apple cider with a sweet, crisp finish, perfect with seafood. Pair it with pastries from La Pâtisserie du Port, renowned for their almond cakes and caramel crème brûlée.

For an authentic experience, visit the Old Town Market on Saturdays, where over 20 vendors serve regional specialties in a lively, open-air setting.

Dunkerque offers excellent transport access for tourists. The Gare de Dunkerque railway station connects directly to Paris Nord, Lille, and Belgian cities via high-speed TGV and regional trains.

The city’s public bus network covers key attractions like Église Sainte-Catherine, Parc de la Mer, and Musée de Dunkerque. Real-time schedules are available through the Dunkerque Mobilité App, and contactless payments are accepted.

For exploring beyond the city center, renting an electric bike (VéloDunkerque) is ideal—routes lead to Dunkirk Beach and the Réserve Naturelle de Lesquin, offering scenic coastal paths.

Tourists should consider the Dunkerque City Pass, which includes unlimited public transit, entry to museums, and discounted bike rentals—a smart choice for efficient, cost-effective sightseeing.

Top photo spots in Dunkerque include the Phare de Dunkerque, a striking white lighthouse standing against the sky and sea—perfect for golden hour shots with dramatic shadows and reflections.

The Rue de la Citadelle in the Old Town features colorful 17th-century facades, cobblestone alleys, and quaint doorways, ideal for candid street photography.

The Promenade Maritime offers sweeping ocean views, sculptures along the boardwalk, and open sky vistas—especially stunning at sunset.

Don’t miss the square in front of Église Sainte-Catherine, where seasonal flower displays and illuminated fountains create a dreamy backdrop. Bring a tripod for long-exposure shots during twilight hours, when the city lights begin to twinkle.