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Top 4 Itineraries in Dunkirk

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Photo of Port of Dunkirk in France .
Photo of Cross and Gravestones at the DUNKIRK MEMORIAL CEMETARY, Dunkerque, France with Sun Rays in the cloudy sky.
Top 4 Itineraries in Dunkirk
Top 4 Itineraries in Dunkirk
Top 4 Itineraries in Dunkirk
Top 4 Itineraries in Dunkirk
Top 4 Itineraries in Dunkirk
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By Paola Westbeek

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Introduction

Discover the ultimate Dunkirk itinerary with our top 4 picks. From attractions that capture the essence of Dunkirk to in-depth experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots, there’s an itinerary here for everyone. Keep reading to start planning your trip to Dunkirk.

What all great itineraries in Dunkirk have in common is a unique ability to combine iconic tourist attractions with authentic experiences. Striking that perfect balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural immersion should be the ultimate goal of every travel itinerary.

To make planning easier, we've curated the top 4 itineraries from the biggest selection of travel packages in Dunkirk. This way, you can skip ahead and focus on the details.

Popular Types of Trips to Dunkirk

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Dunkirk.

If you only have a few days, Dunkirk weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Dunkirk offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Dunkirk are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Dunkirk’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Dunkirk offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover France's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Dunkirk offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Dunkirk truly unforgettable!

Find Trips to Dunkirk

If you’re as convinced as we are that Dunkirk belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Dunkirk are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Dunkirk and start planning your next trip!

The Top 4 Best Dunkirk Travel Itineraries

Discover the perfect Dunkirk itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Dunkirk for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Dunkirk without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Dunkirk!

4. The Ultimate 14-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Dunkirk and Beyond

Photo of Port of Dunkirk in France .

A scenic 14-day road trip through Paris, Lyon, Tours, Nantes, and Strasbourg is one of the best ways to experience France. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 14-day itinerary means that Dunkirk can easily be combined with other top destinations in France without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Paris, Lyon, Tours, Nantes, and Strasbourg by public transport, renting a car in France opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 14 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Paris

  • Arrival city: Paris, Lyon, Tours, Nantes, and Strasbourg
  • Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Paris, e.g., Hotel Des Arts Montmartre
Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Paris. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Paris

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Tuileries Garden, Champ de Mars, Musée d'Orsay, Arc de Triomphe, and Eiffel Tower. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Paris, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

Day 3: Discover Paris

Spend the day exploring Place de la Concorde, Louvre Museum, Sacré-Cœur, La Villette, and Palais Garnier. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace.

Day 4: Experience Paris

Continue your journey through Paris, where you can explore Jardin des Plantes, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Panthéon, and Luxembourg Gardens. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Reims.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Strasbourg

Drive through Strasbourg, stopping to visit Le Vaisseau, Barrage Vauban, Parc de l'Orangerie, Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, and Parc de la Citadelle. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way. Conclude your day by settling into a centrally located hotel in Lille.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Strasbourg and Colmar

Spend time discovering Place Kléber, La Petite Venise, Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, and Parc du Champ de Mars, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture. After a day of exploring, check into a hotel in Lille.

Day 7: Spend Time in Lyon and Caluire-et-Cuire

Explore Parc de la Tête d'Or, Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, and Place Bellecour at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant.

Day 8: Explore Blois

Continue your road trip through Blois, enjoying the flexibility to explore Château de Cheverny, Château de Chambord, Jacques-Gabriel Bridge, and Château Royal de Blois and nearby points of interest. As the day winds down, arrive at a new hotel in central Lille.

Day 9: Wander Through Tours and Amboise

Visit Château d'Ussé, Château de Villandry, Château de Chenonceau, and Château Royal d'Amboise as you navigate scenic routes. Take time to enjoy local markets, trails, or viewpoints that catch your eye. At the end of the day, check-in at a comfortable hotel in central Caen.

Day 10: Uncover Angers and Maulévrier

Continue your exploration of Cathédrale Saint-Maurice d'Angers, Jardin des plantes d'Angers, Balzac Park, Château d'Angers, and Parc Oriental de Maulévrier, taking your time to enjoy scenic drives or leisurely strolls that add to the adventure.

Day 11: Journey Through Angers, Brézé, and Rochemenier

  • Destinations: Angers, Brézé, and Rochemenier
  • Driving distance: 161.65 km, approx. 2 hours and 20 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Angers, e.g., Chateau De Briancon
  • Sightseeing: Château de Brézé, Terra Botanica, and Rochemenier Village Troglodytique
  • Recommended tour: Wine tour and tasting at domain FL
Take in the highlights of Château de Brézé, Terra Botanica, and Rochemenier Village Troglodytique, with plenty of opportunities to pause for a break in charming villages or serene natural settings.

Day 12: Travel Through Nantes

  • Destinations: Nantes
  • Driving distance: 396.97 km, approx. 4 hours and 24 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Blois, e.g., Au 16 Place Saint Louis
  • Sightseeing: Les Machines de l'Île, Botanical Garden, and Château des ducs de Bretagne
Take the opportunity to explore Les Machines de l'Île, Botanical Garden, and Château des ducs de Bretagne, some of the top attractions in the area. Discover the surroundings by taking detours through charming villages and serene nature. After a day of adventures, check into another conveniently located hotel in Blois.

Day 13: Enjoy the Best of Caen and Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe

Explore Mémorial de Caen, Caen Castle, Parc Michel d'Ornano, Caen Botanical Garden, and Colline aux Oiseaux as you near the end of your road trip. Take advantage of the opportunity to delve into local culture, whether through a museum visit or a tasting experience. Wrap up the day by settling into a new hotel in central Paris.

Day 14: Bid Farewell to Paris

  • Departure city: Paris, Lyon, Tours, Nantes, and Strasbourg
  • Driving distance: 469 metres, approx. 2 minutes
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Paris. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 2146 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Dunkirk.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Dunkirk for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

3. The Top Recommended 5-Day Dunkirk City Itinerary

Photo of Cross and Gravestones at the DUNKIRK MEMORIAL CEMETARY, Dunkerque, France with Sun Rays in the cloudy sky.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Dunkirk with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

With a long list of top-rated attractions in Dunkirk and Dunkirk's widest selection of tours and activities at your fingertips, it's easy to plan a travel itinerary filled with unforgettable moments and discoveries.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Dunkirk without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Dunkirk

Arrive in Dunkirk and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Tour du Leughenaer.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Jef’rais is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Dunkirk's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Dunkirk by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Batterie de Leffrinckoucke, Plage de Leffrinckoucke, Wind Park, and Museum Dunkerque 1940 Operation Dynamo.

Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Dunkirk in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 5: Savor Your Final Moments in Dunkirk

Spend your last few hours in Dunkirk soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Dunkirk, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Dunkirk travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

2. The Best 7-Day Dunkirk Beach Vacation Itinerary

Photo of Colorful beach huts along the North Sea at Malo Les Bains in Northern France .

A 7-day beach vacation in Dunkirk offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Dunkirk:

  • Beaches: Spend your days at Plage de Malo-les-Bains.
  • Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Bienvenue Chez Nous for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
  • Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at Le Chill, L'avenue_, and Pizza Sicilia, and other nearby dining spots.
  • Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Le Curacao, L' Antiquaire, and Café Brun, and more.
  • Cultural experiences: Explore Museum Dunkerque 1940 Operation Dynamo, Petit-Fort-Philippe Beach, Fort Louis Park, Wind Park, Galamé Park, Port Museum of Dunkirk, Plage de Leffrinckoucke, and Belfry of Bergues, local markets, and souvenir shops.
With a well-planned 7-day beach vacation itinerary in Dunkirk, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Dunkirk

Arrive in Lille, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 7 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Plage de Malo-les-Bains or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Dunkirk.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Plage de Malo-les-Bains, a top beach in Dunkirk. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Batterie de Leffrinckoucke, Plage de Leffrinckoucke, and Museum Dunkerque 1940 Operation Dynamo for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 6: Explore the Local Scene

Spend a sun-filled day at Plage de Malo-les-Bains. In the afternoon, explore the local scene by visiting Port Museum of Dunkirk, Saint-Éloi Belfry of Dunkirk, and Saint-Éloi Catholic Church at Dunkirk. As the day winds down, enjoy a meal and a refreshing drink while admiring the beautiful views.

Day 7: Say Farewell to Dunkirk

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Dunkirk. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Dunkirk. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Dunkirk's coastline.

1. The Perfect 4-Day Dunkirk Weekend Itinerary

Photo of Giant Cago in the port of Dunkirk in France .

A 4-day weekend getaway in Dunkirk offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Dunkirk itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 4 days to spend, this is the perfect Dunkirk weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Dunkirk

Arrive in Dunkirk around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.
  • Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
  • Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Tour du Leughenaer, and soak in the surroundings.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.

Day 2 - Discover Dunkirk’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Dunkirk with sightseeing, food, and drinks.
  • Morning: Visit Batterie de Leffrinckoucke early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Wind Park, stopping by Plage de Leffrinckoucke for a break and some photos.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.

Day 3 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Dunkirk

No itinerary in Dunkirk is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.
  • Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to Statue of Jean Bart.
  • Afternoon: Explore Place Jean Bart and Saint-Éloi Belfry of Dunkirk, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
  • Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.

Day 4 - Depart from Dunkirk

Make the most of your last few hours in Dunkirk before your departure.
  • Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
  • Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.
For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Dunkirk. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Dunkirk itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

What To Discover Next in Dunkirk

As you explore Dunkirk, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Dunkirk for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Dunkirk in a way that feels truly unforgettable!

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