Attractions and Places To See around Dunkirk - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Dunkirk encompass a range of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural venues. The city is known for its significant role in World War II history, commemorated across several locations. Visitors can explore coastal areas, nature reserves, and various cultural institutions. The region offers diverse points of interest for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Dunkirk
- The most popular attractions is Mont des Cats, a viewpoint that offers extensive views of the surrounding area. From this summit, it is a place to take a break and enjoy the view.
- Another must-see spot is Mont Noir (West), a summit located on the French-Belgian border. The hill's top is at 152 meters, and the French side is named after the hamlet at its peak.
- Visitors also love Marguerite Yourcenar Departmental Park, a forest with a villa that now serves as a writer's residence. This park is known for its natural beauty and literary connections.
- Dunkirk is known for its historical sites, natural features like beaches and nature reserves, and cultural institutions. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from wartime memorials to contemporary art.
- The attractions around Dunkirk are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and 3 photos shared.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Mont Noir (West)
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Belgium–France Border at Grenspad and 1819 Border Marker
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Mont des Cats
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Mont des Cats Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal
Highlight (Segment) • River
The canal starts at the Ganzepoot in Nieuwpoort, at the Yser estuary in Nieuwpoort, where it forms a connection between the Yser, the North Sea and the Plassendale-Nieuwpoort Canal. after almost 19 kilometers on Belgian territory, the canal flows further into France, past Brayduinen and Zuidkote. In Dunkirk there is a new connection with the North Sea and the canal ends in connections with the Broekburgvaart and Havendijk canals.
visuris.be/Nieuwpoort-Duinkerke
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Marguerite Yourcenar Departmental Park
Highlight • Forest
One of the works is "M for Marguerite", of course placed here in the park.
(If you are standing with your back to the villa: about 50 metres further on, turn left)
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Malo-les-Bains Beach
Highlight • Beach
cote-dopale.com/tourisme/plage-de-malo-les-bains
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Zuydcoote military battery
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Former Zuydcoote station
Highlight • Historical Site
Around 1992 the last tourist trains ran between De Panne and Dunkirk.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Dunkirk.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Dunkirk
From Amsterdam to London - along the North Sea and across the water
At the pace of the Westhoek - Streek-GR Heuvelland
Flanders, Land of Cycling – Hills, Cobblestones and Estaminets
Journey from Flanders to the Somme – GR 120 coastal path
French Divide: the other Tour de France
"Plaine et Littoral de Flandre" : réseau points-noeuds avec vue sur mer
Hiking around Dunkirk
Cycling around Dunkirk
Running Trails around Dunkirk
Road Cycling Routes around Dunkirk
Other adventures around Dunkirk
Tips from the Community
There is a small bar along the bike route. Perfect for a stopover.
0
0
Zuydcoote station was a railway station along the Dunkerque-Locale - Bray-Dunes railway line in the French municipality of Zuidkote. The last tourist trains ran between De Panne and Dunkirk around 1992. Source: Wikipedia The information board provides extensive information about the old railway line and the station building.
0
0
Beautiful former train station, with a place to stop for a drink right next door.
0
0
Unfortunately, the bike path here is no longer paved. Still, the scenery is beautiful.
0
0
First of all, this boundary marker on the beach is completely new, as an earlier one was irreparably damaged in 2021. The date and initials refer to the brief period from 1814 to 1830 when France bordered the Netherlands. The former boundary marker was first erected in 1819. Now, this boundary marker 2.0 marks the border between Belgium and France. The point also indicates the westernmost point of Belgium combined with the northernmost point of mainland France.
5
0
A beautiful, spacious park with grassy areas and clumps of woods. Plenty of space for a relaxing break.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some notable viewpoints around Dunkirk?
For extensive views of the surrounding area, visit Mont des Cats. Another excellent spot is Mont Noir (West), located on the French-Belgian border, offering panoramic vistas. The Mont des Cats Abbey also provides superb views from its elevated position.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife near Dunkirk?
The Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve offers opportunities to explore unique dune landscapes. Further along the coast, the Platier d'Oye Nature Reserve is ideal for walking and bird-spotting. You can also visit the Marguerite Yourcenar Departmental Park, a beautiful forest with literary connections.
What historical sites related to World War II can I visit in Dunkirk?
Dunkirk played a pivotal role in WWII. You can visit the Musée Dunkerque 1940 – Opération Dynamo, located in Bastion 32, which details the historic evacuation. Fort des Dunes, an old military fort, was a scene of fierce fighting. The Mole, a stone and wooden jetty, was the primary evacuation point for soldiers. The Dunkirk Memorial & Commonwealth Cemetery commemorates those lost during the 1939-1940 campaigns.
Are there other significant historical landmarks in Dunkirk?
Yes, the Saint-Éloi Belfry of Dunkirk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers city views from its 58-meter height. The Dunkirk Port Museum showcases the city's rich maritime heritage, including historic ships like the Duchesse Anne. You can also see the Saint-Éloi Catholic Church, a striking Gothic structure.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Dunkirk?
Families can enjoy the Parc Zoologique (Bio-Topia Fort-Mardyck), a zoo with various animals and a farm for children. The Marguerite Yourcenar Departmental Park is also family-friendly, offering beautiful natural surroundings. The Dune Dewulf Nature Reserve and the Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal are suitable for family walks and bike rides.
Which beaches are popular in Dunkirk?
The most popular beach is Plage de Malo-les-Bains, known for its vast sands, Belle Époque villas, and a promenade lined with cafes. It also holds historical significance from the 1940 evacuation. The Digue de Malo-les-bains is an iconic seaside promenade offering natural beauty and amenities.
Are there hiking opportunities near Dunkirk's attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. You can explore routes like 'L'abbaye de Mont des Cats — loop from Berthen' or the 'Mont Noir Trail'. For more options, including moderate and difficult trails, check out the Hiking around Dunkirk guide.
Can I go cycling around Dunkirk?
Dunkirk offers various cycling routes, from easy to difficult. Popular options include 'Dunkerque & De Panne — loop towards Belgium' for road cycling or the 'North Sea Cycle Route and Dunkirk Loop' for touring. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Dunkirk and Cycling around Dunkirk guides.
Where can I find art and cultural experiences in Dunkirk?
Dunkirk boasts modern art venues such as FRAC Grand Large – Hauts-de-France, housed in a unique structure with interactive exhibits. LAAC (Lieu d'Art et d'Action Contemporaine) is another contemporary art museum surrounded by a sculpture park, featuring pieces from WWII to the present day.
What unique natural features can I explore near Dunkirk?
You can visit the Belgium–France Border at Grenspad and 1819 Border Marker, which offers an interesting landscape and historical context. The Nieuwpoort–Dunkirk Canal also provides a scenic route for walks or bike rides.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails or attractions in the Dunkirk area?
While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not explicitly detailed, many urban areas and promenades like the Digue de Malo-les-bains are generally accessible. For attractions, it's advisable to check with individual venues like museums for their specific accessibility provisions.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Dunkirk?
Visitors particularly appreciate the extensive views from spots like Mont des Cats and the historical significance of sites like the Mont Noir (West). The natural beauty of places like Marguerite Yourcenar Departmental Park and the coastal areas also receive high praise.
Most popular routes around Dunkirk
Most popular attractions around Dunkirk
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
