The fifth largest city in the Hauts-de-France region, Dunkirk is a town full of treasures. From Plopsaland to Malo-les-Bains beach and Fort Mardyck Zoo, Dunkirk is your ticket to fun! In this post, we bring you a selection of the activities the region has to offer. A little glimpse at the best things to do in Dunkirk.
Relax on Malo-les-Bains beach
Think Dunkirk, think Malo-les-Bains, queen of Nord’s beaches. Popular with tourists since the beginning of the 20th century, Malo-les-Bains is today a seaside resort famous for its seafront villas and its miles of white sand.
This beach is a dream location for stunning walks or a spot of sunbathing, while the children keep themselves busy building sandcastles.
Attend a nautical event
If you’re a windsurf enthusiast, don’t miss the second stage of the Brets Funboard Tour AFF, which takes place in Dunkirk. This great boarding festival takes place on the long beach of Malo-les-Bains where professional windsurfers put on a spectacular show. Other major nautical events in Dunkirk: the Tour de France à la Voile, the Fête de la Mer, the Hauts-de-France Sailing League, not to mention the many local regattas.
Visit Fort Mardyck Zoo
Fort Mardyck Zoological Park is an animal park located just a stone’s throw from the city centre. Not only does it offer stunning views across its 5 acres, but it never ceases to delight with its wildlife comprising 250 animals of 50 species. From mid-July to mid-August, the zoo organises events, such as the Zoo-Lanta or the songbird search, for a fun family outing.
Have some family fun at Plopsaland
Located in La Panne, on the other side of the nearby Belgian border, an acre of amusements await at Plopsaland and Plopsaqua. Based on cartoon characters like Plop le Lutin, who lives in a milk bar, they offer children and adults a whole host of attractions, including swing rides, rollercoasters and carousels at Plopsaland, and 4 swimming pools and 6 water slides, river rapids, water cannons and Halvar’s drakkar at Plopsaqua. Fun for all the family.
Canoeing at The PAarc des Rives de l’Aa
The PAarc des Rives de l’Aa is a vast 432-acre Olympic-level water park. Barbecues, canoe-kayak rides, paddleboarding, pedal boats, rollerskating and cycling are all on offer.
The best holidays start with the right accommodation
Choosing the right accommodation is essential when staying in a city like Dunkirk. Not only should it offer maximum comfort, it should also be equipped with all mod cons. This is precisely why the aparthotel is the ideal choice. It combines the space and comfort of an apartment with the à la carte services of a hotel.
All Suites Appart Hôtel Dunkerque is the perfect place to enjoy the city. More economical than a hotel room, the suites in this residence are very comfortable and all come with a fully equipped kitchenette where you can prepare your own meals. Choose this property and enjoy magnificent views of the Port of Dunkirk, as well as many free services: gym, children’s area, unlimited Wi-Fi, etc. Of course, bath and bed linen are provided and ready upon arrival.
There is no shortage of things to do and see in and around Dunkirk. The ideas presented here are just a few suggestions. Dunkirk still has plenty of surprises in store.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DUNKIRK AND ITS SURROUNDING AREA
- Dunkirk, the Nord city like no other
- The best animal parks in Dunkirk
- Weekends and short stays in Dunkirk