Dunkirk Car Hire

Guide of Dunkirk

Geography

Dunkirk is situated in the northernmost part of France, in the Hauts-de-France region, making it one of the country's closest cities to the United Kingdom. Its geographical location along the North Sea coast grants Dunkirk a unique blend of coastal charm and maritime importance. The city is surrounded by vast sand dunes and pristine beaches that stretch along the coast, inviting visitors to bask in the sun or take leisurely seaside walks. The Deûle River flows into the North Sea at Dunkirk, contributing to the city's history as a vital port and maritime hub. Additionally, Dunkirk's proximity to the Belgian border makes it an important crossroads for both trade and tourism. The city's landscape is characterised by its scenic coastline, bustling harbour, and a mix of modern and historic architecture that reflects its rich maritime heritage.

Climate in Dunkirk

Dunkirk experiences a temperate maritime climate, heavily influenced by its proximity to the North Sea. This climate ensures that the city enjoys relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. Summers, from June to August, are pleasantly warm, with average highs ranging from 19°C to 22°C (66°F to 72°F). These months are ideal for enjoying the city's beaches and outdoor attractions, as daylight hours are long, and the sea breeze provides a refreshing touch. Winters, spanning from December to February, are cool but not excessively cold, with average lows around 2°C to 3°C (36°F to 37°F). Snowfall is rare, and the city rarely experiences freezing temperatures. Spring and autumn bring mild and pleasant weather, making them excellent seasons to explore Dunkirk's cultural and historical sites without the crowds of summer. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, so visitors should be prepared for occasional showers regardless of the season. Dunkirk's maritime climate ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit for travellers throughout the year.

Culture

Maritime Heritage: Dunkirk's culture is deeply intertwined with its maritime heritage. The city's maritime traditions are celebrated through various festivals and events, including the famous Carnival of Dunkirk, a vibrant and lively carnival season featuring colourful parades, costumes, and music. The Dunkirk Maritime Museum provides insights into the city's nautical history, showcasing ship models, maritime artefacts, and stories of bravery from the Dunkirk Evacuation during World War II.

Cuisine: Dunkirk boasts a culinary culture that highlights its coastal location. Seafood is a star attraction, with fresh catches of shrimp, mussels, and fish making their way into local dishes. Moules-frites, a classic French dish of mussels and fries, is a must-try. Visitors can also indulge in hearty seafood stews and the city's famous shrimp croquettes. Traditional local beers like Bière de Garde offer a taste of Dunkirk's brewing heritage.

Things To Do in Dunkirk

Beachfront Relaxation: Dunkirk's sandy beaches, particularly in the coastal district of Malo-les-Bains, beckon visitors to unwind by the sea. Sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing are popular activities during the summer months. The wide promenades along the waterfront are perfect for leisurely strolls and taking in the sea views.

Historical Exploration: History buffs can delve into Dunkirk's past by visiting sites like the Dunkirk War Museum and the Dynamo Memorial, which honour the city's role in World War II. The Dunkirk Lighthouse, an iconic structure with panoramic views, offers a chance to explore both history and architecture.

Cultural Events: Dunkirk hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances. The annual Dunkirk Carnival is a highlight, attracting visitors from around the world with its lively parades and festive atmosphere.

Shopping and Dining: Dunkirk's city centre offers a range of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Visitors can explore local markets, sample fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, and savour regional delicacies. The city's café culture provides an opportunity to relax with a coffee or a glass of wine while observing daily life in Dunkirk.

Eating Out in Dunkirk

Seafood Delights: Dining in Dunkirk is a seafood lover's dream. The city's proximity to the sea ensures that its restaurants serve up fresh catches of the day. Many establishments along the waterfront offer mouthwatering seafood dishes, from succulent shrimp and mussels to perfectly grilled fish. Whether you're dining in a chic seafood bistro or a casual beachside café, you'll find the sea's bounty showcased in delicious ways.

Regional Specialties: Dunkirk's cuisine is influenced by the culinary traditions of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. You'll discover hearty dishes like Carbonade Flamande, a rich beef stew simmered in beer, and Potjevleesch, a terrine of various types of meat served with pickles. Pair these dishes with a glass of local Bière de Garde for a true taste of the region.

Transport

Roadways: Dunkirk is well-connected by road, making it easily accessible by car. The A16 motorway, also known as the L'Européenne, passes through Dunkirk, providing links to major cities in France and neighbouring countries. This makes it convenient for visitors arriving by car, offering efficient access to the city and its surroundings.

Train Services: Dunkirk boasts a central train station, Dunkerque Gare, which connects the city to the French railway network. The station provides regular services to destinations within France, including Paris, Lille, and Calais. It's a convenient mode of transport for those arriving from other parts of France.

Local Buses: Dunkirk has an efficient network of local buses operated by DK'Bus Marine. These buses serve the city and its suburbs, making it easy for visitors to explore Dunkirk and access nearby attractions. Public buses are a cost-effective way to get around town.

Dunkirk Airport

While Dunkirk does not have its own commercial airport, the closest major airport is Lille Airport (LIL), also known as Lille-Lesquin Airport. Lille Airport is situated approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) southeast of Dunkirk and serves as a regional and international gateway. It offers a range of domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for air travel to the Dunkirk region.

Getting Around Dunkirk

Walking: Dunkirk's city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Many of the city's attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to stroll through its streets and along its picturesque waterfront leisurely.

Bicycles: Dunkirk promotes cycling as a sustainable and enjoyable mode of transportation. The city has dedicated bike lanes and rental stations, making it easy for visitors to explore the city on two wheels. Cycling is popular for those looking to cover more ground while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Dunkirk and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. They offer a convenient and comfortable way to reach specific destinations within the city or travel to nearby towns and attractions.

Public Buses: DK'Bus Marine operates a network of local buses that connect Dunkirk to its suburbs and surrounding areas. These buses provide an affordable means of getting around the city and exploring nearby attractions.

Working with the Best Car Hire Suppliers in Dunkirk

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Our cutting-edge search engine simultaneously combs through a multitude of car rental websites, ensuring that you stumble upon the most competitive rates for car rentals in Dunkirk.

The majority of our quoted prices are all-inclusive, covering insurance, taxes, 24/7 roadside assistance, airport surcharges, and generous mileage allowances at most car rental providers.

Choose from a diverse array of vehicles, including economy cars, luxurious models, versatile SUVs, and more, allowing you to align your selection with your specific needs and budget. Don't delay any further; secure your car rental today, and you'll soon find yourself captivated by the wonders Dunkirk has to offer.

Range of vehicles for car hire in Dunkirk

Enjoy Travel offers a comprehensive selection of cars to ensure you discover the perfect one that suits your specific needs and budget. Whether you're seeking an economical vehicle for urban adventures or a top-of-the-line luxury car for a sophisticated journey, we have the ideal solution ready for you.

Our range encompasses various brands and models, including:

Economy cars: Fiat 500, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Polo

Luxury cars: Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class

SUVs: Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Touareg

Vans: Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Vito, Volkswagen Transporter

Convertibles: Fiat 500C, Mini Cooper Convertible, Volkswagen Beetle Convertible

Electric vehicles: Tesla Model 3, Nissan Leaf, Renault Zoe