
Dunkirk Belfry
Ascend the historic Saint-Éloi Belfry for breathtaking 360° views of Dunkirk, especially magical at night. A rewarding climb with friendly staff.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Dunkirk Belfry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend the historic Saint-Éloi Belfry for breathtaking 360° views of Dunkirk, especially magical at night. A rewarding climb with friendly staff.
"A great place to get an overview of the city. Only 5 euros to get in felt very reasonable."

🎯 Book Ahead for Peak Times
Afternoons can be busy; consider an early visit or a weekday to avoid long waits.
👟 Be Prepared for Stairs
The climb is via narrow, tight stairs. Not ideal for those with claustrophobia.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Rooftop Observation Deck
Experience a breathtaking 360-degree view of Dunkirk, especially stunning at night. Spot key landmarks from above.

Historic Bell Tower Climb
Saint-Éloi Belfry
Ascend the ancient bell tower for a unique perspective and a sense of history. The climb itself is an adventure.

Special 'Apéro' Nights
Belfry Terrace
Enjoy a delightful evening with mulled wine and biscuits while taking in the illuminated city views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Stair Climb Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Peak Times
Afternoons can be busy; consider an early visit or a weekday to avoid long waits.
👟 Be Prepared for Stairs
The climb is via narrow, tight stairs. Not ideal for those with claustrophobia.
💰 Great Value for Money
Entry is only 5 euros for adults, offering incredible views and historical insight.
🗣️ Friendly & Helpful Staff
Staff are knowledgeable, speak English well, and can provide maps and local tips.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Peak Times
Afternoons can be busy; consider an early visit or a weekday to avoid long waits.
👟 Be Prepared for Stairs
The climb is via narrow, tight stairs. Not ideal for those with claustrophobia.
💰 Great Value for Money
Entry is only 5 euros for adults, offering incredible views and historical insight.
🗣️ Friendly & Helpful Staff
Staff are knowledgeable, speak English well, and can provide maps and local tips.
🌃 Evening Views are Magical
The city lights from the top are spectacular, especially on 'apero' nights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views from the Dunkirk Belfry, especially at night, and the reasonable 5-euro entry fee. The friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance the experience, though the narrow, steep stairs can be a challenge for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues.
"Beautiful view from the top, especially at night. We went on one of their special "apero" nights and had a lovely cup of mulled wine and biscuits. Staff are very friendly and knowledgeable, definitely worth a visit."
Craig Paterson
"One of the best attractions in Dunkirk in my opinion, the Monday we went there was a lot of wait in the afternoon so we came back the next day and a bit earlier. We were able to get some places to go up and have a view of the city.
You will have to walk a few stairs which are super tight and not a lot of space, warning if you are claustrophobic the climb is very unpleasant"
Seka Faji
"Great place to get an overview of the city. Only 5 euros to get in felt very reasonable. Some signs up the top highlighting the main sights."
Claire Dwyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Dunkirk Belfry, also known as the Saint-Éloi Belfry, is centrally located in Dunkirk. It's easily accessible on foot from many parts of the city center. Public transport options include local buses that stop nearby. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes.
There are several public parking areas and street parking options in the vicinity of the Dunkirk Belfry. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak hours or events. It's advisable to check for parking availability in advance or consider public transport.
Yes, the Dunkirk Belfry is a pleasant walk from the Dunkirk train station, typically taking around 15-20 minutes. This allows you to see more of the city on your way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Dunkirk Belfry is very reasonably priced. Adults typically pay around 5 euros, and children under 7 often get in for free. This makes it an affordable attraction for most visitors.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's recommended, especially for afternoon visits or during busy periods, to avoid potential queues. Special events like 'apero' nights might require pre-booking.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ on public holidays. It's best to check the official tourism website or contact the tourist office for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
Information on group discounts is usually available through the Dunkirk tourist office. It's advisable to inquire directly if you are planning a visit with a larger group to see if any special rates apply.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The ascent involves narrow, tight, and sometimes low stairways. While there's a lift to a certain point, the final stages require climbing stairs. It can be challenging for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues.
From the rooftop observation deck, you'll get a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of Dunkirk and its surroundings. Signs at the top help identify key landmarks and sights.
A lift is available to take visitors part of the way up the Belfry. However, the upper levels and the final viewing platform are accessed via narrow stairs, which may pose challenges for individuals with significant mobility impairments.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the base or within the tourist office area associated with the Belfry. It's advisable to confirm their availability upon arrival.
Absolutely! The panoramic views from the top are fantastic for photography, especially during the day and at sunset. The night views are also incredibly picturesque.
📸 📷 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Nighttime is also magical, with the city lights creating a stunning panorama.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the city, detailed views of landmarks, and interesting architectural shots of the belfry itself. The narrow staircases also offer unique photographic opportunities.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing great shots. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the panoramic views and a tripod for low-light evening shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to make the climb more comfortable for little ones. The panoramic views from the top are sure to captivate their imaginations, and the staff's friendly demeanor can make the experience even more enjoyable.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk from the train station and pack your own snacks to keep costs even lower. The experience of climbing the historic tower and seeing the city from above is a memorable one that doesn't break the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent: A Journey Through History
Despite the physical effort, the reward at the top is immense. The panoramic views are described as 'mind-blowing' and offer a comprehensive perspective of Dunkirk. From this vantage point, you can trace the city's history, from its wartime significance to its modern development. The staff are often on hand to point out key landmarks, enriching the visual experience with historical context.
Experiencing Dunkirk's Charm: Beyond the View
Special events, such as the 'apero' nights, offer a unique way to enjoy the belfry. Imagine sipping mulled wine and enjoying biscuits while gazing at the illuminated cityscape – a truly memorable experience that blends local culture with breathtaking scenery. These events provide a relaxed and social atmosphere, making the belfry a destination for more than just sightseeing. The reasonable entry fee further adds to its appeal as an accessible and enjoyable attraction for all.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit