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What if you discovered Gravelines differently? Aboard the Gravelines tourist train, let yourself be guided through the cobbled streets and along the ramparts of France's only fortified city entirely surrounded by water. A one-hour guided tour that delights young and old alike, just a 5-minute drive from the holiday home Bouteille A la Mer.
The essentials at a glance
The Gravelines tourist train departs from the Vauban Promenade jetty (rue de Dunkirk) for a one-hour guided tour through the UNESCO-listed ramparts and historic town centre, just 5 minutes from the holiday home Bouteille A la Mer. Fare: €2.50 per person. Runs in July and August on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays. Free access via the DK'BUS line 26 (stop 50 metres from the holiday home).
A Unique Way to Discover the Fortified City
Gravelines is no ordinary town. Picture a stone star set on the water, designed by Vauban in the 17th century to protect the kingdom's northern border. The Gravelines tourist train offers the best vantage point to understand this exceptional military architecture, without tiring you out.
From your seat, you follow the moats where small boats and baudequins glide, pass through the Porte aux Boules, and dive into the maze of streets in the town centre. The on-board commentary (in French) tells you the story of the city: the herring fishermen setting off for Iceland, the sieges and battles that shaped its ramparts, and the epic tale of the privateer Jean Bart, a local son.
The route serves several strategic stops — Place Charles Valentin, Quai des Islandais, Ferme Bernard — and extends to Petit-Fort-Philippe, its lighthouse and fine sandy beach. You can get off at any stop to explore on foot, then catch the next train.
🗞️ 2026 Update: The town of Gravelines is applying for 'Station de Tourisme' status this year — a recognition that boosts the destination's appeal.
Why Visit Gravelines on the Gravelines Tourist Train?
Because it's fun. Kids love the tourist train, and adults enjoy a guided tour without any effort. It's the ideal activity for a family afternoon after a morning at the beach.
Because it's educational. In one hour, you'll understand why Gravelines is the only fortified town in France surrounded by water. The commentary is precise, accessible, and packed with anecdotes you won't find in any guidebook.
Because it's practical. The tourist train saves you from walking in the July sun while covering a much wider area than you could on foot. And for those with limited mobility, it's the perfect way to visit without any obstacles.
How to Reach the Gravelines Tourist Train from the Holiday home
From the holiday home Bouteille A la Mer in Grand-Fort-Philippe, you have three options:
- 🚗 By car: 5 minutes (2.5 km). Take the D11 towards Gravelines, park near the Porte aux Boules (free public parking nearby).
- 🚴 By bike: 10 minutes. Follow the greenway along the Aa canal, then skirt the western ramparts. The holiday home provides bikes for guests.
- 🚌 By free bus: the DK'BUS line 26 stops 50 metres from the holiday home. Head to Gravelines Station, then a 5-minute walk to the Embarcadère Vauban Promenade. The DK'BUS network is completely free — a great way to explore the Opal Coast without a car.
Practical Information 2026 — Gravelines tourist train
📍 Address & Access
Embarcadère Vauban Promenade — Porte aux Boules, Rue de Dunkirk, 59820 Gravelines. Located at the western entrance to the fortified town, overlooking the moats. Free public parking nearby.
🕒 Opening Hours
Runs in July and August on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Departures from 2 pm to 6 pm (last departure at 5 pm). Duration of the circuit: approximately 1 hour.
💰 Prices
€2.50 per person (flat rate for adults and children). Free for children under 3. Groups (over 20 people): booking possible on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturday mornings — contact the Culture and Heritage Department on 03 28 24 99 79.
♿ Duration & Accessibility
The full circuit lasts about 1 hour. Accessible for people with reduced mobility (the little train has a designated space). Not covered in case of rain — bring a windbreaker on drizzly days, we're in the North after all!
Our Verdict on the Holiday home
We love recommending the Gravelines tourist train to our guests, especially families arriving at the start of their stay. It's the best way to get your bearings: in an hour, you'll see the layout of the town, spot places you'll want to revisit (the Museum of Drawing and Printmaking, the ramparts to explore by boat, the restaurants on Place Albert Denvers…), and enjoy a moment of pure relaxation.
Our tip: take the little train on Friday morning or early afternoon, then enjoy the market in Gravelines (Friday morning, Place Albert Denvers) for lunch. A perfect morning in Gravelines, without touching the car thanks to the free DK'BUS.
Ready to explore the region's heritage?
Book your stay now at holiday home "Bouteille A la Mer" and enjoy an ideal base for your visits.
FAQ
How much does the Gravelines tourist train cost?
Tickets are €2.50 per person. Children under 3 go free. The fare is a flat rate with no adult/child distinction.
How do I get to the Gravelines tourist train from holiday home Bouteille A la Mer?
Three options: by car (5 minutes), by bike (10 minutes via the greenway), or by DK'BUS line 26 (stop 50 metres from holiday home, free). The bus drops you at Gravelines Gare, a 5-minute walk from the Embarcadère Vauban Promenade.
Is there a free tourist train in Gravelines?
No, the Gravelines tourist train is paid: €2.50 per ticket. However, the DK'BUS to get there is completely free, and the walk along the Vauban ramparts is free to explore on foot.
