Calais holidays

How to reach Calais

Reaching Calais from the UK is simple, making it an ideal destination for a quick getaway. There are a few convenient options available, with no need for flights to Calais.

• Flight time: Flights to Lille and flights to Paris are available and a short 1-hour train or car ride away from Calais.

• Transfer time: The most popular and straightforward way to reach Calais is via ferry or Eurotunnel from Dover. The ferry crossing takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, while the Eurotunnel journey is just 35 minutes. From the port or Eurotunnel terminal, it's a short drive to the city centre.

• Price: Ferry tickets start at around €30 for a car and passengers, depending on the time of year and availability. Eurotunnel prices are similar, often starting at around €60 return for a car. Train fares from Lille or Paris can vary, with the high-speed TGV offering quick access.

Best time to visit Calais

Calais boasts a temperate maritime climate making it a treat to visit year-round.

• April to June is a great time to visit, as spring brings mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. The city comes alive with blooming flowers and outdoor markets, making it ideal for exploring on foot.

• July to August is the peak summer season, with temperatures reaching up to 22°C. This is the best time for beach activities and enjoying the long sunny days. The sea is warm enough for a dip, and there are various festivals and events.

• September to November offers cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 17°C. The crowds thin out, and the autumn colours create a beautiful backdrop for a calm and quieter holiday.

• December to March sees colder weather, with temperatures averaging between 3°C and 8°C. While it’s chillier, the festive atmosphere around Christmas is charming, with markets and decorations adding to the holiday spirit.

Practical Information

Calais is a welcoming destination with plenty of amenities and services to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Here's a quick guide to some practical aspects:

• Spoken languages: French is the official language, but many locals, especially in tourist areas, speak English. A few basic French phrases can be handy and appreciated.

• Local habits and customs: The French appreciate politeness, so a friendly "Bonjour" when entering shops or restaurants goes a long way. Dining tends to be a leisurely affair, with lunch often lasting a couple of hours.

• Currency: Calais uses the Euro. Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it’s good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: Calais is compact and walkable. The city also has a good bus network, with fares around €1.50 per journey. For those exploring further afield, renting a car is a convenient option.

• Electricity and plug types: France uses the standard continental 220 volts. UK travellers will need an adaptor for continental-style two-pin round plugs.

• Time zone: Calais is on Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Calais

Calais offers a delightful mix of history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or someone who enjoys the great outdoors, here’s the best of what holidays to Calais have to offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Le Phare de Calais (Calais Lighthouse): Climb the 271 steps to the top for unbelievable panoramic views of the city, the coastline, and even the White Cliffs of Dover on a clear day. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

• Saint-Pierre Park: This peaceful park offers beautiful views of the city’s canals and is an excellent place for a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic.

Best districts

• Ville Basse: The historic lower town is known for its charming streets, shops and the impressive Calais town hall with its iconic belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Ville Haute: This area features the citadel and several historic buildings, offering a glimpse into the city's past.

Parks and gardens

• Place d'Armes Gardens: These lovely public gardens are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. It’s a great spot to enjoy the sunshine, with plenty of seating areas and beautiful floral displays.

• Calais Beach: While this might not be a park, the sandy beach is a popular spot for both relaxation and activities. The promenade is ideal for a seaside walk, with plenty of cafés and ice cream shops.

Historical monuments

• Les Bourgeois de Calais (The Burghers of Calais): This famous statue by Auguste Rodin, located outside the town hall, commemorates a significant event in the city’s history during the Hundred Years' War.

• Musée Mémoire 1939–1945 (Calais War Museum): This museum, housed in a former bunker, offers a comprehensive look at Calais's role during World War II.

Day trips in the area

• Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez: These impressive cliffs are part of the Opal Coast and offer spectacular views. They are perfect for a day of hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

• Boulogne-sur-Mer: Just a short drive away, this historic town is home to the impressive Nausicaá National Sea Centre, and a delightful old town with a castle and cathedral.

Activities for families in Calais

Calais is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. From educational experiences to outdoor adventures, there's something for all ages.

• Cité Europe Shopping Centre: This massive shopping complex offers more than just retail therapy. It has a cinema, a range of restaurants, and even a play area for children, making it a great place for a family day out.

• La Coupole: A short drive from Calais, this fascinating World War II museum offers an educational experience with interactive exhibits and a planetarium, making history engaging for kids.

• Calais Dragon: This extraordinary mechanical dragon offers rides along the beach promenade. It's a unique and thrilling experience for families, combining art, engineering and storytelling.

Free things to do in Calais

Calais offers plenty of free activities that allow visitors to enjoy the city's charm without spending a cent. From cultural sites to natural beauty, here are some great options:

• Calais town hall and belfry: While the climb to the top of the belfry may require a ticket, exploring the town hall itself and its surroundings is free. Admire the beautiful architecture and enjoy the view from the outside.

• Tour du Guet (Watchtower): One of the oldest monuments in Calais, this medieval watchtower is located in the city centre. It's a great spot to learn about the city's history and take some memorable photos.

• Richelieu Park: A lovely park perfect for a relaxing walk, it's a quiet spot where you can enjoy the greenery and watch the world go by.

• Art in the streets: Calais has a rich tradition of street art. Take a walk around the city to discover colourful murals and installations that bring the streets to life.

Wellness in Calais

• Spas and wellness centres: Several hotels and independent centres in Calais offer spa services. The Thalassotherapy Centre at the Hotel de la Plage is known for its seaweed wraps and hydrotherapy pools.

• Beach walks and fresh air: Sometimes the best wellness activities are the simplest. A walk along Calais Beach, breathing in the fresh sea air, can be incredibly refreshing and calming.

Nature and outdoor activities in Calais

• Hiking and walking: The surrounding Opal Coast offers numerous trails, with paths suitable for all levels. The hike to Cap Blanc-Nez is particularly popular, offering stunning coastal views.

• Cycling: The flat terrain around Calais makes it ideal for cycling. You can rent bikes in the city and explore the scenic countryside at your own pace.

• Birdwatching: The nearby marshlands are a haven for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and spot a variety of species in their natural habitat.

• Water sports: Calais Beach is a great spot for water sports like kite surfing and paddleboarding. The windy conditions often create ideal conditions for these activities.

The best beaches for your Calais holidays

Calais might be best known as a port city, but it also boasts some stunning beaches along the Opal Coast, offering wide sandy shores, dramatic cliffs, and refreshing sea air. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing seaside escape, a scenic coastal walk, or family-friendly fun by the water, the beaches around Calais have something for everyone.

• Calais Beach – right on your doorstep

  Just a short stroll from the town centre, Calais Beach is a long, golden stretch of sand with plenty of space to relax. The calm waters and wide promenade make it ideal for families, while the seafront restaurants serve up fresh seafood with a view. There are also playgrounds and water sports facilities for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their beach day.

• Wissant Beach – a scenic coastal escape

  Located about 20 minutes from Calais, Wissant Beach is a favourite for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The windswept sands and rolling dunes provide a stunning setting for long walks, while the steady breeze makes it a hotspot for kite surfing and windsurfing.

• Sangatte Beach – peaceful and unspoiled

  If you’re looking for a quieter spot away from the crowds, Sangatte Beach is the perfect retreat. This wide, open beach is great for walking, shell collecting, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air. The views of the nearby Cap Blanc-Nez cliffs add to the beauty of this hidden gem.

• Cap Blanc-Nez – breathtaking views and coastal walks

  While not a traditional beach for sunbathing, Cap Blanc-Nez offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in northern France. The towering white cliffs provide the perfect setting for scenic hikes, with stunning panoramas stretching across the Channel to England on a clear day.

• Boulogne-sur-Mer Beach – a lively seaside spot

  For a more traditional seaside experience, head to Boulogne-sur-Mer, about 30 minutes from Calais. This lively beach has a family-friendly atmosphere, with a long promenade, beachside cafés, and a mix of activities like paddleboarding and beach volleyball.

With its mix of wide sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coastal gems, Calais is more than just a ferry stop—it’s a fantastic destination for a refreshing seaside escape.

Calais holidays are not complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The city offers a delightful mix of French culinary traditions and seafood specialities:

Local dishes in Calais

• Moules Marinières: A classic dish of mussels cooked in white wine, garlic and parsley. A non-negotiable for seafood lovers.

• Frites: Calais takes its chips seriously, often served with mayonnaise or aioli. They are a perfect accompaniment to many dishes when you’re feeling like a starchy treat.

Meat dishes

• Carbonade Flamande: A rich beef stew cooked with beer, onions and brown sugar, offering a sweet and savoury flavour.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Poisson du Jour: Fresh fish of the day, often served grilled or in a delicate sauce. The proximity to the sea ensures top-notch seafood quality.

• Bouillabaisse: A hearty fish stew with a variety of local seafood, including fish, mussels and prawns, all simmered in a flavourful broth.

Desserts

• Tarte au Sucre: A sweet, sugary tart that’s a local favourite. It's simple but delicious.

• Crêpes: Enjoy these thin pancakes with a variety of fillings, from sweet options like Nutella and strawberries to savoury choices like ham and cheese.

Local drinks

• Calvados: An apple brandy from the Normandy region, often enjoyed as a digestif.

• Cider: Northern France is known for its excellent ciders, which pair wonderfully with many local dishes.