Explore Calais

The best time to visit Calais depends on what you’re looking for, but generally:

Spring (March to May):

• Ideal for pleasant weather with fewer tourists compared to the summer months.
• The temperatures are mild, typically between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F), which makes it comfortable for walking around and exploring outdoor sites like the Calais Lighthouse or Dune Marchand.
• Spring is a great time if you want to enjoy Calais’ natural beauty without the crowds.

Summer (June to August):

• Warmest weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F), perfect for enjoying the beaches, parks, and outdoor attractions.
• This is peak tourist season, so you’ll find the town busier, with more events and festivals, like the Calais Carnival or the Music Festival.
• If you like a lively atmosphere, summer is ideal, but be prepared for higher prices and more tourists.

Autumn (September to November):

• Milder temperatures similar to spring, making it another pleasant time to visit with fewer crowds.
• September still has warm weather, but by October and November, it can get cooler and wetter. This is a good time for those seeking a quieter experience and beautiful fall colors around the town’s parks and beaches.
• The sea and beaches are still nice to visit, but without the summer bustle.

Winter (December to February):

• Cold and quieter, with temperatures between 2°C and 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
• Winter is the least popular time for tourists, but it’s perfect if you enjoy fewer crowds and don’t mind colder, sometimes rainy weather.
• You’ll find some seasonal festivities like Christmas markets, but overall, it’s a more tranquil time to explore.

Best Overall:

• Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) offer the best of both worlds: mild weather, fewer tourists, and the chance to experience the local culture and natural beauty without the high-season rush.

To get to Calais, France, there are a few options depending on your location and travel preferences:

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: The closest airport to Calais is Calais-Dunkerque Airport (CNL), but it's small and serves mainly domestic flights. For international flights, you can fly into Lille Airport (LIL), which is about 1.5 hours by car from Calais.
• Alternative Airports: Another option is Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), which is around 3 hours from Calais by train or car.

By Train:

• Eurostar: If you're traveling from London, the Eurostar is a convenient option. You can take the train from London St Pancras International to Calais-Fréthun. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
• TGV/Regional Trains: From other parts of France, you can take a TGV (high-speed train) to Calais Ville or Calais-Fréthun. Trains from Paris usually take around 2.5 to 3 hours.

By Car:

• If you're driving, Calais is easily accessible from various cities in Europe:
  • From London, the drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours via the Eurotunnel (car ferry tunnel).
  • From Paris, it's approximately a 3-hour drive via the A1 and A26 highways.

By Bus:

• Eurolines and FlixBus offer affordable bus services from major cities in Europe, including London, Paris, and Brussels. The bus journey can take between 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on your departure location.

Calais is a charming town with a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Here are some of the top things to see and do:

Top Attractions in Calais:

1. Calais Lighthouse (Phare de Calais):

   • A beautiful lighthouse offering panoramic views of the town and the English Channel. It’s a great spot for photos and offers a chance to learn about maritime history.

2. Calais Beach (Plage de Calais):

   • A wide, sandy beach ideal for walks, relaxing, or simply enjoying the sea breeze. It’s especially nice during the summer for sunbathing or swimming.

3. The Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville):

   • A beautiful building with striking architecture and a stunning belfry that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also take a tour of the building and its gardens.

4. Musée des Beaux-Arts de Calais:

   • A museum showcasing an impressive collection of fine arts, including works from French and Flemish artists, as well as pieces that focus on the region's local history and culture.

5. The War Museum (Musée de la Guerre):

   • This museum highlights Calais' role during World War I and World War II, with exhibits showcasing military artifacts, personal stories, and the history of the region during the wars.

6. Cité Internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode:

   • This museum is dedicated to Calais' rich history of lace-making and its textile industry. It’s fascinating for anyone interested in fashion, textiles, and industrial history.

7. The Burghers of Calais (Les Bourgeois de Calais):

   • A famous sculpture by Auguste Rodin, located in a park near the town hall. The statue commemorates the self-sacrifice of six citizens during the Hundred Years’ War.

8. Parc Richelieu:

   • A beautiful public park located near the town center, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. It’s a peaceful retreat with ponds, gardens, and statues.

9. Calais-Ville Train Station:

   • A historic train station with impressive architecture, offering a glimpse into the town's past as a key transport hub.

10. Calais Port:

    • A bustling port with ferries connecting to Dover, England. You can stroll along the harbor to watch the ferries come and go, and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.

Activities to Do:

1. Visit the Ferry Terminal:

   • Take a short ferry ride to Dover, England, or just visit the port area for some beautiful views of the English Channel. It’s a scenic and relaxing way to spend a few hours.

2. Explore the Local Markets:

   • Calais has vibrant markets, particularly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, where you can shop for fresh produce, local cheese, baked goods, and souvenirs.

3. Take a Walking Tour:

   • Discover the history and hidden gems of Calais with a guided walking tour. You can learn about the town’s fascinating past, its role in various historical events, and its unique architecture.

4. Shopping for Lace:

   • Calais is famous for its lace-making history. Visit local shops to purchase high-quality lace products, such as tablecloths, scarves, and clothing items.

5. Cycling Around the Region:

   • Rent a bike and explore the surrounding area, including the beautiful coastline and charming villages in the nearby countryside.

6. Take a Boat Trip:

   • Enjoy a boat trip along the coast, where you can experience the beauty of the shoreline and spot some local wildlife.

7. Explore the Nearby Nature Reserves:

   • Take a hike in the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale, a large natural park with walking and cycling trails, diverse wildlife, and beautiful scenery.

8. Gastronomic Experience:

   • Calais has some great dining options, with fresh seafood being a highlight. Try local specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries) or enjoy a wine and cheese tasting.

9. Day Trip to Dover, England:

   • If you're up for an international adventure, a day trip to Dover is easy from Calais. Visit the famous Dover Castle and explore the cliffs for stunning views of the coastline.

10. Attend Local Festivals:

    • If you're visiting during the right time of year, Calais hosts festivals like the Calais Carnival (usually in March) and music events that showcase local talent and culture.

Accommodation in Calais:

Calais offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences:

1. Luxury Hotels:

   • Holiday Inn Calais: A modern hotel with a prime location near the beach and the city center. It offers great amenities including a restaurant with stunning views of the port.
   • Hotel Meurice: Located in the heart of Calais, this elegant hotel offers stylish rooms and personalized service, perfect for a more luxurious stay.

2. Mid-Range Hotels:

   • Best Western Hotel Hermitage: A comfortable and affordable option located close to the city center. It’s known for its friendly staff and convenient location.
   • Hotel Ibis Calais Tunnel Sous La Manche: A budget-friendly option with simple, clean rooms, ideal for travelers looking for easy access to the Eurotunnel.

3. Budget Accommodation:

   • B&B Hotels Calais Centre St Pierre: A good budget choice offering basic, clean rooms. It’s conveniently located near the train station and within walking distance to the town center.
   • Premiere Classe Calais Centre-Gare: A no-frills, budget-friendly hotel with simple rooms and easy access to local transportation.

4. Guesthouses and B&Bs:

   • Le Clos des Roses: A cozy, welcoming B&B located near the town center. It’s a charming choice for travelers looking for a more personal experience.
   • Chambre d'Hôtes "La Source": A homely B&B offering comfortable rooms and a peaceful environment, located slightly outside the town center.

5. Self-Catering and Apartments:

   • Appart'City Calais: An apartment-hotel offering spacious self-catering apartments. Great for longer stays or those preferring to cook their own meals.
   • Calais Vacances: Offers rental apartments and studios with full kitchen facilities for a more independent experience.

Food and Restaurants in Calais:

Calais is a haven for food lovers, especially for seafood, but also offers a variety of dining options:

1. Seafood Restaurants:

   • Le Channel: A well-regarded seafood restaurant located near the port, offering fresh fish and seafood dishes with a lovely atmosphere. It’s ideal for trying local specialties like moules marinières (mussels) or plateau de fruits de mer (seafood platter).
   • La Table du Boulanger: A cozy spot with a strong focus on fresh local seafood, offering great seafood platters and fish dishes.

2. French Cuisine:

   • Le Grand Bleu: A traditional French bistro offering a range of French specialties, from classic French onion soup to tender steak frites. A great place for a leisurely meal.
   • La Sole Meunière: A charming restaurant specializing in regional French cuisine with a menu focused on fresh, local ingredients. Perfect for trying local delicacies.

3. Casual Dining and Cafés:

   • Le Café de Paris: A nice café with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a coffee, pastry, or light lunch while people-watching in the town square.
   • Le Gourmand: A lovely café offering pastries, sandwiches, and salads in a relaxed atmosphere. Great for a light snack or breakfast.

4. International Cuisine:

   • Pizzeria Bella Italia: A popular Italian restaurant in the heart of Calais offering delicious pizzas and pasta dishes. A good choice for a casual meal.
   • Tandoori Calais: For those craving Indian cuisine, this restaurant serves flavorful curries and tandoori dishes in a welcoming setting.

5. Bakeries and Sweets:

   • Boulangerie Maison Darras: A fantastic local bakery with fresh pastries, baguettes, and French sweets. Try their pain au chocolat or quiche Lorraine.
   • Les Délices de Calais: A patisserie that specializes in calaisienne cakes and other regional desserts, offering a sweet taste of local culture.

Local Culture:

Calais has a rich, diverse culture shaped by its location as a coastal town and its history as a key port and gateway between France and England. Here’s what to expect:

1. Bilingual Heritage:

   • Due to its proximity to the UK, many locals speak both French and English. Calais has long been a cultural melting pot, with both French and English influences. Signs and menus are often in both languages, especially in tourist areas.

2. History and Tradition:

   • Calais’ Lace-Making Tradition: The city has a long history of lace-making, dating back to the 19th century. The Cité Internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode (International City of Lace and Fashion) is a key cultural landmark, showcasing the history and art of lace-making. It’s also reflected in local fashion, with lace often incorporated into clothing and accessories.
   • The Bourgeois de Calais sculpture by Rodin represents an iconic piece of Calais' history, commemorating the self-sacrifice of six citizens during the Hundred Years’ War. This spirit of resilience is a significant part of local pride.

3. Cultural Festivals:

   • Calais Carnival: Held in February or March, this vibrant event features colorful parades, music, and costumes. It celebrates local traditions and is one of the town's biggest annual events.
   • Music and Art Festivals: Calais hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year, from music festivals to art exhibitions, celebrating both local and international talent.

4. Cuisine and Social Life:

   • Local Specialties: The food culture in Calais focuses on fresh seafood from the English Channel, as well as rich pastries, cheeses, and wine from the surrounding regions. Meals are often social events, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
   • Café Culture: Like much of France, Calais has a relaxed café culture, where locals enjoy coffee, pastries, and conversation in a laid-back setting. Many cafés have outdoor seating, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere of the town.

5. Maritime Influence:

   • Calais' history as a port city gives it a strong maritime influence. The sea plays a central role in local life, and the Calais Port area has a strong sense of working-class pride tied to the town’s maritime past. The English Channel, once a source of conflict and commerce, is now a symbol of the town’s cultural connection to the UK and beyond.

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