Calais Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled on the northern coast of France, Calais is a captivating city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated in the Hauts-de-France region, this charming destination is renowned for its rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Calais is perhaps best known for its historical significance, especially during the medieval period. The iconic Calais Lace Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the city's textile heritage. Here, visitors can learn about the intricate art of lace-making and admire the exquisite lace creations that have been produced in Calais for centuries.
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Calais Town Hall is a must. This elegant building dates back to the 20th century and boasts stunning architectural features. Inside, the town hall houses a fascinating collection of artworks and historical artifacts that shed light on the city's past.
Nature lovers will find solace in the breathtaking landscapes that surround Calais. The city is blessed with beautiful beaches, where visitors can unwind and soak up the sun. The Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez cliffs offer stunning panoramic views of the English Channel and are perfect for hiking or picnicking.
No trip to Calais is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The city is known for its fresh seafood, and there are plenty of charming restaurants and bistros where visitors can savor delicious dishes like moules marinières (mussels in white wine) or sole meunière (sole fish cooked in butter). Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or beer for a truly delightful culinary experience.
In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Calais also offers excellent shopping opportunities. The Cité Europe shopping center is a paradise for fashion lovers, with a wide range of international brands and boutiques. The nearby Calais Wine Superstore is a mecca for wine enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of French wines at unbeatable prices.
Calais Attractions - What to See and Explore
Calais offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Église Notre-Dame de Calais, Calais Lighthouse, Fort Risban, Calais lace museum. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Calais – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Calais, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Dennlys Parc, Todt Battery (Audinghen), Church of Saint-Éloi (Dunkirk).
Best Time To Visit Calais
Learn when is the best time to travel to Calais weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Duck
Duck meat, sourced from various species within the Anatidae family, is a cherished ingredient in kitchens worldwide. Renowned for its rich flavor, the meat is primarily obtained from the bird's breasts and legs. Unlike other poultry, duck meat is considered white meat...
Meat
Gratin
Gratin is a delectable cooking technique originating from French cuisine. It entails topping your dish with a browned, crispy crust made from ingredients such as breadcrumbs, grated cheese, eggs, or butter. Typically prepared in a shallow dish, the dish is then either...
Dish
French cuisine
French cuisine is a treasure trove of culinary delights that have evolved over centuries, drawing influences from various cultures and regions within France. It represents a harmonious fusion of local culinary traditions and flavors from neighboring countries such as...
Cuisine
Escargot
Escargots, or cooked edible land snails, are a cherished hors d'oeuvre in France and are also enjoyed in many other countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Cyprus, Greece, and North African nations such as Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco.
Dish
Galette
A galette is a delightful term in French cuisine that refers to various types of flat, round, or free-form crusty cakes. One popular version is the Breton galette, a savory pancake made from buckwheat flour, often filled with delectable ingredients.
Hauts-de-France