Calais

Day Trips

Fly into Calais or take the Eurotunnel from the UK. Once you arrive, check into a charming local hotel to refresh after your journey. Take a leisurely morning to stroll around the picturesque streets and get your first taste of the French atmosphere.

Explore the local museums, starting with the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses a significant collection of art. Enjoy a traditional French lunch at a local bistro, savoring dishes such as coq au vin or a fresh seafood platter. Spend the afternoon wandering through the beautiful parks or along the beach to enjoy the coastal scenery.

Head to the city center for a wonderful dinner featuring regional specialties. After dining, visit a local café to unwind with a glass of wine while soaking in the ambiance of the charming town. Conclude the evening with a relaxing walk along the waterfront, taking in the views of the harbor lights.

After breakfast, take a short train ride to Boulogne-sur-Mer, where you can enjoy a beautiful seaside morning. Visit the Nausicaá Aquarium, one of the largest in Europe, to learn about marine life. Spend time at the beach, breathing in the fresh sea air and gathering your thoughts.

Enjoy lunch at one of Boulogne's seaside restaurants and indulge in the local seafood. Post-lunch, explore the historic Old Town, where you can see the impressive Boulogne Cathedral. If time allows, visit the Château-Musée for a look into the region’s rich history.

Return to Calais and prepare for a delightful evening. Dine at a cozy restaurant, trying local dishes while chatting with fellow travelers. After dinner, visit a nearby bar to taste some local craft beers and enjoy live music if available.

Start your cultural day at the Église Notre-Dame, marveling at its beautiful architecture and serene ambiance. Take some time to reflect while enjoying a quiet morning in this historical site. Afterwards, visit the nearby Cité Europe shopping center to browse local shops.

Lunch at a café on the piazza, enjoying people-watching as you sample artisanal pastries and quiches. Spend the afternoon at the Lighthouse of Calais, where you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the coastline. Capture moments with your camera while exploring the nearby beaches.

Savor an intimate dinner at a gourmet restaurant, enjoying the fusion of classic French cuisine and modern palate. Spend the evening at a local theatre or live performance venue to immerse yourself in the cultural scene of Calais. Conclude the night with some wine at a local wine bar, mingling with locals and other visitors.

Catch an early train to Dunkirk, taking in the sights as you journey towards this historic city. Begin your day with a visit to the Dunkirk Museum to learn about its World War II significance. Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a local bakery, enjoying fresh pastries.

Discover the beautiful coastline of Dunkirk, where you can have lunch with a view. Spend your afternoon visiting the beach and take part in water sports or simply relax on the sand. Explore the inspiring memorials that commemorate the evacuation of Allied soldiers during the war.

Return to Calais and dine at a bustling seafood market, savoring the catch of the day. Enjoy a picturesque sunset walk along the beach, taking in the vibrant colors of dusk. Cap off the night with a relaxing nightcap at a seaside bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Begin your day with a visit to the Calais Town Hall, noted for its stunning belfry. Tour the impressive building and enjoy a guided walk to learn about its historical significance. Stop at a nearby café for a traditional French breakfast of croissants and café au lait.

After lunch, explore the local archéologie museum, showcasing Rome’s artifacts and surprises from its ancient past. Next, take a bicycle ride through the nearby countryside, enjoying the scenic routes and fresh air. Stop at local markets to sample cheese and charcuterie.

Experience an authentic French dinner at a traditional restaurant, celebrating local gastronomic delights. Enjoy a stroll through the cobbled streets, watching as the city transitions into the evening. Visit a charming patisserie for dessert, indulging in local delicacies like éclairs and macarons.

Spend your morning at the scenic Cap Blanc-Nez, part of the French coastline famed for its white chalk cliffs. Take a brisk hike along the cliffs for breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby English coast. Breathe in the fresh sea air as you admire the picturesque landscape.

Enjoy a packed lunch at a viewpoint, soaking in the sun and scenery. After lunch, visit the nearby village of Wissant to explore its quaint charm and coastal vibe. Spend time at the beach, either relaxing or trying your hand at kite surfing.

Return to Calais and opt for dinner at a beachside restaurant, where you can sample fresh fish dishes. Spend the evening attending a coastal festival if available, enjoying local music and culture. End your day with a soft sunset and reflective walk along the beach.

Travel the short journey by train to Lille, starting the day excited for exploration. Begin with a visit to the Palais des Beaux-Arts, filled with a stunning collection of art. Grab a delightful breakfast at a café, enjoying the lively atmosphere.

After soaking in the culture, wander through Vieux Lille, marveling at the well-preserved historic architecture. Pop into local boutiques for unique finds and enjoy lunch at a trendy bistro. Don’t miss visiting the Grand Place, the heart of Lille, bustling with energy.

Dine at a local brasserie, trying regional specialties like carbonnade flamande. After dinner, consider attending a cultural event, such as a concert or art exhibition in the city. Return to Calais in the late evening, reflecting on your vibrant day in Lille.

Spend your morning exploring the various shops and boutiques in Calais, searching for unique souvenirs and local crafts. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café, sipping coffee while watching the city wake up. Make your way to the market to marvel at fresh produce and local delicacies.

Join a cooking class to learn about French cuisine, focusing on local dishes and ingredients. Savor the opportunity to create your own meal with newly acquired culinary skills. Lunch will be a delightful tasting of your creations with fellow participants.

Enjoy a delightful gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, indulging in a multi-course tasting menu. After dinner, relax at a wine cellar where you can sample exquisite French wines. Celebrate your culinary journey with lively conversations with locals and travelers alike.

On your final morning, take a relaxing stroll through the city parks, cherishing the memories made during your stay. Visit any last-minute shops or cafés for any souvenirs to take back home. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, savoring the tastes of France one last time.

Take time to reflect on your experiences and perhaps revisit a favorite spot or museum from the past days. Grab lunch at a familiar eatery, enjoying the familiar tastes of Calais. As you prepare for your departure, ensure you've captured your experiences in photographs.

Head to the airport or train station for your journey home, feeling rich with memories and experiences. Reflect on your itinerary while reminiscing about the beauty of Calais. As you leave, promise to return to this enchanting city that has captivated your heart.