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Get InspiredEuropeFranceHauts De FranceCalais

Calais

Hauts-de-France, France
City·Historic, Bustling, Maritime
Calais
Photo by Juliana Buglia from Google Places
Calais
Photo by vasil tamanov from Google Places
Calais
Photo by Viviane Debarge from Google Places
Calais
Photo by David Warner from Google Places
Calais
Photo by John Cuming from Google Places
Calais
Photo by Juliana Buglia from Google Places
Calais
Photo by vasil tamanov from Google Places
Calais
Photo by Viviane Debarge from Google Places
Calais
Photo by David Warner from Google Places
Calais
Photo by John Cuming from Google Places

Calais, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a major French port city known for its strategic position on the English Channel. Historically significant, Calais was under English control for over two centuries and played a crucial role in trade and military endeavors. Today, it remains a vital transport hub, with ferries connecting France to England. Visitors can explore its rich history through landmarks like the Tour du Guet and the Notre-Dame church, which reflect its English and French architectural influences. The city is also famous for its lace industry and vibrant fishing port, making it a unique blend of history and modern industry.

Calais, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a major French port city known for its strategic position on the English Channel. Historically significant, Calais was under English control for over two centuries and played a crucial role in trade and military endeavors. Today, it remains a vital transport hub, with ferries connecting France to England. Visitors can explore its rich history through landmarks like the Tour du Guet and the Notre-Dame church, which reflect its English and French architectural influences. The city is also famous for its lace industry and vibrant fishing port, making it a unique blend of history and modern industry.

Highlights

  • Major port city with ferry connections to England.

  • Rich history with English and French influences.

  • Notable for lace production and fishing industry.

  • Historic sites like the Tour du Guet and Notre-Dame church.

  • Proximity to the White Cliffs of Dover.

Before you go: Calais essentials

  • Close access to the English Channel, ideal for ferry travel.

  • Rich historical background with English and French influences.

  • Major transport hub with ferry and tunnel connections to England.

Getting Around

Calais is well-connected by ferries and the Channel Tunnel, making it easy to travel between France and England.

Local Cuisine

Try the local seafood, which is a staple in Calais due to its prominent fishing industry.

Best For

History buffs and travelers between France and England.

Currency

EUR €

Average Cost

$100-$150 p/day

Languages Spoken

French, English

Historical Sites

Visit the Tour du Guet and the Notre-Dame church to explore the city's rich history.

Shopping

Calais is known for its lace, so consider purchasing some as a unique souvenir.

Best time to visit Calais

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Calais is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring the city's historical sites.

Best Season

Summer

Summer is busy with tourists, but offers the best weather for enjoying the coast.

Best Season

Fall

Fall provides a quieter experience with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Winter

Winter is chilly but offers a peaceful atmosphere and opportunities to explore indoor attractions.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Calais, Hauts-de-France, France
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Things to do in Calais

Unique Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV - 1h00
From $53

Unique Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV - 1h00

4.9(506)
Duration: 1h
Lille
1 Hour Private Lille Tour by Convertible 2CV with a Local Products Tasting
From $71

1 Hour Private Lille Tour by Convertible 2CV with a Local Products Tasting

4.8(88)
Duration: 1h
Lille
Lille Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide
From $41

Lille Old Town Walking Tour With A Guide

4.7(57)
Duration: 2h
Lille
Private Lille Tour by Classic Convertible 2CV with Champagne
From $71

Private Lille Tour by Classic Convertible 2CV with Champagne

5.0(59)
Duration: 1h 15min
Lille
30-Minutes Private Guided Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV
From $34

30-Minutes Private Guided Tour of Lille by Convertible 2CV

5.0(90)
Duration: 30 min
Lille
Lille Audio guided walking tour 2h30 and 22 audio commentary
From $7

Lille Audio guided walking tour 2h30 and 22 audio commentary

5.0(1)
Duration: 2h 30min
Lille
Lille Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour
From $6

Lille Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour

4.6(48)
Duration: 2h
Lille
Lille Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour
From $8

Lille Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour

3.9(27)
Duration: 2h
Lille
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