This coastal city in northern France is a gateway to England, known for its sandy beaches, Rodin's famous sculpture, and lace-making heritage. Visitors can climb the Town Hall belfry for panoramic views.
Calais, a city on France's northern coast, is a major transportation hub to England. You can climb the Town Hall's belfry for sweeping views, admire Rodin's Burghers of Calais statue, or relax on sandy beaches with views of Dover's white cliffs. Calais invites you to explore its lace-making industry, World War II history, and local cuisine influenced by its coastal location.
Town Hall and Rodin's Statue
Calais' Town Hall, completed in 1925, has a Flemish Renaissance design. You can climb the 75-meter belfry for panoramic views of the city and coast. In front of the Town Hall, you'll see Auguste Rodin's bronze sculpture "The Burghers of Calais." This artwork depicts six citizens who offered themselves as hostages to the English king during the Hundred Years' War. Near the Town Hall, the 13th-century Tour du Guet watchtower remains as Calais' oldest structure, representing the city's medieval era.
Beaches and Coastal Features
Several kilometers of sandy beaches stretch along Calais' coastline, where you can walk, sunbathe, or watch ferries crossing the Channel. On clear days, you can see the white cliffs of Dover on the horizon. The Calais Lighthouse, dating from 1848, allows visitors to climb its 271 steps for extensive coastal views. Along the seafront, you might encounter an unusual sight: a giant mechanical dragon that moves and breathes smoke, part of an urban art project that adds a whimsical touch to the promenade.
Museums Highlighting Local History
The Musée des Beaux-Arts et de la Dentelle occupies a 19th-century lace factory, displaying both fine art and Calais' lace-making tradition. You can see intricate lace designs and learn about the industry that shaped the city's economy. For a different historical perspective, visit the Musée de la Seconde Guerre Mondiale. Located in a former German bunker, this museum presents photographs and artifacts that document Calais' experiences during World War II.
Shopping and Local Cuisine
Cité Europe, a large mall near the Channel Tunnel terminal, is popular among cross-channel shoppers. In the city center, Rue Royale offers a mix of boutiques and cafes. You can find local products at the covered market or the twice-weekly outdoor markets. Calais' cuisine reflects its coastal location, with many restaurants serving fresh seafood. Try local specialties like Flemish carbonnade (beef stew) or sole meunière at one of the restaurants near the harbor.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Calais can serve as a starting point for exploring the Côte d'Opale (Opal Coast). A short drive takes you to Wissant, a small fishing village, and the white cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez. The Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale offers hiking trails through varied landscapes. You can also visit Boulogne-sur-Mer, about 30 minutes away, to see its UNESCO-listed belfry and large public aquarium.
Transportation in and around Calais
Many of Calais' points of interest are within walking distance of each other. The city provides a free bus service for reaching areas further from the center. If you arrive by ferry or through the Channel Tunnel, you can rent a car to explore the region. Calais has two train stations: Calais-Ville in the city center and Calais-Fréthun, which connects to high-speed trains to Paris, London, and Brussels.
