The Best Winter Activities in Les Menuires
February 3, 2026
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Calais might not be the first city that comes to mind for a French holiday, but this port town has more to offer than you might expect. Most travelers know Calais as a ferry departure point to England, a quick stop on the way to Les Deux Caps, or as part of a road trip along the stunning Opal Coast. But even a few hours in Calais can be surprisingly enjoyable: from historical sights and a lively central square to a wide sandy beach with views of England on clear days. In this guide, we share the best sights, practical tips, and insider recommendations for your visit to Calais.
These are 5 sights to see in Calais
When you're in Calais, even if it's for a few hours or an overnight stay, here are 5 sights to check out. These are them:
1. The Belfry with the town hall
The Belfry of Calais is an impressive medieval watchtower, with a tower about 75 metres high that is part of the Town Hall. It is also one of 56 belfries in Belgium and France listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Both the Town Hall and the belfry date from the early 20th century: construction began in 1922 and was completed in 1925. The building is designed in neo-Flemish style, with striking red bricks and a beautifully landscaped garden. A fun detail: a dragon sits atop the belfry, serving as a weather vane. Calais City Hall symbolizes the union of two towns: Calais and Saint-Pierre.
2. View tower Tour du Guet
The Tour du Guet (literally ’tower of the guard’) is a 13th-century watchtower at Place d'Armes and the oldest monument in Calais. Over the centuries, the tower served as an observation tower and lighthouse. You can't visit Tour du Guet inside, unfortunately, but from the outside alone it's worth the short stop. Especially if you're near the cozy square anyway!
3. Place d'Armes
The Place d'Armes is the most famous square in the center of Calais. This was an important place in the Middle Ages, but wars destroyed much of the original buildings in and around the square. In fact, Tour du Guet is the only remnant. The square is mostly very cozy with restaurants and terraces. On sunny days, the place is quickly filled with locals and only a handful of tourists. That's why it's handy if you speak a word of French, that's the best way to get around here anyway. Looking for a nice place for a bite to eat and a drink in the central square? Then L'Ardoise is a must.
4. The port of Calais
Originally a fishing village, Calais has grown into a port city. The city lies on the strait of Calais, the narrowest stretch between France and England. Because of its short distance, Calais is the main French port for passenger transport toward the United Kingdom. Even if you don't take the ferry, a walk along the port is fun to do. On a clear day, you can even see the coast of England. Wonderful for photos!
Tip: From Calais, DFDS sails to England, from where you can enjoy a stunning road trip through South England!
5. The beach in Calais
The beach is one of the highlights of Calais, especially on a sunny day. Stretching wide and sandy, it’s lined with several restaurants serving fresh fish, mussels, or a refreshing ice cream. From the pier, you can watch the massive ferries sailing toward Dover. Visit near the end of the day, and it’s also a perfect spot to enjoy a beautiful sunset.
Tips for a hotel stay in Calais
Calais is more of a practical stop than a bustling destination, so hotel options tend to be simple and comfortable rather than flashy. For a convenient and pleasant stay, the Brit Hotel Calais is a solid choice. It’s clean, straightforward, and centrally located, making it easy to reach everything you need during your overnight stay.
Tip: skip hotel breakfast and make your way to the local bakery, Boulangerie Fred, for fresh French treats!
Travel tip from Calais: visit Les Deux Caps
The absolute highlight in the Calais area are the chalk cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez. These two capes make up Les Deux Caps and are about 14 kilometers away. It is one of the destinations we recommend as a stop to France's beautiful Opal Coast. But did you know that you can also combine the coast of France very well with a road trip inland? For example, after the Opal Coast we drove on to one of the most beautiful villages in the country: the fairytale Gerberoy. Definitely worth exploring!
Vacation tips France
Even more inspiration for France? We are only too happy to share our favorite places, routes and practical tips. So do browse through our following France articles, we're sure they will inspire you:
Tailor-Made Road Trip Through France
Would you like to discover France in a different way? For example, by taking a road trip along the Opal Coast and beautiful French villages like Gerberoy? Then let us organize your trip down to the last detail. As a personal travel consultant, we arrange everything for you: from flights and accommodations to excursions and activities, completely tailored to your needs. Thanks to our extensive experience and knowledge of France, we ensure that your trip will be unforgettable. Request a travel proposal now for a tailor-made trip to France!
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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