Introduction to Calais: a port city with rich history
Calais is located on the northern coast of France and is a port city with a long history and many cultural significances. Often regarded for its geographical advantage and as a historical site, Calais gives tourists a unique blend of scenic beauty, heritage, and modern-day attractions.
The unique location of Calais
Calais is situated at the extreme coast of the English Channel, only 34 kilometers from the English coastline. This close location to the UK has made it a strategic seaport for centuries, acting as a crossroad between the European continent and Great Britain. Today, it is an important transport hub. Although there are no direct Eurostar trains from Calais to London, you can still reach London quickly by taking a train from Calais to Lille and then connecting to Eurostar service to London. This efficient connection makes travel between Calais and London convenient and accessible.
Brief history and cultural significance
The city of Calais has played host to several events in history, including the Hundred Years War and World War II. Its landmarks and monuments are the reflection of humanity’s history. Calais is renowned for the “Burghers of Calais” sculpture by Auguste Rodin, which depicts the siege of the town during the Hundred Years’ War. It is for this reason that the combination of culture and history in Calais makes this place attractive to cultural and historical lovers.
How to get to Calais?
Getting to Calais is not a problem, whether you are a local French or a foreigner, as it can be accessed easily. For travelers from the UK, while there are no direct Eurostar trains from London to Calais, you can still reach Calais by taking a Eurostar to Lille and then transferring to another train. This efficient connection ensures convenient travel between London and Calais. Moreover, Calais can be accessed by ferry from Dover, which also makes it appealing to travellers who wish to tour the beautiful French coastline.
The best things to do in Calais
Visit the Iconic Calais Lighthouse
A great tourist attraction in Calais is the Calais lighthouse, which provides panoramic views of the city and the English Channel. By climbing 271 steps, you get to enjoy one of the most raving views from the port all the way to the region’s countryside of France.
Explore the Calais Town Hall and Burghers of Calais Sculpture
The architectural style depicted in the Calais Town Hall is Flemish Renaissance at its best. Its Belfry, a UNESCO site, is a stunning place to stop and get an even more stunning view of the city. The nearby “Burghers of Calais” sculpture by Rodin is also a must-see that illustrates the courage and selflessness of the townspeople during the year 1347.
Discover the Museum of Lace and Fashion (Cité Internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode)
Calais has always been famous for lace production for many years. This art of lace-making is well captured at the Museum of Lace and Fashion, whose exhibits include 19th-century and modern designs. The exhibitions and workshops that are installed allow visitors to engage in this delicate art.
Learn and Reflect at the Musée de la Guerre (War Museum)
Located in Calais in a building which Nazis once used, the War Museum is a captivating exhibition, giving a view of the effects of the Second World War. The museum presents the history of the region before, during, and after the war using photographs, personal belongings, and stories of the survivors.
Take a day Trip to Cap Blanc-Nez for majestic clifftop views
A little further from Calais, Cap Blanc-Nez is home to some of the best vistas in coastal France. The islands feature white chalk cliffs that extend straight out of the sea, which are ideal for hiking or just exploring the beautiful views and taking photographs.
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Experience the magic of the Dragon of Calais
The Dragon of Calais is an impressive mechanical animal processing the city’s seafront along the Calais coastal area to draw the attention of tourists. This wonderful sculpture was designed by the same team that developed the famous mechanical animals of Nantes. It is perfect for families and anyone who appreciates art and machinery.
Enjoy the sun at Calais beach
Calais Beach is a long stretch of sandy beach ideal for a sunbath on the sandy beach close to the sea. If you wish to swim, take a sun tan, or even have a picnic, the beach presents a picturesque tranquillity with views of the English Channel.
Wander through Courgain Maritime – Historical Fishermen’s Quarter
This beautiful part of Calais is a network of small alleyways and pastel-hued buildings that give a taste of the city’s maritime past. Take a leisurely walk around the towns and discover the quaint stores and authentic seafood eateries, as well as learn more about the local fishing culture of Calais.