Calais, France: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

In the bustling historic centre, a handful of contemporary boutique hotels place you steps from the cathedral, the old market square and the fishing harbour. Hôtel Meurice occupies a restored 19th-century townhouse with bright, modern rooms and a cosy lounge for morning coffee. Just around the corner, Hôtel du Palais offers classic décor, exposed beams and balconies overlooking the pedestrianised shopping streets. For a sleek, design-led stay, Ibis Styles Calais Centre blends bold colour accents with generous family rooms and a complimentary breakfast buffet.

Alongside the ferry port and the SNCF station, practical yet comfortable options cater to travellers arriving by sea or rail. Novotel Calais Coquelles Tunnel sous la Manche sits just beyond the tunnel entrance with spacious, sound-proofed rooms and an indoor pool—ideal for an early departure. Nearby, B&B Hôtel Calais Coquelles provides bright, budget-friendly studios with private bathrooms and free parking, making it easy to hop on the shuttle to the terminal.

A short drive west toward the Cap Blanc-Nez and the rolling chalk cliffs brings you to countryside retreats set amid farmland and coastal vistas. Les Gîtes du Merle welcomes guests into converted stone cottages with private gardens and hearty farmhouse breakfasts. For a charming B&B experience, La Ferme Saint-Sauveur offers tranquil rooms in a restored farmhouse, an outdoor terrace for afternoon tea and walking trails through the surrounding bocage.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Calais. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Calais in Spring

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Calais, as the weather begins to warm up, and the town’s parks and gardens come to life. Temperatures range from mild to cool, making it an ideal time for walking tours along the coast and exploring the town’s historic sites. The spring months also tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience when visiting the famous Calais Lace Museum or taking in the views from the Calais Lighthouse.

Calais in Summer

Summer is the peak tourist season in Calais, as the town enjoys warmer weather with temperatures often reaching the mid-20s°C (70s°F). This is the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful beaches, outdoor festivals, and bustling cafés along the waterfront. Although it can be a bit more crowded, there are plenty of opportunities to explore both the natural beauty and the vibrant cultural life of Calais, including events such as the Calais Carnival and local music festivals.

Calais in Autumn

Autumn is a great time to visit Calais for those who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The fall foliage along the coast creates a picturesque backdrop for sightseeing, and the weather remains pleasant for outdoor activities. The quieter season also offers a chance to visit the Calais region’s vineyards and enjoy local wine tastings, as well as explore the town’s historic sites without the summer crowds.

Calais in Winter

Winter in Calais is cold and can be quite windy, but the off-season can also offer a unique charm. The quieter winter months allow for a more tranquil experience when exploring the town’s museums, historical sites, and enjoying a cozy meal in one of its traditional French restaurants. While temperatures can dip to below freezing, the crisp winter air makes for a refreshing, if bracing, walk along the cliffs or in the town’s parks.

How to Visit Calais

Visiting Calais is convenient due to its strategic location in northern France, with multiple transport options available for travelers. Whether arriving by train, car, or ferry, Calais is easily accessible from both France and the United Kingdom, offering a mix of practical travel routes for international visitors.

Getting to Calais by Train

Calais is well-served by the French rail network, with direct connections to major cities such as Paris and Lille. The Calais Ville train station connects to the high-speed TGV network, making it easy for visitors to reach the city from across the country. Eurostar also runs services from London, offering a direct route to Calais for those coming from the UK. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.

Getting to Calais by Car

If you're traveling by car, Calais is accessible via the A16 motorway, which connects to the greater northern France region. The city is located just a short drive from major cities like Lille and Paris, making it a convenient option for those exploring France by car. Additionally, Calais has plenty of parking options, particularly near the town center and popular tourist areas. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Getting to Calais by Ferry

Ferries from the UK to Calais are a popular option for travelers, with regular sailings departing from Dover to Calais. The ferry ride takes about 90 minutes, making it a quick and scenic way to travel across the English Channel. Upon arrival, visitors can easily access the town center from the ferry terminal by taxi or shuttle services.