Colonne Louis XVIII, Calais

Historic Site, Monument and Statue in Calais

Colonne Louis XVIII
Colonne Louis XVIII
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Lionel Allorge

The Colonne Louis XVIII is a compact but meaningful monument on Calais' waterfront, set in the Courgain area near the quays and port basins. It's the kind of sight you can appreciate in minutes, yet it anchors a surprisingly specific moment in French history and gives you a great excuse to explore this working-harbor side of town.

Most visitors see it as part of a walking tour of central Calais and the port-side promenades: pair it with the nearby waterfront viewpoints, then continue toward the city center for the belfry and main squares. The best views are from the quay itself, where you can frame the column against boats, gulls, and the open sky.

History and Significance of the Colonne Louis XVIII

The column commemorates the landing of Louis XVIII in Calais on April 24, 1814, a symbolic return that marked the start of the Bourbon Restoration after the fall of Napoleon's Empire. While it's a modest monument compared with grand Parisian landmarks, it's deeply local: it pins a national turning point to a very specific shoreline.

Erected in 1814, the monument includes a commemorative plaque and a distinctive detail that many people miss on a quick glance: a royal footprint cast in bronze at the base. That small, almost playful element makes the story feel tangible, and it’s one reason the column sticks in visitors’ memories.

The column was officially protected as a historic monument in 1933. It was removed in 1939 during port works (which also helped it avoid wartime destruction) and later re-erected in 1965 at its current location in the Courgain area.

Things to See and Do in the Colonne Louis XVIII

Start by walking a slow circle around the base to spot the inscriptions and the footprint detail. If you're visiting with a guide (or after a belfry tour in town), you'll often get the best context: why Calais mattered as a landing point, and how the monument's symbolism fits the Restoration period.

Next, treat the stop as a waterfront viewpoint rather than a standalone “attraction.” The quays and basins nearby give you classic Calais atmosphere: fishing and port activity, seabirds, and wide-open views that change with the light and weather.

If you enjoy photography, this is a strong place for simple compositions: the vertical column against horizontal waterlines, plus leading lines from the quay. Early morning and late afternoon tend to give the most flattering light and fewer people in frame.

How to Get to the Colonne Louis XVIII

The nearest major airports are Lille Airport (LIL) and Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), with London airports also possible if you're connecting via cross-Channel routes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Calais on Booking.com.

Calais is easy to reach by rail, typically via Calais-Ville station (and sometimes Calais-Fréthun for certain connections), then a short taxi, bus, or walk depending on your route. 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.

If you’re driving, aim for parking near the port-side quays in the Courgain area and finish on foot along the waterfront. 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.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Colonne Louis XVIII

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go on a clear day for the best harbor views, or near sunset when the light softens over the water and quays.
  • How long to spend: 10–20 minutes is enough for the monument itself; plan 45–90 minutes if you’re combining it with a longer waterfront walk.
  • Accessibility: The area is generally flat and walkable along the quays, but surfaces can vary; expect typical curb cuts and paved paths rather than a dedicated visitor facility.
  • Facilities: There are no dedicated on-site facilities at the monument; rely on nearby cafés and services closer to central Calais.

Where to Stay Close to the Colonne Louis XVIII

Base yourself in central Calais if you want the easiest mix of walkability, restaurants, and quick access to both the waterfront and the main sights.

Hôtel Meurice A classic central option that works well if you want to sightsee on foot and still reach the quays quickly.

Holiday Inn Calais A practical pick for comfort and convenience, especially if you’re arriving by car and want straightforward access around town.

ibis Calais Car Ferry Good value and simple logistics near the port side, ideal for early ferries or a no-fuss overnight.

B&B HOTEL Calais Centre Saint-Pierre A budget-friendly base that keeps you close to everyday Calais and within easy reach of the waterfront by a short ride or walk.

Hôtel Metropol A solid choice if you like staying near transport and the water, with a convenient location for quick in-and-out city breaks.

Is the Colonne Louis XVIII Worth Visiting?

Yes, if you like small historical markers and waterfront walks, the Colonne Louis XVIII is absolutely worth a stop. It's quick, free, and surprisingly memorable thanks to its specific story and the little details at the base, and it pairs naturally with a stroll along the quays.

Honest Pivot: if you're short on time and prefer “big ticket” attractions with interiors (museums, towers, exhibitions), you can skip this and focus on central Calais highlights instead. The column is best for travelers who enjoy context, atmosphere, and collecting small-but-real pieces of local history.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.1 (24)

Reviews are largely positive, with visitors describing the column as a charming, worthwhile discovery and praising the pleasant harbor setting. Common highlights include the scenic views over the port, the atmosphere with boats and seabirds, and the fun historical detail at the base (the footprint) that adds context. A minority of feedback suggests it’s a simple monument that may feel modest if you expect a major attraction.

Rey Gucci
6 months ago
"Delighted with this discovery! It was the Belfry guide who told me about the cast of Louis XVIII's left foot below the plaque. She told me it was asize 35, but I had the impression it was a little larger than that...."
didier sturm
a week ago
"A wonderful discovery: the Louis XVIII column, a must-see!"
P Kusserow
8 years ago
"Beautifully situated monument by Louis XVII in front of the Quartier du Gourgain Maritime and the Bassin du Paradis."

For Different Travelers

The Colonne Louis XVIII is a low-commitment stop that fits neatly into a broader Calais day. Think of it as a scenic historical punctuation mark on a walk rather than a destination that needs its own itinerary.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the simple “treasure hunt” aspect of finding the footprint detail and reading the monument like a clue. Because the visit is short, it’s easy to keep attention spans happy.

Pair it with a waterfront walk where children can watch boats and seabirds, then head back toward central Calais for a snack break. Keep a close eye near the water's edge, especially on windy days.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, this is a calm, scenic stop that feels a bit off the standard checklist. The harbor setting can be especially atmospheric in the evening light.

Use it as a waypoint on a slow promenade: stop for photos, then continue to a café or dinner spot in central Calais. It's more about shared ambiance than “doing” an activity.

Budget Travelers

This is an easy win for budget travelers: it’s outdoors, quick to reach, and doesn’t require tickets. You can build a full, satisfying hour around it by combining it with a longer port-side walk.

Bring a takeaway coffee and treat the quays as your viewpoint. If you’re tracking costs, it’s a great way to add a meaningful historical stop without adding spend.

History Buffs

History buffs will appreciate how precisely the monument ties Calais to April 1814 and the Restoration period. It's a small site, but it opens a big historical door.

To deepen the visit, read up on Louis XVIII’s return route and then compare the monument’s symbolism with other French commemorative columns. The footprint detail is a standout for anyone interested in how public memory gets “built” into a city.

FAQs for Visiting Colonne Louis XVIII

Getting There

Yes, it’s walkable for many visitors, especially if you enjoy harbor-side routes. If you’re tight on time, a short taxi ride can save effort.
Calais-Ville is usually closer to central sightseeing and easier for walking routes. Calais-Fréthun can be convenient for certain connections, but you’ll likely need onward transport.
Yes, you can typically find parking in the port-side area, though availability varies by time of day. Always check signage for restrictions near quays.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s an outdoor monument and can be viewed freely. There’s no entry checkpoint.
Some local walking routes and city-context tours may include it as a quick stop. It’s worth asking at the tourist office if you want a guided narrative.
Usually not for the column alone. It makes more sense as part of a broader Calais history walk.

Visiting Experience

Look for the commemorative elements and the footprint detail that connects the story to the exact landing moment. Taking a slow lap around the base helps you spot everything.
It’s typically a low-crowd stop because it’s outdoors and quick to see. You may share the space with walkers and people enjoying the quays.
It can be windy and exposed by the water. If the weather turns, treat it as a quick photo stop and move on to indoor sights.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Use it as a waterfront waypoint, then continue to central Calais for the belfry area and main squares. This creates a nice mix of harbor atmosphere and city landmarks.
Yes, the story is what elevates it from “a column” to a meaningful memorial. Even a short read beforehand makes the visit richer.
Absolutely, it’s ideal for self-guided exploring. Plan a loop that includes the quays and then heads back toward central Calais.

Photography

Try shooting from slightly back on the quay to include water and boats for context. A low angle can emphasize the column’s height.
Late afternoon and sunset often give the most flattering light over the harbor. Morning can be quieter if you want cleaner frames.
In an open public area, tripods are usually fine if you’re not blocking the path. Be considerate of pedestrians and windy conditions.

Accessibility & Facilities

The quays are generally flat, but surfaces and curb transitions can vary. If you need step-free routing, plan your approach on the widest paved paths.
Not typically right at the monument. Plan to use facilities in central Calais or in nearby cafés.
You may find places to pause along the waterfront, but seating isn’t guaranteed at the monument itself. Consider it a short standing visit.

Food & Breaks Nearby

You’ll find more options as you head back toward central Calais. The immediate port area can be quieter depending on the time.
Yes, if the weather is calm, the waterfront setting works well for a simple snack break. Keep the area tidy and watch for gulls.
Central Calais is the safest bet for variety and atmosphere. Plan your meal as the next stop after your waterfront walk.

Safety & Timing

It’s generally fine as part of a normal evening stroll, but it’s still a port-side area, so stay aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit routes and avoid isolated stretches late at night.
It can be noticeably windier than inland streets. Bring a layer even on mild days.
You’re viewing from the quay rather than going down to the waterline. Still, keep children close and avoid leaning over edges.

Nearby Attractions to the Colonne Louis XVIII

The Colonne Louis XVIII appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Calais!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Quai de la Colonne Louis XVIII, 62100 Calais, France
Calais: 1 km

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