Are you looking for a fun and affordable day trip destination? Why not jump in the car and travel to Calais? Sail across the Channel, this city offers stunning architecture, delicious food, and plenty of activities for couples and families alike.
Read on to find out how you could spend your day there.
Start your day right!
There’s no better way to start your day than driving onboard one of our ferries, breathing in the fresh sea air and treating yourself to a full English at the 7 Seas restaurant. Browse some of our Duty Free offers and grab a fresh cup of coffee from the Lighthouse Café while you travel to France.
Calais Dragon
The beach at Calais is a beautiful stretch of sand, perfect for a morning stroll. It is also the spot where you will find the famous La Compagnie du Dragon. With a staircase built into its tail, you can climb onboard and experience its majestic movements as it parades down Calais seafront. Inspired by reptiles, the dragon spits fire, smoke and water, flaps its wings and runs up to four kilometres per hour! Unique to the city, it is an experience not to be missed.
Notre Dame Church
As many history buffs will know, Calais is home to some beautiful historic architecture. The Notre Dame church is the oldest religious building in Calais, with origins that date back to the 13th Century. The building has truly stood its test of time, after experiencing extensive damage during the war, but with the help of donations, has been brought back to its former glory. Its soaring gothic spires and intricate stone carvings have attracted visitors from all over the world for centuries, and continue to do so.
Richelieu Park & the Fine Arts Museum
Richelieu Park is one of the most beautiful places in Calais and is only a five-minute walk from Notre Dame Church. It’s a great place to wander around, have a picnic, or enjoy the scenery. The park is also home to the Fine Arts Museum, which is definitely worth a visit. Home to an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and photographs recording Calais’ history, there is plenty to see and learn.
The Town Hall
The Town Hall in Calais is considered one of France’s finest. Built between 1911 and 1924, the building has become a landmark in the city. With an art deco glass roof and stained-glass windows, it is definitely worth a look inside! You can also climb the clock tower for breath taking panoramic views! Just opposite the Town Hall, you may even stumble upon the famous Six Burghers of Calais statue, created by Auguste Rodin.
Grab a bite to Eat
There’s no need to worry about finding a good meal in Calais. The city has a wide range of restaurants to suit any taste, from traditional brasseries to gourmet restaurants and bars. Most of the restaurants are pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for a meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a full-fledged dinner, you’re sure to find something to your liking. Bon appetite!
Shop luxuries for less!
Before your return journey home, don’t forget to visit our Calais Duty Free shop, located at our port. Shop purse-friendly prices and save up to 50% vs the UK high street. Plus, if you spend €150 on your return in the store, you can get a FREE day trip to use for another time! It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on those luxuries for less.
And just like that, you’ve had a full day exploring Calais, France!
Book your Day Trip with DFDS here.
