Ah, Calais, the gateway to France, rich with history and brimming with charm. Whether you’re drawn to the delightful cobblestone streets, the temptation of French pastries, or the whispers of its storied past, a day trip to Calais is a journey well worth taking. Imagine this: a day brimming with continental culture, right across the English Channel. So pack your bag and prepare for a delightful adventure!
The Start of Your Journey: Crossing the Channel
Before you bask in the French sun, you’ll need to cross the Channel. Your journey begins with the Dover to Calais ferry, a convenient and scenic way to travel.
Ferry Timings and Booking
Ferries run frequently between Dover and Calais, with several daily departures. To make the most of your day trip, consider catching an early morning ferry, ideally between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM. This timing allows you to maximize your time in France.
- Departure Point: Dover Ferry Terminal, Eastern Docks, Dover
- Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
- Booking: Secure your ferry tickets in advance through Openferry to ensure you get the best timing and rates.
Onboard Experience
Once aboard, settle into the comfortable lounges or head up to the deck for panoramic views of the channel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, maybe a croissant and café au lait, as you watch the iconic white cliffs of Dover fade into the distance and Calais gradually come into view.
Welcome to Calais: A Morning Stroll
You’ve arrived! Disembark and step onto French soil around 9:30 AM. The crisp, salty air of Calais greets you; it’s different from Dover’s, infused with that French je ne sais quoi. Your day has officially begun.
Calais Town Centre
Stroll through the charming town centre, a mere 20-minute walk from the ferry port. Along the way, notice the blend of vibrant, old, and modern building facades, a perfect introduction to Calais’s unique atmosphere.
- Place d’Armes: Your first stop should be this historic market square. Grab a coffee from a local café and take in the 13th-century architecture.
- Watchtower of Calais (Tour du Guet): Not far from the square, this medieval watchtower offers a glimpse into the past, towering majestically over the town.
Discovering Calais: A Midday Exploration
By late morning, you’re ready to venture deeper into the wonders Calais offers. History, art, and culture await!
Calais’ Historical Sites
- The Burghers of Calais (Les Bourgeois de Calais) by Auguste Rodin is a must-see. Located at Parc Richelieu, this powerful sculpture captures an emotional chapter of the Hundred Years’ War, a perfect moment for history and art aficionados alike.
- Calais Lighthouse (Phare de Calais): Climb the 271 steps to the top for a breath-taking view over the town and the channel. This lighthouse has guided mariners safely since 1848.
Lunch Recommendation
By now, you’re likely ready for a bite. Head to Le Channel, a local favourite offering classic French cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. Devour a dish of moules marinières (mussels) with a side of frites, and perhaps a glass of local wine.
Afternoon Adventures
After lunch, continue your exploration with a leisurely afternoon itinerary designed to enrich your experience further.
Calais Beach (Plage de Calais)
Walk off lunch with a stroll along Plage de Calais. The wide, sandy stretch is perfect for a relaxing walk or simply sitting and watching the gentle waves lap the shore. Look out for the colourful beach huts that line the shore, adding a pop of colour to the landscape.
City of Lace and Fashion (Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode)
If time allows, make your way to this fascinating museum to explore the intricate history and craft of lace-making, a tradition synonymous with Calais. The museum boasts interactive exhibits and stunning displays of lace fashion.
- Opening Hours: Generally from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Check their website for current fees and possible discount days.
The Return: Evening Reflections
As afternoon turns to evening, it’s time to head back to the ferry terminal for your return journey. Consider catching a ferry that leaves around 5:00 PM to ensure you’re back in Dover with time to travel home comfortably.
Tips for a Smooth Departure
- Check-in: Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.
- Relax Onboard: End your day as you began, with a sunset view from the deck and perhaps a final French pastry in hand.
A Farewell to France: Your Journey’s End
As you disembark in Dover and make your way home, reflect on the day’s adventures. From savoring French delicacies to scaling lighthouses and soaking in history, your day in Calais offered a fulfilling taste of France.
Why not make it a tradition? With a seamless journey across the Channel, you can experience the magic of a new destination just a ferry ride away. Next time, perhaps a weekend in Paris, or an exploration of the Normandy coast could be on the cards.
Image: Unsplash, Peter Mason
