CALAIS FOR FAMILIES
Things to do in Calais with children
Calais works surprisingly well for a short family stop. The beach, the Dragon and several compact indoor attractions are close enough together that you do not need to turn the day into a complicated sightseeing schedule.
Practical information checked September 2026
1. Calais beach and seafront
The beach is the simplest choice after a ferry or tunnel crossing. Children can run around, play on the sand and watch ferries approaching the port, while adults get a break from the car.
You do not need to spend an entire day here. Even 30 to 60 minutes can make the onward drive easier. Read our Calais beach and seafront guide before deciding where to park.
2. The Dragon of Calais
The Dragon is a large mechanical creature that moves along the seafront with passengers on its back. It is the most distinctive family attraction in Calais and far more memorable than another motorway service stop.
Performances and rides follow a timetable, so check availability before promising children a ride. Our Dragon of Calais guide explains what to expect.
3. Climb Calais Lighthouse
Older children may enjoy climbing the lighthouse for views across Calais, the port and the Channel. The staircase is long and narrow, so it is not ideal for toddlers, pushchairs or anyone uncomfortable with heights.
See the practical details in our Calais Lighthouse guide.
4. Musée Mémoire 1939–1945
This Second World War museum occupies a former German bunker in Parc Saint-Pierre. The bunker, models, uniforms and military objects may hold children’s attention better than a conventional gallery.
It is better suited to school-age children than very young visitors. Allow about an hour and combine it with the Town Hall opposite. See our Musée Mémoire guide.
5. Cité Europe on a wet day
Cité Europe is the easiest indoor fallback, particularly after arriving via LeShuttle. Alongside its shops and restaurants, the complex has leisure options including a cinema and nearby bowling.
It is practical rather than uniquely Calais, but it solves bad weather, food and shopping in one stop. Read our Cité Europe guide.
The easiest family plan
Go to the beach and see the Dragon when the weather is good. In poor weather, use Cité Europe or choose one compact museum. Trying to combine every attraction usually makes a short Calais stop less enjoyable.
If you have less than one hour
- Drive to the beach and take a short walk.
- Watch the ferries from the seafront.
- Buy a drink or snack before continuing.
Keep the plan simple and protect enough time for check-in. See what you can realistically do in Calais in one hour.
If you have two to four hours
- Combine the beach with the Dragon.
- Have lunch near the seafront or in the centre.
- Choose one additional attraction, not three.
Our two-to-four-hour itinerary provides a practical starting point.
Practical family advice
- Check attraction opening times before leaving home.
- Keep coats accessible because the seafront can feel windy.
- Do not leave passports or visible luggage unattended in the car.
- Allow extra time to return to the ferry or LeShuttle terminal.
- Remember that the departure time is not the check-in deadline.
Travelling with a pushchair?
The beach promenade and shopping centres are the easiest options. Historic buildings, lighthouse stairs and the confined WWII bunker require more planning.