Even though Calais might not top everyone’s bucket list, I’ve found there’s plenty to enjoy in this coastal town—especially if you know where to look. From historic landmarks to scenic beaches and wartime history, there’s something here for every visitor.
A Great Day Across the Channel
Whenever I cross the Channel, I make a point of driving through the town centre to see Calais’ most striking landmark: the Flemish-style Town Hall and its beautiful belfry (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Right in front stands Rodin’s famous bronze sculpture, known as the Six Burghers of Calais, and beyond that lies Parc St-Pierre, home to a war museum and a memorial to the unknown soldier.
Coastal Treasures
Calais’ sandy beach continues to surprise me with how clean and open it is—perfect for a relaxing stroll or a quick bite along the waterfront. If you have time, take the D940 coastal road through charming fishing villages like Audresselles and Wissant and keep going until you reach the breathtaking Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez headlands. Hiking between these two cliffs offers panoramic views, excellent bird-watching, and a fascinating look at WWII-era defensive structures.
Must-See Sights in Calais
- Rodin’s Six Burghers: A moving tribute to bravery in the face of adversity.
- Calais Beach: A broad ribbon of soft sand, ideal for lounging or a casual picnic.
- Calais Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville): A highlight of Flemish architecture and possibly the city’s most iconic landmark.
- Place d’Armes: Steeped in medieval history, now home to vibrant open-air markets.
- Calais Lighthouse: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the town and the Channel.
- Fine Arts Museum: Showcases works by Rodin and other notable artists, plus rotating exhibitions.
- Notre-Dame Church: Weathered by time and conflict, but still an important piece of local heritage.
- War Museum: Located in a former bunker in Parc St-Pierre, it provides a fascinating insight into Calais’ WWII history.
- Historical War Museum in Ambleteuse: Just a short drive away, this museum details the region’s pivotal role in WWII.
- Le Blockhaus d’Eperlecques: A towering concrete bunker from which V2 rocket attacks were once planned.
A Guided Walk (If You’re Feeling Adventurous)
If the weather’s nice, I highly recommend exploring Calais on foot. Here’s my tried-and-true route:
- Start at the Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville)
Admire Rodin’s Six Burghers on the forecourt. Across the road are the Remembrance Monument and Parc Saint Pierre, home to the War Museum. - Head toward the beach
Pass Central Station, crossing Jacquard Bridge to see the Minerva Bas-Relief—symbolizing wisdom and the arts. Continue along Boulevard Clemenceau until you spot the Old Post Office on Rue Edison. - Rue Royale & Rue Jean de Vienne
Here, you’ll see the “Shadow of Lady Hamilton” before encountering the Citadel’s massive walls. - Boulevard de l’Esplanade
Turn onto Rue Andre Gerschel, intersect with Rue Royale near the Old Belfry site, and note the historic Watchtower. - Beachside & Bassin du Paradis
At Rue de la Mer, head toward the Henri Henon Bridge and Fort Risban. Nearby stands a statue honoring airman Gilbert Brazy, and on the nearby roundabout, see the Pluviôse Monument commemorating a tragic submarine accident. - Boulevard des Allies
Pass the Calais Chamber of Commerce and continue to the Lighthouse. Across the way is the Courgain Maritime Quarter and St. Peter & St. Paul Church. - Quayside
Along Rue Rivet is a monument to the Sea Rescue Service. Here, you’ll notice the distinct architecture of the Courgain Maritime neighborhood and the Louis XVIII Column opposite. - Place d’Armes
Return via Rue Jean Noel Dubout; discover the Royal Reservoir and Notre-Dame Church along Rue Seigneur de Gourdan. - Fine Arts & Lace Museum
Continue on Rue Richelieu to reach the museum. Nearby is a War Memorial at the entrance to Parc Richelieu. - Back to Town Center
Stroll down Boulevard Jacquard to circle back toward the Town Hall, Republic College, and Municipal Library. You’ll pass the URSSAF building, where the very first lace factory was established. - Fort Nieulay
Follow Boulevard La Fayette and Boulevard Gambetta to reach this 14th-century fort, built to defend Calais.
Take your time exploring side streets or local cafés along the way—you never know what hidden gems you’ll find. By following this route (or parts of it), you’ll gain an authentic feel for Calais: its history, architecture, and the local life that thrives between old fortifications and modern storefronts. Enjoy your day, and don’t forget to check back for more updates on the best things to see, do, and taste in Calais!