Top 4 Itineraries in Calais

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Calais beach in north of France
Cityscape of Arras town with Hotel de Ville town hall building, Flemish-Baroque-style townhouses on La Petite Place des Heros Heroes Square, Pas-de-Calais department, Hauts-de-France Region, France
Top 4 Itineraries in Calais
Top 4 Itineraries in Calais
Top 4 Itineraries in Calais
Top 4 Itineraries in Calais
Top 4 Itineraries in Calais
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By Paola Westbeek

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Introduction

Plan your dream trip with the top 4 itineraries in Calais. This guide will walk you through the most exciting itineraries, featuring easy and short day-by-day overviews. Continue reading to discover your perfect Calais itinerary.

A well-designed Calais itinerary should capture the essence of the city by blending sightseeing with authentic local experiences. Crafting the perfect itinerary can take many hours of research and planning if you don’t know where to start.

To simplify your planning, we have reviewed the biggest selection of vacation packages in Calais and curated the top 4 best itineraries. These travel plans cover everything you need to consider when planning a trip to Calais.

For the ultimate experience, you’ll also need the perfect place to stay. Luckily, the list of top-rated hotels in Calais includes options for every budget and preference.

So, why wait? Scroll down to discover 4 perfect itineraries for Calais!

Popular Types of Trips to Calais

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Calais.

A 3 to 5-day stay in Calais offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Calais are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Calais’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Calais offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover France's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Calais offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Calais truly unforgettable!

Find Trips to Calais

If you’re as convinced as we are that Calais belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Calais are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Calais and start planning your next trip!

The Top 4 Best Calais Travel Itineraries

Discover the perfect Calais itinerary with our handpicked list. Whether you're in Calais for a short stay or a longer visit, there's an itinerary for you.

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these 4 itineraries will help you experience the best of Calais without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Calais!

4. The Ultimate 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary Through Calais and Beyond

Calais beach in north of France

A scenic 10-day road trip through London, Paris, Canterbury, Dover, and Tours is one of the best ways to experience France. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 10-day itinerary means that Calais can easily be combined with other top destinations in France without stress. While it’s possible to travel between London, Paris, Canterbury, Dover, and Tours by public transport, renting a car in France opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 10 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in London

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in London. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore London

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Tower of London, lastminute.com London Eye, St. Paul's Cathedral, Hyde Park, and Tower Bridge. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of London, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest.

Day 3: Discover Canterbury and Dover

  • Destinations: Canterbury and Dover
  • Driving distance: 212.91 km, approx. 3 hours and 56 minutes
  • Accommodation: hotel in Calais, e.g., Les Secrets Des Loges
  • Sightseeing: National Trust - The White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury Cathedral, and Dover Castle
Spend the day exploring National Trust - The White Cliffs of Dover, Canterbury Cathedral, and Dover Castle. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace. End the day by checking into a new hotel, conveniently located in central Calais.

Day 4: Experience Paris

Continue your journey through Paris, where you can explore Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, Louvre Museum, and Sacré-Cœur. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Paris.

Day 5: Enjoy Sightseeing in Paris and Versailles

Drive through Paris and Versailles, stopping to visit Palace of Versailles, Arc de Triomphe, and Eiffel Tower. Don't forget to embrace the opportunity to explore smaller towns and hidden gems along the way.

Day 6: Embrace the Spirit of Tours

Spend time discovering Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Prébendes d'Oé Garden, with plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities or enjoy local culture. After a day of exploring, check into a hotel in Tours.

Day 7: Spend Time in Saint-Malo and Le Mont-Saint-Michel

  • Destinations: Saint-Malo and Le Mont-Saint-Michel
  • Driving distance: 333.49 km, approx. 4 hours and 8 minutes
  • Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Saint-Malo, e.g., Kyriad Prestige Saint Malo
  • Sightseeing: Saint-Malo Intra-Muros, Mont Saint-Michel, and Big Gate
Explore Saint-Malo Intra-Muros, Mont Saint-Michel, and Big Gate at a relaxed pace. Make spontaneous stops for sightseeing, photography, or lunch at a family-run restaurant. Finish the day by checking into another comfortable hotel in the center of Saint-Malo.

Day 8: Explore Rouen, Caen, and Moidrey

Continue your road trip through Rouen, Caen, and Moidrey, enjoying the flexibility to explore Mémorial de Caen, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Moulin de Moidrey, and Le Gros-Horloge and nearby points of interest. As the day winds down, arrive at a new hotel in central Rouen.

Day 9: Wander Through Canterbury and Calais

Visit Museum of Fine Arts in Calais, Westgate Gardens, and Calais Lighthouse as you navigate scenic routes. Take time to enjoy local markets, trails, or viewpoints that catch your eye. At the end of the day, check-in at a comfortable hotel in central London.

Day 10: Bid Farewell to London

  • Departure city: London, Paris, Canterbury, Dover, and Tours
  • Driving distance: 0.0 metres, approx. 0 seconds
Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to London. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along this route is around 1404 EUR, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Calais.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Calais for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

3. The Top Recommended 5-Day Calais City Itinerary

Cityscape of Arras town with Hotel de Ville town hall building, Flemish-Baroque-style townhouses on La Petite Place des Heros Heroes Square, Pas-de-Calais department, Hauts-de-France Region, France

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Calais with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 5-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Calais without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Calais

Arrive in Calais and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Calais Beach.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Le Chill is a top-rated recommendation. Say 'cheers' and set the tone for an amazing vacation ahead!

Day 2: Discover Calais's Most Iconic Attractions

Enjoy your first full day in Calais by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Second World War Museum, Les Bourgeois de Calais, Beffroi de l’Hôtel de Ville de Calais (UNESCO), and City of Lace and Fashion.

Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Calais in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 5: Savor Your Final Moments in Calais

Spend your last few hours in Calais soaking up the charm of the city at your own pace. Stroll through favorite spots or revisit local markets before bidding farewell to the city.

For more inspiration, explore the complete selection of city breaks in Calais, all including pre-planned itineraries you can customize to suit your style. Start with a ready-to-go Calais travel plan and make it your own by selecting tours, accommodations, and more.

2. The Best 14-Day Calais Beach Vacation Itinerary

Arras Cathedral of Our Lady and Saint Vaast Cathedrale Notre-Dame catholic church gothic style building and green trees, summer day blue sky, Artois, Pas-de-Calais department, Northern France

A 14-day beach vacation in Calais offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Calais:

  • Beaches: Spend your days at Plage de Malo-les-Bains.
  • Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Bienvenue Chez Nous for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
  • Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at Le Chill, L'avenue_, and Pizza Sicilia, and other nearby dining spots.
  • Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Le Curacao, L' Antiquaire, and Café Brun, and more.
  • Cultural experiences: Explore National Nature Reserve Platier Oye and Jardin du Beau Pays, local markets, and souvenir shops.
With a well-planned 14-day beach vacation itinerary in Calais, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Calais

Arrive in Lille, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 14 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Plage de Malo-les-Bains or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Calais.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Plage de Malo-les-Bains, a top beach in Calais. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Blockhaus d'Éperlecques and Maison de la Bataille for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 7: Unwind by the Beach

Relax and rejuvenate with a beach day at Plage de Malo-les-Bains. Bring a book, lounge under an umbrella, and enjoy the day at Ferme Galamé and Galamé Park, with a refreshing drink in hand. As evening falls, enjoy a beachside dinner.

Day 8: Discover Local Culture and Sunset Views

Soak up the sun at Plage de Malo-les-Bains. In the afternoon, dive into the local culture with visits to Tour du Leughenaer and Museum Dunkerque 1940 Operation Dynamo. As the sun sets, have a picnic on the beach and create some amazing memories.

Day 10: Embrace Beach Serenity

Spend the day enjoying the inviting waters of Plage de Malo-les-Bains. Enjoy the beach’s peaceful vibe and go out for a refreshing swim or a visit to Duchesse Anne and Port Museum of Dunkirk for a bit of activity. Cap off the evening with a sunset dinner on the shore or a trip to a local bar.

Day 11: Engage in Water Adventures

Spend an exciting day at Plage de Malo-les-Bains, where water sports await to fill your day with fun. Dive into an adventure by exploring nearby attractions like Jardin Public de Grande-Synthe and Wind Park, making the most of your beach experience.

Day 12: Recharge with a Blend of Beach Relaxation and Cultural Exploration

Unwind and refresh with a relaxing day at Plage de Malo-les-Bains. If you're looking for a change of scenery, you can also explore Chateau d'esquelbeq and Belfry of Bergues. As the day comes to a close, indulge in a delicious dinner by the beach.

Day 14: Say Farewell to Calais

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Calais. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Calais. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Calais's coastline.

1. The Perfect 3-Day Calais Weekend Itinerary

Beautiful sand beach in Wissant, Pas-de-Calais, France.

A 3-day weekend getaway in Calais offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Calais itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 3 days to spend, this is the perfect Calais weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Calais

Arrive in Calais around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.
  • Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
  • Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Calais Beach, and soak in the surroundings.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.

Day 2 - Discover Calais’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Calais with sightseeing, food, and drinks.
  • Morning: Visit Museum of Fine Arts in Calais early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Calais Lighthouse, stopping by Les Bourgeois de Calais for a break and some photos.
  • Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.

Day 3 - Depart from Calais

Make the most of your last few hours in Calais before your departure. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Calais itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

What To Discover Next in Calais

As you explore Calais, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Calais for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Calais in a way that feels truly unforgettable!

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