Ferries to Nord-Pas de Calais

Ferry Nord-Pas de Calais: What to see and do?

Discover the treasures of Nord-Pas de Calais, a region rich in history, culture and picturesque landscapes. With its well-connected ferry ports, it's the ideal starting point for your journey through this fascinating region. Here's an overview of the main towns and sights not to be missed.

Start your journey in Calais, a bustling port town that is often the first point of arrival for ferry travellers. Here, don't miss the Opéra de Calais, a magnificent nineteenth-century building that houses a varied cultural programme. Stroll along the sandy beach and admire the famous Calais Lighthouse, the symbol of the town.

Next, head for Boulogne-sur-Mer, just an hour's drive from Calais. Don't miss the old town, with its cobbled streets and colourful timber-framed houses. Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame, an impressive 19th-century religious building. For an unforgettable experience, visit Nausicaá, Europe's largest aquarium, where you can discover the wealth of marine life.

Continue your journey to Dunkirk, a port city of great historical importance. Visit the Musée Portuaire to learn more about the region's maritime history. And don't miss the Dune Marchand Nature Reserve, an unspoilt natural park with exceptional flora and fauna. And don't miss the famous Dunkirk Carnival, which takes place every year between January and March.

Continue your journey to Lille, the regional capital. This dynamic city is home to magnificent architecture, world-famous museums and a lively nightlife. Stroll through Vieux-Lille, with its cobbled streets and colourful buildings. Don't miss the Palais des Beaux-Arts, France's second largest museum after the Louvre, where you can admire masterpieces by great artists such as Rubens and Monet. Finally, stop off at the Marché de Wazemmes, a lively open-air market where you can sample local produce and discover the typical atmosphere of the North of France.

Finally, end your journey in the charming town of Saint-Omer. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture, and stroll along the town's picturesque canals. For nature lovers, the Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale offers magnificent scenery, from steep cliffs to tranquil marshes.

Nord-Pas de Calais: When to visit?

If you're looking for sunny beaches and blue skies, the summer months (July and August) are ideal for visiting the Mediterranean coast and enjoying high temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. However, this time of year is also the busiest for tourists, which can mean that the most popular seaside resorts and tourist attractions are very crowded.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and scorching temperatures, spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are ideal times to visit France. Temperatures are mild and pleasant, fluctuating between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, and the weather is generally sunny with a few showers possible. It's also an ideal time to explore the wine regions, the châteaux of the Loire or enjoy the local festivals.