Posted on 16 September 2019

Immerse yourself in French culture, history and cuisine with a day trip across (or under) the Channel. Just 20 miles away from Dover and a few hours from Plymouth, Poole and Portsmouth, it's possible to explore a Northern French town or city in a day. Travel through the Channel Tunnel or by ferry.

Calais

Often overlooked by those keen to load up on inexpensive French wine and beer, Calais has plenty to offer the more adventurous day-tripper. Founded by the Romans, much of the city was destroyed in World War Two - but there are still a few historic gems to see. High on the list is the famous Flemish Renaissance-style town hall, with its iconic clock tower which can be glimpsed from the Channel. Expect historic art and ornate interiors. Open 8am-noon and 1.30-5.30pm.

Don't miss Auguste Rodin's famous The Six Burghers, a cast depicting the surrender of Calais to the English in 1357 - it's positioned just in front of the town hall.

There's also a pretty beach just 15 minutes from the town.

Art lovers will enjoy the Fine Art Museum, which boasts some big names: Rodin, Picasso and Dubuffet to name just three. There's also the elegant 19th Century lighthouse and the evocative Place D'Armes with its medieval watchtower.

How to get to Calais

 Take your car on le Tunnel

Take a train through the Channel Tunnel

Take a ferry from Dover (P&O Ferries operate this route).

Dunkirk (Dunkerque) and war history

History buffs are spoilt for choice in and around Dunkirk, which is just 40 minutes from Calais. More than 300,000 British and Allied troops were famously evacuated from this beach in 1940, helping to ensure Britain could continue fighting Nazi Germany. Nearby is the La Coupole bunker, built to launch rockets at southern England during World War Two and not far from Calais are Les Boves caves, where 24,000 British troops were hidden during World War One.

Reach Dunkirk via Calais, as detailed above.

Lille

An hour from Calais is charming Lille, adored for its cobbled streets and olde-worlde atmosphere. Enjoy a coffee in a street side cafe and watch the French go about their day, or indulge in a spot of shopping, Gallic-style. If you're considering a longer break, Lille also offers some vibrant night spots.

Reach Lille via Calais as mentioned above, or on the Eurostar from London. You can also take a coach (6 hours) but you may need to set aside two or more days to make it worthwhile.

Bruges (Belgium)

Within driving distance of Calais is Bruges, home to some of the finest medieval architecture in Europe. Miraculously, the city survived both world wars.

Highlights include the Church of Our Lady, where you'll find the priceless Madonna and Child by Michelangelo; and the Groeninge museum, covering six centuries of art and featuring masterpieces by the Flemish van Eyck. Take a canal trip among the architectural wonders, sip a fine Belgian beer, or seek out one of the many music and art festivals that are hosted by this most special of Belgian cities each year.

Reach Bruges after arriving in Calais by ferry or the Channel Tunnel. Ideal if you're taking your car.

St-Malo

Hop on a ferry at Portsmouth and land in dreamy St Malo, where you can virtually saunter into the city's heart from the ferry port - making it perfect for a day trip or weekend break. Expect plenty of Gallic charm and history, with a wide choice of restaurants to boot. This walled city has its own excellent beach too, where you might even be tempted to take a refreshing dip.

Brittany Ferries operate ferries on this route.

Other day trip options

Brittany Ferries also operate routes from England to Caen (D-Day beaches), Cherbourg (naval and maritime history), Le Havre (modernist architecture) and Roscoff (access to stunning coastline). It's possible to enjoy a day trip to these history-steeped cities, but you may wish to plan two or more days to get the most out of your short break.

Get a Quote