Advice

Let’s take a quick break from our route to highlight some other must-see spots in Calais you may want to explore later. First up: the City of Lace and Fashion—a tribute to Calais’s iconic textile industry. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century lace factory in the Saint-Pierre district, this 2,500 m² museum showcases the evolution of lace-making and its impact on the city. It’s a deep dive into craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless style. Just eight minutes away from Place d’Armes, don’t miss the Grand Theatre of Calais. With its impressive baroque façade and generous dimensions—52 meters long, 27 wide—it certainly makes a statement. Built after the 1885 union of Calais and Saint-Pierre-lès-Calais, and inaugurated in 1903, it’s now one of the city’s main cultural venues. Another military site worth visiting is Fort Nieulay, about a 10-minute drive from the city center. This impressive 17th-century fortress, once part of Calais’s outer defenses, was modified by Vauban to include a floodable lock system that could submerge parts of the city in case of invasion. Today, it’s a peaceful spot combining nature and history. For history buffs, especially those interested in World War II, we strongly recommend the Todt Battery. Located about 30 kilometers from Calais, this massive coastal defense installation was part of the infamous Atlantic Wall. One of its four bunkers now houses a fascinating museum featuring thousands of wartime artifacts—including uniforms, weapons, posters, and the only German K5 railway gun on display in France. While you’re out that way, stop by Cap Gris-Nez, France’s northernmost cliff. Its twin, Cap Blanc-Nez, is 16 kilometers away, and both are connected by a scenic coastal hiking trail. You can also take the road and make a relaxing stop in Wissant, a charming fishing village known for its beautiful bay. As you can see, there’s no shortage of things to do in and around Calais!