Calais

Calais is a French major port city in the Pas-de-Calais department, of which it is a subprefecture. Calais is the largest city in Pas-de-Calais. The population of the city proper is 67,544; that of the urban area is 144,625. Wikipedia.
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Top things to do in Calais
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Top places to visit

4.3
(16866)
4.1
(840)
Mentioned on 
Shopping mall
Shopping
Cité Europe is a popular shopping center located in Coquelles, Pas-de-Calais. The city gained prominence due to the Channel Tunnel, which serves as its entry point. Tourists can explore various shops within the city, catering to the daily influx of tunnel users. Additionally, visitors can savor classic French cuisine at the on-site restaurant and bar. For those seeking an authentic experience, the Centre Ville offers a more genuine taste of local culture.
This epic landmark shopping centre a few yards from the channel tunnel and a couple of miles from the ferry is thirty years old this. Good selection of dining options. Is fully wheelchair accessible
Steve C — Google review
Great to dive in for a few bottles before the tunnel but a bit massive and overwhelming. No doubt though to shopping enthusiasts it is heaven! Plenty of parking and the dodgy wandering pairs of would be migrants common a couple of years ago seem to have been discouraged.
Steve G — Google review
Plenty of shops and eateries. Good bargains but you do tend to spend more overall. 20% tax refund on certain items if you're returning to UK within 30 days (I think). Shop staff should be able to tell you.
John C — Google review
A fantastic huge shopping mall, filled with lots of interesting shops, and free parking, shopping trolleys are available in the carpark just like in the supermarket at home, but don't indicate what coin is required, however a 2 euro coin worked well enough though.
Mark ( — Google review
To be honest, for me it's one of the nicest and cleanest mall in France. It's a large one with a wide variety of shops to have a great shopping experience 🛍️ ☺️. I would say the most common international brands have a store in this Mall. From Zara to Primark. I really enjoyed my experience there with so many choices. The parking is easy to access and park. it's a nice place to have dinner or lunch 🍽️ with different type of restaurants. Nice job!! U would highly recommend this mall.
Youssef — Google review
Large shopping spaces and seating areas, toilets are clean and tastefully designed with lots of space. Great food court and lots of variety. And the kids can stay all day, entertainment are endless and fun. Ample parking two levels for you to choose, great mall...
Jered G — Google review
We thought it was an excellent shopping centre. Looked smart, easy to navigate through, good varieties of shops available, massive car park, and the design of the outside of the shopping centre looks apart too. Be aware to take the correct exit on the motorway otherwise you risk to end up in the lorry bit for boarding euro tunnel like we did but if you do don't panic there is a roundabout just before customs :)
George B — Google review
Good shopping centre, clean and well presented although some shops had shutters down before the 8pm closing as advertised on their shop window.
Mickey B — Google review

2Fontaine du parc richelieu

3.6
(5)
Mentioned on 
Park
Nestled across from the picturesque Richelieu Park, the Fine Arts Museum in Calais is a cultural gem that draws visitors with its captivating exhibitions. One of its highlights is dedicated to the iconic statue, "The Burghers of Calais," crafted by renowned French sculptor Auguste Rodin. This poignant piece commemorates a significant moment in history—the siege of Calais in 1347 during the Hundred Years War—making it an essential stop for those interested in art and history alike.
(Translated by Google) Very beautiful and big. (Original) Très beau et grand.
Vincent C — Google review
⭐️⭐️ The fountain in Parc Richelieu is not exactly memorable. 💧 It doesn’t offer much in terms of beauty, presence, or atmosphere. 🪞 It’s also not very useful—just another decorative feature that doesn’t invite people to interact or linger. 🚫 Like many such installations, it’s something the public ends up paying for year after year. 💶 And if it’s not regularly maintained, it quickly becomes a mess—stagnant, dirty, and unpleasant to be near. 🦠 That said, the rest of the park is fairly quiet and can be a peaceful place to sit, especially away from the fountain. 🌳
Freight L — Google review
(Translated by Google) Quiet, cozy place, you can come with children or dogs (Original) Тихе, затишне місце, можна приходи з дітьми або собаками
O.W. G — Google review
6 Rue de Strasbourg, 62100 Calais, France

3Place d'Armes

Mentioned on 
Transport hub
Place d'Armes is a lively and historic centerpiece of the city, steeped in rich medieval heritage. Once the focal point of Calais during its medieval days, this square has transformed into a dynamic hub filled with activity and commerce. It proudly features the iconic 13th-century watchtower, which stands as a testament to the past as the sole remaining structure from before World War II. Visitors can immerse themselves in its vibrant atmosphere while appreciating its historical significance.
62100 Calais, France
4.5
(517)
4.5
(606)
Mentioned on 
City Hall
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Calais Town Hall is a significant landmark in the heart of Calais, known for its distinctive 15th century Neo Flemish architecture. It was built to commemorate the merging of Calais and Saint Pierre, with construction starting in 1911 and completing in 1925 due to delays caused by World War I. The town hall also features the first cast of Rodin's renowned sculpture "Les Bourgeois de Calais" in front of the ornate Hotel de Ville.
Very beautiful town hall with an amazing clock tower. Really nice picture potential specially with the "Calais" letters. Great for some nice souvenir pictures of the place. Definitely worth checking out and only a few minutes away from the train station.
Seka F — Google review
Very nice building and it's open for the visits (not like the one in Dunkirk) : the first floor and the tower (can get a guided tour)
Nona V — Google review
Stunning gardens and building. Clock tower is similar in size to London’s Big Ben. I didn’t have time to visit the inside of the town hall however the gardens are impressive enough.
Mark P — Google review
Nice place,not as clean as expected. Not very safe as many weird people were walking in the park. Washing clothes by the lake and sleep on the benches.
Zzippit D — Google review
Amazing building with an impressive clock tower. You can go up to the first floor for free and view the rooms and for a small charge (€5 per adult and €2 per child) you can even go up the bell tower. A great building to look round
Mel W — Google review
Warm welcome from the team, amazing views of the city. You get a nice guided tour for some history and some interesting facts about the areas. Would recommend!
Lexie S — Google review
Baroque Style of Building with a park and museum nearby. Interesting architecture and story of the Les Bourgeois de Calais where the English invaded and Calais became a part of England in 1347. Six dignitaries were put up for execution to spare the entire town from mass slaughter by King Edward 111. A Rodin statue exist outside depicting the six men with ropes around their necks. You can go into the belfry but unfortunately when I visited it wasn’t open.
Paul — Google review
The town hall of Calais symbolizes the union of the cities of Calais and Saint-Pierre. Financial troubles and World War I postponed construction, but in 1925 the town hall, which was executed in neo-Flemish style, was ready. The most striking element of the town hall is the belfry, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005.
Koen — Google review
4.6
(1731)
4.6
(351)
Mentioned on 
Monument
Sights & Landmarks
Monuments & Statues
Les Bourgeois de Calais is a sculpture that pays tribute to the people of Calais who were besieged by England for more than a year in 1347. The monument honors six bourgeois and features impressive architecture and a stunning view from its tower. It is an intriguing place to drive past, with exceptional design and aesthetics that make it stand out. The sculpture is located in a beautiful setting that adds to its charm, making it worth visiting for anyone interested in history or art.
I like the garden in front of , and the amazing building.
Alaa A — Google review
Amazing views, and an incredibly beautiful building!
Werner K — Google review
Nice place:) in front of the place there is very beautiful place
Kasım Y — Google review
The burgers of Calais #1 It's a statue of people most known for being in the statue. #2 It's a French city commemorating their own surrender. #3 That guy is about to grab that guy's butt. #4 It's a good statue. #5 It's about to win Sam 750 coins
Olav H — Google review
Amazing olympic themed garden next to the statues also surrounded by beautiful flower beds
Monica S — Google review
I haven't been inside. But from the outside it is unique, very beautiful and clean.
Georgi B — Google review
Such a beautiful landscape, we do love the city
Schattenjager19 — Google review
Very beautiful sculpture Good reminder of the city story Right next to the city hall with the beffroi
A M — Google review

Top places to eat

4.5
(1225)
4.6
(1733)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Fine dining restaurant
Nestled along the picturesque coastline, Au Côte d'Argent offers an unforgettable dining experience that perfectly blends stunning views with exceptional cuisine. Guests rave about the breathtaking sunsets and the warm hospitality that makes every visit special. The menu features a delightful array of seafood, including a must-try seafood platter, alongside creative vegetarian options. Even during busy times, the attentive service ensures that each meal is served flawlessly in a relaxed atmosphere.
This is a first rate restaurant if you love fish. We have been going for many years and the food is always of superlative quality. We have celebrated birthdays in the private rooms and it has traditionally been a final destination before returning back to England after a trip to France. Pleasant views of the sea, Ferry Port and the enormous Calais dragon which wanders along the sea front. Wonderful! We returned this weekend and it hasn't changed a bit! Still a great dining experience. The assiette gormande where you get small portions of 6 desserts is particularly fine for the indecisive
Paul B — Google review
Beautiful restaurant with kind (even if you don't speak any French) and spot on service! Sandrine was nothing but welcoming and charming. Thank you for making this lunch date special! P. S. Sweetbreads were to die for!
Dominika B — Google review
Excellent food, great service and the location is beautiful!
Oana-Maria A — Google review
Lovely atmosphere. Ocean themed tasteful decor. Very nice portions. The entrecôte steak was beautifully seasoned and accompanying potatoes really nice. Wouldn’t recommend the starter small fish plate on account of it being cold, but that’s a taste thing.
Charis — Google review
Super lunch. We had the €40 menu. Very good value for the quality. Very welcoming and great attentive service.
CLOUDY C — Google review
With a great ambiance and a delicious and delicate menu I would for sure come back whenever in Calais again. A special mention for the desserts they were as beautiful as delicious as they can be!
Camila M — Google review
This restaurant is a truly wonderful dining experience. Every meal was as it should be for a 2 Michelin star establishment. Amazing! Delectable and delicious I cannot recommend Au Cote D'Argent highly enough. After our delicious meal we crossed the parking lot and I took these photos of the view from Au Cote D'Argent in Calais.
Saami P — Google review
Just been there. Food are great. I booked this place last year when I visited Calais but they were closed for that week. I booked again this time. It is worth the wait. It is not particular busy when I arrived at about 12 Sunday but the place get busy later.
Kenneth L — Google review
4.6
(1277)
4.6
(1208)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Fish restaurant
French restaurant
Located just in front of the Calais port, it comes as no surprise that Oh!. Mouettes is a seafood eatery. With breathtaking vistas of the port and fishermen hauling in their daily catch, this establishment offers an ideal setting to relish remarkably fresh fish and seafood in Calais. The restaurant, situated by the fishing harbor, serves delectable and authentic bistronomy along with fish specialties. Diners can enjoy these culinary delights while taking in the stunning sea views.
We had our dinner here before taking le shuttle back to UK. We’ve been to several seafood restaurants jn Calais, Oh Mouettes is so far me and my wife’s favorite.
Philip F — Google review
We always look forward to our lunch at Ou Mouettes and last week did not disappoint. Myself and my 2 daughters enjoyed a glass of champagne with our excellent 4 course meal including turbot and tuna which was superbly cooked and presented. Can’t wait to return
Carol E — Google review
We arrived as the doors opened for noon service, and the immediate bustle inside proved its reputation: this spot is clearly a very popular option in the surrounding area. The meal itself delivered some incredible highs. The seafood starter was genuinely amazing—very good, beautifully prepared, and offered a wonderful opportunity to try something we rarely encounter in the UK. It immediately set a high bar for the rest of the meal. Following this excellent start, the main course unfortunately settled in the middle of the road. While perfectly competent, we found it to be just average, certainly not beyond our expectations given the promise of the starter. The 2 dessert that we ordered were exceptionally well-prepared and absolutely made us happy. Both the starter and the dessert truly demonstrated the high quality of French cuisine. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed the lively setting and the food.
Alex Y — Google review
Really make my day! The food is excellent!! Seafood platter is perfect! So delicious!! The good is a real delicacy!
Yin L — Google review
A pleasant seaside restaurant. While all the dishes were refined, I did not feel they offered value for money.
S M — Google review
We ate here on 29 March. We didn’t have a reservation and selected it based on reviews. More than we normally spend on a meal at lunch time and it was a 5* experience. We booked and ate there 20 June, what a difference, definitely not 5*. The waitresses were stomping around at a very fast pace and looked like they had fallen out of bed and got dressed in the dark. They were shouting to each other across diners, very rude. We wanted a carafe of water, it took over 15 minutes to get attention. The food was not an acceptable standard. The crab was tasteless and full of water, the crevettes old, mushy and had not been left long enough before cooking, the guts were full and it made them inedible. About 5 minutes before we gave up on our meal, the manager spoke to us in passing. I think he asked if everything was to our satisfaction. Since my husband doesn’t speak French and he wasn’t looking at me, I didn’t quite hear what was said, hearing aids help but don’t give you perfect hearing. He didn’t really seem very inter in the reply anyway. Definitely don’t recommend and will not be coming back. Over priced, poor service and substandard food.
Jane B — Google review
Everything was fantastic on our visit to Oh! Mouettes. The food was delicious and beautiful. The staff were friendly and helpful. The restaurant had a nice ambiance and great views from the first floor. It was a perfect meal, thank you!
Glyn W — Google review
We always stop here when we’re passing through (or anywhere near) Calais - it’s guaranteed to be delicious and good value with a warm welcome. We recently mistakenly booked for the wrong date so we had to go elsewhere in Calais & felt like we’d missed out - the alternative was nowhere near as good as Oh Mouettes! Highly recommended.
Tim — Google review
10 Rue Jean Pierre Avron, 62100 Calais, Francehttp://www.ohmouettes.com/+33 3 21 34 67 59Tips and more reviews for Oh Mouettes
4.8
(1272)
4.7
(920)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Haute French restaurant
Le Grand Bleu, located at 8 Rue Jean-Pierre Avron in Calais, has recently been taken over by a young avant-garde chef with a growing reputation for creating glorious food. The restaurant offers an excellent menu and a traditional French feel. Despite its unassuming exterior, the interior is bustling with diners being served efficiently by attentive waitstaff.
An amazing food experience! Incredible meal, reasonable pricing and friendly staff. A perfect place to stop off before catching the ferry/shuttle back to the UK. Will be going back very soon! Thank you
Elyssia — Google review
This is the third time we have tried to eat here after two epic fails, the first time we had booked to coincide with our ferry arrival time from England in 2018, but there were customs strikes and other delays. I could only email to apologise for our "no-show", but they were so nice about it I vowed to return one day. Glad we did, this time we walked in without a booking and they welcomed us no problem. The menu was imaginative and good value, the presentation superb and the service very responsive e.g. we had a ferry to catch this time too and, without rushing, the dishes came promptly. We will return for a tasting menu. You could tell that this restaurant is very popular with the French. Easy to park nearby.
Paul J — Google review
Menu plasir 3 courses for 32 euro plus taster starter. Very friendly staff parking in front of the restaurant. High quality ingredients and cooking. Staff speaks English
Servaas H — Google review
Best meal we've had in France so far. Delicious, well presented, friendly wait staff.
Alistair H — Google review
I don't understand the reviews. The menus are not expensive, but they are not good either. There are too many different things on the plate. Many do not fit together. The quality is just ok. It's all supposed to look very artistic, but it's not culinary art. There is a lack of knowledge and skills. The service is friendly, but not attentive and experienced. Little passion for the dishes. The winter garden is quickly cold and equipped with chalky white LEDs. The tables are cleaned occasionally with a cordless vacuum cleaner. You can either brush it or use a damp cloth. But then the dirt probably collects in the metal edge of the table. It's all somehow intentional, but not skillful. Too bad and absolutely no recommendation.
Janis — Google review
Very friendly , excellent food and service 👍👍
So C — Google review
A truly delightful experience at Le Grand Bleu, from the moment that we walked through the door we were taken great care of. We ate in the covered terrace area with a view of the sea, an extremely clean, light, airy and tastefully decorated room. The staff were very attentive, discrete in their work and gave concise answers to my many questions! The table presentation, crockery and glasses were of high quality and I particularly liked the mini hoover that was used to eliminated bread crumbs. *The meal was amazing! I had the 30€ menu, a delicate taster dish, followed by the haddock, prawn and pickles, followed by the mouth watering crispy braised beef cheek and dessert mille feuille chocolate and salted caramel mousse with caramelised peanuts. The 3 courses were absolutely delicious, ample portions and beautifully creative presentation and outstanding value for money. A fresh glass of champagne when I arrived and a glass of rose during my meal. Our little westie was also welcomed and given a small bowl of water. I highly recommend this wonderful restaurant and hope to be able to return in the future to relax and taste the Chefs unique cuisine. Congratulations!
Nicky — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Le Grand Bleu – A Refined Welcome to France After crossing the English Channel from Dover to Calais by car ferry — a journey that carries a certain old-world romance — I arrived in France with a hunger sharpened by sea air and anticipation. It was Le Grand Bleu that welcomed me, and in doing so, set the tone for a return to true French refinement. The atmosphere was elegant yet warmly unpretentious, with the soft murmur of French voices and the scent of butter and sea in the air. I began with the foie gras, and I must say — it was magnificent. But more than just the foie gras itself, it was the artful presentation and the exceptional variety of accoutrements that elevated it: fig compote, house-made brioche, fleur de sel, a touch of spice here, a splash of sweetness there — each note in perfect harmony. A masterclass in balance and indulgence. The staff were poised and attentive, giving just the right amount of presence without intrusion — a hallmark of a restaurant that knows its craft. To enjoy such a meal upon arrival in Calais, just as the sun began to lower over the port, was not merely satisfying — it was poetic. Le Grand Bleu is not just a restaurant, it is a landing — a gentle, luxurious return to French soil.
Tasteful T — Google review
4.6
(918)
4.5
(1227)
Mentioned on 
affordable
French restaurant
Bistro
When exploring the culinary landscape of Calais, Histoire Ancienne stands out as a gem that beautifully marries quality with value. Under the expert guidance of chef Patrick Comte, who draws inspiration from his childhood visits to Paris's renowned International Market of Rungis, this bistro-style restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience.
A wonderful restaurant in Calais. Beautiful ambience, nice art and amazing food. The service is outstanding. We had fish dishes with accompagnement of chanterelles mushrooms and Tarte wit vegetables confit. A feast for the eyes and stomach!
George O — Google review
This is the second time I have busted this restaurant and again it was excellent. I didn’t review it the first time. This is an excellent bin gourmand establishment with an excellent set menu in the evening. I had the duck followed by the pork and the chocolate coffee cup, served with a half bottle of excellent house red, but a very good for the price. The service was excellent even though all the covers were full. The only observation was that my glass was dry for the the later part of the main course. A no no really but most forgivable. A very nicely decorated dining room. Highly recommend, but do book.
Derek J — Google review
Come to try their new summer menu. Excellently presented and top quality food, well portioned and superb value for a three course lunch. Service from staff was hit and miss but adequate. Definitely recommended if you're in Calais wanting to try decent French cuisine
Joe T — Google review
We ate here for my father’s 80th birthday and the staff were wonderful. Our crossing was delayed, but they agreed to stay open for us and provided a wonderful celebratory dessert. The quality of the food (having eaten here a few times) is consistently excellent, the service friendly and the atmosphere extremely pleasant. It’s one of our favourite places in Calais.
Richard S — Google review
Lovely 3 course set menu meal. We visited on a Thursday lunchtime before the ferry back to Dover. The restaurant is traditional French bistro style, very comfortable and relaxed. The service is attentive but discrete which allowed us to enjoy the experience. Will definitely return in 2026. We chose the Foie gras and the salmon plates to start, steaks as the main and the Tarte Tatan for deserts, which were all presented perfectly and cooked to perfection.
Bruce W — Google review
As French as it gets (though I expected an establishment this size and this close to the channel to at least understand and speak a bit of English) Food was perfect, service perfect - and wine list very reasonable. It's definitely a place to revisit if in Calais another time. Loved the 1920's decor - very elegant and stylish. And it's a huge place...we reserved a table one day in advance, but seems like walk-in is often doable
Johannes H — Google review
What an amazing restaurant! We stopped in Calais for just one night and found this gem. Pros: The food was amazing! The salmon was so good! Very reasonably priced! Good wine selection The staff were were very friendly and very attentive. Very very very clean. I watched them sanitize each menu, seats, tables, and even the pen people used to sign their receipt. Cons: Absolutely nothing. You can’t go wrong with this place.
Glen L — Google review
We took the Bib Gourmand menu, and that was really good. I took the salmon tartar as a starter, then the steak and as a desert the mi-cuits. All dishes were perfect 👍.
Steven C — Google review
4.5
(978)
4.5
(1085)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Restaurant
Aquar'Aile is a gastronomic destination offering breathtaking views of the sea and ferry activity in Calais. The restaurant serves delectable dishes like sole and lobster stew, both carrying the Mr Goodfish seal of approval. In Wime-reux, Hotel Atlantic houses Michelin-starred La Liegeoise and the relaxed LAloze brasserie, providing a complete seaside experience for diners.
Best restaurant in this city We had a good time here
Chester N — Google review
Let me start by saying this restaurant is really pricey and not for everyone. You can get the menu at 35 euro but you'll mostly end up paying more. Everyone was finely dressed, the vibe is fine seafood dining. I had a seafood platter as starter it was okay but one of my seasnails had broken shells inside which put of off the rest, I am not a fan of oysters but it looked fresh and were tastier with the sauce they provided. My main was nice the fish was very tasty. My fiancé had the fish of the day which was haddock. She lived it but it was very bland to me. Again the desert we had tasted like sweet butter to me but my partner loved it.
Seka F — Google review
Excellent classy French cuisine with great service and wonderful sea view. It’s our second return. It would be better to visit during summer time to enjoy the amazing sea view. Highly recommended!
Stephlicious L — Google review
Amazing restaurant with an amazing view, the food is very good and the service is top notch. I highly recommend
Fatima L — Google review
Really good atmosphere. Cheese board the best I've seen and taste it in years. Quick service and definitely need to book before going in.nice staff.
Elena-Rita D — Google review
This is our go too restaurant in Calais. The food is awesome and has amazing views. Seafood is a speciality but there is other food that is equally good . A great place for a special meal
Derrick W — Google review
For the amazing “Bar in croûte” à la française and above all for that incredible view opening up to the sea and Calais Harbor . The smoked salmon desserves the stop. So from my personal gut, it was tasty and we have enjoyed our plates
Rockia K — Google review
Food was extremely good and staff were inviting and spoke English when needed, but service was a bit slow
Kai K — Google review
255 Rue Jean Moulin, 62100 Calais, Francehttps://aquaraile.fr/+33 3 21 34 00 00Tips and more reviews for Aquar'Aile

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