{"id":3193,"date":"2026-06-09T09:57:30","date_gmt":"2026-06-09T07:57:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nuits-opale-calais.fr\/?p=3193"},"modified":"2026-06-09T10:04:15","modified_gmt":"2026-06-09T08:04:15","slug":"must-see-family-attractions-in-calais-on-the-opal-coast","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nuits-opale-calais.fr\/en\/must-see-family-attractions-in-calais-on-the-opal-coast\/","title":{"rendered":"What to see in Calais with the family: 8 must-see attractions on the Opal Coast"},"content":{"rendered":"

In Calais, you can enjoy a large, lively beach, a giant dragon by the sea, a rich cultural heritage (the belfry, lace-making) and beautiful nature walks along the Opal Coast, all easily accessible from our holiday rentals in Pas-de-Calais<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

1. Calais\u2019s main beach and its giant dragon<\/h2>\n

Calais beach is one of the first places you can take the children to as soon as you arrive. It stretches along a long stretch of sand, ideal for games, building sandcastles, flying kites or simply a stroll along the water\u2019s edge. The seafront, with its pedestrian promenade, playgrounds, skatepark and restaurants, makes for an outing that\u2019s very easy to organise, even with young children.<\/p>\n

The mechanical dragon that roams the seafront has become a real symbol for families staying at Calais XXL. This giant creature, which moves along the beach carrying visitors, adds a spectacular touch to an outing that remains very accessible. Being able to combine a stroll, a playground, an ice cream and watching the dragon all in one place makes the day much easier, especially if your accommodation is nearby.<\/p>\n

2. The City of Lace and Fashion<\/h2>\n

The International Centre for Lace and Fashion offers a different way to explore Calais with children. This fully restored former industrial site tells the story of Calais lace through working machines, immersive exhibition spaces and displays designed to appeal to a wide audience. The looms and large pieces of lace are sure to spark curiosity, even among the youngest visitors.<\/p>\n

You can tailor the length of the visit to suit the children\u2019s ages, alternating between the exhibition areas, demonstrations and quieter moments. The advantage of this museum, located in the city centre, is that you can organise a half-day trip, either in the morning or the afternoon, leaving the rest of the day free for a trip to the beach or a stroll.<\/p>\n

3. The Belfry, the Town Hall and the Burghers of Calais<\/h2>\n

Right in the city centre, the complex comprising the town hall, its belfry and the Monument to the Burghers of Calais is another must-see for family holidays. The belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is open to visitors and offers a panoramic view of the city and the English Channel, which appeals to adults and children alike.<\/p>\n

At the foot of the town hall, Auguste Rodin\u2019s *The Burghers of Calais* offers a straightforward introduction to a defining moment in the city\u2019s history, thanks to this easily recognisable monumental sculpture. You can incorporate this sight into a wider city walk, for example by following some of the routes suggested on the page\u00a0Nature and walks around Calais<\/strong>, which combines green spaces with views of the local heritage.<\/p>\n

4. Street art and summer festival<\/h2>\n

For several years now, Calais has been developing a street art trail that transforms building facades into a veritable open-air museum. You can explore certain neighbourhoods with your family, at your own pace, and spot the monumental murals dotted around the city, in a fun and visual way. It\u2019s a simple way to encourage children to walk, by setting up a sort of art hunt.<\/p>\n

During the summer, the\u00a0Street Art Festival<\/strong> enhances this urban atmosphere by offering new attractions, activities and an accessible programme that makes you want to linger a little longer. Staying in one of our city centre apartments allows you to enjoy these events without being tied to a schedule and to pop back easily for a break or a meal, which is particularly handy when travelling with children.<\/p>\n

5. The Site des Deux Caps and the great outdoors<\/h2>\n

Less than an hour\u2019s drive away, the Site des Deux Caps, between Cap Blanc Nez and Cap Gris Nez, offers the iconic landscapes of the Opal Coast, featuring cliffs, coastal paths and wide sandy beaches. It\u2019s an ideal day out for some fresh air with the family, with walking routes that you can adapt to suit the children\u2019s ages.<\/p>\n

The views over the English Channel, the proximity to England and the sense of space make this location a natural addition to your stay in Calais. You can alternate between more urban days, spent between the beach and sightseeing, and trips to unspoilt countryside where children can walk, run or simply take in the scenery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\"View<\/td>\n\"nuit<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

6. Cycling tours starting from Calais<\/h2>\n

Cycling is a lovely way to explore Calais and the surrounding area with the family, on routes that combine town, countryside and coastline. The V\u00e9lomaritime, which runs along the coast, and the Coulogne cycle route are among the options available, with sections suitable for young cyclists.<\/p>\n

From our apartments, you can easily reach certain sections by bike or public transport, then plan routes of a few kilometres, stopping off at parks, the beach or nearby villages along the way.<\/p>\n

When it comes to ideas for family outings, you could, for example, plan:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • A trip along the coast, with a stop for an ice cream or a snack on the beach.<\/li>\n
  • A more nature-oriented route into the countryside, where you can enjoy the peace and quiet and the rural scenery.<\/li>\n
  • An urban walk linking the town centre, the seafront and heritage sites.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    7. Nausicaa and coastal getaways on the Opal Coast<\/h2>\n

    For a slightly different day out or half-day trip, why not plan a visit to Boulogne-sur-Mer to see\u00a0Nausicaa<\/strong>, one of Europe\u2019s largest aquariums dedicated to exploring the marine world. Its vast tanks, viewing tunnels and educational activities make it a popular destination for families, whatever the weather.<\/p>\n

    This day trip fits easily into a stay in Calais: set off in the morning, enjoy the sightseeing and a stroll around the harbour or through the old town of Boulogne, then return at the end of the day to the comfort of your flat.<\/p>\n

    8. Markets, restaurants and neighbourhood life<\/h2>\n

    As well as the major attractions, part of the fun of a family holiday in Calais lies in exploring the markets and neighbourhood life. The city\u2019s markets are the perfect place to stock up on fresh produce, sample a few local specialities and get the children involved in preparing meals that you can then cook in the kitchen of our apartments.<\/p>\n

    The restaurants and brasseries in the town centre and along the seafront round off the experience, offering you the chance to enjoy lunch on a terrace or a more relaxed evening meal after a day of activities.<\/p>\n

    Where to stay in Calais for a family holiday<\/h2>\n

    Choosing an apartment rather than a hotel room means you have proper living spaces where everyone can find their own spot after a day of sightseeing. At\u00a0Opale Nights Calais<\/strong>, we offer\u00a0charming flats<\/strong>\u00a0Fully furnished, comfortable and ideally located for your leisure or business stays.<\/p>\n

    Each apartment is designed as a self-contained space, with a fully equipped kitchen, a sitting area and separate bedrooms, making it easier for younger children to get some rest and allowing parents to enjoy a longer evening in a quiet and well-appointed setting.<\/p>\n

    Depending on your needs, you could, for example, consider:<\/p>\n

      \n
    • An apartment near the beach, to minimise the amount of travelling with young children.<\/li>\n
    • A flat right in the city centre, making it easier to enjoy the markets, restaurants and events.<\/li>\n
    • An apartment with several bedrooms, ideal if you\u2019re travelling with teenagers or a large family.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      FAQ<\/h2>\n

      Is Calais a suitable place to visit with young children?<\/h3>\n

      Yes, the town is ideal for holidays with young children thanks to its large sandy beach, the play areas on the seafront promenade and the proximity of numerous activities that are accessible by pushchair. The distances between the beach, the town centre and accommodation are reasonable, which makes it easier to plan your day.<\/p>\n

      What can you do in Calais if it rains during the holidays?<\/h3>\n

      If the weather is not so good, you might want to opt for the\u00a0City of Lace and Fashion<\/strong>, museums, covered markets or a trip to Nausicaa in Boulogne-sur-Mer. These indoor visits go hand in hand with a return to the peace and quiet of your flat, where you can play games or read.<\/p>\n

      How many days should you allow for a family visit to Calais?<\/h3>\n

      A long weekend is enough to explore the beach, the town centre, the Cit\u00e9 de la Dentelle and enjoy a first foray into nature on the Opal Coast. If you have four or five days, you can add a day at Nausicaa, a bike ride and more free time on the beach or at the markets.<\/p>\n

      Is it possible to visit Calais without a car when travelling with children?<\/h3>\n

      It is perfectly possible to visit Calais without a car, by choosing accommodation in the city centre and making the most of the many attractions that can be reached on foot, by bike or via local transport. For longer trips (Deux Caps, Nausicaa), the train or occasional journeys in a hire car can round off your plans.<\/p>\n

      What activities do teenagers in Calais enjoy most?<\/h3>\n

      Teenagers generally enjoy the beach, the skatepark, street art trails, the giant dragon and bike rides, which give them a degree of independence during their stay. Summer events and trips to the capes or Nausicaa are also great ways to add variety to their activities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n