Ferry from Folkestone to Calais

Folkestone Guide

Folkestone, a gem on England's South East coast, offers travellers an intriguing blend of creativity, history, and stunning natural beauty. With its artistic quarter, home to independent shops and studios, and the grand Leas Promenade, it's a feast for the senses. Don't miss the Folkestone Artworks, UK's largest urban outdoor exhibition. For history buffs, the Battle of Britain Memorial and the war tunnels of Kent's Defence are a must-visit. The town's railway station provides easy links to London and other major cities. From Folkestone ferry port, you can set sail to Calais or Boulogne in France, ideal for quick getaways or onward travel to the rest of Europe. As Christmas approaches, the town sparkles with festive markets, making it a cosy winter escape.

Calais Guide

Renowned as the gateway to Europe, Calais is a coastal gem full of charm and history. A must-visit is Calais Lace Museum, an ode to the city's rich lace-making heritage. For those seeking natural beauty, Cap Blanc Nez cliffs offer breathtaking views. This city's festive spirit shines bright during November and December with Christmas markets popping up throughout the city, filling the air with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. Calais ferry port is a major hub for ferry travel with routes to Dover making it a perfect gateway to the UK. The city centre is just a short bus ride away from the ferry port, with frequent services available. For those looking to explore further afield, Calais Ville train station offers connections to major French cities like Paris, making it easy to plan a European adventure.

Which is better Folkestone or Calais?

Deciding whether Folkestone or Calais is better ultimately depends on personal preferences and individual needs. Both towns have their own unique attractions and advantages. Folkestone, located in England, offers a charming seaside atmosphere with its beautiful beaches, coastal walks, and quaint harbor. The town has undergone significant regeneration in recent years, with the development of the Creative Quarter, featuring art galleries, independent shops, and trendy cafes. Folkestone is also home to the famous Leas Promenade, a stunning cliff-top walk with panoramic views of the English Channel.

On the other hand, Calais, situated in France, is renowned for its historical significance and cultural offerings. Visitors can explore the impressive Calais Lace Museum, which showcases the region's lace-making heritage, or visit the Calais Town Hall, a beautiful example of Flemish architecture. Calais is also synonymous with its iconic Calais Wine Superstore, where tourists can stock up on a wide variety of wines and spirits at duty-free prices. In terms of transportation, both towns serve as major gateways for travel between the UK and mainland Europe. Folkestone is famous for its Eurotunnel terminal, providing a quick and convenient way to cross the Channel by car or train. Calais, on the other hand, is known for its ferry port, offering regular sailings to and from the UK. When it comes to accessibility to other destinations, Folkestone has the advantage of being well-connected to other parts of England, with

How many days in Calais is enough?

The number of days to spend in Calais depends on individual preferences and the activities one wishes to engage in. For a short visit, one or two days may be sufficient to explore the main attractions, such as the Calais Beach and the iconic Calais Lighthouse. If interested in history, the Musée de la Dentelle et de la Mode and the Calais Town Hall are worth a visit. Additionally, spending a day at the Cité Europe shopping center or taking a ferry trip to Dover, England can be enjoyable. However, if one wishes to delve deeper into the region, including visiting nearby cities like Boulogne-sur-Mer or Dunkirk, or exploring the beautiful Opal Coast, a longer stay of three to five days may be more suitable. Ultimately, the ideal duration in Calais will vary based on personal interests and available time.