Car Hire Calais - Mini guide to Calais
Just 40 km from the English coast, the ferry port of Calais is an interesting blend of French and English cultures and attracts millions of visitors each year.
The main attractions of the town are the WWII bunker fortresses built in the area by the Germans for housing and launching V2 rockets and V3 rocket-assisted cannons. La Forteresse de Mimoyecques is accessed through the side of a hill and is a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers. Joseph Kennedy, brother of the US president John F. Kennedy, was killed in an air raid on the facility, and the fort finally fell to the Allies in 1944. Two other notable fortresses are La Coupole and the Blockhaus in the Foret d’Eperlecques. All are now museums with a variety of audio-visual displays.
Much of the historic architecture of the town itself was destroyed during the second world war, however the famous 13th century watchtower still stands, and the old harbor and lighthouse are worth exploring, affording picturesque views of the port and surrounding coast. The Musee des Beaux Arts et de la Dentelle depicts the history of lace making as well as exhibiting watercolors and sculptures. There is a magnificent statue by Rodin in front of the Town Hall, and opposite lies the Musee de la Guerre. The Cite de l’Europe and Eurotunnel Terminal are also popular with visitors.
Like most French towns, Calais offers numerous quality restaurants and accommodations, with a lively nightlife centered around bars, pubs and cafes. It is also a popular destination with many Britons coming simply to invade the massive wine emporiums and stock up on French fayre and cheap cigarettes.
The coast to the southwest of the town is incredibly scenic, comprising two spectacular caps, Cap Blanc Nez and Cap Griz Nez, and the beautiful Bay of Wissant.
Paris’ Charles de Gaulle International Airport is the closest major airport to Calais, and connections can be made to Calais. Frequent and reliable shuttle services are available into the town. Calais also has a Eurostar terminal.
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