Calais: Explore City Secrets with a Self-Guided App Tour
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Overview
Calais City Self-Guided Walking Tour with an App invites travelers to discover the heart of Calais at their own pace. This walking tour takes you past the Grand Théâtre de Calais and through the city center, revealing the history and charm of this coastal gem. Explore top attractions and hidden spots, guided by an app with detailed directions and audio narration.
The tour includes must-see landmarks such as the Calais Town Hall and its impressive Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can also marvel at The Burghers of Calais Sculpture and stroll through peaceful green spaces like Saint-Pierre Park and Richelieu Park. The route highlights the Calais Museum of Fine Arts and the historic Rue Royale. The Église Notre-Dame de Calais, Place d’Armes, Tour du Guet, and Calais Lighthouse are among the stops, providing a rich cultural experience.
With over 30 narration points, the tour ensures travelers don't miss key stories and facts. The app works fully offline, so there's no need for Wi-Fi or data. Discover the Monument aux Morts, Église Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul, Monument aux Sauveteurs, and other points of interest, including the Stèle Calvaire des Marins Disparus, Louis XVIII Column, Calais Marina Bassin du Paradis, Henri Hénon Bridge, Tom Souville Statue, Fort Risban, and the scenic Calais Coastline. This self-guided tour offers flexibility and in-depth exploration.




Highlights
Discover Calais at Your Pace: Explore Calais with a self-guided walking tour using a handy app.
Offline Maps and Audio: No need for Wi-Fi! Enjoy detailed maps and stories offline.
Key Landmarks: See the Town Hall Belfry, Notre-Dame Church, and more.
30+ Narration Points: Learn about Calais' history and culture at popular spots.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoy the self-guided tour of Calais, finding it a fun and affordable way to explore the city. While most find the app easy to use, some have reported technical issues and navigation challenges.

The tour is a fun way to see a new place.
The tour allows you to learn at your own pace.
The app is easy to use.
The tour is affordable.
Some users experienced glitches with the app.
Some users reported difficulty navigating the route.
The Journey
Grand Théâtre de Calais
Step into the opulent Grand Théâtre de Calais, a Belle Époque masterpiece inaugurated in 1905. Rising from the grounds of a former cemetery, this architectural gem boasts ornate arches, striking statues, and a distinctly Parisian flair. Immerse yourself in its velvet charm as you enjoy a performance of music or drama, experiencing a cultural highlight of Calais.
Calais City Center
Wander through the heart of Calais, a charming district adorned with shady plane trees and elegant 19th-century facades. Discover cozy cafés exuding the aroma of fresh bread, vibrant street art that tells a story, and a palpable sense of history harking back to Calais’ golden age of trams and lacework. Experience the everyday life and timeless charm of Calais in this delightful setting.
Calais Town Hall
Behold the Calais Town Hall, a fairytale-like edifice constructed of red brick and pale stone, crowned by a soaring 75-meter clock tower. Its Flemish Renaissance style, adorned with Gothic windows, presents a breathtaking display of timeless elegance. This iconic building is a must-see landmark embodying the rich history and architectural splendor of Calais.
Belfry of Calais' Town Hall
Ascend the Belfry of Calais’ Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site symbolizing civic pride and historical significance. Admire its stunning architecture, part of a historic network of belfries across France and Belgium. Experience the grandeur of this landmark, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region.
The Burghers of Calais Sculpture
Confront the raw emotion of Rodin’s 'Burghers of Calais,' a powerful sculpture commemorating the sacrifice of six citizens who faced death to save their city in 1347 during the Hundred Years’ War. Experience the anguished expressions that mark a turning point in emotional, human-centered sculpture and reflect on the city's history of courage and resilience.
Monument aux Morts
Reflect at the Monument aux Morts, a towering tribute to Calais’ fallen heroes. Unveiled in 1904, this monument depicts Victory, a grieving France, and a brave soldier, immortalizing sacrifice, courage, and patriotism. Discover this poignant reminder of the city's past and the enduring legacy of its defenders.
Saint-Pierre Park
Escape to Saint-Pierre Park, a lush green oasis established in 1863. Stroll along tree-lined paths, admire the floral artistry and sculptures, and discover the iconic Three Graces Fountain, marking Calais’ first source of fresh water from the Guînes Canal. Enjoy a serene retreat and connect with nature in the heart of the city.
Calais Tourist Office
Spot the distinctive maroon facade of Calais’ Tourist Office, your go-to resource for maps, insider tips, and friendly advice. Step inside to gather souvenirs and plan your perfect Calais adventure, benefiting from local insights and personalized recommendations to make the most of your visit.
Richelieu Park
Discover the serene blend of nature and history at Richelieu Park, spanning 7 acres with winding trails, a tranquil fish-filled waterfall, and a statue of Churchill and De Gaulle honoring unity. Find calm in the heart of Calais, surrounded by lush greenery and historical symbolism.
Calais Museum of Fine Arts
Located near Richelieu Park, the Calais Museum of Fine Arts showcases a rich collection featuring Flemish masters, Rodin, Picasso, and an impressive array of 400,000 lace pieces. Experience the intersection of fine art and fashion in this cultural gem, offering a comprehensive exploration of artistic expression.
Rue Royale
Wander along Rue Royale, a charming street lined with cozy shops, local eateries, and a sense of post-war resilience. Rebuilt in brick after WWII, it offers a relaxed atmosphere with hidden gems, inviting aromas, and glimpses into everyday French life. Enjoy a delightful stroll through this vital artery of Calais.
Église Notre-Dame de Calais
Visit Église Notre-Dame de Calais, a remarkable blend of Tudor and Gothic architectural styles, bearing the scars of wartime and hosting royal weddings. Discover Rubens’ art and explore the ancient crypts beneath, adding an element of mystery to this historic and resilient landmark. Explore the quiet dignity of this house of worship.
Place d’Armes
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Place d’Armes, a square that blends history and charm from its 13th-century watchtower to its lively markets and cafés. Once a medieval hub, it's now a bustling square filled with life, flavors, and the timeless spirit of Calais. Soak in the local culture and enjoy the energy of this central meeting point.
Tour du Guet
Marvel at the 13th-century Tour du Guet, Calais’ oldest surviving structure. This ancient watchtower, now a symbol of strength, stands guard over the city. Nearby, a tender statue of De Gaulle and Yvonne honors love, legacy, and local pride. Explore this historical site and reflect on the city's enduring heritage.
Calais Lighthouse
Climb the Calais Lighthouse, built in 1848, and ascend its 271 steps to reach the top of this 58-meter tower. Enjoy breathtaking views of the English Channel, soak in the refreshing sea air, and experience the timeless coastal calm that defines Calais. A must-visit for panoramic vistas and maritime history.
Église Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul
Discover the quiet charm of Église Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul with its simple stone facade, arched windows, and glowing stained glass. Experience an unassuming yet peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Calais, offering a moment of reflection and tranquility.
Monument aux Sauveteurs
Pay tribute at the Monument aux Sauveteurs, honoring two Calais men who died rescuing sailors in 1791. This sculpture, created in 1899, stands as a powerful symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the city’s deep connection to the sea. Reflect on the bravery and heroism of these local heroes.
Stèle Calvaire des Marins Disparus
Visit the Stèle Calvaire des Marins Disparus, a solemn tribute to lost sailors marked by a simple wooden cross, fishing nets, and names etched in stone. Reflect on the lives claimed by the sea at this quiet, powerful reminder of the maritime risks and sacrifices made by the people of Calais.
Louis XVIII Column
Admire the Louis XVIII Column, marking the king’s return from exile via Calais in 1814. Featuring a bronze footprint and Tuscan architectural flair, it stands as a symbol of restored order and royal history by the sea. Discover this landmark that signifies a pivotal moment in French history.
Calais Marina Bassin du Paradis
Experience the charm of Calais Marina's Bassin du Paradis, where old fishing tales blend seamlessly with modern maritime life. Watch boats sway gently, gulls glide above, and hear the local lore echoing through the harbor, where tradition dictates a tap for good luck before setting sail. Immerse yourself in the authentic maritime atmosphere of Calais.
Henri Hénon Bridge
Cross the Henri Hénon Bridge leading to Calais Marina, where boats drift between the Pleasure and Paradise Basins. Discover its secret past as a WWII hideout, now transformed into a scenic spot filled with sea air, maritime charm, and captivating legends. Enjoy the picturesque views and soak in the coastal ambiance.
Tom Souville Statue
Encounter the statue of Tom Souville, Calais’ daring corsair, striking a heroic pose near the marina. Learn about this real-life privateer from the Napoleonic era who defended the coast with grit, flair, and fearless maritime pride, embodying the spirit of Calais.
Fort Risban
Explore Fort Risban, built by the English in 1346, and witness its survival through wars, takeovers, and the relentless passage of time. Once a formidable stronghold and a WWII shelter, its weathered stones still guard Calais’ coast, whispering tales of battles and resilience in every crack. Discover the enduring legacy of this historical fortress.
Calais Coastline
Pause by the sea and immerse yourself in the stillness of the Calais coastline. Let the waves, wind, and sky envelop you in a moment of quiet reflection. Breathe deeply, absorb the beauty of the surroundings, and carry the essence of Calais in your heart, creating a lasting memory of this coastal haven.
Know Before You Go
This self-guided walking tour includes access to the Calais City Self-Guided Walking Tour on the app, which provides detailed directions to both well-known attractions and hidden spots, along with an audio guide and over 30 narration points of popular locations in Calais. The app features a fully offline map, eliminating the need for Wi-Fi or data. This tour does not include entrance fees to attractions, food, drinks, or personal expenses. There is no physical meet-up location or tour guide, providing complete freedom to explore at one's own pace.
Hot Tip
Download the tour map and audio guide before you go. Remember to bring headphones for a better listening experience. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.