Pas-de-Calais, the hidden gem of northern France, blends rolling countryside, chalk-white cliffs, and lively towns—perfect for a getaway or the start of a French road trip. You’ll find everything from cosy rural B&Bs in restored farmhouses to chic beachfront stays and grand chateaux oozing elegance. For luxury and romance, head to the coast; for budget-friendly charm, try the smaller inland towns; and for stylish, design-led hotels, the vibrant city centres are your best bet.
Calais might be the first stop for many Britons heading into France, but it’s worth lingering a while. From the sweeping views atop the Town Hall belfry to the lace-making heritage at the Cité Internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode, the city offers plenty to explore before you venture further. Follow the Côte d’Opale west for windswept dunes, pretty seaside towns like Wissant and Wimereux, and lazy days of ice cream, sailing, and sandcastles. Boulogne’s bustling fishing port lures visitors with its charming old town and seafood bistros, while inland, rolling countryside hides grand chateaux, cosy barn conversions, and trails perfect for walking, cycling, or horse riding.
For history lovers, Montreuil and its heritage charm are irresistible, and Arras wows with its Flemish architecture and lively Christmas markets. Lens, once a mining town, now buzzes with artsy energy thanks to the Louvre-Lens museum and a growing foodie scene. Whether you’re here for nature, Norman ruins, wartime history, or just a good meal—be it in a rustic village cafe or a Michelin-starred dining room—Pas-de-Calais serves it all up with style. Just hop on the ferry or zip through the Eurotunnel, and northern France’s blend of coastal beauty, culture, and cuisine is ready to welcome you.