Fun Things to Do in Boulogne-sur-Mer | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Boulogne-sur-Mer Travel Guide
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- Boulogne-sur-Mer Travel Videos
- Plan Boulogne-sur-Mer Trip
- Things To Do In Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Tours And Activities In Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Best Time To Visit Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Flight Calendar For Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Best Areas To Stay In Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Hotels Map Of Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Transportation To Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Nearby Destinantion From Boulogne-sur-Mer
Welcome to Boulogne-sur-Mer, a charming coastal town located in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque beaches, Boulogne-sur-Mer offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. As one of the largest fishing ports in France, visitors can indulge in the freshest seafood delicacies while exploring the bustling fish market. The town is also home to the Nausicaa National Sea Centre, a world-renowned aquarium that showcases the wonders of the ocean and educates visitors about marine conservation. With its medieval old town, impressive Basilica of Notre-Dame, and the beautiful sandy beaches of the Opal Coast, Boulogne-sur-Mer is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Boulogne-sur-Mer Travel Videos
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Plan Boulogne-sur-Mer Trip
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Things To Do In Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne-sur-Mer is a beautiful coastal town located in northern France. It offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Boulogne-sur-Mer:
1. Explore the Old Town: Start your visit by exploring the charming Old Town of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the well-preserved medieval architecture, and visit the historic Notre-Dame Basilica.
2. Visit Nausicaa: Nausicaa is a world-renowned aquarium and marine center. Visit this fascinating attraction to discover the wonders of the ocean, learn about marine life, and even have the opportunity to touch some sea creatures.
3. Enjoy the Beaches: Boulogne-sur-Mer is blessed with beautiful sandy beaches. Enjoy a relaxing day by the sea, soak up the sun, and take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. The beaches are also perfect for picnics and beach sports.
4. Take a Boat Trip: Take a boat trip from Boulogne-sur-Mer's harbor and explore the stunning coastline. You can admire the cliffs, visit nearby islands, and even go fishing. It's a great way to experience the beauty of the region from a different perspective.
5. Visit the Boulogne-sur-Mer Castle Museum: This museum is housed in a medieval castle and offers a fascinating insight into the town's history. Explore the various exhibits, including archaeological artifacts, medieval weaponry, and art collections.
6. Taste the Local Cuisine: Boulogne-sur-Mer is known for its delicious seafood. Taste the local specialties such as fresh fish, mussels, and seafood platters at one of the many restaurants in town. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of regional wine.
7. Go Shopping: Boulogne-sur-Mer has a vibrant shopping scene. Go for a stroll along the pedestrianized shopping streets and browse through the boutiques, local shops, and markets. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to local crafts and souvenirs.
Tours And Activities In Boulogne-sur-Mer
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Best Time To Visit Boulogne-sur-Mer
The best time to visit Boulogne-sur-Mer is during the summer months from June to August. This is when the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). Tourist attractions such as the Nausicaa National Sea Centre and the Basilica of Notre-Dame are open and accessible during this time. Additionally, outdoor activities like beach visits and boat tours are popular and enjoyable in the summer. However, it is important to note that Boulogne-sur-Mer can get crowded during this time, so booking accommodations and attractions in advance is recommended.
Flight Calendar For Boulogne-sur-Mer
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Best Areas To Stay In Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne-sur-Mer is a beautiful coastal town located in northern France. It offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Boulogne-sur-Mer:
1. Old Town: The Old Town of Boulogne-sur-Mer is a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a vibrant atmosphere. It is home to many boutique hotels and guesthouses, offering a unique and authentic experience for visitors. Staying in the Old Town allows easy access to attractions such as the Basilica of Notre-Dame and the Castle Museum.
2. Beachfront: Boulogne-sur-Mer boasts a stunning coastline, and staying in the beachfront area provides breathtaking views and convenient access to the sandy beaches. There are several hotels and resorts along the coast, offering comfortable accommodations and amenities such as beachfront restaurants and bars. This area is perfect for those seeking a relaxing beach vacation.
3. City Center: The city center of Boulogne-sur-Mer is a bustling area with a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It is a great choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action and have easy access to amenities. There are various hotels and apartments available in the city center, catering to different budgets and preferences.
4. Port Area: Boulogne-sur-Mer is an important fishing port, and staying in the port area allows visitors to experience the maritime atmosphere of the town. There are several hotels and guesthouses located near the port, offering comfortable accommodations and proximity to seafood restaurants and fish markets. This area is ideal for seafood lovers and those interested in maritime activities.
Overall, Boulogne-sur-Mer offers a range of accommodation options in different areas, each with its own unique charm and advantages. Whether you prefer the historic ambiance of the Old Town, the beachfront views, the convenience of the city center, or the maritime atmosphere of the port area, you are sure to find a suitable place to stay in this picturesque town.
Hotels Map Of Boulogne-sur-Mer
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Transportation To Boulogne-sur-Mer
There are several transportation options to Boulogne-sur-Mer:
1. By train: Boulogne-sur-Mer has a train station that is well-connected to major cities in France and Europe. You can take a train from Paris, Lille, or Calais to reach Boulogne-sur-Mer.
2. By car: Boulogne-sur-Mer is easily accessible by car. It is located on the A16 motorway, which connects to major cities in France and Belgium. There are also several parking options available in the city.
3. By bus: There are bus services that operate to Boulogne-sur-Mer from various cities in France. You can check with local bus companies for schedules and fares.
4. By ferry: Boulogne-sur-Mer has a ferry port that connects to Dover in the United Kingdom. If you are coming from the UK, you can take a ferry to Boulogne-sur-Mer and then continue your journey by train or car.
5. By plane: The nearest airport to Boulogne-sur-Mer is Lille Airport, which is about 120 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a train or hire a car to reach Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Nearby Destination From Boulogne-sur-Mer
1. Calais: A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks.
2. Le Touquet-Paris-Plage: A popular seaside resort with stunning architecture and a vibrant nightlife.
3. Saint-Omer: A charming town famous for its well-preserved medieval buildings and picturesque canals.
4. Wimereux: A quaint coastal village offering breathtaking views of the English Channel and a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Hardelot-Plage: A serene beach town surrounded by lush forests, perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.
6. Etaples: A historic fishing port renowned for its maritime heritage and delicious seafood.
7. Desvres: A small town known for its traditional pottery and ceramics industry.
8. Ardres: A picturesque village with a tranquil lake, ideal for boating and picnicking.
9. Audresselles: A charming fishing village where visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and scenic coastal walks.
10. Wissant: A quaint seaside town offering stunning views of the Cap Blanc-Nez cliffs and a wide sandy beach.