The year may have only just begun, but many of us are already dreaming about our 2025 getaways. Whether you’re planning a long-haul adventure or a cosy UK staycation, there’s one travel option you might not have considered – hopping on a ferry to France.
Irish Ferries is encouraging holidaymakers to consider this budget-friendly alternative for their next trip, with fares for 2025 starting from just £89. This price includes your car, so you can pack up the family (or a group of mates) and hit the road at your own pace.
To help you plan your French adventure, Irish Ferries has put together a list of ‘hop-across’ destinations that are easily accessible from Calais. From breath-taking ancient skylines to wartime sites, there’s plenty to explore and truly something for everyone.
Boulogne-sur-Mer, Pas-de-Calais
The town is a stone’s throw from Calais
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The vibrant coastal town of Boulogne-sur-Mer is just 30 minutes from Calais, so in theory you could even just take a day trip if you didn’t fancy an entire weekend. Known for its rugged cliffs and impressive castle, there’s plenty to see and do here, from sampling local seafood to visiting the UNESCO-listed Belfries.
Arras, Pas-de-Calais
Next on the list is Arras, another gem in the Pas-de-Calais region. Just a short one hour and ten-minute drive from Calais, it’s an easy trip after hopping off the ferry, reports the Express.
The city is steeped in 1,000 years of history and boasts a stunning Flemish-Baroque Grand Palace. Visitors can also explore the Carrière Wellington, a quarry used by British forces during WWI.
Amiens, Somme
Amiens boasts stunning floating gardens
(Image: (Image: Getty))
A little further afield, one hour and 45 minutes from Calais, lies Amiens, home to the famed Les Hortillonnages d’Amiens. These stunning floating gardens and waterways date back to ancient times and visitors can enjoy a 45-minute boat ride through these unique waters.
Other attractions include the Amiens Notre-Dame Cathedral, offering incredible city views, and the Maison de Jules Verne, providing a glimpse into the late author’s life.
Rouen, Normandy
Rouen is known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, and is another must-visit for history enthusiasts. Dominating the skyline is the city’s stunning Gothic cathedral, famously painted by Claude Monet. Rouen is also renowned as the location where Joan of Arc was tried and executed, and now hosts a museum dedicated to the Catholic Saint.
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