Calais

Calais, another well-known French city, is positioned in the French region of Nord-Pas de Calais and is by far the largest city in Pas-de-Calais. In a 1999 census, the population of the metropolitan area of the city of Calais was 125,584 – but that’s just the metropolitan area.

Although Calais may not play as significant a role in France as Paris or Marseille (the two largest cities), it’s port is indeed known as the number one ferry transport port in France – there are actually many ferry companies that come in and out of the port every day. Since Calais is located so close to England, it has been a major port in France for centuries – in fact, it is the main port for trade and tourism between France and England via the English Channel.

The economy of the town is mainly dependent on its port, but there are also a few other local industries that fuel the economic growth, including: lace making, chemicals, and paper manufacturing. Calais also has direct rail links to Paris – which is just 148 miles to the south of the town. In regards to tourist attractions, Calais has many restaurants that appeal to English visitors but its most popular attraction is probably its shopping district.

Education

Unlike Paris or Marseille, Calais has nothing significant or substantial to offer in terms of education. However, like the rest of France, Calais maintains the same high standard of education required by the federal government. The two most prominent universities in Calais are: University Charles de Gaulle (Lille) and University of Science and Technology of Lille. Besides that, there are no specific distinctions between the education offered in Calais and the rest of France – although Calais does not have any award-winning or featured universities/schools.

Climate

Since Calais is so close to England, it consequently has a climate very similar to southeastern England. The main area around Calais is best known for clean beaches, a rolling countryside, beautiful wooded areas and scenic river valleys. Fortunately, the current in the North Atlantic provides warm water for the coastal area and this in turn protects the region from severe cold. The average temperature during winter is about 2.8 °C and during the summer around 18.5 °C.

Main Attractions

Since Calais is located a mere 21 miles from the coast of England, the town sees a constant flow of English folk crossing into France. There are approximately nine million British travelers that head to Calais every year. Undoubtedly, Calais lacks much of the traditional charm offered by many other French towns, but its rich history and cultural heritage make it a popular tourist destination. Fortunately, as the city of Calais is quite small, it is possible to explore on foot and enjoy it hands-on. Some of the most prominent tourist attractions include:

City Hall

Constructed in the 15th century in a neo-Flemish style, the belfry in the city hall is more than 240 feet high and the sound of its bell is considered one of the most beautiful in all of northern France.

War Museum

The War Museum lies in a wooded area of the park, on the opposite side of the City Hall and was once a German communications bunker. The museum features chronicles from WWII and some interesting interactive displays that can and will appeal to everyone.

Demographics

The region of Calais is predominantly French-speaking but there are many English speaking people also living there due to the close proximity of the two areas. Calais religious profile is representative also of all of France, with the majority of the population following Roman Catholicism.