Things To Do
in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne-sur-Mer is a charming coastal town located in northern France. It is known for its picturesque old town with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. The town is famous for its bustling fishing port, where you can see fishermen unloading their daily catch.
Boulogne-sur-Mer also boasts beautiful sandy beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $4
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the beautiful Nausicaå Aquarium to see diverse marine life. Make sure to grab a coffee at a local café nearby.
Visit the historic Old Town and stroll through its charming streets. Don't miss the chance to try some local seafood for lunch.
End your day with a peaceful walk along the beach at sunset. You can enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant with a view.
Explore the impressive Boulogne Castle and learn about its rich history. The panoramic views from the ramparts are stunning.
Head to the Basilica of Notre-Dame for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Stop for lunch at a bistro that offers regional specialties.
Visit a local wine bar to taste some French wines. Consider dining at a restaurant that features traditional French cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery with sandy beaches.
- Rich historical heritage, including the Forteresse de Boulogne and the Old Town.
- Vibrant gastronomy scene, famous for its seafood.
- Strong maritime culture and activities, including fishing and boat tours.
- Good transport connections, making it easy to travel to other cities in France and Europe.
- Weather can be unpredictable and rainy, especially in winter.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak months.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Public transport options may be limited compared to bigger urban areas.
Best Activities in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the NausicaĂĄ aquarium to explore marine life and conservation efforts.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline and relax on the sandy beaches.
Embark on scenic coastal hikes to admire stunning views of the sea and surrounding cliffs.
Participate in activities such as sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing at the beach.
Tours
Uncover the best of Boulogne-sur-Mer with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides panoramic views of the city and the coast, perfect for photos
A popular aquarium with stunning views of marine life and the sea
Historic church with a vantage point offering beautiful views over Boulogne-sur-Mer
Food in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Boulogne-sur-Mer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish stew simmered with a variety of herbs and spices. Try it at Le MĂŽle restaurant for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A classic French dish of chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, and garlic. Sample this at Au Bureau for a fulfilling experience.
Indulge in a regional specialty â a savory tart made with Maroilles cheese, often available at Les Gourmands Disent.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Boulogne-sur-Mer better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market for fresh produce, local cheeses, and regional delicacies. Donât miss the opportunity to savor freshly cooked moules-frites (mussels and fries) from street food vendors in the vicinity.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Boulogne-sur-Mer, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly in more formal or business settings. Using formal titles like 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' is also a sign of respect.
When dining in Boulogne-sur-Mer, it is polite to wait for the host or hostess to initiate the start of the meal. It's also customary to keep your hands above the table and to maintain good table manners throughout the meal.
Respecting local customs, traditions, and cultural practices is important in Boulogne-sur-Mer. This may include participating in local festivals, showing appreciation for local cuisine, and being mindful of religious or traditional practices.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Boulogne-sur-Mer with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Ensure a smooth experience
In Boulogne-sur-Mer, France, it is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants if a service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping in cafes and bars is not mandatory but leaving small change or rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted in Boulogne-sur-Mer, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. Foreign visitors should inform their banks of their travel plans to ensure their cards work smoothly in France.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Boulogne-sur-Mer, France is in spring (April-June) when the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. Expect pleasant temperatures and the chance to explore the beautiful coastline and historic sites without the summer crowds.
Summer (JulyâAugust) is another popular time to visit Boulogne-sur-Mer. Expect warm weather, bustling beaches, and lively events such as the Nautical Festival.
In autumn (September-November), the weather starts to cool down, but it's still a good time to visit if you prefer quieter surroundings. You can enjoy scenic walks and sample the fresh seafood at local restaurants.
Winter (DecemberâFebruary) sees chilly temperatures and fewer tourists. While some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed, the holiday season brings festive markets and events to the area.
Boulogne-sur-Mer at Night
Hiking in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering stunning coastal views, cliffs, and a variety of trails.
Famous for its white cliffs and beautiful landscapes, this area has several hiking paths with panoramic views of the sea.
A natural reserve that includes both Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez, featuring scenic walking routes through diverse flora and fauna.
Stretching over 120 kilometers, this coastal area offers numerous trails along the beach and through the dunes.
This regional park features a variety of hiking trails through marshlands, hills, and along the coastline.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Boulogne-sur-Mer through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Boulogne-sur-Mer by plane.
Located approximately 110 km from Boulogne-sur-Mer, Lille Airport is a significant international airport serving the Lille metropolitan area.
Located about 280 km from Boulogne-sur-Mer, Charles de Gaulle Airport is one of the largest international airports in Europe, serving as a major hub for international travel.
Situated about 65 km from Boulogne-sur-Mer, this airport serves regional flights and is close to the Channel Tunnel.
Located around 200 km from Boulogne-sur-Mer, Brussels Airport is one of the main international airports in Belgium.
Approximately 300 km from Boulogne-sur-Mer, Heathrow is the busiest airport in the UK and a major international gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Boulogne-sur-Mer, constituting the resident population, primarily of French nationality.
A diverse group, including individuals from North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Eastern Europe, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the community.
A significant portion of the demographic, particularly among the retired, impacting local services and community planning.
Includes children and teenagers, influencing education and recreational services in the area.
Represent a demographic group particularly affected by economic changes, often requiring social services and support.
While not a permanent resident group, the influx of tourists, especially during summer, impacts the local economy and culture.
The Soul of Boulogne-sur-Mer
Discover the essence of Boulogne-sur-Mer through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Boulogne-sur-Mer, with local clubs and a passionate fanbase.
Rugby has a strong following in Boulogne-sur-Mer, with community clubs and competitions being a staple in the area.
Given its coastal location, sailing is a popular activity, with many residents participating in sailing clubs and competitions.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local clubs, attracting a variety of age groups.
Athletics, including running and field events, is popular, with local events and competitions throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Boulogne-sur-Mer offer delicious vegetarian dishes such as ratatouille, vegetable tarts, and salads. La Brasserie Hamiot is a great place to find satisfying vegetarian options.
While vegan and gluten-free options may be limited in some traditional eateries, La Taverne offers a range of vegan and gluten-free dishes, including flavorful salads and vegan platters.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Boulogne-sur-Mer with these cultural adventures.
