Things To Do
in Cambrai
Cambrai is a charming town in northern France, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The town features a beautiful medieval cathedral that is a significant landmark. Cambrai is also famous for its traditional French cuisine, offering delicious local dishes and a variety of dining options.
Visitors can explore the town's picturesque streets, visit museums, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this historic destination.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $120
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Cambrai Cathedral. The architecture is stunning and offers a peaceful atmosphere for reflection.
After lunch, explore the Musée de Cambrai, which houses art and artifacts from the region's rich history. Don't forget to check out the local exhibits for unique insights.
Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the Scarpe River. The sunset views are picturesque and perfect for some memorable photos.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in Parc de l'Abbaye de Vaucelles. The serene environment is perfect for enjoying nature.
Head to the Parc du Terril for a scenic hike in the afternoon. This area is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife.
End your evening at a cozy café in the park. Enjoy some local pastries and watch the day wind down.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance with notable events such as the Battle of Cambrai during World War I.
- Beautiful architecture, including the Cathedral of Notre-Dame and preserved historical buildings.
- Vibrant local culture with various festivals and events throughout the year.
- Access to beautiful surrounding countryside, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
- A range of local culinary delights, including Flemish and regional French cuisine.
- Smaller city may have limited job opportunities compared to larger urban areas.
- Public transport options may be less frequent, making it challenging to travel without a car.
- Weather can be variable, with cold winters and unpredictable rainfall.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities.
- Smaller population may lead to a sense of isolation for some individuals.
Best Activities in Cambrai
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Escaut River, taking in the picturesque surroundings and soaking up the natural beauty of the area.
Visit the lovely parks and gardens in Cambrai, such as the Parc Richelieu and the Jardin Public, for leisurely walks, picnics, and relaxation amidst nature.
Embark on a canal boat cruise, gliding along the tranquil waterways and experiencing the region from a unique perspective.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cambrai with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cambrai
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and beautiful photo opportunities
Scenic castle with picturesque surroundings and great photo spots
Gardens with lovely landscapes and photo opportunities
Food in Cambrai
Cambrai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional sausage made from tripe and pork intestines, seasoned with onions, wine, and spices. Best enjoyed at Le Petit St-Georges, a classic brasserie in Cambrai.
Must-Try!
A savory pie made with leeks, cream, and egg, baked into a buttery pastry crust. Try this regional specialty at Brasserie Francois, known for its authentic local cuisine.
A hearty beef stew slow-cooked with onions, beer, and mustard, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish. Visit Au P'tit Marmite for an excellent rendition of this Flemish stew.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cambrai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Marché de Cambrai, a vibrant market filled with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, meats, and baked goods. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local street food delicacies like crepes and frites (fries) from the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cambrai, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, often starting with the right cheek. It is important to greet people with respect and warmth.
When dining in Cambrai, it is important to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before beginning your meal. It is also polite to keep your hands on the table, wrists resting on the edge, and to not place your elbows on the table.
Cambrai has a rich history and it is important to show respect for historical sites, traditions, and cultural practices. It is considered courteous to show interest in the local history and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cambrai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cambrai
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cambrai, France, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. It is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants if the service was satisfactory.
In Cambrai, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for transactions. Contactless payments are becoming more popular, especially in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cambrai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cambrai, France for pleasant weather and blooming flowers.
Ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, with warm temperatures.
Great for fall foliage and wine festivals.
Charming with Christmas markets and opportunity for winter sports nearby.
Cambrai at Night
Hiking in Cambrai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A regional natural park featuring scenic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails through forests, valleys, and along rivers.
A large forest area offering a variety of walking paths surrounded by nature, with opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
A trail that follows the Canal de Saint-Quentin, providing flat and accessible routes ideal for leisurely hikes and picturesque views of the canal.
A national park with extensive trails, wetlands, and forests, perfect for hiking and enjoying biodiversity in a protected environment.
A scenic walking path that runs along the banks of the river, offering peaceful nature views and opportunities for spotting aquatic wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cambrai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cambrai by plane.
Situated approximately 85 kilometers from Cambrai, Lille Airport serves both domestic and international flights and is one of the largest airports in the region.
Located about 150 kilometers from Cambrai, Brussels Airport is the main international airport in Belgium and is a hub for a variety of international flights.
Approximately 200 kilometers from Cambrai, Charles de Gaulle Airport is the largest airport in France, serving as a major international gateway.
Around 300 kilometers from Cambrai, Schiphol is the main international airport in the Netherlands, known for its extensive global connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population identifies as French, with a cultural heritage rooted in the region of Hauts-de-France.
A significant community of immigrants from North African countries, including Algeria and Morocco, has settled in Cambrai.
Communities from Eastern European countries, including Poland and Romania, have become a notable demographic group.
A smaller population from Sub-Saharan African countries, reflecting the broader migration patterns in France.
A diverse group including individuals from various Asian nations, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.
The Soul of Cambrai
Discover the essence of Cambrai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Cambrai, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Rugby has a significant presence in Cambrai, with many clubs participating in regional competitions.
Cycling is a popular activity in and around Cambrai, thanks to the scenic routes that attract both casual and competitive cyclists.
Basketball is widely played in Cambrai, with local teams fostering youth participation and community engagement.
Athletics is a common sport in Cambrai, with various track and field events held for both young athletes and adults.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cambrai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional French and Flemish cuisine prominently features meat and dairy, many restaurants in Cambrai offer vegetarian and vegan menus, showcasing inventive plant-based creations and incorporating fresh local produce.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find accommodating options at select eateries in Cambrai. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs in advance, and several restaurants are attentive to providing gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cambrai with these cultural adventures.