Étaples
,Étaples is a charming coastal town located in northern France, known for its picturesque beaches and historic fishing port. The town's maritime heritage is reflected in its bustling fish market, where visitors can sample fresh seafood caught that very morning. Étaples also boasts a rich cultural scene, with art galleries and museums showcasing the town's history and artistic influences.
Travelers can wander through the winding streets lined with colorful buildings, or relax on the sandy shores overlooking the English Channel.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
taples Exploration
morning
:Start your day by visiting the local market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. It's a great way to immersively experience the local culture.
afternoon
:Visit the Musée du Touquet-Paris-Plage to explore its impressive art collection. The museum is housed in a beautiful building and offers insights into the regional art scene.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring local seafood dishes. The view of the sunset over the water will make for a perfect end to your day.
Beach Bliss
morning
:Spend a relaxing morning at the beautiful beaches in nearby Le Touquet. Enjoy the sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
afternoon
:Try windsurfing or paddleboarding for some fun water activities. It's a great way to enjoy the refreshing Mediterranean waters.
evening
:Dine at a beachside café and enjoy fresh fish and chips. Relax with the sound of the waves in the background.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful coastal scenery with easy access to beaches.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including historical sites and museums.
- Close proximity to larger cities like Boulogne-sur-Mer and Le Touquet.
- A charming town atmosphere with local markets and cafes.
- Strengthened community spirit and events throughout the year.
Bad
- Limited public transportation options.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Potentially smaller job market and economic opportunities.
- Weather can be quite variable, particularly in winter months.
- Tourist influx during peak seasons may lead to overcrowding.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach Activities
Enjoy beach volleyball, sunbathing, or a leisurely stroll along the sandy beaches of Étaples, perfect for families and solo visitors.
Biking along the Côte d'Opale
Explore the beautiful coastline and scenic countryside by bike, with well-marked paths offering stunning views of the Pas-de-Calais region.
Fishing in the River Canche
Experience a relaxing day of fishing in the River Canche, which runs through Étaples and provides opportunities for catching various local fish.
Walking Tours of Étaples
Join guided walking tours to discover the history and culture of Étaples, including its historic fishing port and traditional architecture.
Visit the Étaples Military Cemetery
Pay respects at the historic military cemetery, which is a peaceful place for reflection and offers insight into the area's history during World War I.
Kayaking on the River Canche
Rent a kayak and paddle along the River Canche for a fun and active way to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
Birdwatching at the Étaples Marshes
Explore the marshes surrounding Étaples, a haven for diverse bird species, perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Étaples with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Étang de La Canche
A serene lake offering stunning views, especially at sunrise and sunset. It is a great spot for wildlife photography and capturing the picturesque landscape.
Hiking Trails Near Étaples
Various hiking trails around Étaples lead to elevated spots with panoramic views of the countryside and the coastline. Ideal for nature and landscape photography.
The Old Port
The charming old port area features colorful boats and quaint buildings, providing excellent opportunities for capturing the local maritime culture and scenic views.
Promenade des Bains
This beachfront promenade allows for beautiful coastal views and vibrant sunset captures. Perfect for beach photography and leisurely strolls.
Church of St. John the Baptist
This historic church offers architectural beauty and a picturesque backdrop for photography, with its unique features and surrounding greenery.
Le Parc de la Canche
A beautiful park with lush landscapes, offering peaceful settings for photography, especially during spring when flowers bloom.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Coquilles Saint-Jacques
A must-try dish featuring succulent scallops often cooked in a creamy sauce, best enjoyed at La Maree restaurant.
Must-Try!
Bouillabaisse
A traditional Provençal fish stew known for its rich flavors, available at La Criée du Port for an authentic taste.
Moules Marinière
Fresh mussels prepared in a savory broth at Le Chat Bossu, a popular spot for seafood lovers.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Étaples better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Marché Couvert d'Étaples
A vibrant covered market showcasing a variety of fresh seafood, local produce, and regional specialties. Visitors can also sample delectable street food options like fresh oysters and seafood crepes from surrounding stalls.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
In Étaples, as in the rest of France, it is customary to greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' during the day or 'Bonsoir' in the evening. A handshake is common for acquaintances, while close friends often exchange a kiss on both cheeks.
Dining Manners
When dining in Étaples, it's important to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Saying 'Bon appétit' before meals is a sign of respect.
Dress Code
The French value appearance, so it is advised to dress smartly when going out, especially to restaurants or shops in Étaples. Casual attire is acceptable for everyday activities, but avoid overly casual outfits like beachwear in public spaces.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Étaples with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Étaples, as in many parts of France, tipping is generally not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. Most service charges are included in the bill, particularly in restaurants where a 15% service charge is customary. Customers may round up the bill or leave small change as a gesture of appreciation for exceptional service.
Payment
In Étaples, cash is widely accepted; however, credit and debit cards are commonly used for transactions at restaurants, shops, and markets. Contactless payments have become popular, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets that may not accept cards.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Étaples.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a delightful time to visit Étaples, as temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 10°C to 18°C. The region comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. Expect pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like walking along the coastline and visiting local markets.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season, with warm temperatures averaging between 18°C and 25°C. This is the best time for beach activities, festivals, and enjoying the vibrant coastal lifestyle. Expect larger crowds and a festive atmosphere, especially during local events.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) sees temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, with a gradual cooling down. The fall foliage adds charm to the landscape, and it's a great time for wine and food festivals, as many local products are harvested. Expect fewer tourists and a more peaceful experience.
Winter
Winter (December to February) is the quietest time in Étaples, with temperatures averaging between 2°C and 8°C. While it can be chilly and damp, this is an excellent time to explore indoor attractions, local cafes, and enjoy the holiday decorations. Expect fewer crowds and a cozy atmosphere, though some businesses may have reduced hours.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
La Canche
A scenic area featuring trails along the Canche River, perfect for walking and observing local wildlife.
Le Parc Naturel Régional des Caps et Marais d'Opale
This regional natural park offers diverse hiking trails through marshes, cliffs, and coastal areas, showcasing the region's natural beauty.
Les Dunes de la Slack
A beautiful area with sand dunes and coastal paths, ideal for a relaxing hike near the beach.
Mont Saint-Frieux
Offers a variety of scenic hiking trails with spectacular views of the coastline and surrounding countryside.
Le Sentier des Douaniers
A coastal path that runs along the cliffs, providing breathtaking views of the sea and great opportunities for photography.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Étaples through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Étaples by plane.
Lille Airport (LIL)
The main international airport serving Lille and the surrounding region, located approximately 130 km from Étaples.
Le Touquet - Côte d'Opale Airport (LTQ)
A regional airport located about 20 km from Étaples, offering limited international flights.
Calais - Dunkerque Airport (CQF)
Located around 70 km from Étaples, this airport primarily serves local and regional flights.
Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA)
Situated approximately 150 km from Étaples, this airport mainly serves low-cost and charter airlines.
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
France's largest international airport, located around 200 km from Étaples, offering extensive global connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
French Nationals
The majority demographic group consisting of citizens of France residing in Étaples.
Retirees
A significant portion of the population made up of retirees, attracted by the coastal lifestyle.
Young Families
Families with young children seeking a community-oriented environment.
Seasonal Workers
Individuals who temporarily relocate to Étaples for seasonal employment, especially in tourism.
Expatriates
A smaller group consisting of individuals and families from other countries who have chosen to live in Étaples.
The Soul of Étaples
Discover the essence of Étaples through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is a widely followed and played sport in Étaples, with local clubs and a strong community support.
Rugby
Rugby enjoys popularity in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues and tournaments.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Étaples, thanks to its scenic routes and cycling clubs.
Sailing
Given its proximity to the coast, sailing is a cherished sport in Étaples, attracting enthusiasts to its marina.
Athletics
Athletics is practiced in local sports clubs, with events ranging from running to field sports.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While seafood is predominant, many eateries in Étaples offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of traditional dishes. Le Jardin de Goa is known for its range of vegetarian options, and Le Panier de Crabes offers vegan-friendly dishes.
Gluten-Free Choices
Visitors with gluten-free requirements can relish options like grilled fish, fresh salads, and seafood risottos at La Petite Maison and Au Coup d'Feu.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Étaples with these cultural adventures.
