Things To Do
in Saint-Martin-Boulogne
Saint-Martin-Boulogne is a small coastal town on the Opal Coast in northern France, framed by sea cliffs and a working harbor. It blends maritime history with a walkable town center of cobbled streets and timber-framed buildings. Visitors can stroll the harbor, visit the church of Saint-Martin, and savor regional seafood.
Its close proximity to Boulogne-sur-Mer expands dining and cultural options while preserving a village-like atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Take a short trip to Boulogne-sur-Mer, where you can visit the Nausicaá aquarium, one of the largest in Europe. Marvel at the diverse marine life and enjoy educational demonstrations about ocean conservation. Afterward, visit the nearby old town, where historic buildings await your discovery.
Explore the historic castle of Boulogne, which offers insights into the city's medieval past. Wander through cobblestone streets, stopping by charming cafés and boutique shops. Don't forget to grab an ice cream from a local vendor as you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Return to Saint-Martin-Boulogne for a quiet evening filled with laughter and good company. Visit a local pub to enjoy live music or participate in a quiz night with the friendly locals. Relish the moment with a nightcap while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Start your day with a visit to the local market, where fresh produce, artisanal cheese, and breads abound. Engage with the friendly vendors, learning about their products and local customs. After shopping, prepare a delightful picnic with your new finds to enjoy later.
Join a cooking class taught by a local chef, where you'll learn to create traditional French dishes. Get hands-on experience with local ingredients, and enjoy the camaraderie with fellow food enthusiasts. After your culinary creation, savor the meals you've prepared together.
Relax in one of the charming parks of Saint-Martin-Boulogne, enjoying your picnic while basking in the setting sun. Share stories and laughter with your travel companions surrounded by nature. As the day winds down, contemplate the flavors of your cooking class and relish the vibrant atmosphere of the evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚆One-way public transportation ticket | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $5-9 |
| 🏠Monthly rent for a small apartment | $700-1100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact coastal town with easy access to beaches and markets
- Excellent seafood and regional dishes
- Excellent base for exploring Cap Gris-Nez and Cap Blanc-Nez
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Smaller scale of attractions outside Boulogne-sur-Mer
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is...?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like
Places to Visit in Saint-Martin-Boulogne
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, quiet morning light, and reflections off the water create classic coastal photos.
Narrow lanes, timber-framed houses, and arched passages offer intimate street photography opportunities.
Sea cliffs and sweeping horizons with dramatic weather, ideal for landscape shots.
Wide sea panoramas and chalky cliffs—great for dramatic wide-angle shots.
Food in Saint-Martin-Boulogne
Saint-Martin-Boulogne Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels steamed in white wine with herbs, served with crispy fries at harbor-side brasseries.
Must-Try!
Creamy cod purée with olive oil and potatoes, often served with bread or potatoes.
Toasted bread topped with a hot cheese sauce and mustard, a regional staple in Boulogne-area eateries.
A Flemish-style terrine of meats in jelly, usually served with pickles and bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seafood stalls, regional cheeses, produce, and ready-to-eat bites along the harbor.
Daily market offering fresh fish, fruit, vegetables and pastries of the Côte d'Opale region.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite ‘Bonjour’ or ‘Bonsoir’ and a handshake in formal settings.
Keep hands visible, use cutlery properly, and say thank you; avoid rushing meals.
Speak in a respectful, calm tone; avoid loud conversations in narrow streets.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Martin-Boulogne
Ensure a smooth experience
Service compris is common in France; rounding up or leaving small tips (5-10%) is appreciated for good service when not included.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller cafes; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming shores; great for coastal walks and market visits.
Warm days, higher humidity, but frequent sea breezes; expect crowds at markets and beaches.
Cooler, often windy; good light for photography and fewer crowds.
Chillier but peaceful; some attractions may have limited hours, but coastal scenery can be dramatic in stormy weather.
Saint-Martin-Boulogne at Night
Hiking in Saint-Martin-Boulogne
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Stunning cliffs and sea views along the Cap Gris-Nez headland with panoramic vistas.
Wide sea panoramas and chalky cliffs—great for dramatic wide-angle shots.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Martin-Boulogne by plane.
Small regional airport about 40-60 km away with domestic flights and connections to major hubs.
Regional airport about 40-50 km away convenient for domestic flights.
Larger international airport about 110-130 km away with more flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live here for the beaches, schools, and a calm lifestyle.
A good place for retirees who enjoy sea air and a slower pace.
Seasonal visitors add energy in summer while keeping the town intimate during off-season.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and regional pastime with clubs in nearby towns.
Coastal winds and harbor access make water sports common.
Coastal bike routes and countryside roads attract riders of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Martin-Boulogne.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Saint-Martin-Boulogne, vegetarian options are common in bistros; request vegetable sides, cheese, and seasonal salads; inform staff about restrictions.