Travel Budget for Calais Visit Calais on a Budget or Travel in Style

Calais, Region Nord-Pas-de-Calais, France
Europe / France / Northern France /
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Calais is a coastal city known for being a gateway for travelers to France. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.

How much does it cost to travel to Calais?

You should plan to spend around $180 (€165) per day on your vacation in Calais. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $67 (€61) on meals
  • $51 (€47) on local transportation
  • $169 (€155) on hotels

A one week trip to Calais for two people costs, on average, $2,517 (€2,310). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $180
    €165
  • One Week Per person
    $1,259
    €1,155
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,517
    €2,310
  • One Month Per person
    $5,394
    €4,950
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,517
    €2,310
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,035
    €4,620
  • One Month For a couple
    $10,789
    €9,900
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Calais cost?

A one week trip to Calais usually costs around $1,259 (€1,155) for one person and $2,517 (€2,310) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Calais on average costs around $2,517 (€2,310) for one person and $5,035 (€4,620) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Calais will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Calais on average costs around $5,394 (€4,950) for one person and $10,789 (€9,900) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Calais expensive to visit?

Calais is a quaint locale that appeals to a variety of visitors, each with different travel styles, spending patterns, and budget needs. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

While Calais can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $78 (€72) per day, mid-range travelers spend $179 (€165) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $343 (€314) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Calais.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Calais is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Isle of Skye or Thessaloniki.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Calais Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Calais?

The average Calais trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Calais travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Calais cost?

Calais on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$37
(€34) 		$84
(€77) 		$161
(€148)
Local Transportation 1 $22
(€21) 		$51
(€47) 		$98
(€90)
Food 2 $29
(€27) 		$67
(€61) 		$128
(€117)
Entertainment 1 $4
(€3.90) 		$10
(€8.92) 		$19
(€17)
Alcohol 2 $3-9
(€3-8) 		$7-20
(€6-18) 		$12-37
(€11-34)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations for your travel expenses is important. While many assume they can visit Calais on a tight budget, the truth is that most people don't enjoy traveling that way. Think about what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer staying in resorts or hostels? Do you love exploring sights and attractions, or dining out? Your preferences will directly impact your budget and travel plans.

Who are Budget Travelers?

You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $78 daily average that backpackers get away with.

Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. Most tourists in Calais are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $179 per person, per day.

In Calais, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. B&B Le Cercle De Malines is a fantastic option for families, and Hotel Meurice is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Calais here.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

For those wanting a high-end experience complete with every luxury and high-quality service, expect to spend about $343 each day. To enjoy nicer accommodations, award-winning dining, extravagant adventures, and convenient transport like taxis or private chauffeurs in the city, prepare for a pricier experience.

Accommodation Budget in Calais

The cost of hotels in Calais can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $69, but peak season (summer) average prices jump to $129. Overall, prices range from $51 to $319. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Calais for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $169 (€155). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $84 (€77) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $84
    €77
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $169
    €155

Hotels in Calais

Looking for a hotel in Calais? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Calais

The average hotel room price in Calais based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $69 in the low season and $129 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Calais include:

  • B&B Le Cercle De Malines starting at $77
  • Hotel Meurice starting at $84
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Calais

With Calais's good public transit, staying on the outskirts of the city is possible to save money, but the transportation costs and commute time could add up quickly.

Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding summer will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Calais

Public transit in Calais is reliable and reaches key landmarks. The city has 13 bus lines that run through town and into the surrounding areas. If you're arriving by ferry from the UK, there are shuttle buses that connect the ferry terminal to the train station. For a budget-friendly way to travel, public transportation is ideal, provided it's near where you need to go. Taxis and rideshares are also easy to find.

In certain neighborhoods, Calais is walkable, making it simple to explore the attractions. Parts of the town are more walkable than others.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $51 (€47) per person, per day, on local transportation in Calais. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Calais is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $51
    €47

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.



Flights to Calais
How much does it cost to go to Calais? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Calais
The price of renting a car in Calais will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Calais

In Calais, the food is tasty, but it's usually not the main hightlight for travelers. You'll uncover some hidden treasures around the city. The region is known for its mackerel, andouillette sausage, and endive and ham gratin. If you're passing through, this is also a good place to stock up on wine and cheese.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Calais can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Calais is $67 (€61) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $67
    €61

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Calais is around $67 (€61) per person, with previous travelers spending from $29 to $128. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Calais are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $7 to $20
  • Lunch: $10 to $27
  • Dinner: $20 to $47
  • Coffee: $5
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $10

A blend of Flemish and Picard influences, the cuisine in the Calais region boasts produce that is unique to the area, such as endives. The top specialties of the region are the Carbonade Flamande (a sweet and sour beef and onion stew made with beer), rabbit with prunes, and Potjevleesch (potted meat). Choose from the artisanal beers and local liquors, such as genievre (made with juniper), to accompany your food. The cheeses of the region are full of character, especially the Vieux-Lille and the strong cow's-milk cheese Maroilles (orange in color), which is used to make the local savory tart called the Flamiche. The famous moules-frites should be eaten with your fingers, fresh from a chip stand.

Food & Dining Tips

Lots of hotels throw breakfast into the room rate, but some will charge for it. The quality and price can differ by hotel. Understanding this in advance can help you figure out if you'll need to spend extra money. It may be worth splurging on the hotel buffet, or you could find a less expensive option at a nearby bakery or cafe.

Bring a water bottle along to avoid the need to buy drinks. It's also good for Mother Earth.

Before booking a tour, make a point of knowing which meals are part of the package. You may be responsible for some of your food costs, which can increase your overall budget.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Calais

It's not surprising that visitors come to Calais, as it offers museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Calais typically cost an average of $9.72 (€8.92) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $9.72
    €8.92

Place d'Armes is one of the largest squares in the city of Calais. It adjoins the watchtower, and during medieval times was once the heart of the city. While Calais was a territory of England, it became known as Market Square. Only at the end of English rule did it take the name of Place d'Armes. After the reconquest of Calais in 1558 by Francis, Duke of Guise, Francis II gave Calais the right to hold a fair twice a year on the square, which still exists today, as well as a bustling Wednesday and Saturday market.

The Hotel de Ville, the distinctive town hall, dominates the town center, which has seen significant regeneration over the past decade. It was built in the Flemish Renaissance style between 1911 and 1925 to commemorate the unification of the cities of Calais and Saint Pierre in 1885. One of the most elegant landmarks in the city, its ornate clock tower and belfry can be seen from out to sea and chimes throughout the day. The hall has stained glass windows and numerous paintings and exquisite decor.

Eglise Notre-Dame is a cathedral which was originally built in the late 13th century and its tower was added in the late 14th or early 15th century. Like the town hall, it is one of the city's most prominent landmarks. It was arguably the only church in the English perpendicular style in France. It contains elements of Flemish, Gothic, Anglo-Norman and Tudor architecture.

The Citadel of Calais, located on the Avenue Pierre Coubertin, was built between 1560 and 1571 on the site of a former medieval castle which was built in 1229 by Philippe de Hureprel. Its purpose was to fend off would-be invaders, but it wasn't long until the city was successfully invaded by Archduke Albert of Austria.

Fort Risban, located on the coast on the Avenue Raymond Poincare at the port entrance, was built by the English to prevent supplies reaching Calais by sea during the siege in November 1346 and continued to be occupied by them until 1558 when Calais was restored to France.



There's plenty to do in Calais town in the department of Pas-de-Calais if you're on a day trip or a longer visit - you'll find plenty to occupy your time. The region features many leisure and wildlife parks, which are great for the family. One spot in particular, the Nausicaa, hosts the greatest aquarium in the whole region. Cyclists can enjoy riding on the famous cobblestones of Paris-Roubaix, while others can enjoy hot air ballooning at the Montgolfiades de Lille (where the competition takes place), or fly a kite at the International Kite Meeting in Berck-sur-Mer. Plenty of festivals and events take place throughout the year in the region, from the unique Wazemmes accordion festival in May, and the booming Dunkerque carnival in February.

See a piece of history. At the place du Soldat in front of Calais Town Hall you'll find Rodin's masterpiece and monument to the bravery of six men of Calais. Rodin's 'Burghers of Calais' illustrates an ancient story of six distinguished citizens of Calais, who in 1347, during the Hundred-Years War with England, volunteered themselves into captivity of King Edward III to save their besieged town.

Enjoy a day at the beach. You might be surprised to discover a lovely sandy beach at Calais beach. Clean, safe and ideal for a picnic or relaxing and watching the ferries going to and fro between the ports of Calais and Dover. There are plenty of restaurants, a funfair, activities for the family including mini-golf and the beach is a glorious sight with its white beach huts.



Nightlife Budget in Calais

For those seeking nightlife, Calais provides some options, but it's not quite as vibrant as in other well-known spots. You'll find bars and pubs around town as well as a few clubs. Places range from trendy and high end to local dive bars.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $13 (€12) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Calais per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $13
    €12
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.

When you're out at night and drinking, be aware of what's going on around you. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so it's safest to stay in groups.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Calais

  • In summer, prices tend to soar, and the city gets pretty packed. If you want to save money and enjoy a quieter experience, plan your visit for the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Taking your time to travel can help you save, allowing you to relish the area's beauty while you unwind. Cramming too many activities into your day often leads to higher costs. By slowing down, you can typically enjoy your trip more while spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • If your travel group includes young children, consider getting a private vehicle or taxi. It's often easier to skip the public transit hassle, although this option may require a bit more spending.
  • Calais isn't known for its hostels, so if you're banking on finding a cheap dorm, it might be time to adjust your travel plans. A budget hotel or apartment rental could work better for you.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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