©Nohcab Visiting Calais without a car: transport and mobility
Double-decker buses facing the sea, boats on the canal, self-service bikes between sites: in Calais, exploring the area without a car is neither a constraint nor a compromise. Most of the network is free, connections are conveniently located from Calais Ville train station, and the main lines directly serve the natural and heritage sites of the greater Calais area. From Calais beach to Cap Blanc-Nez, from the belfry to the canal banks, here's how to plan your day using the Imag'in network.
Free Imag'in bus network
Go from the city centre to the beach and vice versa, for free!
Whether it's for a stroll along the seawall, an afternoon with the family on the sand, or simply to admire the horizon, regular lines 3 and 5 allow easy access to the coast from the train station or the city centre of Calais.
Whether you need to get around town between major points of interest or reach the coast, these two lines cover the city's main thoroughfares. In the city center, take advantage of the Balad'In line and its minibus, which offers a concentrated service along the Calais North ‹› Theatre axis located in the historic city center.
Line 5 also allows you to extend your getaway to Blériot-Plage, Sangatte and Escalles, offering easy access to some of the most remarkable natural sites in the area.
©Lyzebre Div'in: the panoramic bus of the Opal Coast
With its panoramic double-decker buses, line 5 of the Imag'in network invites you to (re)discover, alone, with friends or family, the iconic landscapes of the Calais coastline. No need for a car or a complicated map: simply hop on board, settle in upstairs and let the views unfold.
What can you see on board the Div'in double-decker bus?
As the journey progresses, the city gradually gives way to the wide open spaces of the Opal Coast. From the upper deck of the bus, passengers enjoy a privileged view of the seawall and the beach of CalaisBordered by its lively seafront, this vast stretch of sand is a popular place for walks for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
The Div'in then continues its journey towards Sangatte, following the coastline. The landscapes become wilder and nature reclaims its territory. It's an opportunity to discover the dunes of Fort-Mahon, a preserved natural area where paths wind between marram grass and offer beautiful walks a few steps from the sea.
The natural area of the Dunes of Fort Mahon
©Nohcab End of the line: the heights of Cap Blanc Nez
At the end of the line comes one of the region's gems: Cap Blanc-Nez. Dominating the English Channel from atop its chalk cliffs, it offers spectacular views of the strait and, on a clear day, of the English coast. Here, two very different trails allow you to explore the site, from the summit down to the beach, before ending in the heart of the village of Escalles.
Please note: Before going to Cap Blanc-Nez beach, it is recommended to check the tide times, as some sections can become difficult to access when the sea comes in.
Discover Cap Blanc-Nez
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©Nohcab Traveling on the Opal Coast
Note that from the multimodal transport hub located near the SNCF train station, you can extend your exploration of the territory beyond the Calais area to Boulogne, Wissant or even Gravelines thanks to the intercity buses of the Hauts-de-France Region.
Routes departing from Calais
Majest'in: Rediscovering Calais along the water?
The Majest'in is a river shuttle that offers a unique way to explore the city by traveling along the Calais Canal. At the gentle pace of the canal, the landscape unfolds more slowly, offering a different perspective on Calais's neighborhoods and heritage. Between heritage sites, green spaces, and urban life, the Majest'in allows you to see familiar places from a new angle and take the time to appreciate the scenery along the canal.
The city as seen from the canal
Departing from Coulogne, the boat travels up the canal that crosses the town from south to north. Far from the hustle and bustle of the streets, you'll enjoy a unique perspective on the town and its diverse facets. Along the way, several stops allow you to easily reach some of the region's iconic landmarks. The stop at the City of Lace It is, in particular, an ideal gateway to discovering the history of this industry, which profoundly shaped the identity of Calais, in the district that bears its memory. From the fully glazed boat, the monuments are revealed in a new light.
Calais-Caudry Lace, the luxury of Calais XXL
©Imag'in In the meanders of North Calais
Further along, the Georges-V station, located on the Quai de l'Escaut, provides access to numerous points of interest. A few minutes' walk away are the Saint-Pierre parks et Richelieu, the Memorial Museum 39-45 and the belfry of Calais town hall, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Place d'Armes, Notre-Dame church, harbour. or, the Citadel are also accessible from the route. The clock of the Belfry of the Town Hall emerges above the rooftops while the quays and banks tell the story of a city shaped by water and trade.
Exploring the city by bike is easy
Nearly 80 Vel'in stations are spread throughout the Calais area to allow everyone to move easily between different neighborhoods, tourist sites and natural spaces.
Whether you want to reach the seafront, stroll through the city center, or explore the surrounding area, cycling offers a pleasant way to enjoy the region at your own pace. It's a practical solution for exploring Calais and its surroundings while enjoying the fresh air.
Explore the city on foot or by bike
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