Running in Calais: tips and running events

In Calais, running isn't just about racking up kilometers. It's a way to discover a region shaped by the sea, history, and wide-open spaces stretching to the horizon. An iconic port city on the Opal Coast, Calais is now establishing itself as a hub for sporting events, where running becomes a fantastic means of exploration.

Running between land and sea

From the historic heart to the fortifications, from the lively streets to the spectacular maritime panoramas, Calais offers a diversity of scenery suitable for all activities, from the beginner runner to the endurance enthusiast. In 2026, three major running events – urban, heritage and coastal – illustrate this dynamic and invite everyone to experience the city differently, with sneakers on their feet.

Running on Sangatte beach under a low tide sun.

Calais XXL Marathon

Running on a grand scale, between the city and the open sea

In 2026, Calais is innovating in the field of running with the Calais XXL Marathon, the very first ever organized in its territory. 28st June 2026 Runners and outdoor enthusiasts are invited to explore Calais and its coastline in a challenging yet deeply immersive sporting adventure. Three races are offered, catering to all levels: Marathon, Half marathon and 10km.

Running becomes a way to discover a territory shaped by the sea, the wind, and the light. Between the port atmosphere, open horizons, and exceptional coastal landscapes, the Calais XXL Marathon promises a unique experience worthy of its name.

The heights of Cap Blanc-Nez and its iconic Dover Patrol.

An exceptional panorama, from the city center to Cap Blanc-Nez

The Calais XXL Marathon stands out with a course designed to showcase the full diversity of the Calais landscape. Runners will traverse urban areas, the seafront, and vast natural spaces, culminating in a passage through Cap Blanc-Nez, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the English Channel and the coastline. Offshore winds, the changing light of the Opal Coast and unobstructed views accompany every step. The route alternates between rolling sections, false flats, and accelerations, adding rhythm to the race while showcasing the city's neighborhoods and the stunning visual appeal of the coastline. The detailed course will be revealed in April 2026!

Discover the Calais XXL Marathon

Aerial view of Cap Blanc Nez during exceptional high tides. The sea retreats the furthest due to the high coefficients.

Calais Urban Trail

Run where no one ever runs!

Over the years, it has become an unmissable event on the Calais sporting calendar, The Calais Urban Trail returns in 2026 for its 6th edition placed under the sign of discovery, sharing and good humor. On May 22, 2026, the city comes alive to the rhythm of the runners' strides.Smiles and collective energy, in a festive atmosphere accessible to all. No time to beat, but a city to explore in a different way.urban-trail invites runners and walkers to take ownership of Calais by passing through sometimes unexpected places, exceptionally opened for the occasion, and to take a new look at the urban space.

The event offers a 10-kilometer non-timed walk, designed to allow everyone to participate at their own pace, whether they are a regular runner, an occasional jogger, or a curious walker. The route reveals unusual passages, providing a friendly way to rediscover the urban heritage. To ensure comfort and a smooth flow of participants, the walk will begin at 19:00 PM, divided into 5 starting waves.

Discover the Urban Trail

Urban trail in Calais in front of Calais Town Hall.

Fortress Trail

Running through the heart of Calais history

In Calais, in addition to offering original landscapes, running becomes a true invitation to exploration. Sunday, April 12, 2026 will mark the 1st edition of the Trail des Forteresses. an event that combines effort, discovery and heritage, starting from the Citadel of Calais, former fortress in the city centre. Conceived as a journey through history, this timed urban trail allows you to (re)discover Calais from an original angle, running through places steeped in history, between military architecture, open spaces and maritime atmosphere.

View of the fortifications of the Citadel of Calais, a medieval vestige.

The Trail des Forteresses invites runners to traverse varied terrain, alternating between cobblestones, trails and urban passages, passing by major historical sites that tell the defensive history of the city:

The Citadel of Calais, an imposing starting point for the race
Fort Risban, facing the sea and distant horizons
Fort Nieulay, a former military structure designed by the famous engineer Vauban

Depending on the distance chosen, 2 or 3 of these fortresses mark the route, offering very different viewpoints throughout the race.

Discover the Fortress Trail

The breathtaking view from the redeveloped Fort Risban over the fishing district of Calais, with the Lighthouse, Notre Dame and in the distance, the Town Hall and its belfry.

Gate of Fort Nieulay, a lock fort deconstructed and relocated by Vauban.

Take the opportunity to stay in Calais

The races on the Opal Coast, This is the perfect opportunity to (re)discover Calais XXL! Between outings, let yourself be surprised by the Belfry, listed by UNESCO, and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. Stroll along the Seafront, breathe in the salty air and admire the majestic sculpture of the Bourgeois by Rodin. Want a cultural immersion? Beaux-arts museum opens its doors to you with its inspiring exhibitions. And for a grand getaway, head to the Calais Dragon : climb aboard this fascinating creature and let yourself be carried along the coastline. Between heritage, culture and fresh air, Calais has so much to offer!

To see and do