Port of Boulogne-sur-Mer
France's largest fishing port, blending maritime bustle with a historic old town and the captivating world of Nausicaá.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunny skies, lively port
Port of Boulogne-sur-Mer
Best Time
Sunny skies, lively port
Highlights
Must-see attractions
France's largest fishing port, blending maritime bustle with a historic old town and the captivating world of Nausicaá.
"Boulogne, France's leading fishing port, can be very aesthetically pleasing."
🚢 Ferry to UK
Check ferry schedules in advance for the Boulogne-sur-Mer to UK route. Book tickets early for best prices.
🐠 Nausicaá Tickets
Book Nausicaá tickets online to save time and potentially money. It's a must-visit!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nausicaá, National Sea Centre
Port area
Dive into the ocean's depths at Europe's largest aquarium, home to sharks, rays, and vibrant marine life.
Old Town & Ramparts
Hilltop
Step back in time exploring the medieval city walls, charming streets, and the beautiful Basilica Notre-Dame.
The Port
Waterfront
Witness the bustling activity of France's largest fishing port, a hub of maritime life and fresh seafood.
Sailors' Cemetery
Hilltop overlooking the port
A moving tribute to seafarers, offering poignant reflections and stunning panoramic views of the port.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Maritime Charm
Navigating Boulogne-Sur-Mer
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Ferry to UK
Check ferry schedules in advance for the Boulogne-sur-Mer to UK route. Book tickets early for best prices.
🐠 Nausicaá Tickets
Book Nausicaá tickets online to save time and potentially money. It's a must-visit!
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Wander through the medieval ramparts and charming streets for a glimpse into history.
🌊 Coastal Walks
Visit nearby Cap Gris Nez and Cap Blanc Nez for breathtaking cliffside views and coastal paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Ferry to UK
Check ferry schedules in advance for the Boulogne-sur-Mer to UK route. Book tickets early for best prices.
🐠 Nausicaá Tickets
Book Nausicaá tickets online to save time and potentially money. It's a must-visit!
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Wander through the medieval ramparts and charming streets for a glimpse into history.
🌊 Coastal Walks
Visit nearby Cap Gris Nez and Cap Blanc Nez for breathtaking cliffside views and coastal paths.
🐟 Fresh Seafood
Enjoy incredibly fresh fish and seafood directly from the port's fishmongers.
⚽ Football Fandom
If you're a football fan, check out the local team, US Boulogne.
🏛️ WW2 History
Explore fascinating WW2 bunkers and tunnels hidden around the port area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Boulogne-sur-Mer for its picturesque port, vibrant maritime atmosphere, and the impressive Nausicaá aquarium. The historic old town and its ramparts are also frequently highlighted as charming and engaging. While the town offers a lot, some find the overall experience can be enhanced by exploring the nearby stunning coastal cliffs.
"The images speak for themselves: Boulogne, France's leading fishing port, can be very aesthetically pleasing."
Boutmy Yves
"You have to see the port from the hill, especially the sailors' cemetery. It's very beautiful and the cemetery is moving!"
Monique Prioul
"Very good location. There is a small market on Sundays, and the fishmongers at the port are very nice."
Ludovic Decottignies
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is by ferry from Dover to the Port of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Several ferry operators run this route, offering daily crossings. The journey is relatively short, typically around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Yes, Boulogne-sur-Mer has a main train station (Gare de Boulogne-Ville) with connections to major French cities like Paris and Lille. This makes it a convenient destination for travelers within France.
The port area and old town are walkable. For longer distances, local buses are available. Renting a bike is also a great way to explore the coastal areas and nearby attractions.
Yes, Boulogne-sur-Mer is accessible by car via major road networks, including the A16 motorway. Parking can be found in designated areas, especially near the port and attractions.
While not extensively advertised, some visitors suggest looking for parking on the outskirts and walking or using local transport to reach the main attractions, especially during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Nausicaá vary depending on age and any special offers. It's highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance to secure your entry and potentially get a better price.
The old town, ramparts, and port area are generally free to explore. However, specific attractions within the old town, like museums or churches, may have admission fees.
Information on combined tickets for multiple attractions isn't widely publicized. It's best to check the official websites of individual attractions like Nausicaá for any package deals.
Nausicaá typically has extended opening hours, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Some WW2 bunkers and tunnels are accessible, but often require caution and may be partially or fully underground. Check local information or guided tour availability for specific sites like those mentioned in Instagram reels.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond Nausicaá, explore the historic old town with its ramparts and basilica, stroll along the port, visit the Sailors' Cemetery for views, and enjoy the local markets.
Yes, Boulogne-sur-Mer makes for an excellent day trip, especially from the UK or other parts of Northern France. You can easily experience its main highlights within a day.
Capture stunning shots from the ramparts overlooking the port, the picturesque old town streets, the marina, and the dramatic coastal cliffs at Cap Gris Nez and Cap Blanc Nez.
The Sailors' Cemetery offers a fantastic panoramic view of the port and the English Channel. The ramparts of the old town also provide elevated perspectives.
Boulogne-sur-Mer has a strong connection to sports, particularly football with the local team USBCO, and tennis, with professional training sessions sometimes taking place.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The port area is the prime spot for fresh seafood. Look for restaurants and fishmongers along the harbor for the freshest catches of the day.
The old town offers charming bistros and restaurants serving traditional French cuisine. It's a lovely setting for a meal after exploring the ramparts.
Given its status as a major fishing port, fresh fish and shellfish are the stars. Look out for local oysters and mussels if in season.
Exploring the market on Sundays or opting for casual eateries near the port can offer more affordable meal choices. Bakeries also provide delicious and economical options.
Absolutely! The fishmongers at the port are known for their excellent selection of fresh fish, perfect for self-catering if your accommodation allows.
📸 📸 Photography
The bustling port with its colorful boats, the historic ramparts of the old town, the striking architecture of Nausicaá, and the dramatic coastal landscapes nearby are all highly photogenic.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for capturing the port and coastline. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant activity at the port.
The WW2 bunkers offer a unique, albeit sometimes eerie, photographic subject. The trompe-l'oeil pastries also provide a fun and quirky photo opportunity.
A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide harbor scenes and details of the boats. A wide-angle lens is great for the ramparts and coastal views.
Photography is generally allowed inside Nausicaá, but be mindful of flash restrictions, especially around sensitive exhibits and marine life.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more active outing, the nearby coastal areas like Cap Gris Nez offer opportunities for beach play and exploring rock pools. The port itself provides visual interest with all the boats. Look out for local markets on Sundays for a lively family atmosphere.
🚢 Ferry Travelers & Day-Trippers
Consider booking ferry tickets and any attraction tickets in advance to streamline your visit. The old town offers a pleasant atmosphere for a leisurely lunch before heading back to the ferry. Remember to check ferry schedules carefully to plan your departure.
🏛️ History Buffs & WW2 Enthusiasts
For those interested in World War II history, Boulogne-sur-Mer has a fascinating, albeit sometimes somber, past. The area around the port contains remnants of German fortifications, including bunkers and tunnels. While some require careful exploration, they offer a unique insight into the strategic importance of the port during the war.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Maritime Heritage and the Port
Beyond the working port, Boulogne-sur-Mer's connection to the sea extends to its role as a gateway. Historically, it has been a crucial link between France and the UK, with ferry services operating for decades. This strategic location has shaped its development and contributed to its cosmopolitan feel. Exploring the port area offers a glimpse into this enduring maritime spirit, from the modern ferry terminals to the traditional fishing boats.
For those interested in the deeper history, remnants of its strategic importance during wartime can also be found. The area around the port has historical fortifications and bunkers from World War II, offering a stark contrast to the vibrant, modern maritime life. These sites, though sometimes overlooked, add another layer to the port's complex narrative.
Exploring the Historic Old Town
Within the walls, you'll discover a labyrinth of charming cobblestone streets, lined with historic buildings. The centerpiece is the magnificent Basilica Notre-Dame, a grand structure with an impressive dome that dominates the skyline. The old town is also home to quaint shops, inviting cafes, and small museums, making it a perfect place to wander and soak in the atmosphere.
Don't miss the Sailors' Cemetery, located on the edge of the old town with views over the port. It's a moving and picturesque spot, offering a poignant connection to the town's maritime past. The contrast between the quiet solemnity of the cemetery and the bustling port below is quite striking.
The Wonders of Nausicaá
The center is renowned for its commitment to ocean conservation and education. Through its extensive displays and interactive exhibits, Nausicaá aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. The sheer scale of the tanks and the variety of species on display make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Visitors often rave about the immersive experience, particularly the large ocean tank which provides a breathtaking view of a vast underwater world. It's a place where you can learn about the delicate balance of marine life and the challenges it faces, all within a beautifully designed and engaging environment.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit