Tour du Guet - Photo from my art residency at the Petrified Forest National Park in June of 2017.
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Tour du Guet

4.4
·719 reviews·Calais, France

A 13th-century watchtower with a unique dovecote, serving as a historical landmark and vibrant market hub.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Vibrant food market atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Tour du Guet - Photo from my art residency at the Petrified Forest National Park in June of 2017.

Tour du Guet

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Vibrant food market atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 13th-century watchtower with a unique dovecote, serving as a historical landmark and vibrant market hub.

4.4
(719 reviews)

"Nice to visit a bit of history, especially when enhanced by lively markets."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check for Open Days

Access to the tower itself can be restricted. Look for special event days or markets for a chance to get closer.

Enjoy the Markets

The Saturday food market and Christmas fair are highlights, offering a lively experience.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Watchtower

The Historic Watchtower

A 13th-century stone tower, standing 39 meters tall, offering a glimpse into medieval architecture.

Carrier Pigeon Dovecote

Carrier Pigeon Dovecote

Discover the unique dovecote integrated into the tower, once used for carrier pigeons.

Saturday Food Market

Saturday Food Market

Experience a fantastic local food market on Saturdays, showcasing fresh produce and artisanal goods.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the Tower

While the Tour du Guet is a historical landmark, direct public access can be limited. Check local event listings for open days or guided tours, as it's often part of larger festivals or markets.

Best Time for Markets

The area around Tour du Guet truly comes alive during its Saturday food market and the festive Christmas market. These events offer a vibrant atmosphere and local flavors.

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Vibrant food market atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Christmas season
Why
Festive market and fair
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Check for Open Days

Access to the tower itself can be restricted. Look for special event days or markets for a chance to get closer. Reddit

Enjoy the Markets

The Saturday food market and Christmas fair are highlights, offering a lively experience. Reddit

Historical Significance

Appreciate this piece of history, even if entry is not possible on your visit. Reddit

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Tips

from all over the internet

Check for Open Days

Access to the tower itself can be restricted. Look for special event days or markets for a chance to get closer. Reddit

Enjoy the Markets

The Saturday food market and Christmas fair are highlights, offering a lively experience. Reddit

Historical Significance

Appreciate this piece of history, even if entry is not possible on your visit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(719 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate the historical significance of Tour du Guet and the lively atmosphere of the surrounding markets, especially the Saturday food market and the Christmas fair. While direct access to the tower can be limited, its presence enhances the charm of the area.

"Pardon my ignorance but I am not to sure what this structure was intended for but I took a photo of it as it looked pretty impressive."

Rob

"Nice to visit a bit of history. However as far we could tell no way into the building, we did go in January and on a Monday, but we could find no information"

Roxanne Pringle

"Lovely Christmas market and fair."

Robert Sheldon

What People Like

Historical landmark
Vibrant markets
Christmas fair atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited tower access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tour du Guet is located in the heart of the city. Public transport options like buses and trams are readily available, with stops often near the main squares. Walking is also a great way to explore the surrounding historic streets. Reddit

Parking in the historic center can be challenging. It's recommended to use public parking garages located a short walk from the tower, or consider public transport to avoid parking hassles. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Public access to the interior of Tour du Guet can be limited. It's often only accessible during specific events, festivals, or guided tours. Check local event schedules for opportunities. Reddit

The tower itself doesn't have fixed public opening hours. However, the surrounding area is accessible, and it's often a focal point for markets and events with their own specific timings. Reddit

Typically, viewing the exterior of Tour du Guet is free. If there are special events or tours that allow interior access, separate tickets might be required. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

While historically a watchtower with a dovecote, it now serves as a historical landmark and a central point for local events, markets, and fairs. Reddit

The tower is situated in a historic area, often bustling with markets, cafes, and shops. It's a great starting point for exploring the old town. Reddit

Yes, the historic architecture of Tour du Guet makes for excellent photo opportunities, especially when framed by market stalls or festive decorations. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The area around Tour du Guet boasts numerous cafes and restaurants, from casual eateries to more formal dining. The Saturday food market also offers delicious local treats. Reddit

Yes, especially during the Saturday food market and the Christmas market, you'll find a variety of food stalls offering local specialties and international cuisine. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Families with Kids

While direct access to the tower might be limited for very young children, the surrounding area and its markets offer plenty of engagement. The Saturday food market is a sensory delight, with colorful stalls and interesting foods to discover. During the Christmas market, the festive atmosphere, lights, and potential for small rides can be very exciting for kids. It's a great spot for a family stroll and to soak in the local culture. Reddit

History Buffs

For those fascinated by medieval history, the Tour du Guet is a must-see. Its 13th-century construction and original purpose as a watchtower offer a tangible connection to the past. The presence of the carrier pigeon dovecote adds another layer of historical intrigue, showcasing early communication methods. Even if interior access is restricted, understanding its historical context and architectural significance is rewarding. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Tour du Guet

Built in the 13th century, the Tour du Guet served as a crucial watchtower for the city. Its strategic height allowed guards to survey the surrounding landscape for any approaching threats. The tower stands at an impressive 39 meters, a significant feat of medieval engineering.

One of its unique features is the integrated dovecote, designed to house carrier pigeons. These birds were vital for communication, allowing messages to be sent and received quickly over distances, a critical function for defense and governance in its time. The presence of the dovecote highlights the tower's multifaceted role beyond just observation. Reddit

Experiencing the Markets

The area surrounding Tour du Guet is renowned for its vibrant markets. The Saturday food market is a local favorite, offering a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and regional specialties. It's a fantastic place to sample local flavors and experience the community's culinary scene. Reddit

During the festive season, the Christmas market transforms the space into a magical wonderland. Visitors can find handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, and enjoy traditional festive treats and mulled wine. These markets not only provide a lively atmosphere but also offer a chance to interact with local vendors and discover unique items. Reddit

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