A 13th-century fortress, a distinctive basilica and waterside experiences give Boulogne-Sur-Mer a range of travel highlights. Those interested in the city’s history can consider the different buildings in terms of their historical roles; along the coast, there are paths and various ways to get around. This makes it easy to tailor your stay to your own interests.
Fortress, ramparts and distinctive buildings
The Château de Boulogne-sur-Mer is the centrepiece of the fortress built by Count Philippe Hurepel in 1231. The Remparts are a separate 13th-century fortification and are among the best-preserved structures of their time in northern France. Together, the Château and the Remparts offer two distinct points of reference for the city’s history: the core of a fortress with a known date, and the preserved fortification.
Four gates provide access to the chemin de ronde, a circular walk offering views of the city and gardens. Check access conditions before your visit. This makes it possible to consider the walk as a distinct part of the Remparts: the gates lead to the path along the fortification, with views encompassing the city and gardens.
The Basilica of Notre-Dame was built between 1827 and 1866 on the ruins of the former cathedral. Its dome reaches a height of 101 metres. The former cathedral and the later basilica are distinct buildings. The basilica is freely accessible via Rue de Lille; check access conditions before your visit.
The Beffroi also reflects a change in architectural history. Originally, it was the Romanesque keep of the first count’s castle; at the beginning of the 13th century, it was converted into a belfry. This sequence distinguishes its earlier role in the castle from its later function as a belfry. In 2005, UNESCO designated the Beffroi a World Heritage Site.
Coast, walks and waterside activities
Nausicaá is dedicated to preserving marine biodiversity and is home to more than 58,000 animals. Three immersive, interactive visit areas or routes structure the visit; “Voyage en Haute Mer” is one of them. The exhibition layout may change, as may the number of animals. So check the current programme and figures before travelling.
Nausicaá can be reached from Calais or Étaples-Le Touquet via a signposted coastal route; it also carries the Accueil Vélo label. If you plan to use this connection, check the signs and access conditions before travelling.
The Promenade du général San Martin is suitable for pedestrians and cyclists and leads to Wimereux. On the beach, the Club de Char à voile de Boulogne-sur-Mer offers land sailing, kite buggying, sea kayaking and pedal boating. Another way to move through the water is longe côte: participants walk with their legs and hips in the water and use paddles to propel themselves forward. There are several ways to get around, from a coastal path to activities in the water or on the beach.
Choose a focus for your stay
The historic buildings, Nausicaá and coastal activities can each provide a different focus for your trip. If you are looking for a hotel in Boulogne-Sur-Mer, first decide which of these themes you want to shape your time there.
Discover more destinations: Clairmarais, Nuncq-Hautecôte, Bourlon, Quœux-Haut-Maînil, Fresnicourt-Le-Dolmen, Guisy, Marœuil, Lens
For the broader travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.
