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There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Boulogne-sur-Mer.
Nestled on the northern coast of France, Boulogne-sur-Mer is a sparkling gem waiting to be explored.
With its picturesque streets, charming architecture, and bustling markets, this town teems with opportunities to lose yourself in its vibrant culture.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on sandy beaches, immerse yourself in history, or simply indulge in delicious French cuisine, Boulogne-sur-Mer offers an experience that is as unforgettable as it is enriching.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Boulogne-sur-Mer:
1. Nausicaa National Sea Centre
Nausicaa National Sea Centre is a world-renowned aquarium located in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France.
It’s the largest public aquarium in Europe, spanning over 5,000 square meters of space and filled with a variety of marine life.
What to see or do: With over 58,000 animals from 1,000 different species, there are plenty of things to see and do at Nausicaa. Take a stroll through the impressive underwater tunnel and observe the diverse ecosystems of the world’s oceans.
You can also get up close and personal with the sea creatures by attending one of the animal presentations or demonstrations.
Don’t miss: The Big Aquarium, with a capacity of 10,000 m³, is considered the centerpiece of Nausicaa. There’s a lot to see here, including the impressive shark tank and several interactive exhibits.
Another highlight is the Touch Pool, where visitors can touch and handle various sea creatures such as crabs and starfish.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, consider visiting Nausicaa during the weekdays or early in the morning. It’s a popular attraction, and weekends can get packed quickly.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes because Nausicaa is a large facility and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
Lastly, if you’re driving, take advantage of the free parking lot located in front of the center.
2. Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips:
3. Chateau-Musee
Chateau-Musee is a historic castle that has been transformed into a museum showcasing Boulogne’s rich history.
What to see or do: Explore the various rooms within the castle, each dedicated to a different era of Boulogne’s history. See relics from Roman times, learn about the city’s medieval past and discover the town’s importance during World War II.
Don’t forget to check out the panoramic views from the castle’s tower!
Don’t miss: The beautifully preserved Salle des Etats de Boulogne, the impressive collection of ancient artifacts and the interactive exhibits that bring to life the history of the town.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning to enjoy the museum’s exhibits and then take a stroll to the nearby market to buy some fresh seafood for lunch.
Also, be sure to check the museum’s website for special events and activities, such as themed tours and workshops.
4. Crypte de la Basilique
Crypte de la Basilique is an ancient underground chamber that is a part of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the historical crypte and see the remains of the ancient Roman wall, original columns, and frescoes of the 13th century.
Medieval tombstones, sarcophagi, and funerary slabs of the Byzantine era can also be seen here.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the unique layout of the crypte, which was built over different eras in history. Visitors can also see the remains of the various historical layers of the monument and admire the impressive stone architecture.
Insider travel tips: One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of the crypte is to take a guided tour.
Photography is not permitted inside, so make sure to take in all the details with your own eyes while you’re there.
It’s also recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket as it can get chilly underground.
5. Museum of Natural History
The Museum of Natural History in Boulogne-sur-Mer is a small yet captivating museum dedicated to the natural history of the region.
What to see or do: The museum features exhibits on local flora and fauna, including marine life and birds of prey. Visitors can also discover the area’s geology, with displays on the geological formations of the region.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the vast collection of shells, which includes over 16,000 specimens from around the world.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend an hour or so exploring the museum. The exhibits are well-curated and informative, and the museum is particularly suited for families with children.
The entry fee is reasonable, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
6. Colonne de la Grande Armée
The Colonne de la Grande Armée is a historical monument located in Boulogne-sur-Mer, a port city in northern France.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the spiral staircase of the monument to reach the top and enjoy a panoramic view of Boulogne-sur-Mer and its surroundings.
The interior of the column features a museum with exhibits related to the Napoleonic era and the history of the monument.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive sculpture at the base of the column, which depicts the French soldiers, generals, and officers who participated in Napoleon Bonaparte’s invasion of England.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit the Colonne de la Grande Armée on a clear day to fully enjoy the spectacular views of the city and the English Channel.
Admission fees may vary depending on the season, so it’s worth checking in advance.
7. Boulogne-sur-Mer Beach
Boulogne-sur-Mer Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in the seaside town of Boulogne-sur-Mer in northern France.
What to see or do: – Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach while soaking up the sun and swimming in the sea.
Don’t miss: – The annual Boulogne-sur-Mer kite festival, where hundreds of brightly colored kites fill the skies above the beach.
Insider travel tips: – The beach can get crowded during the summer months, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
8. The Old Town
The Old Town in Boulogne-sur-Mer is a charming medieval walled city located on the northern coast of France.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the narrow streets and admire the beautiful architecture of the half-timbered houses and the historic town walls.
Explore the picturesque squares such as Place Dalton and Place Godefroy de Bouillon which offer a range of restaurants, cafes and boutiques.
Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne which houses a crypt with archaeological remains and an art museum with a small collection of Flemish paintings.
Don’t miss: The Museum of the Old Town is a must-visit attraction, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the town through a variety of exhibits, including a collection of antique ceramics and furnishings.
Another must-see site is the Chateau-Musee, a castle that once served as the residence of the Counts of Boulogne. Inside, visitors can admire the castle’s impressive collections of art, weaponry and tapestries.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the Old Town’s rich history and heritage.
If driving, park outside the walls of the town as the streets inside the walls can be narrow and challenging to navigate.
Enjoy fresh seafood from one of the many local restaurants located in the Old Town. For a breathtaking view of the coast, hike up to the top of the town’s historic walls.
9. Les Jardins de la Falaise
A stunning cliffside garden complex overlooking the English Channel in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the gardens’ stunningly intricate landscaping, featuring a wide variety of plant and flower species, as well as art installations and water features.
The gardens are also home to a butterfly house and a bird sanctuary, where guests can observe exotic species up close.
Don’t miss: The Garden of the Four Seasons is a must-visit, with elaborate floral displays changing with the time of year. Also, be sure to catch the falconry demonstrations and the garden’s spectacular views of the English Channel.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit the gardens during the spring and summer months when the flowers and plants are in full bloom.
Additionally, the gardens can be quite hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking. The on-site restaurant is also highly recommended, serving up delicious local cuisine with a picturesque view of the gardens.
10. Monument des Fusillés de la Côte 40
A monument commemorating the execution of French Resistance fighters during World War II.
What to see or do: Take a moment to pay respects to those who gave their lives fighting for freedom.
The monument features a large wall with the names of 27 Resistance fighters who were shot on the Côte 40 by German troops on October 22, 1943.
Don’t miss: The bronze statue of a woman with outstretched arms, representing France, overlooking the wall of names.
Insider travel tips: The monument is located in the middle of a roundabout, so be careful when crossing the street to get a closer look.
It’s a solemn and moving experience, but can be quick to visit if you’re short on time.
11. Boulogne-sur-Mer Cathedral
Boulogne-sur-Mer Cathedral is a stunning French Gothic cathedral located in the old town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, in the northern region of Hauts-de-France.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the cathedral’s impressive Gothic architecture, including its ornate stained-glass windows and intricate stone carvings. The cathedral also houses a beautiful 19th-century pipe organ and impressive vaulted ceilings.
Don’t miss: Make sure you don’t miss the cathedral’s stunning rose window, which features intricate stonework and dates back to the 13th century.
Adventurous visitors can also climb the cathedral’s tower for panoramic views of the town and surrounding coastline.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and get the best photo opportunities.
12. Vieux Port
Vieux Port is the old harbor of Boulogne-sur-Mer, situated on the English Channel coast.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll along the scenic port, admire the colorful boats and fishing vessels, and watch the fishermen unload their catch of the day.
There are also several seafood restaurants serving the freshest seafood dishes.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the historic lighthouse at the entrance of the harbor, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the coast.
Insider travel tips: Head to the port early in the morning to catch a glimpse of the fishermen working, and buy freshly caught fish straight from them.
Also, bring a jacket or sweater as it can get quite chilly near the coast.
13. Place Dalton
Small suburban village located in Boulogne-sur-Mer, France.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the charming village and visit the historic Saint-Pierre church. Explore the beautiful surrounding countryside and enjoy scenic views of rolling hills and picturesque farmland.
Don’t miss: The local farmers’ market, which takes place every Sunday morning. Sample some of the region’s freshest produce and taste traditional French delicacies.
Insider travel tips: Bring comfortable walking shoes as the village is best explored on foot. For a unique experience, consider renting a bike and cycling through the nearby countryside.
Additionally, don’t forget to try the local specialty, Boulogne-sur-Mer’s famous fish soup.
14. Parc Richelieu
Parc Richelieu is a sprawling public park located in the heart of Boulogne-sur-Mer, a coastal city in northern France.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the park and enjoy the beautiful manicured gardens and extensive green spaces. There are also several sports fields, a playground, and a mini-golf course for visitors to enjoy.
Don’t miss: The park’s centerpiece is a stunning fountain, which is a popular spot for taking photos. Don’t forget to relax in one of the many benches scattered throughout the park and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Insider travel tips: The park is particularly beautiful during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in bloom.
Additionally, there are often events and festivals held in the park, so be sure to check the local events calendar before your visit.
15. Casino de Boulogne-sur-Mer
Casino de Boulogne-sur-Mer is a historic casino located in the heart of the city of Boulogne-sur-Mer, in northern France.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy classic casino games such as blackjack, roulette, and poker in a stylish and elegant setting. The casino also features a range of slot machines, as well as a bar and restaurant.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a stroll through the beautifully decorated gaming rooms, which are adorned with intricate chandeliers and frescoes. Keep an eye out for special events and concerts that take place throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: If you’re new to the world of gambling, take advantage of the casino’s “learn-to-play” sessions, where experienced dealers will teach you the basics of various games.
Make sure to dress appropriately, as the casino has a strict dress code. Also, keep in mind that smoking is allowed in certain areas of the casino.