The French motorway (autoroute) network connects directly with the approach roads
to the ferry port, so there is no need to go into Calais. If you do want to visit
the town or stop over for the night, keep a carefull look out as you are leaving
the ferry terminal for the signs to Centre Ville (town centre). Otherwise just follow
the signs to your chosen autoroute.
The A26 takes you towards Reims and also to Paris via the A1. The alternative and
quieter route to Paris is the A16 via Amiens, although it's not quite as easy to
get into the centre of Paris on this route. The A16 also takes you towards the A28
Rouen. Finally, if you want to head towards Lille or Bruges it's the A16 towards
Dunkerque.
On returning to Calais the ferry port is clearly signed from all directions. Take
care as you approach the exit from the dual carriageway as there are a number of
junctions close together - just keep following the ferry port signs!
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Ferry companies operating from Calais:
P&O Ferries Dover Calais information | |
DFDS Ferries Dover Calais information |
Calais is the port most people think of when planning a journey to France by car. It is the busiest of the French ferry ports with services averaging two per hour at peak times. Calais is also the closest port to Dover, just 21 miles across the English Channel, or La Manche as it's known to our French friends. In addition to sailings between Calais and Dover operated by P&O ferries and DFDS Seaways, MyFerryLink has now joined the fray.
All the ferry services operate from the same Docks. As you would expect from such a busy port, there are plenty of facilities for refreshment. If you have already booked your crossing all you need to do is make sure you have the booking reference then follow the signs to the embarkation area for your ferry crossing. You will not need to stop at the terminal building unless you wish to use the facilities.