As we bid farewell to 2024, many of us are already dreaming about our 2025 holidays. Whether you’re planning a long-haul adventure or a UK staycation, there’s one option you might not have considered – hopping across the channel to France by ferry.
Irish Ferries is encouraging holidaymakers to consider this budget-friendly alternative for their 2025 travels, with fares starting from just £89 for a car full of family or friends. The beauty of travelling by ferry is the freedom and flexibility it offers, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
To help you plan your 2025 getaway, Irish Ferries has put together a list of ‘hop-across’ destinations in France that are easily accessible from Calais, where the ferry docks. Boulogne-sur-Mer, Pas-de-Calais, is just 30 minutes from Calais and is known for its stunning cliffs and impressive castle.
There’s plenty to see and do here, from sampling local seafood to visiting the UNESCO world heritage ‘Belfries’, a series of towering landmarks in France and Belgium.
Arras, Pas-de-Calais, is another must-visit destination on your French road trip. Irish Ferries’ travel experts suggest Arras for history buffs. Just an hour and ten minutes from Calais, it’s a quick drive after disembarking from the ferry, reports the Express.
The city is steeped in 1,000 years of history and boasts a stunning Flemish-Baroque Grand Palace. Visitors can also explore the Carrière Wellington, a quarry used by British forces during WWI.
Amiens, located in Somme, is another must-visit destination. Just one hour and 45 minutes from Calais, it’s home to the famed Les Hortillonnages d’Amiens – the city’s stunning floating gardens and waterways dating back to ancient times.
A 45-minute boat ride through these unique waters is a must-do. Tourists can also climb the Amiens Notre-Dame Cathedral for breathtaking city views or visit the Maison de Jules Verne for a glimpse into the late author’s life.
Rouen, Normandy, known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, is perfect for history enthusiasts. Dominating the skyline is the city’s stunning Gothic cathedral, famously painted by Claude Monet.
Rouen is also known as the location where Joan of Arc was tried and executed, and now houses a museum dedicated to the Catholic Saint.