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Things to do on a North France holiday

Northern France can often be overlooked as an excellent destination for a family holiday; however, we’re here to change that! With plenty of places to visit in North France you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Not only are there plenty of places to stay in North France, but there are also some truly great experiences and attractions for you and your family to visit.

For the kids, every detail of visiting a new country is exciting, but there’s something special about visiting France, being so close to home yet so different in culture. From the ferry crossing and the sound of a new language to buying fresh croissants from the local boulangerie every morning and even seeing the cars on the ‘wrong’ side of the road, visiting North France is a great sensory experience that excites children of all ages!

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Côte d’Opale
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Lille
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Travel tips

Best Places to visit in North France

Visiting North France

Visiting North France couldn’t be easier when travelling on a ferry to France with P&O Ferries. With plenty of sailings to choose from, you can book the trip around you and your family’s needs, not the other way around. Within 90 minutes, your family holiday in Northern France can start, with plenty of kids' entertainment onboard, what isn’t there to love!

With so many award-winning attractions and beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites right on your doorstep, the region of Hauts-de-France is perfect for a North France holiday. Book your Dover to Calais ferry today!

Photo by Max Zed on Unsplash

Hauts de France Tourism

Côte d’Opale

When visiting Northern France, the Opal Coast is a perfect place to go. Here you and your family can explore a stretch of coastline located within a 30-minute drive from Calais, which is home to beautiful, long sandy beaches and impressive sand dunes. And where there are beaches, you can bet there’ll be some incredible water sports – from windsurfing to sand sailing, the Côte d’Opale has it all.

Did you know? The Calais seafront has recently undergone an impressive and exciting regeneration. You’ll find new state-of-the-art sports, play, and hospitality facilities all along the beachfront. With new play areas, volleyball and crazy golf, and the coolest urban skatepark, there’s a whole host of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained on a family day trip to Calais.

Don’t be fooled if you want to travel off-peak. There are plenty of things to do in North France. The beaches will be much quieter, offering a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. Visit Authie Bay to watch seals swim by during low tide.

Arguably one of the most beautiful places to visit in North France, this coastline will offer endless opportunities for plenty of adventures when travelling with your family.

Fun things to do in North France

If you’re looking to visit North France and want family-friendly attractions near Calais, head to the charming seaside town of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Just a short drive away, Boulogne has long been a favourite among families who return year after year for its classic French coastal charm. It’s no surprise it’s often ranked among the best places to visit in North France. Home to Nausicaá, Europe’s largest aquarium, along with historic architecture, engaging museums, and top-notch seafood restaurants, Boulogne offers something for everyone.

Nausicaá will undoubtedly be a highlight for the whole family. Located in the heart of the Opal Coast, Nausicaá is Europe’s largest aquarium. This truly unique aquarium is one of the best attractions in Northern France. It is a place where young and old alike can marvel at the beauty of the marine world, learn all about environmental issues, and, above all, learn to love and protect the ocean. Cherish this time with the family as you discover and explore all forms of aquatic life.

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Photo by Max Zed on Unsplash

Best Places to Eat in North France

Known as the foodie capital of Hauts-de-France, Lille is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends cuisine, culture, and charm. Whether you're into historic architecture, mouthwatering local dishes, or arts and culture, Lille is a must-visit when exploring Northern France.

A perfect destination to explore with your family, it offers an enchanting old town filled with artisan boutiques and cozy cafes to immerse you in local French culture. Among the most fun things to do in North France, Lille’s events and markets stand out.

If you're visiting during the first weekend of September, don't miss Europe’s largest flea market, a bustling treasure trove of antiques, curiosities, and regional delights. Book lovers will enjoy the daily second-hand book market (closed Sundays), offering everything from vintage French literature to modern children’s books, a perfect stop for curious families.

Planning a festive getaway? Lille transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. With so many Christmas markets in France, there are plenty of fun things to do in North France. Don’t forget to book your Dover to Calais crossing today!

Travel Tips for a North France Holiday

Planning to visit Northern France with kids? It’s never been easier with P&O Ferries. We've thought of everything from hassle-free check-in and kids’ entertainment to baby changing facilities and meal deal boxes. We’re also proud to be the only UK ferry company with accredited Changing Places toilets onboard—ideal for passengers with complex needs.

Travel your way: Pack the car with everything you need, bring your pet, and travel with up to 9 passengers. With up to 12 daily sailings on our Dover to Calais route, Northern France is just 90 minutes away—perfect for a stress-free, nearby family holiday.

Keep the kids entertained on board with our own scavenger hunt or download our free Deep Sea Pioneers app—scan QR codes around the ship and let the fun begin! There’s also soft play, games, puzzles, fresh air on deck, and discounted favourites in our World Duty Free shop.

A trip to Northern France is also an excellent chance for kids to practice French, use language apps or books before you go, and let them try their skills with the locals!

Ready to explore? Plan your visit to Northern France today and book directly with us for the best price with no hidden fees. Let your North France adventure begin!

Photo by Max Zed on Unsplash

FAQs:

1. Where to visit in North France with family?

North France offers plenty of family-friendly destinations. Visit Boulogne-sur-Mer for Nausicaá, Europe’s largest aquarium. Lille is perfect for cultural fun, parks, and festive markets. Le Touquet has excellent beaches and cycling paths, while Parc Astérix offers thrilling rides just north of Paris. North France is ideal for short breaks packed with fun, learning, and adventure for all the family.

2. Is North France suitable for a short family holiday?

Yes! North France is perfect for a short family getaway. It’s just a 90-minute ferry ride from Dover to Calais, making travel quick and easy. Destinations like Boulogne, Le Touquet, and Lille offer a great mix of activities—beaches, museums, outdoor fun, and tasty local food. Plus, you can pack the car, bring pets, and explore at your own pace. It’s ideal for weekend breaks, half-term escapes, or spontaneous family road trips close to home. Plan your visit to North France today!

3. What are some fun things to do in North France with kids?

Kids will love Nausicaá Aquarium in Boulogne, boat rides through Amiens’ floating gardens, and exploring castles or WWII bunkers like La Coupole. Head to Parc Astérix for roller coasters and shows, or spend the day building sandcastles in Le Touquet. Lille offers interactive museums, book markets, and soft play areas. Whether they’re into nature, history, animals, or rides, when you visit North France it has plenty of fun, hands-on experiences to keep children of all ages entertained.