Why choose a hostel in Calais?
Calais has long been a crossroads city, and there's more to it than its famous port. The Burghers of Calais, Auguste Rodin's historic bronze sculpture, stands outside City Hall and is one of the most recognised works of public art in France. The Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode traces the city's deep roots in lacemaking and fashion. Hostels in Calais put you close to all of it without stretching your budget.
Hostels here suit solo travellers, couples, and small groups who want more than a place to sleep. Shared dorms keep costs lower than hotels or private rentals, while private rooms give you comfort with the same social common areas. You get communal kitchens, local tips from staff, and the chance to meet other travellers. Hotels rarely offer that kind of connection, and private rentals can feel isolating.
How to find the best hostel deals in Calais
Love how effortless it is to compare flights with us? The same clever search engine can dig up great deals on rooms and hostels too. Give these tips a go to find fantastic rates fast.
Book in advance
Book early to increase your chances of finding the perfect hostel at a great price. This matters even more during busy travel periods like school holidays and major festive seasons.
…or bag a last-minute Calais hostel deal.
Last-minute booking can be a bit of a gamble, but it can work in your favor. Some stays lower their rates shortly before check-in to attract guests, especially when it's quieter.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Cheap hostels can be easier to find if you're not tied to specific dates. Experiment with different seasons or months, or go midweek instead of weekends to save on your trip.
Where to base yourself in Calais
Calais-Nord is the older part of the city and puts you closest to the waterfront and the ferry terminal. The area around Place d'Armes gives you a walkable base with cafes, local restaurants, and the landmark Town Hall within easy reach. The Flemish-style architecture here reflects the city's long cross-Channel history, and the Calais Lace and Fashion Museum is a short walk away. The southern neighbourhoods around Calais-Ville station suit travellers who want quick rail connections. Eurostar and regional trains run from here, making onward travel straightforward. This area has a more everyday feel, with supermarkets, casual eateries, and practical amenities nearby. If you're arriving by ferry and heading further into the country, basing yourself close to the station keeps your options open without adding unnecessary cost or distance.
Top hostels in Calais
La Digue occupies a spot in Calais, a port city on France's northern coast facing England across the Strait of Dover. The area has a hardworking, maritime character with a historic old town and seafront worth exploring. Whether you're passing through on your way across the Channel or making a longer stop, Calais has more going on than most people expect.
