Basilique Notre-Dame de Boulogne
Old Town 1.5 hrs
Admire the impressive basilica and its vast crypt, a significant pilgrimage site.
Where to stay
Hotels in Boulogne Sur Mer
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At a glance
Climate
Temperate
Languages
French and English
Local currency
EUR
(EUR)
Local time
(GMT+2)
Ideal trip length
2–4 days
Cost level
3 of 5 · our research
Suggested area to stay
Old Town (Ville Fortifiée)
Tap water
Generally described as safe to drink
Tipping
Service included, optional small extra for good service.
What this place is for
History
95 · Outstanding
Culture
90 · Outstanding
Food
90 · Outstanding
Family
75 · Good
Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.
Food to try
Moules-frites
Coquilles Saint-Jacques
Welsh rarebit
Marinière
When to visit Boulogne Sur Mer
How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.
Best months: July, August
Busiest: Jul-Aug
-
Jan30
Cold, often wet
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Feb35
Chilly, some sun
-
Mar45
Cool, getting brighter
-
Apr60
Mild, spring flowers
-
May70
Pleasant, fewer crowds
-
Jun80
Warm, good for beach
-
Jul90
Warmest, peak season
-
Aug90
Warm, busy beaches
-
Sept75
Mild, pleasant weather
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Oct60
Cool, autumn colors
-
Nov40
Chilly, increasing rain
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Dec30
Cold, festive mood
Things to do in Boulogne Sur Mer
6 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.
Showing 6 of 6 places ·
Best in the morning
2 places
Explore the Fishing Port
Port Area 1.5 hrs
Witness the bustling activity of France's premier fishing port and enjoy fresh catches.
Best in the afternoon
2 places
Château-Musée de Boulogne-sur-Mer
Old Town 2 hrs
Visit the ancient castle housing diverse collections, from Egyptian artifacts to local art.
Relax at Plage de Boulogne-sur-Mer
Beachfront 3 hrs
Enjoy the wide sandy beach, perfect for walks, sunbathing, or family fun.
Any time of day
2 places
Nausicaá - Centre National de la Mer
Port Area 4 hrs
Explore Europe's largest public aquarium, a world-class ocean discovery center.
Walk the Ramparts of the Old Town
Old Town 1.5 hrs
Stroll along the well-preserved medieval ramparts surrounding the fortified city.
Practical ratings
Our own ratings and key insights for this destination.
Near Boulogne Sur Mer
Straight-line distance from the centre of Boulogne Sur Mer.
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