Time for a festive getaway? Set sail across the Channel to Calais and open the door to a world of Christmas magic with DFDS. Travel with ease from Calais and experience the wonders that the awe-inspiring French Christmas markets have to offer
As Christmas approaches, it’s time to get into the festive spirit. And booking a winter holiday to visit the enchanting Christmas markets of France is an enjoyable way to achieve that!
Whether you’re looking to bask in the twinkling lights and festive decorations or want to find delicious treats and unique gifts – with DFDS there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What’s more, as a Boundless member you’ll receive a 10% discount on your Dover to Calais tickets, so embarking on these festive adventures has never been easier.
Already a Boundless member? Simply log in to gain full access to all the offers and benefits included in your membership.
Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.
Festive breaks in France
This Christmas there are plenty of festive adventures to explore when you travel with DFDS. With up to 54 daily crossings from Dover to Calais, you can escape to the beautiful sights of France without the hassle of flying.
So, are you ready to wander through picturesque Christmas markets with a warming glass of mulled wine? Look no further – here are some of France’s most popular Christmas markets…
Unforgettable Christmas markets
France is home to some of the most beautiful Christmas marchés in Europe. Treat the whole family to an unforgettable holiday and check out these festive markets near Calais:
Calais
Get exploring straight off the boat and experience the wonderful attractions of the Calais Christmas Market.
Calais hosts activities the whole family will love, including Santa’s grotto, a Christmas parade, ice skating and even a magical forest. Or for a more relaxed trip, just enjoy a leisurely stroll around sampling local cuisine and shopping for the perfect gift or souvenir.
Lille
Less than a two-hour drive or train ride from Calais is the stunning city of Lille in northern France. Here, you can peruse handmade gifts, tuck into delicious foods, or take in an aerial view of the market from the top of a Ferris wheel (pictured above).
You could also take the kids on a pony ride or walk through the artificial snow village while you're here – whatever you do, you’re guaranteed to make memories you’ll never forget.
Rouen
Travel just under three hours from Calais and visit the vibrant Christmas market of Rouen in Normandy.
No matter what time you visit, you will be met with superb entertainment, spectacular lights and decorations, and fantastic cuisine. Plus, with 50 chalets (including Santa’s), there’s no shortage of things to do, see and eat.
Broaden your horizons
Strasbourg Christmas market. Credit: DFDS
Want to venture out further? There are lots of options for your winter getaway and Christmas market exploration all over Europe.
If you’re happy to journey slightly further from Calais, you can choose from the sensational Christmas markets of Paris, Colmar, Strasbourg, Reims, Le Havre and more. All are guaranteed to provide culinary delights, radiant decorations and lights, brilliant activities for all ages, and most importantly, a magically festive atmosphere.
Further afield, you could travel to other areas of Europe with DFDS, taking advantage of its crossings from Dover to Calais and Dover to Dunkirk. Wander through the exquisite Christmas markets of Cologne, Brussels and Bruges, or venture to Amsterdam for a fantastic festive shopping experience.
On-board facilities
Duty-free shopping onboard the DFDS ferry, Delft Seaways. Credit: DFDS.
Have a wonderfully festive journey and take advantage of the on-board facilities, including the all-inclusive Premium Lounge and Duty-Free shopping. Here you can find savings of up to 50% on the UK high street, perfect if you are looking to bring back gifts for your loved ones or souvenirs to remind you of the trip.
At DFDS, you can find a trip that suits everybody. Plus, because you can take your car, you can enjoy the freedom to explore new places with your friends and family – and take as much luggage as you want.
Save big on DFDS this Christmas with Boundless
DFDS ferry Delft Seaways leaves Dover for France. Credit: DFDS.
Boundless members can save 10%* on ferry crossings from Dover to Calais and Dunkirk. You can also save 15% off Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry crossings, and get 33% off cabin prices on the special mini-cruise from Newcastle to Amsterdam.
Find out more about the DFDS discounts for Boundless members, and book your trip today!
Do more with Boundless
These DFDS savings are one example of the deals and discounts available from Boundless.
If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.
With Boundless, you get unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions including Kew Gardens and Wakehurst and WWT centres across the UK, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. With Boundless Plus, you can enjoy additional benefits including unlimited access to Historic Royal Palaces sites, National Trust for Scotland places, access to the Ramblers' extensive group walks and routes, and peace of mind with roadside assistance and local recovery by LV= Britannia Rescue.
*Terms and conditions apply – click here for more details.
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