Looking for a refreshing change of scenery without hopping on a plane or breaking the bank? A weekend getaway to France is closer — and more relaxing — than you might think. With P&O Ferries, your mini-break begins the moment you board, offering a seamless, scenic, and stress-free way to travel across the Channel.
Here’s how to plan the perfect French weekend with P&O Ferries, whether you’re after countryside calm, coastal charm, or cultural exploration.
🚢 Why Travel with P&O Ferries?
Before we dive into the itinerary, let’s talk about why P&O Ferries is the smart way to go:
- Bring your car – No baggage restrictions, more freedom.
- Relax onboard – Cafés, lounges, shopping, and sea views.
- Flexible timings – Multiple sailings daily from Dover to Calais and other routes.
- Pet-friendly – Yes, you can bring your furry friend!
📅 Ideal Weekend Itinerary
Friday Afternoon – Departure from Dover
Catch an afternoon or early evening sailing from Dover to Calais (just 90 minutes). Once onboard, enjoy a meal, shop duty-free, or simply unwind as you glide across the Channel.
🚗 Tip: Booking a Flexi ticket gives you peace of mind if your plans shift slightly.
Friday Evening – Arrive in Calais & Drive to Lille
Once in Calais, drive approx. 1.5 hours to Lille, a vibrant city with Flemish charm and a buzzing cultural scene.
Stay: Boutique hotels in the old town or a cozy Airbnb near Place Charles de Gaulle.
Saturday – Explore the Heart of Northern France
🏙️ Morning: Lille Old Town
- Wander through cobbled streets, quirky shops, and art galleries.
- Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts — one of France’s top museums.
🍴 Lunch: Try classic dishes like carbonade flamande or moules-frites at a local brasserie.
🚗 Afternoon: Day Trip to Arras or Lens
Both towns are under an hour’s drive and rich in WWI history, architecture, and authentic French charm.
Sunday – Coastal Calm Before Heading Back
🏖️ Morning: Drive back toward Calais, stopping at:
- Wissant or Cap Blanc-Nez for dramatic cliffs and seaside walks
- Boulogne-sur-Mer for a relaxing brunch and visit to Nausicaá, Europe’s largest aquarium.
🛍️ Optional: Quick shopping stop at Cité Europe mall in Calais (next to the ferry port).
Sunday Afternoon/Evening – Ferry Back to Dover
Catch a late-afternoon or evening sailing home. Sip a coffee, grab a bite, and enjoy the sunset from the deck as your perfect weekend winds down.
✅ Travel Tips for Your P&O Weekend Getaway
- Book early to secure your preferred sailing time and get the best fares.
- Consider Club Lounge access for added comfort and priority boarding.
- Download maps & apps ahead of time for offline use in France.
- Carry a credit card for motorway tolls (péage) if you’re driving.
🧳 What to Pack
- Valid passport
- European travel insurance
- EU driving essentials (reflective vests, warning triangle, etc.)
- Euros (some rural areas may prefer cash)
- Travel adaptors
🌟 Why It’s Worth It
A weekend in France with P&O Ferries offers freedom, flexibility, and affordability. Skip the airport chaos, pack what you want, and create your own adventure — whether that’s sipping wine on a cobbled street, walking windswept cliffs, or exploring hidden towns most tourists miss.
👉 Ready to go? Book your mini-break now at www.poferries.com and set sail for a weekend of French delight!