Car Hire in Calais Center

Calais is France's closest city to England, with the Channel Tunnel and ferry port connecting the continent to Dover in 35 minutes and 90 minutes respectively. With four car rental companies in the city center, Calais is a popular starting point for car trips south toward Paris, 290 km away via A26. The city's Place d'Armes with its Flemish town hall is a natural hub in the city center.

Calais center is located 3 km east of the ferry terminal and 10 km from the Eurotunnel terminal in Coquelles. Boulogne-sur-Mer, with its large aquarium Nausicaá, is 35 km to the south along the coast via A16. Cap Gris-Nez, France's closest point to England, can be reached in 25 minutes via D940.

Rent a car in the city center if you arrive by bus or train at Calais station – ferry passengers should instead consider the terminal. Always check whether your rental company's insurance covers driving to the United Kingdom if you plan to take the car on the ferry. Avoid rush hour traffic along A16 toward Paris on Friday afternoons.

How far is it from Calais city center to Paris? Approximately 290 km south via A26 toward Reims and then A1 toward Paris, a drive of about 3 hours. Can I take the rental car on the ferry to Dover?

This varies by rental company – most require a specific permit and additional insurance for driving in the United Kingdom. Always confirm in advance. How long does it take to drive from Calais city center to the Eurotunnel terminal?

Approximately 10 km west to Coquelles, which takes about 15 minutes via A216.

We compare prices from all major providers at Calais Center so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.