As 2024 comes to a close, many people will be starting to plan their 2025 holidays, whether that’s jetting off to far-flung locations or opting for some UK-based staycations.

However, one option you may not have considered that could prove an affordable and fun option is to travel to France from the UK by ferry and explore some of the charming towns of the Northern region.

Irish Ferries are encourging guests to take this budget-friendly option when travelling next year with 2025 fares to France starting from £89 (for a car full of family or friends, or both).

Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a longer getaway, travelling with Irish Ferries and bringing your car along with you gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.

To help put together your travel plans for next year, Irish Ferries have compiled a list of ‘hop-across’ driving destinations in France, all of which are easily accessible from Calais, where the ferry docks.

‘Hop across’ destinations in France

Boulogne-sur-Mer, Pas-de-Calais

30 minutes from Calais is the vibrant coastal town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, known for its jagged cliffs and magnificent castle.

With plenty to do during your visit, from sampling some of the local seafood to visiting one of the ‘Belfries’, a collection of UNESCO world heritage sites consisting of a series of impressive high towers of note within both France and Belgium, this is a perfect stop along your tour of Northern France.

Arras, Pas-de-Calais

Next, the travel experts at Irish Ferries recommend Arras for those looking to immerse themselves in the history of the region – and being just one hour and ten minutes from Calais, you’ll certainly be able to drive over after disembarking from the ferry.

The city boasts 1,000 years of history and is home to a stunning Flemish-Baroque Grand Palace. Visitors can also venture underground to the Carrière Wellington, a quarry that was used by British forces during the First World War.

Amiens, Somme

One hour and 45 minutes from Calais is Amiens, home to the famed Les Hortillonnages d’Amiens, the city’s stunning floating gardens and waterways that date back to Ancient times. Visitors can take a 45-minute boat ride through these unique waters.

Visitors can also climb to the top of the Amiens Notre-Dame Cathedral, which will give them breathtaking views of the city, or visit the Maison de Jules Verne, which will give tourists a look into the late author’s life.

Rouen, Normandy

Known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ Rouen is another location perfect for any history buffs. The city’s stunning Gothic cathedral, famously painted by Claude Monet, dominates the skyline.

Rouen is also famous for being the location in which Joan of Arc was tried and executed, and is now home to a museum dedicated to the Catholic Saint.