Discover your perfect stay in Saint-Martin-Boulogne.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Saint-Martin-Boulogne
Find the perfect place to stay in Saint-Martin-Boulogne


Questions You Might Need to Know About Traveling to Saint-Martin-Boulogne
In Saint-Martin-Boulogne, top hotel recommendations include Hôtel Le Relais de la Paix, a charming boutique property located in the heart of town near Saint-Martin Church and Town Hall Square. This elegant hotel offers French-inspired rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a generous breakfast buffet.
For a more tranquil experience, consider Les Jardins de la Mer, a family-run guesthouse with lush gardens and sea views just 15 minutes from Dunkirk Beach. Both properties provide exceptional value, authentic local hospitality, and ideal bases for exploring the Pas-de-Calais region’s rich history and scenic landscapes.
The best area to stay in Saint-Martin-Boulogne is the City Center (Centre-Ville), where you’ll find proximity to key landmarks like Saint-Martin Church and Town Hall Square. The district is walkable, lively, and full of cafés, restaurants, and local shops, offering an authentic taste of northern French village life.
For travelers seeking coastal serenity, the Southern District (Quartier Sud) is ideal—just minutes from Dunkirk Beach. It features seaside guesthouses and small hotels with private terraces and ocean views. Whether you prefer urban charm or seaside calm, both zones deliver excellent access to culture, nature, and local experiences.
Must-see cultural attractions in Saint-Martin-Boulogne include Saint-Martin Church, a stunning Gothic structure with centuries-old stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. Nearby, Town Hall Square hosts weekly markets and seasonal festivals, reflecting local traditions.
Don’t miss the Musée d’Histoire du Pas-de-Calais, which showcases artifacts from prehistoric times to World War II, offering deep insight into the region’s military and industrial past. These sites are centrally located and easily explored on foot, making them perfect for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Try Crème de Calais, a traditional creamy almond dessert made with local dairy, available at neighborhood bakeries. Another must-try is Boeuf à la Bourgeoise, a slow-cooked beef stew with red wine and root vegetables, served at authentic bistros like Le Petit Bistrot and La Table du Marché.
Visit the weekly farmers’ market on Saturdays at Town Hall Square, where you can sample artisanal cheeses, dark rye bread, and homemade fruit liqueurs. These culinary experiences offer a genuine taste of northern French cuisine and rural craftsmanship.
Yes, Saint-Martin-Boulogne is highly suitable for families. The town is safe, compact, and filled with child-friendly activities.
Town Hall Square features a playground and hosts outdoor movie nights during summer. The Musée d’Histoire du Pas-de-Calais offers interactive exhibits perfect for kids.
Just 15 minutes away is Dunkirk Beach, where children can play in the sand, build castles, or ride bikes along the scenic coastal path. Many hotels, including Hôtel Le Relais de la Paix, provide family rooms, cots, and kid-friendly amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all ages.
Transportation in Saint-Martin-Boulogne is convenient and well-connected. The town lies along major routes A26 and N47, allowing easy access to Dunkirk, Lille, and Paris.
Local buses connect neighborhoods and nearby towns, with trips lasting 10–20 minutes. Bike rentals are widely available for exploring greenways and coastal paths.
The Saint-Martin-Boulogne Train Station offers frequent services to Lille and Dunkirk, with onward connections across France. For international visitors, the nearest airport is Lille-Lesquin Airport, about 45 minutes by car—the most accessible gateway to the region.
Key festivals in Saint-Martin-Boulogne include the Fête de Saint-Martin, held annually on November 11th, featuring parades, period costumes, live music, and craft markets celebrating local heritage.
During summer, the Festival d’été du Pas-de-Calais brings open-air concerts, theater performances, and art fairs to Town Hall Square and Church Square.
The Farmers’ Market Week in September gathers local producers selling fresh produce, handmade cheese, and regional spirits. These events enrich the travel experience with authentic cultural immersion and vibrant community spirit.
Nightlife in Saint-Martin-Boulogne is relaxed and intimate, perfect for those seeking a peaceful evening vibe.
Cozy bistros like Le Bistrot des Arts and Café de la Poste serve wine, beer, and light meals, often with live acoustic music or poetry readings.
Occasionally, Saint-Martin Church hosts classical concerts in the evenings, creating a serene atmosphere under historic vaulted ceilings.
Some guesthouses, such as Les Jardins de la Mer, feature small bars and garden terraces ideal for after-dinner drinks. Overall, the town emphasizes quiet charm over nightlife energy, making it ideal for a restful, authentic French evening.
Absolutely. Saint-Martin-Boulogne is a photographer’s paradise. The well-preserved 18th-century old town and Gothic Saint-Martin Church offer rich architectural detail and dramatic lighting, especially during golden hour.
Town Hall Square transforms into a colorful stage during festivals like Fête de Saint-Martin, with period costumes and festive decorations ideal for creative shots.
Just 15 minutes away, Dunkirk Beach provides sweeping seascapes, tidal patterns, and sunrise silhouettes—perfect for landscape and long-exposure photography. Bring a tripod and wide-angle lens to capture the town’s historic charm and natural beauty.
The best time to visit Saint-Martin-Boulogne is during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, with mild weather and fewer rains—ideal for walking tours and outdoor exploration.
Spring brings blooming flowers and vibrant street scenes; autumn features golden foliage and harvest markets. Summer is pleasant but busier, while winter can be cold and damp. For a balance of comfort, scenery, and cultural events, spring and autumn offer the perfect window to experience this charming northern French town.
Saint-Martin-Boulogne is a charming town in the Pas-de-Calais department of France, renowned for its tranquil beaches, rich historical heritage, and unique fishing village charm. It is an ideal destination for those seeking to escape city noise, offering relaxed coastal life, medieval architecture, and fresh seafood cuisine.
Must-see attractions include Saint-Martin-Boulogne Beach, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing; the Church of the Assumption, a centuries-old religious structure; and the local fishing port, where visitors can watch fishermen at work and buy fresh seafood. The town's cobblestone streets and traditional houses are also worth exploring.
Saint-Martin-Boulogne is famous for its seafood cuisine. Recommended dishes include mussels and fries (Moules-frites), fresh oysters, and fish stew. Local bistros and seafood restaurants offer authentic French flavors, best enjoyed with a glass of French wine.
Public transportation in Saint-Martin-Boulogne is limited. It is advisable to rent a car or drive. Within the town, walking or cycling is ideal. The nearest train station is in Boulogne, reachable from Paris by TGV in about 2 hours. Buses connect the town to nearby areas but have limited schedules.
The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is warm and beach activities are abundant. Summer attracts more tourists, so book accommodations early. Autumn offers a quieter and more relaxed experience.
Language: French is dominant, though some tourism workers speak English. Currency: Euro (EUR). Payment: Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small purchases. Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and restaurants. Emergency: Clinics and pharmacies are available; dial 112 for emergencies. Travel insurance is recommended.