The old town, the ramparts, the beach… Boulogne-sur-Mer has no shortage of charm or sights to explore. But when the sky turns grey and the umbrellas come out, where can you shelter and still enjoy yourself? Discover what to do, what to see and where to go to visit Boulogne-sur-Mer in the rain!
Step back in time at the École-Musée in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Blackboards, pencil cases and more. In this school museum, older visitors dive back into memories of their schooldays, when they wore out their trousers on wooden desks. For younger ones, the visit shows what school looked like in their grandparents’ day. A real moment of sharing, passing things on and discovery for the whole family.
⏩ Connaitre les horaires et les tarifs de l’École-Musée
Have fun at the Casino Golden Palace
What better way to forget the grey skies outside than to enjoy a friendly, entertaining experience? Stepping through the doors of the Boulogne-sur-Mer casino doesn’t guarantee you’ll hit the jackpot, but you’ll have a good time all the same! The many slot machines, gaming tables and other one-armed bandits offer a moment of relaxation and fun. What’s more, the venue’s regular événements give you even more chances to enjoy yourself!
Join a ceramics workshop near Boulogne
Creating, touching, letting yourself be inspired… that’s the whole programme waiting for you with ceramic artist Camille Fourmaintraux. Located in Wimereux, at the Moulin Wibert, Camille’s workshop-boutique opens its doors to you. During courses or workshops, you’ll discover the techniques of this craft in a friendly atmosphere and make your first creations. Come and admire the works, sculptures and decorative pieces, and don’t hesitate to contacter Camille Fourmaintraux if this creative activity interests you.
Set foot in Argentina at the Casa San Martín in Boulogne-sur-Mer
You’ve probably already spotted an equestrian statue on the seafront promenade. This monument honours one of the heroes of Latin American independence: José Francisco de San Martín y Matorras, better known as General José de San Martín. Did you know about the link between the town of Boulogne and Argentina? Head to 113, Grande Rue, to find out more.
General San Martín freed Argentina, Peru and Chile from Spanish rule in the early 19th century. He spent the last two years of his life in Boulogne-sur-Mer, at the Casa San Martín, until 1850.
The house was bought by the Argentine government in 1926. It then housed the consulate before becoming a museum. Inside you’ll find a collection of weapons, uniforms and mementoes. The house has become a respected symbol, a place of pilgrimage for many Argentinians.
⏩ Découvrez les horaires et informations de la Casa San Martin.
Visit a local artisan biscuit maker
Attention, sweet-toothed visitors! Come and taste the authentic flavours and little sweet (and savoury) treats that Sophie Farrugia makes in her workshop. Cookies, shortbread, speculoos, p’tits boulonnais, filled waffles, and more.
Everything here is homemade. A real treat for the taste buds. Explorez la biscuiterie of Sophie’s in Wimereux to discover the cakes and other treats prepared with love. The workshop can also be visited every morning, to see and understand every stage of production… right through to the tasting!
Discover the life of a 19th-century Boulogne fisherman
Boulogne-sur-Mer is France’s leading fishing port: more than 33,000 tonnes of fish are landed there every year, with a fleet of nearly 150 boats and over 70 species sold at auction.
The town, which still lives to the rhythm of fishing, carefully preserves its heritage and maritime traditions. To see the living conditions of Boulogne’s fishermen in the 19th century, climb the few steps of the rue du Mâchicoulis and push open the door of no. 16: la Maison de la Beurière.
In this district, where fishing families used to live, the museum shows a typical house from the period (the word « bure » means « small fisherman’s hut »). It’s a pleasure to immerse yourself in the daily life of these households, who lived by and for the sea. Through furniture, photos, costumes and books, you step straight into another age. It reveals a simple, rustic way of life, in which the role of the men who went to sea was no more important than that of the women who stayed ashore and contributed to the town’s social, family and economic life.
Dive into the vastness of the ocean at Nausicaá
The town’s must-see attraction. Boulogne-sur-Mer’s most popular destination, drawing 600,000 visitors every year. You never tire of it!
Welcome to Europe’s largest aquarium, where you can admire the finest specimens of the marine world and enjoy a moment of wonder for the whole family.
With a wide choice of workshops, discoveries, activities and dedicated trails, Nausicaá is a centre committed to biodiversity and protecting our planet.
➤ To avoid queuing at the ticket office and easily access this immersive experience, remember to acheter vos billets en ligne !
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