United States

Calais

Calais

Calais is a picturesque town located in the state of Maine, United States. Situated on the Canadian border, Calais is a small town that boa…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Sightseeing travelers
  • Beach travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
5 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Calais is a strong pick for sightseeing & beach — plan about 5 days. Peak season: Summer.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 76/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈19 km span)

20 Places to explore
5 Recommended days
Summer Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: Summer

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · November · December

Weather

Autumn

15°C - 25°C

Spring

10°C - 20°C

Summer

20°C - 30°C

Winter

5°C - 15°C

How to get there

How to Reach Calais in the United States

Calais, located in the northeastern part of the United States, is a charming city that offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, here are some ways to reach Calais:

By Air:

If you're coming from a distant location, flying to Calais is the most convenient option. The nearest major airport is Bangor International Airport (BGR), located approximately 100 miles southwest of Calais. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach your destination.

By Car:

If you prefer a road trip, Calais is easily accessible by car. It is located on the easternmost tip of Maine, so you can drive from various parts of the United States. From Boston, Massachusetts, take I-95 North and continue on US-1 North until you reach Calais. The journey offers scenic views of the New England coastline and picturesque towns along the way.

By Bus:

If you don't want to drive, taking a bus is a convenient option. Several bus companies operate routes to Calais from different cities in the United States. Greyhound, for example, offers services from Boston, New York City, and other major cities. Check their website or contact them directly for schedules and fares.

By Train:

Although Calais doesn't have a train station, you can still reach the city by train via nearby stations. The closest Amtrak train station is in Portland, Maine. From there, you can take a connecting bus or rent a car to complete your journey to Calais.

By Ferry:

If you're looking for a unique travel experience, consider taking a ferry to Calais. The city is located near the Canadian border, and there are ferry services connecting Calais with various ports in Canada. You can board a ferry from Saint John, New Brunswick, and enjoy a scenic ride across the Bay of Fundy before reaching Calais.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, reaching Calais is an adventure in itself. Once you arrive, you can explore the city's historical landmarks, indulge in delicious seafood, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Getting to know Calais

Calais is a picturesque town located in the state of Maine, United States. Situated on the Canadian border, Calais is a small town that boasts of a rich history, stunning scenery, and a strong sense of community.

The town was founded in the late 18th century, and it played a significant role in the American Revolution. Today, Calais is known for its historic downtown, which is home to many charming shops and restaurants.

Calais is also surrounded by natural beauty, with the St. Croix River running through the town and the lush forests of eastern Maine nearby. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping available in the surrounding areas.

Despite its small size, Calais has a vibrant community that is proud of its heritage and traditions. The town hosts many events throughout the year, including a popular 4th of July celebration and annual music festivals.

If you're looking for a quaint yet vibrant town to explore in the United States, Calais is definitely worth a visit!

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Try local seafood dishes
  • Visit the Calais Lace Museum
  • Explore the Calais Citadel

Places worth exploring

20 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 5-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Calais?

Most travelers spend about 5 days in Calais, United States.

When is the best time to visit Calais?

High season is typically Summer.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Calais?

Travelers often find better value in January, February, November, December.

What kind of trip is Calais good for?

Calais suits Sightseeing, Beach, Historical Sites.

Is Calais walkable?

A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.

Any local tips for Calais?

Try local seafood dishes

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Add Calais and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Calais → Robbinston → Eastport · ≈29 km
  • Calais → Saint Andrews → Eastport · ≈33 km
  • Calais → St. Stephen → Eastport · ≈52 km

Same vibe

Destinations sharing travel styles, stay length, or region.

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