Sponsored Editorial

As we bid farewell to the indulgent festivities of the holiday season, the reality of tightened purse strings in January can cast a shadow over our travel dreams. However, fear not, for in 2024, the pursuit of a memorable vacation need not break the bank.

There are many enchanting European destinations, such as France, Belgium and the Netherlands, just a short voyage across the English Channel. Whether you’re planning a family escapade, a romantic retreat or a solo adventure, these countries promise an unforgettable cultural experience.

One of the most popular ways to travel is on the Dover to Calais ferry crossing with P&O Ferries, providing a delightful combination of luxury, convenience and unbeatable value for money. Whilst onboard, take advantage of fantastic facilities, including the all-inclusive Club Lounge, dedicated Pet Lounge and the World Duty Free store, where you can seize incredible deals and save up to 50% on high street prices.

P&O is currently running an enticing Early Booking Offer, providing a 20% discount on long breaks (over 5 days) for bookings made by 29th February, valid for travel until 15th December 2024.

There is also a fantastic Short Break Offer available for trips until 7th February. Enjoy a 3-day break starting from £103 (when booked by 4th February) or opt for a 5-day break at £113 (when booked by 2nd February).

Plus, with both offers, there's no need to worry about luggage restrictions – pack your bike, tent, ski gear and everything else you need for a memorable journey.

Ready to embark on an affordable adventure with P&O Ferries? Now, let's explore four of the best budget-friendly Channel escapes within a four-hour drive of Calais…

While ski holidays are often seen as pricey, you can enjoy the thrill of the slopes without putting a strain on your finances by exploring budget-friendly ski resorts in France. Pack the car with all your gear and embark on a road trip from Calais!

Amidst the snow-covered landscapes, discover gems like Les Menuires, Flaine, Avoriaz, La Plagne, Serre Chevalier, Les 2 Alpes, La Rosière, Tignes and L’Alpe d’Huez. These destinations promise not only exceptional skiing but also breathtaking scenery and lively festivals, ensuring your getaway is nothing short of perfect.

Hauts-de-France

Hauts-de-France, the northernmost region of France, offers a unique experience at every turn. Kickstart your gastronomic journey straight from the ferry as Calais hosts its Wine and Food Fair from 2nd to 4th February 2024, offering a delectable immersion into the best of French cuisine.

Just an hour’s drive from Calais, in Lille, wander through the Vieux-Lille, an enchanting old quarter with cobbled streets, diverse shops and excellent restaurants, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Musée de l'Hospice Comtesse’s permanent collection, with free admission to the museum every Sunday.

If you’re feeling adventurous, Côte d'Opale offers cycling routes starting in Calais, providing an active and scenic exploration of the region, while Dunkirk welcomes you to witness the Carnival of Dunkirk, an event brimming with lively celebrations and traditional revelry.

Belgium

Belgium is a wonderful holiday destination to discover, particularly at the beginning of the year when it entices visitors with its vibrant carnival season and dazzling events. The Ghent Light Festival, taking place from 31st January to 4th February 2024, sees the city’s historic sites and monuments set ablaze with beautiful light installations and performances.

If Belgium is on your travel itinerary, you could also check out the Aalst Carnival, from 11th to 13th February, where the streets come alive with colourful parades and exuberant festivities, or the distinctive traditions of Binche Carnival, a UNESCO-recognised event taking place the same weekend in February, showcasing striking costumes and lively processions.

The Netherlands

The last European destination on P&O Ferries’ list of budget-friendly holidays is the Netherlands. A treasure trove of Dutch culture, this beautiful country has plenty to offer at any time of the year.

Similar to Belgium, February ushers in the Carnival season in the Netherlands. Maastricht, renowned for its breathtaking medieval-era architecture and dynamic cultural scene, becomes the pinnacle of celebration from the 11th to 13th February 2024 for the annual Maastricht Carnival. Immerse yourself in the vibrant spectacle of colourful parades, lively music and the infectious energy that permeates the streets — an extraordinary experience for visitors of all ages!

Discover more about travelling with P&O Ferries and secure your crossing by visiting www.poferries.com.

Terms and conditions

Early Booking Offer - 20% off on long breaks (+5 days)

Offer applies to Dover to Calais service only. Book by 29th February 2024 for travel by 15th December 2024. Valid for travel with a car, high car and up to 9 passengers, and motorcycle with up to 2 passengers. Valid for long stay duration and standard single only. Bookings subject to restricted spaces, sailings and dates. Excludes day trips, 2-day trip short break, foot passengers, bicycles, vans, minibus, motorhomes, caravans and vehicles designed for commercial use. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer & bookings made at port. P&O Ferries reserves the right to amend or withdraw all elements of the promotion without prior notice.

Short Break Offer

This offer is available on all Dover to Calais short break bookings travelled up to 7th February 2024. 3-day breaks from £103 and 5-day breaks from £133 when booked by 4th February 2024 for 3-day, and 2nd February 2024 for 5-day. Excludes long breaks, 2- and 4-day returns, day trips, foot passengers, bicycles, vehicles designed for commercial use, minibuses, motorhomes, caravans or vehicles towing a caravan or trailer. P&O Ferries reserves the right to amend or withdraw all elements of the promotion without prior notice. Subject to Promotional Conditions and P&O Ferries' Terms of Business, both available online at poferries.com.