A mere 21 miles from the famous White Cliffs of Dover, Calais is traditionally the gateway to France. A quick hop across the Channel will give you access to this beautiful and diverse country, so begin your holiday by picking up your rental car from the airport or downtown locations. However, before you begin your road trip, it is well worth exploring Calais itself. 

Much more than just a ferry port, the town is famous for its great hypermarkets and shopping for those looking to bag a bargain. Whether you're looking to stock up on some fabulous French wine, sample speciality cheeses or splash the cash in a swanky boutique, you'll be in your element here. 

Alternatively, if you'd like to delve into the culture of the area, there are a few highlights worth noting. The town is renowned for its lacemaking and you can learn all about this at the Cite Calais International Lace and Fashion Centre and the Museum of Fine Arts and Lace. Additional attractions include the War Museum and the Town Hall which boasts impressive architecture. When darkness falls, be sure to pay a visit to one of the town's great restaurants serving up delicious seafood from the coast. 

With France on your doorstep, Bruges less than 90 minutes away and Amsterdam reachable in under four hours, the world really is your oyster when arriving in Calais. However, if you want to start off close to Calais and fancy a day or two basking on the beach, take a drive down the nearby Opal Coast where you will find superb beaches and panoramic cliff-top views.

A popular holiday destination is the stunning South of France. Destinations on the French Riviera such as Monaco (reachable in around five hours) will let you mingle with the glitterati and see the famous hairpin bend of Monte Carlo, while you can see the home of the famous film festival in Cannes and strike a pose on the beach of fashionable St Tropez. Beautiful Nice will allow you to enjoy a cocktail or two in the many beachfront bars or enjoy shopping at the pretty flower markets in the old town.

Or how about taking a trip to the picturesque villages of Provence? This part of France will see your road trip take you through vivid lavender fields, rolling vineyards and sun-drenched fields. Your days will slow as you meander through provincial markets and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. 

Or maybe a Parisian adventure is more up your street? The country's dreamy capital will woo you with its beautiful architecture, iconic landmarks, continental cafes and fabulous food. Enjoy a cruise on the River Seine, immerse yourself in culture in the city's world-famous museums and visit its many enchanting neighbourhoods such as Montmartre. However, one of the best things to do in Paris is just to walk through its beautiful streets, immersing yourself in its magic. Who knows, you might even start your very own love affair with the romantic City of Light.