Weekend Escape to Le Havre: Art, History & Seafood

Discover the vibrant art and maritime heritage of Le Havre, France.

03 May 2023

Le Havre is a port city situated in the region of Normandy in northwestern France. The city is well-known for its modern architecture, breathtaking coastal scenery, and rich history. As a tourist, you can explore some of the city's famous landmarks, such as the MuMa art museum, Saint Joseph Church, and the stunning beaches of Étretat.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Art, History and Seafood

  • Hotel to stay in: Novotel Le Havre Centre Gare
  • Head to the Musée d'Art Moderne André Malraux and marvel at its impressive collection of Impressionist paintings.
  • Take a stroll down the charming Saint-Joseph Church and admire its unique architectural style.
  • Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at Le Marais, a restaurant known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
  • Visit the Maison de l'Armateur, a beautifully restored 18th-century ship owner's house, and learn about the city's maritime history.
  • Take a relaxing walk along the beach promenade and watch the sunset over the English Channel.
  • Have dinner at Les Enfants Sages, a cozy restaurant that serves French cuisine with a modern twist.
Day 2

Nature, Shopping, and Cider

  • Take a trip to Étretat, a stunning seaside town famous for its towering cliffs and pristine beaches.
  • Spend some time exploring the town's charming streets and boutiques and pick up some unique souvenirs.
  • Head to the Cidrerie du Golfe and indulge in a tasting of Normandy's famous apple cider.
  • Enjoy lunch at La Petite Auberge, a quaint restaurant that serves traditional French cuisine.
  • Finish off your day by visiting the Jardins Suspendus (Hanging Gardens), a beautiful park built on a former naval fort.
  • For dinner, head back to Le Havre and enjoy a delicious meal at Le Bistrot des Halles, a casual restaurant that serves French classics with a twist.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Le Havre by plane is to fly into Deauville-Saint-Gatien Airport, which is approximately 30 km from Le Havre. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Le Havre.

Car

The best way to get to Le Havre by car is to drive from Paris to Le Havre, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes via the A13 highway.

Train

The best way to get to Le Havre by train is to take a train from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Le Havre station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Boat

The best way to get to Le Havre by boat is to take a ferry from Portsmouth, UK to Le Havre. Brittany Ferries operate this route, and the journey takes approximately 5 hours.

Bus

The best way to get to Le Havre by bus is to take a bus from Paris Bercy Seine station to Le Havre station. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

More travel plans

Seaside Delights: A Day Trip to Le Havre

Le Havre, France is a port city with a rich maritime history and a lively cultural scene. Highlights of any visit to Le Havre might include exploring the city's modern architecture, taking in art exhibits at the MuMa Museum, and sampling delicious seafood dishes at local restaurants. Visitors can also enjoy strolling along the city's beaches and promenades, or taking a boat tour of the harbor.

Escape for a Romantic Long Weekend in Le Havre

Le Havre, France is a perfect destination for a romantic trip, offering a mix of culture and seaside charm. Discover the stunning architecture of the city, such as the Saint Joseph Church or the famous Perret Tower, before taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade to watch the sunset over the Channel. Indulge in delicious French cuisine at local restaurants, and explore the nearby towns of Honfleur and Etretat for a truly enchanting experience.

Le Havre: A Beachside Adventure for the Whole Family

Le Havre, located on the shores of the English Channel in Normandy, offers a wide array of family-friendly attractions and activities. Families can enjoy exploring the beautiful beaches, visiting the kid-friendly attractions such as the Jardins Suspendus and the Maison de l'Armateur, and immersing themselves in the rich maritime history of the city at the Musée d'histoire naturelle and the Musée portuaire. With its charming architecture, delicious seafood, and welcoming atmosphere, Le Havre is an excellent destination for a memorable family trip.

4 Days of Art, Food, and Fun in Le Havre, France

As a tourist in Le Havre, France, one can expect to experience an artistic city that celebrates modern architecture and cultural exhibitions at the MuMa Museum. Walk along the beachfront promenade to catch a glimpse of the striking Porte Océane, before enjoying freshly caught seafood at the bustling Saint-Joseph Market. Be sure to explore the charming historic streets lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants, before taking in panoramic views of the port from the top of the Mont Joli.