Le Havre in 5 Days: Beaches, Art, and Culture

Explore the picturesque seaside and historic charm of Le Havre, France.

22 April 2023

Le Havre is a scenic port city located in the Normandy region of France that perfectly captures the spirit of French culture. Upon arrival, visitors can taste the local cuisine, enjoy panoramic views of the beach, and participate in various cultural events. A must-visit attraction in Le Havre is the Museum of Modern Art André Malraux, which houses an extensive collection of Impressionist paintings.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Le Havre's Architecture

  • Check into the adorable Hotel Les Gens de Mer
  • Take a stroll through the city's UNESCO-listed center
  • Admire the post-World War II architecture by Auguste Perret
  • Visit the Volcano Cultural Center for more history and culture
  • Dine at La Taverne Paillette, a cozy local spot with excellent seafood
Day 2

Enjoying the Beaches

  • Pack a picnic and head to Sainte-Adresse beach
  • Take a dip in the sparkling English Channel
  • Walk to the striking Saint-Joseph Church
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Le P'tit Grec
  • Watch the sunset at Le Havre beach
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Visit the MuMa (Musée d'art moderne André Malraux)
  • Spend some time admiring the amazing collections of Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin and other famous artists
  • Walk through the artistic Quartier Saint-François
  • Enjoy a coffee at the trendy Le Poussin Bleu
  • Admire the massive sculpture of Catène sculpture by Philippe Leclercq
Day 4

Day Trip to Etretat

  • Take a short train ride to the stunning seaside town of Etretat
  • Hike along the dramatic cliffs and admire the views
  • Walk along the pebble beach and take a dip if you're brave enough
  • Try some of Normandy's best cider at Cidrerie du Fut d'Aven
  • Head back to Le Havre for a cozy dinner at L'Adresse
Day 5

Leaving for the Future

  • Stop by the gorgeous Eglise Saint-Michel for some final photographs
  • Take in the new architecture of Les Bains des Docks
  • Visit the bustling Saint-Joseph Market
  • Grab one last drink at La Dame de Fer, an old train station turned bar
  • Say goodbye to Le Havre, but not before making plans for a future return visit!

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

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.

3-Day Seaside Adventure in Le Havre, France

Le Havre, located on the northern coast of France, offers tourists the unique opportunity to explore the seaside charm of Normandy. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the city, with highlights such as the stunning seaside promenade and the famous Museum of Modern Art André Malraux. A trip to Le Havre is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty, architecture, and rich history of France.

Le Havre Escapades: A Budget-Friendly Family Adventure!

Le Havre, located on the beautiful coast of Normandy, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip filled with fun and exploration. With its stunning beaches, impressive art museums, and entertaining parks, Le Havre offers a range of activities that will delight both children and adults. Families can enjoy relaxing beach days, visit the renowned MuMa art museum, and explore the enchanting Jardins Suspendus with its delightful playgrounds and breathtaking views.

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.