Welcome to Le Havre

Le Havre, located on the northern coast of France, is a vibrant port city known for its modernist architecture, rich history, and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. As one of the largest ports in France, Le Havre serves as a gateway to Normandy and beyond, offering visitors easy access to iconic destinations such as Paris, the D-Day landing beaches, and the picturesque town of Honfleur. For cruise passengers, Le Havre is an ideal starting point for exploring both the city itself and the surrounding region, with plenty to see and do in a 6-10 hour visit.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at the Le Havre Cruise Terminal, located just 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the city center. The port is modern and efficient, offering easy access for cruise passengers to explore the city or embark on excursions to nearby attractions. Le Havre welcomes around 400,000 cruise passengers annually, making it one of the busiest ports in France. Most visitors spend their time exploring the city’s architectural gems, visiting local museums, or taking day trips to nearby attractions such as Honfleur or the Normandy beaches.

Transportation Options

Le Havre is well-connected, and getting around the city and its surrounding areas is convenient. Here are some transportation options:

• Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal and can take you to the city center or nearby attractions. The ride to the city center takes about 5-10 minutes.
• Shuttle Services: Some cruise lines offer shuttle buses to key areas like the city center or nearby towns such as Honfleur.
• Public Transport: Le Havre has an extensive tram and bus network that connects the port to the city center and other areas. A tram ride to the city center takes about 10 minutes.
• Train: The Le Havre train station provides connections to major destinations, including Paris, which is approximately 2 hours by train.

Nearby Towns and Cities

Le Havre’s strategic location makes it an ideal base for visiting nearby towns and cities:

• Honfleur: 25 km (16 miles) away, about a 30-minute drive. A charming port town known for its picturesque harbor, historic buildings, and art galleries.
• Étretat: 30 km (19 miles) away, about a 40-minute drive. Famous for its dramatic white cliffs and natural rock arches overlooking the English Channel.
• Paris: 200 km (124 miles) away, about 2 hours by train or 2.5 hours by car. The capital city of France, known for its world-class museums, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture.

Local Foods

Normandy is famous for its rich culinary traditions, and Le Havre is no exception. While visiting, be sure to try:

• Moules Marinières: Mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and herbs, a classic dish from the Normandy coast.
• Camembert: A creamy, soft cheese from Normandy, often served with bread and cider.
• Tarte Tatin: An upside-down apple tart that originated in Normandy, made with caramelized apples and flaky pastry.
• Cider: Normandy is known for its delicious apple cider, which pairs perfectly with local cheeses and seafood.
• Calvados: A traditional apple brandy from the region, often enjoyed as a digestif after a meal.

Top 5 Attractions

Le Havre is rich in cultural and architectural history. Here are the top five attractions you should explore during your visit:

• St. Joseph’s Church: A modernist masterpiece designed by Auguste Perret, this church features a striking tower and beautiful stained glass. Entry is free.
• Museum of Modern Art André Malraux (MuMa): Located near the harbor, this museum houses an impressive collection of Impressionist paintings, including works by Monet and Boudin. Entry is around €7 per person.
• Le Havre Beach: A beautiful stretch of pebble beach perfect for a relaxing walk or seaside dining. Free to visit.
• Les Jardins Suspendus (The Hanging Gardens): A botanical garden offering panoramic views of the city and the port, located in a former military fort. Entry is around €3 per person.
• Auguste Perret Architecture Tour: Le Havre’s post-WWII reconstruction by architect Auguste Perret is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with guided tours available to explore his modernist vision. Tour prices vary.

Interesting Facts

Le Havre has a fascinating history and unique features. Here are some interesting facts about the city:

• Le Havre’s city center was completely rebuilt after World War II, and its modernist architecture earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2005.
• The name “Le Havre” means “The Harbor” in French, reflecting the city’s long history as an important port.
• Claude Monet, the famous Impressionist painter, was born in Le Havre, and many of his early works were inspired by the city’s coastal landscapes.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Le Havre is located on the northern coast of France, where the Seine River meets the English Channel. The city is surrounded by the rolling hills of Normandy, and its coastal location makes it an ideal gateway to exploring the region’s natural beauty. The famous white cliffs of Étretat and the charming town of Honfleur are just a short drive away. Le Havre’s port is one of the largest in France, and the city’s location provides easy access to both the Normandy countryside and major cities like Paris.

Local Customs and Culture

Le Havre is known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic history. Visitors will find the locals friendly and welcoming, and it is customary to greet others with “Bonjour” (Good day) or “Bonsoir” (Good evening). Tipping in restaurants and cafes is appreciated but not mandatory, as service is usually included in the bill. Le Havre is also proud of its maritime traditions, and seafood plays a central role in the local cuisine. Visitors can experience the city’s cultural side through its museums, art galleries, and live music events, especially during the summer months.

Family-Friendly Activities

Le Havre offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families with children of all ages:

• Children up to 6 years old: Visit the Le Havre Beach, where young children can enjoy playing by the sea and building pebble towers.
• Children 7-12 years old: Explore the Hanging Gardens (Les Jardins Suspendus) and discover different plants and flowers while taking in the views of the city and port.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Take a day trip to Étretat, where teens can hike along the cliffs and capture stunning photos of the dramatic coastline.

Google Maps

Le Havre

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*