Location & Transportation
Honfleur is a truly picturesque and charming harbor nestled where the Seine estuary meets the Atlantic Coast. The port itself features three distinct docks: the western "Old Dock," the eastern Republican Dock (built in 1840), and the larger Carnot Dock (built in 1892). One of Honfleur’s unique qualities is that it functions both as a sea port and a river port.
Your ship will dock at the Quai de Seine, about 1.5 km from the town center. From the pier you can easily grab a taxi or enjoy a pleasant 5- to 10-minute walk to explore this historic town. The new terminal is fully accessible, and while there you’ll find a Tourist Office and a boutique selling souvenirs and regional specialties from Normandy.
Nearby Lodging
Honfleur offers a range of charming boutique hotels and guesthouses, many located near the picturesque old harbor. Staying in a converted historic building adds to the authentic Norman experience.
Nearest Airport
The closest airport is Deauville – Normandie Airport (DOL), which is about 20 km away. For more international flight options, Paris airports are roughly a two-hour drive away. Taxis and shuttle services can help you connect from the airport to Honfleur.
Sightseeing
Strolling around Honfleur feels like walking through a living museum. The town is renowned as the birthplace of impressionism and romanticism, and its rich maritime past is evident everywhere you look.
Highlights include:
- The enchanting Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor) surrounded by crooked, slate-fronted houses, art galleries, and cozy cafés.
- A walk along the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses that tell the story of centuries past.
- The wooden St. Catherine's Church with its unique chestnut-shingled bell tower.
- Exploring narrow lanes that lead to hidden corners perfect for photography.
Don’t miss a visit to the local museums:
- Eugene Boudin Museum: Showcasing pre-impressionist and contemporary artworks by Norman artists.
- Maritime Museum: Discover maritime artifacts, model ships, and tales of seafarers from ages past.
Tours & Excursions
If you have a bit more time, step out of town and explore the beautiful surroundings of Normandy. Some great options include:
- A short trip to Deauville, a lovely 19th-century resort with long sandy beaches, wooden beach huts, and a charming boardwalk.
- Exploring the French countryside where rolling hills and scenic vistas set the stage for a relaxing day outside of Honfleur.
- Taking a guided walking tour to dive deeper into Honfleur’s maritime history and artistic heritage.
Shopping
Honfleur is a dream for lovers of antiques and unique works of art. In its old quarter, you'll find:
- A variety of galleries and antiquity shops filled with treasures waiting to be discovered.
- Local artisan boutiques offering handmade souvenirs that capture the spirit of Normandy.
Dining
The culinary scene in Honfleur is as charming as its streets. Seafood is a specialty here:
- Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking the harbor—the catch of the day is always a solid choice.
- For a truly local experience, visit the Saturday open-air market where you can pick up regional cheeses, excellent local cider, and other gourmet treats for a picnic.
- Many cafés and bistros in the town offer a cozy setting to relax and taste Normandy’s culinary delights.
Culture & Local Events
Honfleur is steeped in art, maritime history, and local traditions. Here are some tidbits to help you blend in:
Local Events
- During the summer, the town buzzes with art exhibitions, local markets, and festivals celebrating its rich seafaring past.
- Even if there isn’t a major festival on your visit, you’ll find that every street corner has a story, whether it’s through local art or an impromptu musical performance in a café.
Safety & Awareness
- The local emergency number in France is 112.
- While Honfleur is generally a very safe town, it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Additionally, here are a few cultural notes that might be helpful:
- Though the Euro is the local currency, most places accept major credit cards. Still, it’s nice to have some cash for markets and smaller shops.
- Shops and cafés typically open around 8–9 AM. Many smaller businesses may close briefly for lunch between 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM, with some boulangeries remaining open on Sunday mornings until noon.