Le Havre
Country: France · Region: Northern Europe · Currency: Euro
Le Havre is a port city at the mouth of the Seine on the English Channel, notable for its UNESCO World Heritage reconstructed city centre designed by Auguste Perret using reinforced concrete after World War II bombing. The cruise terminal is just south of the ferry terminal with a shuttle bus bringing visitors downtown in 5-10 minutes.
Top sights
Saint-Joseph Church, Town Hall (Hôtel-de-Ville), Malraux Museum, Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Centre (Le Volcan), Maison de l'Armateur, St Vincent District
Things to do
- Saint-Joseph Church (Église Saint-Joseph)
- Designed by Auguste Perret with a tall tower lined with coloured glass lending the interior unique tranquility.
- Town Hall (Hôtel-de-ville)
- Situated on one of the largest squares in France with a climbable tower offering views of the city layout.
- Malraux Museum (Musée Malraux or MuMa)
- Houses the largest Impressionist collection in France outside of Paris with admission €10.
- Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Centre (Le Volcan)
- An iconic building designed by leading architect Oscar Niemeyer located in the centre of town.
Beaches
- Le Havre Beach
- Offers restaurants, bars, and nightlife with bike rental available at the tourist office along the beach.
Where to eat
- Restaurant Jean-Luc Tartarin
- Two Michelin star restaurant with prices ranging €40-180.
- Les Halles
- Covered market south of the city centre near the pedestrian area with shops selling cheese, meat, bakeries, wine, and cider.
Bars and nightlife
- Quartier St-François
- Neighbourhood home to several bars in addition to diverse restaurants and crêperies.
Getting around
The town centre is easily covered on foot, with local buses available, and visitors can rent bikes from the tourist office or rent a car from Avis at the train station.
What to eat
Quartier St-François offers a great selection of restaurants including crêperies, and Normandy is famous for its cider and cheese available at Les Halles covered market.
Tips
Pick up a map at the cruise terminal and take the funiculaire (cable car) for €0.40 to reach the upper plateau with panoramic views of the city and harbour.
Best for
History, Architecture, Beach, Museums