Honfleur Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in Honfleur with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Honfleur

Situated in the Lower Normandy region of France, Honfleur is a charming port town that has inspired many painters including Monet and Boudin. Its picturesque streets, vibrant harbor, and impressive architecture make it an idyllic destination for tourists looking to experience the French way of life.

List of Places to Visit in Honfleur

Honfleur has plenty of attractions to explore, from its museums to its natural parks. Here is a list of must-visit places that you should not miss out on:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Musée Eugène Boudin - This museum is dedicated to the works of the Honfleur-born painter, Eugène Boudin and displays paintings, drawings, and photographs related to Boudin and his fellow artists, including Monet and Renoir.

  2. Saint Catherine’s Church - The largest wooden church in France, this church was built by sailors in the 15th century with tithe money from the local fishing industry.

  3. Maisons Satie - A museum dedicated to the life and works of the French composer, Erik Satie. The museum exhibits are interactive and offer a unique way to experience music.

Natural Attractions of Honfleur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Naturospace - One of the largest butterfly houses in France, Naturospace offers visitors the chance to observe tropical butterflies in a naturalistic environment.

  2. Jardin des Personnalités - A peaceful garden that pays homage to famous figures that have contributed to the town’s history, including Samuel Beckett and Alphonse Allais.

  3. Mont-Joli - A hill that offers panoramic views of the town and its surroundings. You can hike up to the top or take the car, but the view is worth it either way.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Honfleur

Honfleur is in close proximity to several prime hiking and biking trails that offer beautiful scenery and fresh air. Here are some of the best routes:

  1. The Normandy Bridge - Enjoy a peaceful bike ride along the Normandy Bridge, which connects Honfleur with Le Havre. The bridge is steep, so it may be challenging for those not used to biking uphill.

  2. The GR26 Montchauvet Trail - This 57 km trail passes through the town of Honfleur and offers stunning views of the Seine estuary. It is recommended for more experienced hikers due to its duration and natural terrain.

Best Things to Do in Honfleur: Activities and Tours

Honfleur offers a range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy, including:

  1. Boat Tour - A boat tour of the harbor gives visitors an opportunity to see the town from a unique angle while also learning some fascinating historical details.

  2. Calvados Tasting - Honfleur is famous for its local brandy, Calvados. Visitors can go to a distillery and learn about the fascinating distillation process as well as taste the different varieties.

  3. Art Galleries - Honfleur’s art scene dates back to the 19th century and has many galleries showcasing contemporary and classic works.

Week-Long Itinerary for Honfleur

With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to decide what to prioritize during a visit to Honfleur. Here’s a comprehensive itinerary for a week-long stay in the town:

Day Activity
Day 1 Stroll around the town center and visit Saint Catherine’s Church
Day 2 Take a boat tour or rent a bike and go for a scenic ride
Day 3 Visit the Musée Eugène Boudin and Maisons Satie
Day 4 Hike up Mont-Joli for panoramic views of the town
Day 5 Go to a Calvados distillery for a tasting and learn about the distillation process
Day 6 Explore the art galleries and studios in Honfleur
Day 7 Take a day trip to nearby attractions such as Deauville or Etretat

Food and Drink Scene of Honfleur

Honfleur has a rich culinary scene, with many restaurants and cafes offering delicious cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Moules marinières - Mussels in white wine sauce is a classic French dish that is sure to delight seafood lovers.

  2. Sole meunière - Another seafood classic that consists of Dover sole in a butter and lemon sauce.

  3. Tarte tatin - A rustic apple tart that originated in Normandy.

Local Beverages

  1. Calvados - A potent brandy distilled from apples and pears, calvados is a staple beverage in Honfleur.

  2. Apple cider - Normandy is famous for its delicious apple cider, which is often served with crepes.

Where to Stay in Honfleur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Honfleur has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets and requirements. Here are a few options:

  1. La Maison de Lucie - This boutique hotel is located in the town center and offers elegant rooms and suites with charming decor.

  2. Hotel La Fraîchette - A budget-friendly option located close to Saint Catherine’s Church, this hotel offers cozy rooms and friendly service.

  3. Les Charmettes - Offering traditional Norman architecture and bed & breakfast accommodations, Les Charmettes is perfect for those seeking a homey vibe.

What to Buy in Honfleur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Honfleur has plenty of souvenir shops and boutiques that sell local products. Here are some popular items to bring back home:

  1. Calvados - A bottle of Honfleur’s famous brandy makes for a pleasant and tasty souvenir.

  2. Cheese - Normandy is renowned for its cheese, and there are plenty of varieties available at local shops.

  3. Artisanal honey - Honey from the region is often made from rare flowers and bees, making it a unique and flavorful souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Honfleur

Honfleur has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, history, and customs. Year-round events celebrate local arts, music, and traditions, including the annual seafood festival and painting competition.

Best Time to Visit Honfleur

Honfleur can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is from June to September when the weather is warm and there are many outdoor festivals and events to be enjoyed. During the winter months, many attractions are closed, but visitors can still enjoy the town’s festive holiday atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Honfleur

Do:

  1. Explore the town’s art galleries and studios for unique souvenirs.

  2. Try local seafood and wine at one of Honfleur’s many restaurants.

Don’t:

  1. Block the narrow streets with your car or bike.

  2. Speak too loudly or act inappropriately at religious or historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Honfleur

Honfleur is a safe destination for travelers, but like in any city, visitors should take normal safety precautions, such as locking hotel room doors and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Honfleur

Travelers should have no health concerns in Honfleur. However, visitors are reminded to bring insect repellent as there may be biting insects in the natural parks.

Getting to Honfleur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Honfleur

The nearest airport to Honfleur is Deauville-Saint-Gatien Airport, which has limited connections and is located about 15 km away. The nearest major airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle, which is around 200 km away.

Bus Stations Near Honfleur

Flixbus offers seasonal bus services connecting Honfleur with Paris, and there are also local buses available.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Honfleur, as it is connected to major highways. Taxis are also available for transportation within the town and neighboring areas.

How to Get Around in Honfleur

Honfleur is a small town that is best explored on foot, as the majority of its sights and attractions are nestled within the picturesque streets. Visitors can also rent bicycles to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Honfleur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Honfleur makes a great base for exploring the wider region of Normandy. Here are some nearby attractions and excursions:

  1. Deauville - A luxurious seaside resort town that is located overlooking the English Channel.

  2. Etretat - A stunning coastal town that boasts stunning chalk cliffs and a natural arch.

  3. Mont Saint-Michel - A medieval abbey that is set on a tidal island and is one of France’s most famous landmarks.

Conclusion

Honfleur is a charming town that has plenty to offer visitors, from its rich cultural heritage to its delicious cuisine. A visit to Honfleur is bound to be a memorable experience, and with this comprehensive tour guide, you’ll be able to make the most out of your trip to this beautiful part of France. Bon voyage!

Honfleur - The Vieux Bassin Honfleur - The Vieux Bassin Detail of the buildings lining the harbour Detail of the buildings lining the harbour Sainte-Catherine church Sainte-Catherine church The wooden bell tower The wooden bell tower