Honfleur: The Complete Guide

Honfleur France

Honfleur is a delightful town in Normandy, known for its charming old harbor and scenic surroundings. As you stroll along the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter a variety of art galleries, quaint cafés, and local shops, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed day out. The picturesque harbor, lined with colorful wooden houses and bustling with activity, is a highlight, offering numerous opportunities for photography and leisure. With the stunning backdrop of the Seine River, the town provides a peaceful escape while remaining easily accessible from nearby cities like Deauville.

Beyond the harbor, Honfleur also offers a wealth of natural beauty, with the nearby cliffs and beaches providing ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the coast or take a boat tour to get a different view of the area. The town also hosts a number of cultural events throughout the year, including art festivals and music performances, making it an exciting place to visit regardless of the season. Whether you’re looking to unwind or immerse yourself in local culture, Honfleur has something for every type of traveler.

Table of Contents

History of Honfleur

Honfleur: Early History

Honfleur’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, with the town emerging as a prominent port and a vital center for maritime trade. During the 12th century, Honfleur was a thriving fishing and trading hub, with connections to both England and France. It played a significant role in the Norman conquest of England and the development of transatlantic trade routes in the centuries that followed.

Honfleur: Renaissance and 17th Century

By the 16th and 17th centuries, Honfleur had become one of the most important ports in France. The town experienced significant growth during this period, with French explorers departing from Honfleur for the New World. Honfleur was also an essential center for the arts, particularly for painters, who were drawn to its scenic beauty. The town became a popular destination for artists like Eugène Boudin, who would later influence the famous Impressionist movement.

Honfleur: 19th Century and the Impressionists

In the 19th century, Honfleur solidified its reputation as an artistic haven. The town attracted numerous painters and artists, including Claude Monet, who painted several iconic works in and around the harbor. The picturesque views of the old port, the traditional wooden houses, and the surrounding countryside provided endless inspiration. This artistic legacy still persists today, with Honfleur being home to several galleries and museums dedicated to its rich artistic heritage.

Honfleur: 20th Century to Present

The 20th century saw Honfleur maintain its charm as a coastal town, popular with tourists seeking both history and natural beauty. The town’s harbor continued to be a focal point, with boats and yachts frequenting its waters. Honfleur today retains much of its old-world charm while embracing modern tourism, with a thriving cultural scene, fine dining, and historic landmarks that attract visitors from all over the world. The town’s role as an artistic and cultural destination remains central to its identity.

Visiting Honfleur for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Honfleur on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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14 Best places to See in Honfleur

This complete guide to Honfleur not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Honfleur and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Jardin du Tripot

Honfleur Tripot
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Roland Godefroy
If the lively streets of Honfleur start to feel overwhelming, seek solace in the Jardin du Tripot, an unassuming yet enchanting garden tucked away in an alley that connects three bustling downtown streets. This verdant retreat, complete with a gently flowing river, lush greenery, and artistic installations, offers visitors a serene escape from the commotion outside. However, the roles were…
Location: Jardin du Tripot, Allée du Tripot, Honfleur, France | Distance: 0.0km
Visiting Jardin du Tripot

We recommend to rent a car in France through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Roncheville Manor

Roncheville Manor
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Dennis G. Jarvis
Roncheville Manor, also known as Manoir de Roncheville, is an emblem of Honfleur's architectural and historical richness, reflecting centuries of transformation and purpose. Before the current building’s construction in 1470, the site was home to a residence belonging to the Bertan family, viscounts of Roncheville and lords of Honfleur. Admiral Louis de Bourbon, a distinguished figure of his time and…
Location: Rue Saint-Antoine 14600 Honfleur France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Roncheville Manor

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Honfleur . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

The Museums of Old Honfleur

Honfleur Maisons Anciennes
CC BY-SA 1.0 / René Hourdry
The Maritime Museum, located in the former Saint-Etienne Church on the edge of the Vieux Bassin, captures the seafaring essence of Honfleur. As the oldest church in the city, this Gothic structure now serves as a cultural landmark where ship models, tools, engravings, and artifacts narrate the vibrant history of fishing, shipbuilding, and commerce in the 18th and 19th centuries.…
Location: Rue de la Prison, 14600 Honfleur, France | Hours: April - September, daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM. October - March, Weekdays 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM Weekends 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM | Price: €4.20 for adults | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting The Museums of Old Honfleur

Explore Honfleur yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Musée de la Marine, Honfleur

Musée De La Marine,Honfleur
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Pierre Noël
The Maritime Museum, or Musée de la Marine, is a captivating cultural site located in the historic Saint-Etienne church, which stands on the edge of Honfleur’s picturesque Vieux Bassin. As the oldest church in the city, dating back to the 14th century, Saint-Etienne provides a fitting backdrop for a museum dedicated to Honfleur’s rich maritime heritage. The church’s Gothic architecture,…
Location: Musée de la Marine, Quai Saint-Etienne, Honfleur, France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Musée de la Marine, Honfleur

Salt Granaries in Honfleur

Honfleur, Grenier à Sel
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Ibex73
The Salt Granaries in Honfleur are a fascinating historical site that reflects the town's maritime and economic heritage. Built in 1670, these granaries were originally constructed to store up to 10,000 tonnes of salt, which was vital for preserving cod during fishing campaigns on the banks of Newfoundland. The granaries were strategically located near the port, ensuring easy access for…
Location: Les Greniers à Sel, Rue de la ville, Honfleur, France | Distance: 0.1km
Visiting Salt Granaries in Honfleur

Lieutenance

Lieutenance Honfleur
La Lieutenance, located at the entrance to Honfleur’s Vieux Bassin (Old Port), is a prestigious historical building that dates back to the 14th century. Originally part of the fortifications built by King Charles V, it served as “La Porte de Caen,” controlling access to the central town of l’Enclos. Over the centuries, the ramparts were demolished, and the building was…
Location: La Lieutenance-Honfleur Monument Historique, quai de la Planchette, Honfleur, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Lieutenance

The Vieux Bassin (Old Port), Honfleur

The Vieux Bassin (Old Port) Honfleur
The Vieux Bassin, or Old Port, in Honfleur is one of the most iconic and picturesque landmarks in Normandy. This historic harbor, dating back to the 17th century, is surrounded by charming half-timbered houses and tall, narrow buildings with slate roofs, creating a postcard-perfect scene. The port was originally constructed to accommodate fishing and trading vessels, and its strategic location…
Location: Port of Honfleur Quai de la Quarantaine 14600 Honfleur France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting The Vieux Bassin (Old Port), Honfleur

Saint-Léonard Church, Honfleur

Place Saint Léonard, Honfleur, France
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Nortmannus
Saint-Léonard Church in Honfleur is a captivating example of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, located in the southeastern part of this charming Normandy town. The church’s origins date back to the 12th century, though much of the current structure was rebuilt in the 17th and 18th centuries after being damaged during the Wars of Religion. Its most striking feature is the…
Location: Place Saint-Léonard, Honfleur, France | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Saint-Léonard Church, Honfleur

Church of Sainte-Catherine, Honfleur

Church Of Sainte Catherine, Honfleur
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Christophe.Finot
The Church of Sainte-Catherine in Honfleur, an architectural marvel, arose from the ashes of a stone church destroyed during the prolonged chaos of the Hundred Years’ War. As an almost ironic byproduct of war’s devastation, its replacement—built hastily in the late 15th century—now stands as one of France’s oldest and largest wooden churches. Intended to be temporary, the church defied…
Location: Église Sainte-Catherine, Place Sainte-Catherine, Honfleur, France | Price: Free | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Church of Sainte-Catherine, Honfleur

The Eugène Boudin Museum

The Eugène Boudin Museum, Honfleur
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Dr Bob Hall
The Eugène Boudin Museum in Honfleur is a tribute to one of the pioneers of Impressionism, Eugène Boudin, who was born in the town in 1824. The museum, established in 1868, is housed in a historic building that was once part of the Augustinian convent. Its collection includes over 100 works by Boudin, alongside pieces by other renowned artists such…
Location: Eugène Boudin Museum Honfleur, Rue de l'Homme de Bois, Honfleur, France | Hours: Daily: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Closed Tuesdays | Price: Adults €8 | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting The Eugène Boudin Museum

Les Maisons Satie

Birthplace Of Satie
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Gortyna
Les Maisons Satie offers one of the most unusual and imaginative museum experiences in Normandy. Dedicated to composer Erik Satie, who was born in Honfleur in 1866, this space is far from a traditional museum. Instead, it immerses visitors in the whimsical and surreal world that Satie inhabited through a blend of sound, light, and interactive installations. From the very…
Location: Maisons Satie, Boulevard Charles V, Honfleur, France | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Les Maisons Satie

Vieux Phare de Honfleur

Vieux Phare De Honfleur
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Philippe Alès
The Vieux Phare de Honfleur, also known as the Old Lighthouse of Honfleur, is a historical maritime landmark located on the southern bank of the Seine estuary in Honfleur, Normandy. Constructed in 1853, this lighthouse was originally built to complement the nearby Phare de Fatouville and guide ships safely into the port of Honfleur. It replaced an earlier wooden structure…
Location: Vieux Phare de Honfleur, D513, Honfleur, France | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Vieux Phare de Honfleur

Chapelle Notre-Dame de Grâce

Chapelle Notre Dame De Grâce
CC BY-SA 2.0 / René Dinkel
Perched atop the Plateau de Grâce, the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Grâce offers a serene retreat with panoramic views over Honfleur, the Seine estuary, and the Pont de Normandie. This 17th-century chapel, constructed between 1600 and 1615, replaced an earlier sanctuary lost to a cliff collapse in 1538. Its modest exterior belies a richly adorned interior, featuring ex-voto paintings and ship…
Location: Chapelle Notre Dame de Grâce, Côte de Grâce, Équemauville, France | Hours: Open: Daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM | Price: Free | Distance: 1.0km
Visiting Chapelle Notre-Dame de Grâce

Garden of Personalities

Garden Of Personalities In Honfleur
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Philippe Alès
The Garden of Personalities in Honfleur is a serene and expansive green space, spanning 10 hectares along the Seine estuary. This tranquil retreat offers visitors an escape from the bustling historic center of Honfleur, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and reflection. To reach the garden, follow the Promenade de la Jetée to the lock, where a large gate marks…
Location: Le Jardin des Personnalités, Route de Trouville, Honfleur, France | Distance: 1.1km
Visiting Garden of Personalities

Best Day Trips from Honfleur

A day trip from Honfleur offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Honfleur provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Deauville

Deauville France
Visiting Deauville offers a refreshing coastal getaway with its beautiful beaches, upscale atmosphere, and chic resort town charm. The famed Deauville boardwalk is a must-see, where you can enjoy long strolls along the beach, taking in the sea breeze and the elegant, colorful umbrellas that line the shore. The town is known for its luxurious casinos, stylish boutiques, and fine…
Visiting Deauville

Jumièges Abbey

Overview Of Abbaye De Jumièges
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Philippe Alès
Jumièges Abbey, nestled in a serene meander of the Seine River in Normandy, stands as one of France's most evocative monastic ruins. Founded in 654 by Saint Philibert, the abbey flourished under royal patronage, becoming a significant center of learning and spirituality. Despite suffering devastation during Viking raids in the 9th century, it was revitalized in the 11th century, with…
Location: Jumièges Abbey, Rue Guillaume le Conquérant, Jumièges, France | Hours: Summer: 9:30am to 6:30pm Winter: 9:30am to 1pm and 2:30pm to 5:30pm | Price: Adults: €7 | Website | Distance: 42.3km
Visiting Jumièges Abbey

Caen

Caen France
Caen, located in Normandy, is a charming and vibrant city that offers visitors a blend of cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and a lively atmosphere. Caen is one of the most underrated cities in France. The city is known for its impressive medieval architecture, including the stunning Caen Castle, which offers panoramic views over the city and surrounding areas. Strolling through the…
Visiting Caen
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Rouen

Rouen
Visiting Rouen offers a rich and atmospheric experience in one of the most striking cities of Normandy. Known for its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses, and impressive cathedral, Rouen is a city that combines charm with a distinctly artistic edge. Whether you're meandering through medieval alleyways or browsing boutiques and cafés, the city feels both accessible and steeped in character—ideal for…
Visiting Rouen
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Bayeux

Bayeux
Visiting Bayeux feels like stepping into a picture-perfect postcard, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and the gentle flow of the Aure River adding to the town’s charm. It's a town best explored on foot—meandering through the old town, stopping in little artisan shops, and finding a quiet café terrace to take in the atmosphere. The towering cathedral catches your…
Visiting Bayeux
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Giverny

Monets Garden
Visiting Giverny feels like stepping into a painting. The village is famously beautiful, with colorful gardens spilling over stone walls, winding lanes shaded by trees, and a peaceful, slow-paced atmosphere that invites you to linger. As you stroll through the village, you’ll find that almost every corner offers a picture-perfect view — whether it’s a row of traditional Norman houses,…
Visiting Giverny
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Beauvais

Beauvais
Visiting Beauvais offers a refreshing mix of charm, elegance, and a sense of quiet authenticity. When you arrive, the first thing that strikes you is the peaceful rhythm of the town, with its relaxed pace that feels far from the rush of bigger cities. The centerpiece, of course, is the magnificent Beauvais Cathedral — towering and incomplete, yet breathtaking in…
Visiting Beauvais

Abbeville

Abbey Abbeville
Nestled in the lush Somme Valley of the Hauts-de-France region, Abbeville makes an inviting base for both nature lovers and urban explorers. Begin your morning with a stroll along the river Somme, where cherry blossoms and willow-lined quays set a tranquil scene. Local cafés by the Pont-République serve rich Picardy coffee and buttery croissants, perfect accompaniments before heading out to…
Visiting Abbeville

Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel
Visiting Mont Saint Michel is an unforgettable experience, with its breathtaking beauty and captivating atmosphere. The island commune, perched atop a rocky hill, is surrounded by tidal waters and offers stunning panoramic views from its ramparts. As you approach, the abbey rises majestically into the sky, while the charming cobbled streets and medieval architecture draw visitors into a world frozen…
Visiting Mont Saint Michel
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Le Touquet

Le Touquet
Le Touquet, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is a charming seaside town that offers the perfect mix of beach relaxation and outdoor activities. Known for its beautiful wide sandy beaches, Le Touquet attracts visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and variety of things to do. Whether you’re strolling along the boardwalk, cycling through its coastal paths, or enjoying water sports like…
Visiting Le Touquet

Le Mans

Le Mans France
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Selbymay
Le Mans is a captivating city located in the Pays de la Loire region, known for its blend of modern and medieval charm. The city is best known for its annual 24 Hours of Le Mans race, drawing motorsport enthusiasts from around the globe. Beyond the excitement of racing, visitors can explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, with…
Visiting Le Mans
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Where to Stay in Honfleur

Alongside the historic Vieux Bassin, charming properties put you steps from the bobbing fishing boats and waterfront cafés. Hôtel Le Manoir des Impressionnistes occupies a converted townhouse overlooking the basin, with wood-beamed rooms and a riverside terrace perfect for morning coffee. Just around the corner, La Ferme Saint Simeon blends 19th-century Norman architecture with modern spa facilities and Michelin-starred dining, its gardens providing peaceful views back toward the harbor.

Tucked into the winding lanes of the Sainte-Catherine district, where half-timbered houses line quiet streets, boutique inns offer a more intimate experience. Hôtel de la Diligence occupies a 17th-century coaching house, with antique furnishings, flower-filled balconies and a cozy library bar. Nearby, Villa Beaulieu provides contemporary rooms set within a restored merchant’s home, complete with a sunlit courtyard and panoramic views of the slate roofs.

On the gentle plateau above the town, countryside retreats and guesthouses sit amid apple orchards and overlooked by the Église Sainte-Catherine’s steeple. Le Samara offers bright, minimalist rooms opening onto a shaded garden, while Chambres d’Hôtes Les Tilleuls welcomes guests into spacious suites in a converted farmhouse, with hearty regional breakfasts and private terraces overlooking rolling Norman fields.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Honfleur. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Honfleur Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Honfleur

Honfleur: Spring (March to May)

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Honfleur, as the town begins to awaken with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. The gardens and parks in and around the town come to life, offering a peaceful and scenic environment. The crowds are also lighter compared to the summer months, making it a great time for those seeking a more tranquil experience.

Honfleur: Summer (June to August)

Summer in Honfleur is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and bustling streets filled with tourists. The town comes alive with outdoor festivals, lively markets, and events like the famous “Festival of the Sea.” If you enjoy vibrant, lively atmospheres and warm temperatures, summer is the perfect time to explore Honfleur’s beautiful harbor and waterfront.

Honfleur: Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Honfleur, as the crowds from the summer months have diminished, yet the weather remains relatively mild. The fall foliage around the town offers stunning views, especially for those who enjoy photography or scenic walks. The cooler weather also makes it a pleasant time for exploring the town’s historic sites without the heat of summer.

Honfleur: Winter (December to February)

Winter is the quietest time in Honfleur, offering a more serene and peaceful atmosphere. While the weather can be chilly, the town’s charming streets and cozy cafes provide a welcoming ambiance. If you’re a fan of festive holiday decorations, visiting during the Christmas season allows you to enjoy the seasonal lights and decorations that adorn the town, making it a magical experience.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 8°C
  • February 9°C
  • March 10°C
  • April 12°C
  • May 14°C
  • June 18°C
  • July 20°C
  • August 21°C
  • September 20°C
  • October 16°C
  • November 12°C
  • December 10°C

How to get to Honfleur

Honfleur: Getting to Honfleur by Car

The most convenient way to visit Honfleur is by car. It’s easily accessible from major cities in France, such as Paris, which is around a 2-hour drive away. The town is located off the A29 motorway, which connects to the nearby port city of Le Havre, making it simple to navigate by car.

Honfleur: Getting to Honfleur by Train

If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train to Le Havre or Trouville-Deauville, both of which are nearby, and then take a short bus ride or taxi to Honfleur. From Paris, it’s about a 2.5-hour train ride to Le Havre, followed by a quick transfer to Honfleur. Trains are a relaxing option for those who want to avoid the stress of driving.

Honfleur: Getting to Honfleur by Bus

For a more budget-friendly option, buses to Honfleur are available from several major cities in France, including Paris. The bus ride from Paris to Honfleur takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, and the buses are generally comfortable, with several services available throughout the day. It’s a great option if you’re looking to save money and don’t mind a slightly longer journey.

Honfleur: Getting to Honfleur by Plane

For those traveling from further afield, the nearest airport to Honfleur is Deauville–Normandy Airport, about 10 km away. Alternatively, you can fly into Rouen or even Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, which is about 2 hours away by car. From these airports, you can easily reach Honfleur by train, bus, or taxi.

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