Honfleur: Self-Guided Walking Tour (2025)

Begin your walk at St. Catherine’s Church, which is one of Honfleur’s most extraordinary landmarks and a true symbol of the town’s resilience. Built by shipbuilders after the Hundred Years’ War, it was constructed almost entirely of wood, reflecting the maritime expertise of its creators. Its interior, with its twin naves, resembles the hulls of two ships placed side-by-side.

The church’s structure is fascinating not only for its materials but for its ingenious engineering. Large oak beams were sourced from nearby forests, and traditional shipbuilding techniques were used rather than conventional masonry. The bell tower stands separate from the main building, both to preserve the church from fire and due to its later addition.

Visiting St. Catherine’s offers a glimpse into the community’s adaptability and devotion. Despite its humble materials, the church radiates a powerful spiritual and historical presence, making it one of the most beloved places to visit in Honfleur.

Continue to the Lieutenancy, which stands proudly at the entrance to the Old Basin, marking the historic heart of Honfleur. Once part of the town’s fortified defenses, it served as the residence of the King’s Lieutenant. The building’s commanding position reflects Honfleur’s former strategic importance during periods of military tension between France and England.

Today, the restored Lieutenancy houses an Interpretation Center dedicated to Honfleur’s maritime and architectural heritage. Inside, you can explore fascinating exhibits that blend historical documents, virtual reconstructions, and artifacts. The terraces around the building offer exceptional views of the port and the colorful façades that line the Vieux Bassin.

Beyond its historical significance, the Lieutenancy has been reimagined as a cultural space with rotating exhibitions and artist residencies. This blend of old and new allows visitors not only to appreciate the past but also to connect with Honfleur’s ongoing artistic traditions.

At the center of Honfleur’s life and charm lies the Vieux Bassin, or Old Basin. This picturesque harbor, originally dug in the 17th century, served as the bustling heart of Honfleur’s commercial and fishing activities. Its layout remains largely unchanged, surrounded by a harmonious collection of tall, narrow houses.

Walking around the basin is like stepping into a painting. The façades along the Quai Sainte-Catherine reflect beautifully on the water’s surface, creating a scene that has inspired generations of artists. Cafés, boutiques, and galleries line the waterfront, making it a lively spot perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxed drink.

While modern boats now dock in the basin, it remains a vibrant symbol of Honfleur’s maritime spirit. Whether you visit in the golden light of the morning or as the sun sets over the water, the Vieux Bassin is undeniably the soul of the town and a must-see highlight of your walking tour.

The Maritime Museum is housed in the former Saint-Etienne Church, a fitting location given Honfleur’s deep ties to the sea. This 14th-century building, located along the harbor, offers a striking setting for exhibits that showcase the town’s rich nautical history.

Inside, you’ll find models of ships, navigational instruments, paintings, and objects from Honfleur’s seafaring past. The displays highlight everything from fishing and shipbuilding to the great exploratory voyages that launched from Honfleur’s shores during the age of discovery.

A visit to the Maritime Museum provides a deeper appreciation for the role the sea played in shaping Honfleur’s identity. It’s an ideal stop for those interested in maritime history and offers a quiet, contemplative break in your exploration of the lively Old Town.

Located near the Vieux Bassin, the Museum of Ethnography and Norman Popular Arts offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in Honfleur across centuries. Housed in a former prison, the museum recreates traditional Norman interiors and showcases a rich collection of folk objects, clothing, and tools that were once part of everyday life.

Inside, visitors can wander through reconstructed rooms, each offering a snapshot of different periods in Honfleur’s social history. From rustic kitchens and bedrooms to artisan workshops, the exhibits are both charming and informative. Particular attention is given to the craftsmanship and artistry that defined the local way of life.

Beyond domestic scenes, the museum highlights the traditions and customs that shaped Honfleur’s culture. Exploring these authentic displays provides a deeper understanding of the community spirit and resilience that remain integral to Honfleur’s identity today.

Dating back to the 15th century, Roncheville Manor is one of Honfleur’s hidden gems. Originally built by the Bertan family, the structure was later adapted by wealthy shipowners, reflecting the town’s prosperity during its maritime golden age. The building’s elegant design combines elements of medieval and Renaissance architecture.

As you admire the manor’s intricate stonework and timber framing, you can imagine the bustling life that once centered around it. Merchants, shipbuilders, and explorers would have passed through its halls, planning voyages and trading goods that connected Honfleur to the wider world.

Today, Roncheville Manor stands as a testament to Honfleur’s historical wealth and craftsmanship. Although it is not always open to the public, it remains a captivating stop for visitors interested in architecture and the town’s rich maritime heritage.

Honfleur’s impressive Salt Granaries, built in 1670, are another remarkable example of the town’s commercial importance. Constructed from stones salvaged from the old city walls, the granaries were used to store large quantities of salt — a vital commodity for preserving fish during transatlantic voyages.

The architecture of the granaries reflects the techniques of marine carpenters, with vast oak frameworks that have endured through centuries. Walking through the interior, visitors can sense the scale of Honfleur’s involvement in the cod fishing expeditions to Newfoundland and its broader trading networks.

Today, the Salt Granaries have been beautifully repurposed as cultural venues, hosting exhibitions, concerts, and conferences. Their enduring presence adds yet another layer of historical depth to your journey through Honfleur’s storied streets.

Continue to the impressive Saint-Leonard Church, dedicated to the patron saint of prisoners. First documented in 1186, the church showcases a fascinating mix of styles due to centuries of destruction and reconstruction. Its flamboyant Gothic façade and unique bell tower make it a striking start to your tour.

The church’s atmosphere is remarkably peaceful, offering visitors a moment of reflection amid their exploration of Honfleur. Its bright interior and elegant stained-glass windows depict scenes from the life of Saint Leonard and the town’s seafaring history. Despite being rebuilt several times, it has managed to maintain an old-world spirit, blending various architectural styles seamlessly.

Visiting Saint-Leonard Church gives insight into Honfleur’s long spiritual tradition and community resilience. It’s a living monument to the town’s faith and perseverance over centuries of warfare, reconstruction, and cultural flourishing.

From the church, stroll toward the Tripot Garden. This tranquil haven, nestled in the heart of Honfleur’s historic center, invites visitors to relax by the streams and enjoy the green promontories. Mosaic artworks by Annick Leroy recall the craftsmanship of former tanners and dyers, adding a touch of artistry to your promenade.

The garden is designed to be a peaceful pause in the middle of the town’s historic quarters. Water channels that once served Honfleur’s medieval industries now meander serenely through leafy surroundings, and footbridges and stone walkways invite leisurely exploration. It’s a lovely place to enjoy nature’s calming influence while still connected to the town’s rich history.

Thanks to the creativity of contemporary artists and thoughtful landscaping, Tripot Garden honors Honfleur’s heritage while offering visitors a quiet, contemplative space. It’s particularly beautiful in spring and summer, when flowers and greenery are at their peak.

Warning: The next 2 places require a climb up a step hill, feel free to skip it if it’s been a long day!

Perched on a hill overlooking Honfleur and the Seine estuary, the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Grâce is a peaceful retreat offering breathtaking views. Built between the 17th and 19th centuries, it replaced an earlier chapel founded by the Duke of Normandy.

The chapel’s charming interior is adorned with paintings, model ships, and votive offerings from sailors, a testament to Honfleur’s enduring maritime heritage. The bells of the chapel are famous throughout the region and add to its serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Visiting the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Grâce is a perfect way to end your Honfleur walking tour. It provides not only spiritual and historical insights but also a panoramic viewpoint where you can pause and reflect on the beauty and history of this unforgettable Norman town.

The Eugène Boudin Museum pays homage to one of Honfleur’s most famous sons, often called the “father of Impressionism.” The museum houses an impressive collection of works by Boudin, as well as paintings by other artists who were captivated by Honfleur’s unique light and landscapes.

Inside, you’ll find an inspiring array of seascapes, portraits, and early Impressionist works. Beyond Boudin himself, the museum’s collection includes pieces by Courbet, Monet, and Jongkind, offering a broad perspective on the artistic revolution that Honfleur helped spark.

A visit to the Eugène Boudin Museum offers a perfect opportunity to connect Honfleur’s artistic past with its present-day charm. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and anyone wishing to understand the profound impact this little Norman town had on the wider art world.