Welcome to Honfleur, a jewel of France's Normandy coast and a port that feels like stepping into an Impressionist painting. This charming harbor town is a favorite stop for smaller luxury and river cruise lines such as Viking River Cruises, Ponant, and Seabourn. Its appeal lies in its remarkably preserved old port, the Vieux Bassin, with its iconic tall, narrow houses and bobbing fishing boats. Cruise visitors are captivated by its artistic heritage, cobblestone streets, and the authentic atmosphere of a historic French fishing village.
The undeniable heart of Honfleur is the Vieux Bassin, the old harbor. Spend time strolling around the quay, admiring the slate-fronted 17th-century townhouses that were famously captured on canvas by artists like Monet and Boudin.
A short walk from the harbor leads to Sainte-Catherine's Church (Église Sainte-Catherine), a remarkable sight as it is the largest wooden church in France. Built by shipwrights in the 15th century, its ceiling resembles an overturned ship's hull, showcasing the town's maritime history.
Art lovers should not miss the Eugène Boudin Museum, which honors the Honfleur-born painter and his contemporaries. The museum features an excellent collection of pre-impressionist and impressionist works that celebrate the beautiful light and landscapes of Normandy.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
A popular nearby excursion is to the glamorous seaside resorts of Deauville and Trouville-sur-Mer, located just a 25-30 minute drive away. These towns are famous for their grand casinos, horse races, film festivals, and wide sandy beaches lined with iconic boardwalks.
For history enthusiasts, a full-day trip to the historic D-Day Landing Beaches is a profound experience. Sites like Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer, and Arromanches-les-Bains are approximately a 1 to 1.5-hour drive from the port.
You can also explore the pastoral countryside of the Pays d'Auge, renowned for its scenic 'Cider Route' (Route du Cidre). This scenic drive takes you through charming villages with half-timbered houses where you can sample local products like Camembert cheese, Calvados, and cider.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The cruise port in Honfleur, the Quai en Seine, is conveniently located very close to the historic town center. It is typically a pleasant and easy 10-15 minute walk from the dock to the iconic Vieux Bassin and the main tourist areas.
Because of the short distance, shuttle buses are often not required, though some cruise lines may offer them as a courtesy. Larger cruise ships that cannot navigate into the inner harbor may anchor in the Seine estuary and tender passengers ashore, dropping them off conveniently close to the town center. The immediate pier area is primarily functional, with most amenities like cafes, shops, and galleries found in the main town.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency in Honfleur, as in all of France, is the Euro (€). While some shops in major tourist hubs in Europe might accept US dollars, it is not common practice here, so you should plan on using Euros.
ATMs, known as 'distributeurs automatiques de billets', are widely available throughout the town center for withdrawing cash. Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in most restaurants, shops, and museums. It is always a good idea to carry some small amounts of cash for minor purchases at markets or smaller cafes.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Honfleur is generally considered a very safe and peaceful destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, and visitors can feel comfortable exploring the town center and harbor area on foot, both day and night.
As in any popular tourist area, it is wise to practice common-sense safety precautions. Be mindful of your personal belongings, such as wallets and cameras, especially in crowded places like the market or around the busy Vieux Bassin. There are no specific areas to avoid, making independent exploration a safe and highly recommended way to experience the town's charm.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Honfleur has a temperate maritime climate, meaning the weather can be changeable, even in the summer. The main cruise season runs from spring through autumn.
In spring (April-June), expect mild and fresh weather with average temperatures between 8°C and 18°C (46-64°F). Summer (July-August) is the warmest period, with pleasant temperatures averaging 15°C to 22°C (59-72°F). Rain showers can occur at any time of the year, so packing a light raincoat or an umbrella is highly recommended. Dressing in layers is the best strategy to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Honfleur is a compact town that is best discovered on foot. The main attractions, shops, and restaurants are all clustered around the old harbor and are easily accessible from where most ships dock or tender.
For travel outside the town, taxis are available but can be limited; it's best to arrange one in advance if needed. Regional buses, operated by Bus Verts du Calvados, connect Honfleur to nearby cities like Deauville and Le Havre. For organized trips, such as an excursion to the D-Day landing beaches, booking a shore excursion through your cruise line or a private tour operator is the most convenient option.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Shopping in Honfleur is a delightful experience, focused on unique boutiques, art galleries, and gourmet food shops rather than large chain stores. The main shopping streets, like Rue de la République and the myriad of cobblestone lanes branching off the Vieux Bassin, are perfect for browsing.
The town is an art hub, so a one-of-a-kind painting or print is a wonderful souvenir. For local delicacies, look for Calvados (apple brandy), Pommeau (an apple aperitif), cider, and salted butter caramels. Many shops offer tasting samples. Prices are typically fixed, and bargaining is not customary in retail stores.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
A private tour allows you to customize your day, visiting key Normandy sites like the D-Day landing beaches or the chic coastal towns of Deauville and Trouville. Your personal driver-guide can tailor the itinerary to your specific interests for a more intimate experience.
The Honfleur Private Walking tour lets you explore the town's historic heart on foot with a local expert. You will discover the picturesque old harbor known as the Vieux Bassin, see the remarkable all-wood Saint Catherine's Church, and meander through cobblestone streets.
More than just a typical bike tour often means an electric bike adventure through the scenic Normandy countryside surrounding Honfleur. You can effortlessly pedal past apple orchards and thatch-roofed cottages, often including a stop to taste local cider or cheese.
This scenic drive focuses on the quintessential Normandy countryside of the Pays d'Auge. The excursion typically showcases charming villages with half-timbered houses and provides a taste of the region through visits to producers of Calvados and Camembert cheese.
The Mont Saint Michel Go excursion is a full-day trip to the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll have time to climb the winding village streets to the magnificent abbey at the top and walk the ramparts for unforgettable views of the bay.
Join a local guide on this essential walking tour of Honfleur's highlights and hidden corners. Journey through centuries of history, uncovering gems that visitors often miss through fun anecdotes and entertaining stories. Learn what made this vibrant city famous, from its unique church to its renowned painters and musicians.
Embark on an exclusive private excursion to the historic D-Day landing beaches of Normandy with your own English-speaking guide. This journey is completely flexible, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your personal interests for a truly personalized day. Explore hallowed grounds from Omaha Beach to the American Cemetery as your guide brings the past to life with captivating narratives.
Join a knowledgeable local expert for a 3-hour guided e-bike tour of Honfleur's unmissable sites. Discover hidden gems and access breathtaking views that are only reachable by e-bike. You will immerse yourself in the town's rich history and iconic landmarks, including beloved sites cherished by impressionist painters.
Discover the Normandy landing beaches with your own private driver-guide, offering a unique way to explore without feeling herded. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, with your guide providing local knowledge and insight. The tour is customizable to your special requests and includes guide books in the vehicle for your use.
Discover Norman products during a relaxed Saturday morning exploration of the Honfleur market with an English-speaking guide. Taste local specialties including ciders, calvados, cheeses like camembert and pont l'évêque, and the famous andouillette from Vire. Your guide provides informative conversations and unique commentary on the customs of life in Honfleur and Normandy.
Travel to the City of Lights on this shore excursion in the comfort of a private minibus, enjoying a 2-hour ride through the French countryside. Your day includes free time for photos at the Eiffel Tower, a visit to the elegant Champs Elysées and Arc de Triomphe, and a stop at the iconic Louvre pyramid. This tour offers both self-guided and guided options and guarantees you will return to your ship in time for departure.
Experience Honfleur on a private walking tour with a passionate local guide for an authentic and personal perspective. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour to your interests or trust your guide for an enlightening introduction to the city. Discover hidden gems and gain a deeper insight into local life, feeling confident to navigate the city on your own afterwards.
Your private chauffeur will meet you at the cruise terminal for a scenic 2.5-hour drive through the countryside in a private minibus. Upon arrival, a free shuttle takes you to the village where you can explore the site with an information booklet from the entrance. Wander the narrow streets, browse boutiques, and discover the 10th-century Gothic abbey before your driver returns you to the ship.
Embark on a 2-hour private walking tour of picturesque Honfleur with an experienced guide, beginning at the colorful Quai Sainte-Catherine. You will visit the unique wooden church of Église Sainte-Catherine, built by shipbuilders, and wander through the charming Place Hamelin. The tour covers Honfleur's maritime past, its cultural significance as an artistic hub, and stories of famous figures like Erik Satie and Eugène Boudin.
Explore the charming medieval port town of Honfleur and admire its narrow cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and beautiful harbor. This walking tour delves into the town's history as a fundamental port on the English Channel. Learn about its strategic importance and stories from the Hundred Years' War.
This D-Day shore excursion is specially designed for cruise passengers, with seamless pickup at the port and a guaranteed on-time return. Travel in a modern, air-conditioned bus with a passionate guide to the iconic sites of Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery, and Pointe du Hoc. To help you make the most of your time, a homemade packed lunch with a French baguette is included.
Experience Normandy on a timeless journey aboard a vintage sidecar, chauffeured by an enthusiast guide known as a 'Gentleman Sider'. Your trip reveals breathtaking panoramas from Honfleur's cobbled streets to the stunning roads of the Flower Coast. The highlight is an exclusive visit to a family-owned distillery where you will meet the owner and savor authentic local products.
Travel with a local guide on an exploration of Honfleur's rich past. This tour journeys through the centuries of the city's history. You will discover the events and reasons that ultimately pushed Honfleur to the forefront of the international scene.
Experience an unforgettable sidecar journey in and around Honfleur with your expert guide and driver, a 'Gentleman Sider'. Travel along the Côte Fleurie and through the prestigious orchards of local calvados, cider, and pommeau producers. Along the way, you'll hear captivating stories about the Vikings, the rise of Impressionism, and the history of William the Conqueror.
Discover the city of Honfleur, the jewel of the Côte Fleurie, in a way you've never seen it before. This unique experience is available as either a game or a visit, designed to leave you with an unforgettable memory. The adventure can also be customized to help you celebrate a special occasion.
Discover Honfleur's most famous locations with this online city game and scavenger hunt. You will search for the city's treasures and complete assignments with your family or friends, competing for the top score. This tour offers total flexibility, allowing you to decide when to start, pause, and end your unique city exploration.
Discover the fashion heritage of Dior at a dedicated site showcasing his life's work. The exhibition features iconic dresses, original sketches, and personal items from the famous designer. You can also explore rotating exhibitions that delve into his collections and his profound impact on global fashion.
Visit the magnificent Palace and Gardens of Versailles on a dedicated day trip with convenient pickup and drop-off at your cruise terminal. Inside the former royal residence, you will explore the ornate State Apartments and the breathtaking Hall of Mirrors. This is a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace with a guaranteed on-time return to your ship.
Discover Honfleur and its surroundings with a comfortable, high-end electric bike rental. These reliable bikes feature extended battery autonomy and are designed for comfort, making them perfect for urban or nature trips. For easy navigation, free downloadable GPS routes are provided for your smartphone, and all bikes are professionally maintained for your safety.
Explore Normandy in safety and comfort with your own professional private driver. Your driver is from Normandy, offering perfect knowledge of the region and its destinations. He will be at your complete disposal throughout the day, guiding you and adapting the tour to your personal desires.
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Overall Honfleur is moderately expensive as a port of call. Sailings visiting Honfleur during the the peak season of winter are significantly more expensive than the the low season of fall. Check the illustration below for the monthly average cost per day.
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