Is Honfleur worth visiting?
Yes, Honfleur is worth visiting for a number of reasons. This is a city that everyone should explore, and we loved our time here.
Whether you're a traveling as a family or a couple, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the fantastic food and spectacular museums and attractions.
Honfleur is located in Normandy and it sits on the estuary of the Seine River by the English Channel. The Vieux Bassin is the old harbor, and many consider it to be one of the most beautiful harbors in the area. The town is filled with centuries old townhouses as well as churches and historic landmarks.
Honfleur, France
4 Reasons to Visit Honfleur
1. Food
Located on the coast of Normandy along the English Channel, seafood is a defining element for most dishes here. Foodies flock to this town for its Michelin starred restaurants as well as its local cafes and quaint eateries. For land-lovers, there's a popular local cider-braised pork that you must-try. And for dessert make sure you try the Tarte Tatin.
2. Museums and Attractions
Some of the most notable sights around the town include Saint Catherine's Church, Le Vieux Bassin, Notre-Dame de Grace, and the Normandy Bridge.
Musée de la Marine is known for its maritime exhibits and artifacts. (€5.50)
Musée Eugène Boudin is known for its collection of impressionist art. (€8)
3. Nightlife
Restaurants come to life at night when music flows out onto the streets. The town is not known for its partying, but that doesn't mean that it's a sleepy place that shuts down when the sun sets.
4. Authenticity
Honfleur has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Honfleur
Shopping: Honfleur isn't exactly a shopper's destination. It's a charming town with boutique shops, chocolate shops, and the standard tourist places that sell souvenirs and t-shirts.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Honfleur might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Honfleur here or see if Honfleur is expensive here.
Related
What is Honfleur most famous for?
Honfleur is most famous for its influence over Impressionist art, its stunning harbor, and its beautiful buildings. People visit this impressive city for its great food. And many visitors also come to this city for its museums and attractions and nightlife. It is often described as peaceful, serene, picturesque, scenic, and historic.
What is the most famous sight in Honfleur?
The most popular sight in Honfleur is St Catherine's Church. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Honfleur on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for St Catherine's Church and other attractions here.
How touristy is Honfleur? Is it a popular city to visit?
Honfleur is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Honfleur Private Walking Tour: $167
- Honfleur's Landmarks & Gems E-Bike Tour: $71
- Private Guided Bike Tour of Deauville & Trouville in French: $96
- Paris Full Day Journey from Le Havre Cruise Port & Seine Cruise: $93
- The Best Private Paris Tours from Le Havre Cruise Ship Port: $154
- Paris Odyssey of Wonder from Le Havre including River Cruise: $92
- D-Day Beaches Shore Tour from Honfleur Port with Packed Lunch: $94
- Private Guided Walking Discovery Tour of Honfleur: $239
How long should I spend in Honfleur?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Honfleur is one to three days. Since Honfleur has a variety of activities such as dining, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Honfleur? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Honfleur?.
More Things to Do in Honfleur
- Is Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor) Worth Visiting?
- Is Musée de la Marine Worth Visiting?
- Is Église Saint-Étienne Worth Visiting?
- Is Sainte-Catherine Church Worth Visiting?
- Is Musée Eugène Boudin Worth Visiting?
For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France.