Le Havre Cruise Guide

Although utterly devastated during WWII, the centre of Le Havre, France's biggest port, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005 for its 'innovative utilisation of concrete's potential'.

Formerly considered a rather drab and grey place, its atmosphere has, thanks to its inhabitants, returned to reclaim the city's pre-war spirit, fully justifying its nickname: 'Porte Océane', or 'Ocean Gate'.

Le Havre stands by the Seine Bay, some 200km (125 miles) west of Paris, and is also the country's main embarkation point for cruise ships.

Sightseeing

Heavily bombed during the last war, Le Havre lost most of its historic buildings. However, the main church, Notre Dame Cathedral, was only partially destroyed, and was subsequently rebuilt to form an elegant counterpoint to the modern architecture surrounding it.

Other surviving historical buildings of note include the 18th-century Shipowner's House.

Numerous museums and galleries provide cultural interest, and in summer, there are several beaches for the sun-seekers.

Highlights

• Malraux Art Museum
• Museum of Natural History
• The Corinne le Monnier Gallery
• Saint Joseph's Church
• Japanese Garden
• Day trips in rural Normandy

Tourist Information

Office de Tourisme
Boulevard Clemenceau 186, Le Havre, France.
Tel: +33 2327 40404.
Website: www.le-havre-tourism.com

Shopping

There are three principal shopping areas. Halles Centrales district is close to the cruise port, and offers several streets of specialist shops. Saint Vincent district caters for those in search of designer goods, clothing, jewellery and other luxury goods, while the Coty shopping centre features 80 outlets on three floors. Specialist items include fashion, French delicatessen, and of course, cheese.

Eating Out

France is, as everyone knows, proud of its cuisine, and cruise passengers will find cafes and restaurants dotted around the city. From light snacks such as croque monsieur to Normandy oysters and full-blown three-course meals, there is no shortage of dining possibilities.

When To Go

Normandy has a temperate maritime climate, with cool damp winters and warm, occasionally hot, summers. However it can rain at any time of year, so waterproofs are advisable. Average temperatures range from around 3°C (37°F) in January to 23° (74°) in August.

Transfer Times

Nearest Destination

Le Havre.

Transfer Distance

2.5km (1.5 miles).

Transfer Time

10 minutes.

Key Facts

Region

France

Time Zone

GMT + 1.

Currency

Euro (€) = 100 cents.

Language

French.

Location

Normandy, northern France.

Population

191,000.

Government

Republic.

Religion

Catholic/Protestant Christian majority, with Muslim, Jewish and other minorities.

Social Conventions

Shaking hands and, more familiarly, kissing both cheeks, are the usual forms of greeting. Mealtimes are often a leisurely experience. Topless sunbathing is tolerated on most beaches but naturism is restricted. A smoking ban came into force in February 2007, and bars and restaurants joined the list in January 2008.

Tipping: A 12 to 15% service charge is normally added to the bill in hotels, restaurants and bars, but it is customary to leave small change with the payment.
Need some holiday inspiration?
Tired of the same holiday destination?
Fresh ideas are just one click away...
Sign up for our newsletter
Be the first to hear about the coolest destinations and the latest travel trends. Plus, competitions, holiday inspiration and amusing facts, delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for our newsletter
Advertisement

Travel Deals

Advertising features
Travel Partners
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Spot the holiday killer - Protect yourself from malaria. Before you travel, find out if your holiday destination is in a malaria zone.