Get ready to explore the top 10 best things to do in Le Havre! This coastal gem of Normandy invites you to discover its UNESCO-listed architecture, art museums, and seaside ambiance. Keep reading to make the most of your trip and enjoy the highlights of this city.
With a wide selection of activities in Le Havre, you can easily navigate through landmarks like St. Joseph's Church and the Andre Malraux Museum (MuMa). You can also walk along the waterfront, which is filled with cafes and seafood restaurants, or stop by Les Jardins Suspendus for views of the ocean.
If you want a stress‑free holiday, plan your vacation by checking out the most comprehensive travel packages in Le Havre. They include guided tours and accommodation options for every budget. Consider a diverse variety of car rentals in Le Havre for flexibility and comfort when visiting the region and nearby villages.
Take a look at this list to learn what to see, do, and experience in this French wonder. Let’s dive into its best-kept secrets and must-see attractions!
Popular Tour Types in Le Havre
One of the best options for experiencing the city is by participating in city sightseeing tours in Le Havre. They usually include places like St. Joseph's Church, the Hanging Gardens, and the waterfront area.
If you have more time, consider taking day trips from Le Havre to nearby towns like Rouen, known for its medieval buildings, or Giverny, where Claude Monet lived. Cultural tours in Le Havre are great for art and history enthusiasts. Visit the MuMa Museum or check out architecture from the post-World War II era.
You can also join shore excursions from Le Havre. They are ideal for those who have a tight schedule but want to explore Normandy. Many cruises stop here, where passengers can choose activities at destinations like Etretat and Honfleur or heritage sites like the D-Day beaches.
Another good choice is to book tours by vehicle in Le Havre, France. You can travel comfortably in a car or minivan, hopping between different locations without worrying about driving or public transportation.
Top 10 Things To Do in Le Havre
Discover the top 10 things to do in Le Havre. Each activity is carefully chosen to give you the best experience of the city. With clear tips and easy suggestions, you can plan your vacation without stress and enjoy everything the destination offers.
10. Explore Square Saint-Roch
Photos from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Philippe Alès. No edits made.
Embark on a 4-day weekend break in Le Havre to visit Square Saint-Roch. This garden has a history dating back to the 17th century. Once a quarantine station and later a cemetery, it became a public park in 1868. It was redesigned after World War II as part of the city's reconstruction by Auguste Perret.
Today, Saint-Roch is loved for its atmosphere and seasonal beauty. You’ll find colorful flowerbeds in spring and cool, shady trees in summer. It also offers grassy areas for picnics and corners with benches for reading or resting.
Keep an eye out for special artistic displays that occasionally appear as you stroll along the winding paths. Pass by temporary sculptures like a giant moon in one of the ponds, adding a playful touch to the space.
There are also occasional outdoor events, such as concerts and exhibitions. Located near Avenue Foch, the attraction is close to many shops, cafes, and restaurants, where you can dine.
Spending time here is an excellent way to slow down, experience local life, and recharge during your visit. If you’re looking for enjoyable yet straightforward things to do in Le Havre, relaxing in this place should be on your list.
9. Stroll Along La Plage in Le Havre
Strolling along the promenade is one of the most relaxing activities in Le Havre, especially if you're arriving by cruise. The beach area is scenic, just a short walk or quick shuttle from the terminal.
While walking, you'll see huts and cafes where you can lounge, try some seafood, or have a drink while looking out over the sea. There are places to rent equipment for paddleboarding or windsurfing, too. You can also witness skaters practicing at one of France's biggest outdoor skateparks.
Watch ships gliding across the English Channel or unwind by the water’s edge. Wandering along the La Plage is one of the best things to do in Le Havre, as it offers a glimpse into the city's coastal allure.
8. Discover St. Joseph’s Church (Église Saint-Joseph)
Book a 5-day city break in Le Havre to explore St. Joseph’s Church, a remarkable structure by architect Auguste Perret. It was built after World War II as a memorial to honor the many civilians who lost their lives during the battle. The striking 107-meter (351-foot) octagonal tower dominates the skyline and can be spotted anywhere in town or offshore.
Step inside to see the play of light created by 12,768 glass tiles designed by Marguerite Huré. The colors shift throughout the day as sunlight filters through, filling the space with a glowing atmosphere.
St. Joseph’s Church is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history. It’s one of the symbolic things to do in Le Havre, especially for those curious about the city’s post-war rebirth and architecture.
7. Visit the Museum of Modern Art Andre Malraux (MuMa)
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Philippe Alès. No edits made.
Enrich your weekend getaway packages in Le Havre with a visit to the Museum of Modern Art Andre Malraux, also known as MuMa. This attraction is near the marina and offers coastal views through its glass windows. Here, you'll discover paintings by artists like Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Boudin, whose works were inspired by the seaside of Normandy.
Come on weekdays for a quieter experience without feeling rushed or crowded. You can use an audio guide or join a tour to understand the history behind the exhibit inside. After exploring the galleries, the gift shop is a nice place to pick up souvenirs. If you're an art lover, visiting MuMa is one of the best things to do in Le Havre.
6. Explore the Hanging Gardens (Les Jardins Suspendus)
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Jeabapt. No edits made.
Enjoy a 3-day city break in Le Havre with a visit to Les Jardins Suspendus. It’s set within the hilltop of Fort Sainte-Adresse, with sweeping views over the sea and the Seine estuary. You'll find rare orchids, tropical plants, and themed spaces that reflect regions like Eastern Asia and the Southern Hemisphere.
From April to October, the gardens welcome visitors daily from 9:00 to 20:00, giving ample time for leisurely exploration. Between November and March, opening hours are shortened to 9:00 to 17:00.
The greenhouses follow a separate seasonal schedule. It’s 10:30 to 12:30 from April through September, and 13:45 to 18:00 on weekends and public holidays from February to March and October to November.
5. See Notre-Dame du Havre Cathedral in Le Havre
Discover history on city break packages in Le Havre and visit the Notre-Dame du Havre Cathedral. It was constructed between the 16th and 17th centuries and shows a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
The tall bell tower, dating back to 1540, is the oldest part of the structure and one of the few buildings that survived the bombings of World War II. Outside, you’ll still see marks from the tragedy on the walls, a reminder of resilience. Inside, you can admire the stained-glass windows, sculptures, and murals.
Architect Auguste Perret made sure to save and protect this landmark during the area’s reconstruction. If you want to understand the city's story, exploring Notre-Dame du Havre is truly one of the most insightful things to do in Le Havre.
4. Discover Oscar Niemeyer’s Architectural Wonders in Le Havre
Photo from Wikimedia, Creative Commons, by Gerald Fix. No edits made.
Enjoy a 4-day city break in Le Havre, which includes a visit to Le Volcan and Bibliotheque Oscar-Niemeyer, two of the city's modern landmarks. Their forms contribute to the area's visual character and contrast with the post-war urban backdrop.
The white structure resembles a volcano near the Bassin du Commerce and is a cultural spot where art, music, and daily life meet. Inside the larger building, you'll find a theater that hosts concerts, plays, and dance performances yearly. If you want to attend a show, it's worth checking the schedule.
The smaller facility next door houses the Bibliothèque Oscar-Niemeyer, a library with light-filled spaces and wooden floors. Here, you can relax with a book, listen to music, check out an exhibition, or enjoy the atmosphere.
While visiting, walk around the open square. Exploring Le Volcan is indeed one of the best things to do in Le Havre for those who love architecture.
3. See the D-Day Landing Sites in Normandy From Le Havre
A shore excursion to the location of the D-Day landings in Normandy is an activity you shouldn't miss when visiting Le Havre. Just a drive away, you'll witness the spots where battles of World War II took place. It's an experience filled with powerful stories and incredible bravery.
Come to Omaha Beach, the site of some of the fiercest combat during the invasion. Today, it’s a quiet coastline, but as you walk along the sand, you can reflect on the courage shown here in the fight for freedom.
Another area you'll explore is Pointe du Hoc. It's a cliff overlooking the ocean where soldiers climbed while under attack. In the present, you can still see bunkers and craters, making history feel very real.
You'll also stop at the Normandy American Cemetery. Here, over 9,000 individuals rest peacefully under rows of white crosses. It's a solemn spot to reflect on their sacrifice. Going to these historic places is definitely one of the most meaningful things to do in Le Havre.
2. Tour the Mont Saint-Michel Near Le Havre
Taking a day tour to Mont Saint-Michel is one of the best things to do in Le Havre. It's particularly convenient for cruise ship passengers as exploration often begins directly from the terminals.
The drive is around 2.5 hours, and you'll witness Normandy's countryside along the way. Once you reach the island, a shuttle takes you right into the center.
The most important attraction here is the abbey. Your ticket allows you to enter this landmark without waiting in long lines. Inside, you can discover the church, cloisters, and gardens.
While walking the streets, you can stop to taste local foods such as seafood, crepes, or the famous “omelette de la Mere Poulard.” There are also small museums to learn more about the past. Don't forget to take photos from the highest spots, where you can see the views of the bay.
1. Take a Day Trip to the Flowery Coast (Cote Fleurie)
Take a day trip to Honfleur and Deauville from Le Havre to experience the Cote Fleurie. It’s an ideal spot for an excursion if you're arriving by cruise ship, allowing you to see worthy attractions.
Honfleur is famous for its colorful harbor. Artists like Monet and Boudin once painted here, inspired by the houses and the marina. Pass by the Church of Saint Catherine, wander through streets filled with art galleries, buy local souvenirs, or taste fresh seafood.
Meanwhile, Deauville is known for its luxurious atmosphere and beaches. It has a wooden boardwalk called "Les Planches," where you can stroll. It offers shopping, cafes, and notable buildings like the Casino and Villa Strassburger. This town also hosts a film festival and horse races.
If you're looking for accessible places close to the city, exploring these destinations is one of the best things to do in Le Havre. You'll return with memories and appreciation for Normandy’s charm.
Discover the Charms of Le Havre
There’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Le Havre. It’s a city that will surprise you in the best way possible. From the modern architecture of St. Joseph’s Church to the lovely harbors, this coastal gem offers culture and natural beauty.
If you're planning your visit, take the stress out of your vacation by following one of the tailored itineraries in Le Havre. Organize a relaxed day trip to towns like Honfleur and Deauville, or visit historic landmarks like the D-Day beaches and Mont Saint-Michel to make your stay memorable.
If you’re here for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, well-designed travel plans will help you explore. Different accommodations in Le Havre include hotels near the waterfront, boutique stays in the center, and guesthouses close to the gardens and galleries.
This French town is more than just a stop on the map; it’s a place to slow down and discover a fresh side of Normandy. So pack your bags, charge your camera, and experience the best of Le Havre now!
