Things to do in Honfleur, France – 2 Day Itinerary

One of France’s oldest port towns, Honfleur is a charming city tucked between ocean and sea. Situated on the Seine estuary, this seaside enclave is just 2.5 hours from Paris, is steeped in both Medieval and WWII history, and was once a muse for Claude Monet.

Tucked away in Normandy, and more technically in the Calvados department of France, Honfleur was originally a trade outpost where many French traders departed to find new opportunities in North America—including Quebec. With its historic center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visitors will fall in love with the city’s maritime character, colorful historic buildings, and fresh seafood.

Our two-day itinerary includes the best things to see and do in Honfleur. From walking in the footsteps of William the Conqueror to following Normandy’s cider trail, here’s your ultimate guide to the pretty port town of Honfleur, France.

Day 1

Morning: Musée de la Marine

Start your first day in Honfleur at the Musée de la Marine, also known as the Naval Museum, giving visitors insight into the city’s rich maritime history. Located in the Vieux Bassin, the museum displays everything from model ships to artifacts left over from Honfleurs shipping industry and exploratory spirit. The museum is located inside the Eglise Saint Etienne (Église Saint-Étienne de Honfleur), Honfleur’s oldest building.

Vieux Bassin Harbour - The Old Harbour

Continue your tour of the Old Harbour, known as the Vieux Bassin. This is the beating heart of Honfleur, a small port surrounded by narrow and colorful, slate-tile roofed homes and adorned with sailboats. Pop into one of the restaurants that line the harbor for a delicious bite of seafood.

La Lieutenance

On the far northern end of Vieux Bassin is La Lieutenance, perched at the entrance to the harbor. This building doubles as a cultural venue with interactive exhibits, dedicated to the city’s history.

Sainte-Catherine Church

Head over to the Eglise Sainte-Catherine, overlooking the port. This is the oldest church in Honfleur and one of the largest and oldest wooden churches in all of France. Supposedly a temporary church that was built in the 15th century, the Sainte-Catherine Church is also the site of the weekly market.

Day 1, morning - Honfleu Tour Map

Afternoon: La Mora

Kick off your afternoon explorations at La Mora. This is a reconstruction of William the Conqueror’s warship, given to him by his wife and recreated using the Bayeux Tapestry and historical records. Visitors will also find exhibits on Norse mythology and other interesting history. Continue down the Quai de la Cale to your next destination.

St Leonard’s Church

Eglise Saint Leonard is next on your itinerary. Dedicated to the patron saint of prisoners, the original foundation is thought to have been built in 1186. Most architectural features of St. Leonard’s Church are Gothic.

Jardin de Tripot

Your last stop of the day is the Jardin de Tripot, back in the center of town. The Jardin de Tripot is a small garden filled with unique sculptures and a flowing river. This site was originally used as a tannery and dyework by Medieval Honfleur citizens.

Day 1, Afternoon - Honfleu Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Eugene Boudin Museum

Head to the western part of Honfleur this morning, out towards the sea, starting with a glimpse of the city’s art history. The Musée Eugene Boudin showcases the famous impressionist artists work, including images of Honfleur and the estuary, as well as artwork by other acclaimed local artists.

Vieux Phare de Honfleur

Also known as the Honfleur Lighthouse, the Vieux Phare de Honfleur is a 14.5 m tall tower located near the ocean and Seine. It began lighting the way for weary sailors in 1857, until a new lighthouse was built in 1908.

Maison Satie (Erik Satie Museum)

Pop into the home of Erik Satie as your second stop. A composer and musician, his most famous piece is Trois Gymnopedies.

Le Jardin Retrouvé

The Jardin Retrouvé is an English style garden located along the Morelle River as it connects with the Seine. Visitors will find rose gardens, statues, and trickling fountains, paired with benches, this is one of the most serene spots in town.

Day 2, Morning - Honfleu Tour Map

Afternoon: Digue de Honfleur

An embankment situated along the Seine estuary, the Digue de Honfleur is the perfect place to go for a walk along the river.

Presqu'île Claude Monet

Located inside the Jardin des Personnalites, the Presqu’ile Claude Monet is a statue of the famous painter, situated on a small island and surrounded by a lily pond.

Point de Vue

For more estuary views, head to Point de Vue before continuing down to Plage du Butin, Honfleur’s best beach.

Plage du Butin

This long stretch of sand is the closest beach to downtown Honfleur, tucked on the southern coast of the estuary as the river begins to mix with the ocean. You’ll find plenty of services like showers, changing cabins, parking, and even a playground. Swimming is allowed here in the summer months and lifeguards are on duty.

Day 2, Afternoon - Honfleu Tour Map

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Other Things to Do in Honfleur

• Go gallery hopping: Go gallery hopping: Inspiring famous artists like Monet and Boudin, Honfleur is an artist hub. Art galleries line the Vieux Bassin in Honfleur and you can easily pop in and out to over a dozen of these bespoke art exhibitions. Some of the best include Galerie de l’Estuaire, Gallery Daniele Bourdette Gorzowski, and Galerie ArTiane, but you can’t go wrong if you follow your personal taste in artwork.

• See the Pont de Normandie: Just outside of Honfleur and spanning the Seine, the Normandy Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering. This cable bridge connects Honfleur to Le Havre over 7,000 feet in length.

• Cours des Fosses: Every French town has its market and Honfleur is the Cours des Fosses. Held in the beautiful center of town, Place Sainte Catherine, this market is held every Wednesday and Saturday. You’ll find everything from organic veggies to free range eggs and honey from local farmers.

Musee d’Ethnographie: This small museum just off the Vieux Bassin provides visitors with an in-depth look at the history of Honfleur and Normandy through a small collection of ethnographic artifacts, including lacework, art, and antique furniture.

Chapel of Notre-Dame de Grace: This 17th-century chapel sits atop the hill of Mont-Joli that overlooks the town of Honfleur. From its precipice, you’ll have striking exterior views over the Seine Estuary, although heading inside will reveal model ships and sailboats that hang from the ceiling, stained glass windows, and other beautiful works of art. An annual maritime festival is held here each year.

• Le Manoir du Desert: Originally built in the 15th-century by a wealthy family of shipowners, Le Manoir du Desert is a unique manor house perched above the town of Honfleur and looking out to the Seine Estuary. Although part of the home was designed in the traditional Pays d’Auge style, there are other features of the house that are unique, including the observation tower.

• Grestain Abbey: Nestled just outside Honfleur in a grove of trees, the Grestain Abbey is an ancient religious site. William the Conqueror's stepfather founded the abbey in 1050 and his mother, Arlette, is buried here. Candlelit concerts and theater performances are held here year round.

• Mont-Joli Hill: The hill of Mont-Joli is one of the tallest points in Honfleur and overlooks the city center, Seine Estuary, and the Normandy Bridge in the distance.

• Le Clos de Grace Cooking Class: Interested in learning how to cook Norman classics? Head to Le Clos de Grace for a two-hour French cooking class.

• Cider Route: This 25 mile long route runs through Normandy’s countryside, hopping between cider producers. Learn more about the apple farmers, cider producers, and the stunning Norman countryside along the way.

• Calvados Tour: While Normandy is well known for its cider production, apple brandy is another popular tipple. Known as calvados in Normandy, take a tour of the Calvados Experience, an interactive exhibit that details the history and production of this fruity liquor.

Best Day Trips from Honfleur

• Lisieux: Just 30 minutes from Honfleur, the small town of Lisieux is best known as a religious pilgrimage site, only second to Lourdes. The striking Basilica of Saint Therese of Lisieux is a mammoth, Gothic cathedral in the center of town. Religious pilgrims come from across the world to visit The Shrine of St. Therese.

• Bayeux: One hour outside of Honfleur, Bayeux is the famous home of the Bayeux Tapestry, one of the most impressive works of Romanesque art. Detailing the Norman conquest of England by William the Conqueror, the tapestry stretches 70 meters and is housed inside the La Tapisserie de Bayeux. Aside from seeing this 11th century masterpiece, the town of Bayeux is a charming destination in itself. Make a visit to the gargantuan Bayeux Cathedral and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy for more background on this historic Norman city.

• Le Chene Chapelle (The Chapel Oak): 40 minutes inland from coastal Honfleur, Le Chene Chapelle makes for a quick and easy day trip. Peak inside two oak trees, one thought to be the oldest tree in all of France, to find tiny chapels. This is truly an adventure straight out of a fairytale!

• Trouville-sur-Mer: Just a 23-minute drive from Honfleur, Trouville-sur-Mer is a pretty, coastal town built right on the beach. With stunning Belle-Epoque architecture, this seaside resort was popular with Claude Monet and Eugene Boudin for its glitz and glamor. The Trouville casino is at the center of town, as well as a port and fish market, Marché aux Poissons.

• Deauville: Known for its famous racecourse, Deauville is another coastal resort town just 25 minutes from Honfleur. Despite its small stature, Deauville is all things luxury with spas, golf courses, several Michelin-star restaurants, and boutiques. You’ll also find a beautiful boardwalk for an intimate view of the sea.

• Caen: Entrenched in WWII history, Caen is best known for the Memorial de Caen and its D-Day Exhibit. The Caen Castle is another must-visit site and one of the largest walled fortifications in all of Europe, housing the Musée de Normandie, highlighting Normandy heritage, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.

• Mont Saint-Michel: One of the most famous destinations in France, and rightfully so with its magical appearance, Mont Saint-Michel is less than two hours from Honfleur and well worth a day trip. Another pilgrimage site, the Abbey Mont-Saint Michel sits atop its rocky precipice with fun shops and crepe stands clustered around its base. Surrounded by vast tidal plains that are known for being notoriously dangerous, the abbey was built in the 11th century.

• Saint-Sulpice de Grimbouville: Saint-Sulpice de Grimbouville is a tiny village just 23 minutes outside of Honfleur. Visitors will find several Medieval structures, some built during the 100 Years War.

• Beuzeville: Only 17 minutes by car from Honfleur, Beuzeville makes for a charming day trip. Make a visit to the Beuzeville Cider House, an architectural masterpiece and modern cultural center. The Cider House isn’t open to the public regularly and only hosts guided tours on occasion. If you do get the chance to go inside, you’ll be able to see the impressive original cider vats. Visitors should also take the time to pop in to the Saint-Helier Church in Beuzeville. Known for its 19, stunning stained glass windows, these rainbow-hued works of art feature the church’s patron saints, including Saint-Pierre. 

Top Things to Do With Kids in Honfleur

• Naturospace Butterfly Park: Located just outside Honfleur, the Naturospace Butterfly Park is an enclosed botanical garden filled with butterflies and tropical birds. You’ll also find over 400 unique plant species like cocoa trees, orchids, and hibiscus from across the globe.

• Labyrinthe de Honfleur: This maze is designed with kids in mind! With five different routes to discover, two specifically made for children 6 and under, it's easy to get lost in this 40,000 square meter corn field.

• Jardin des Personnalites: A garden full of statues of famous and important locals from Honfleur, the Jardin des Personnalites is set in a 10 hectare estuary. You’ll find busts of Claude Monet and Charles V, among many others.

• Carousel Ride: With scenic views of the harbor, kids will love the traditional carousel perched on the edge of the Vieux Bassin. This also makes for a pretty picture of the city itself.

• Boat Ride: Hop aboard a boat ride that sets sail from the Vieux Bassin. You’ll have picturesque views of the famous Normandy Bridge and the beautiful Seine Estuary. Children will love gliding along the water and pointing out wildlife, including many species of seabirds, along the way.

Where to Eat and Drink in Honfleur

• Jean Luc Tartarin (1 star): Mix Michelin star dining with the cuisine of Normandy at Jean Luc Tartarin. Diners will love the focus on fresh-caught seafood, local flavors, and the wide selection of local cider and calvados. This is the only Michelin star restaurant in all of Honfleur.

• SaQuaNa (M Guide): Located just off the Vieux Bassin, the SaQuaNa is a restaurant, boulangerie, and patisserie wrapped into one. A Michelin Guide restaurant, guests will find a worldly menu with both local and global influences.

• Huître Brûlée: Directly translating to “burnt oyster” this fun and funky local establishment uses local and seasonal ingredients whenever possible. Guests will find a select menu including dishes like monkfish, gazpacho, and, of course, oysters.

• Le Breard: Situated a minute’s walk from the Vieux Bassin, Le Breard highlights local seafood in their contemporary dining space. Choose from one of three tasting menus, showcasing light and expertly crafted bites.

• L’Endroit: With an extensive wine list and inventive menu, L’Endroit is a favorite in Honfleur. Their set menus include a starter, main, and dessert, both for lunch and dinner with dishes like pan-fried Brittany cockles, whole blue lobster, and banana tartlet.

• Chez D.D.: This charming wine bar is tucked in the heart of Honfleur and offers visitors wine from across France and Normandy favorites like cider and calvados. Small bites are also on offer, including fresh oysters, local cheese, and charcuterie.

• Le Lingot: Dishing out classic French fare, Le Lingot is one of the most highly rated restaurants in Honfleur. Candlelit tables offer a cozy atmosphere to enjoy oysters, rabbit, and steak, just to name a few of the popular menu items.

Honfleur Golf Courses

• Golf Barriere de Honfleur: Two different courses make up the beautiful Golf Barriere de Honfleur. Play the Par 71, 18 hole course at Diane Barrier or the Par 36, 8 hole Lucien Barriere course. Avid golfers will also find putting courses, a driving range, and a practice bunker, along with the gorgeous Deauville Clubhouse and a proshop.

Racecourses near Honfleur

• Deauville-La Touques: Deauville-La Touques holds the most races of any racecourse in France each year. Known for its ability to hold races at any time throughout the year, due to its fiber-reinforced sand track, this race track is great for those both young and old with plenty of facilities for families. Located right on the sea, this track is in the small town of Deauville.

Where to Stay in Honfleur

• La Ferme Saint Simeon (5-star): Located just on the outskirts of Honfleur, the 5-star La Ferme Saint Simeon is an exquisite resort to call home. Originally built in the 17th century, guests will find charming suites with traditional features like exposed beams and cathedral ceilings withmodern touches including whirlpool baths and flatscreen TVs. There are two exceptional restaurants onsite, Les Impressionistes and La Boucane, as well as a spa, aquatic facility, and horse-drawn carriage tours.

• Hotel Saint-Delis (5-star): Just a 7-minute walk from the Vieux Bassin in downtown Honfleur, the Hotel Saint-Delis is another 5-star property and the former home of artist Henri de Saint-Delis. Mixing boutique charm and luxurious amenities, this small hotel has just nine rooms, giving guests a sense of serenity despite being located in the heart of the city. A delicious breakfast made with local ingredients is served daily and guests have access to amenities at La Ferme Saint Simeon, including the spa.

• Hotel La Maison de Lucie (3-star): The charming Hotel La Maison de Lucie is a 3-star property, housed in an 18th century home. A perfect mix of rustic and elegant, rooms and suites offer beautiful views of the Seine estuary. Hidden deep within the hotel is their spa area and jacuzzi, housed in the stone cellars.

• L'Invitation au Voyage is a charming hotel, inspired by Charles Baudelaire's poem. Situated in the centre of the town along with numerous typical half-timber houses, cobblestone streets, and fishing boats. L'invitation Au Voyage is the best starting point for you to explore Honfleur and nearby places. The hotel rooms offer a combination of contemporary and traditional French design to add a touch of sophistication. The hotel also has a wellness area with a sauna, steam room and lounge bar.

• La Maison du Parc: Named for the fact that this property overlooks the L’Orangerie park, La Maison du Parc was initially a shipowners home, built in the 18th century. Tucked away on the far eastern edge of Honfleur, guests will find comfortable rooms, a daily gourmet breakfast, and picnic supplies arranged by the hotel.

Best Time to Visit Honfleur

Although Honfleur is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is in the summer months. As a relatively unknown French travel locale, Honfleur doesn’t quite see the hordes of tourists you’d expect in places like Paris and the Côte d’Azur, but it does see an influx in visitors. The city comes alive in the warmer months, with restaurant terraces opening—the perfect place to enjoy a cold glass of Normandy cider.

Festivals in Honfleur

• Fête de Marins: Known in English as Sailor’s Day, Fête de Marins is held every Pentecost weekend in Honfleur and celebrates the city’s maritime community. Held for over 150 years, this seaside festival spans three days with the entire town fringed in colorful flags and parades and processions taking place throughout the weekend.

• Fête de la Crevette: Love shrimp? Then you’ll adore the annual Fête de la Crevette in Honfleur! A celebration of all things shrimp, this festival is also an homage to fishing. Taking place in October every year, watch the shrimp shelling competition, tastings, and displays of craftsmanship.

• Christmas Market: The annual Christmas markets descend on Honfleur every Yuletide season. Tiny alpine chalets pop up along the Vieux Bassin, decked out in string lights and steaming with mulled wine, known as vin chaud in French. Shop for Christmas gifts and souvenirs as you stroll the waterfront.